Compliance Doesn't Equal Impregnable Cyber Security: Why You Need More than a Checklist

The Henrybasset blog recently posted about the upcoming Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 regulations, highlighting the final rule's publication in the Federal Register. While compliance with standards like CMMC is undoubtedly crucial to a defense contractor’s ability to continue to do work with DoD, it's important to remember that compliance not a silver bullet against every cyber attack.

Why do we say this?

• Evolving Threats: Cyber threats are constantly changing. Today's compliance does not cover tomorrow's vulnerabilities. Where in NIST 800-171 do we protect from polymorphic or AI-driven attacks?

• Human Error: Even with the best security measures, human error opens gaps in defenses. Phishing scams, weak passwords, and accidental data exposure are common examples.

• Zero-Day Exploits: These attacks exploit unknown (unpublished) vulnerabilities, rendering many consumer-grade and/or poorly managed security measures ineffective.

• Insider Threats: Malicious or negligent insiders can bypass security controls and cause significant damage.

• Modern physical security systems, IoT devices, and industrial controls rely heavily on interconnected networks, creating cyber vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit weak passwords, unpatched software, and insecure network configurations to gain unauthorized access. This can lead to sensitive data breaches, critical operations disruption, and even physical damage in industrial systems. Protecting these systems requires a multi-layered approach, including strong security protocols, regular vulnerability assessments, and continuous monitoring.

• Phones and Pads: While generally secure, Android and iOS devices still harbor cyber vulnerabilities. Outdated operating systems, third-party app vulnerabilities, and phishing attacks can compromise user data and privacy. Android's open-source nature can increase risk, while iOS users might face threats from jailbreaking or malicious apps bypassing App Store scrutiny. Staying vigilant, updating software, and practicing safe browsing habits are crucial for mitigating these risks.

A proactive, multi-layered approach to cybersecurity is essential. This is where Trusted Internet (trustedinternet.io) comes in. Trusted Internet offers solutions that go beyond basic compliance, providing comprehensive protection against sophisticated cyber threats.

How Trusted Internet Can Help:

• Threat Intelligence: Trusted Internet’s internally developed “Speedloader” allows for near real-time updates of intelligence associated with emerging threats for fast, proactive, solid monitoring.

• Vulnerability Management: Trusted Internet combines vulnerability scans, penetration testing, and dark web monitoring to identify and prioritize vulnerabilities. They provide expert guidance for remediation and ongoing support to ensure your systems stay secure.

• Incident Response: Be prepared for the worst with a robust response plan and expert support. Trusted Internet's incident response combines 24/7 monitoring with expert intervention. Our SOC team acts swiftly to contain threats, investigate the root cause, and help you recover quickly. We keep you informed throughout the process, ensuring a coordinated response and minimal business disruption—partner with us for a comprehensive incident response that prioritizes your security and resilience.

• Security Awareness Training: Educate your employees about cybersecurity best practices and reduce the risk of human error. Trusted Internet delivers engaging and effective security awareness training powered by KnowBe4, the industry's leading platform. We help you build a human firewall by educating your employees on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attacks, using strong passwords, and protecting sensitive data. Our interactive training modules, simulated phishing campaigns, and continuous reinforcement ensure your team stays vigilant against evolving threats.

• What about Physical Security Systems, IoT, and Industrial Controls? Trusted Internet secures critical infrastructure by identifying vulnerabilities in security systems, IoT devices, and industrial controls. Trusted Internet offers specialized assessments, threat detection, secure remote access, network segmentation, and employee training to protect against cyberattacks and ensure operational continuity.

• Trusted Internet boosts Android and iOS security through user education, emphasizing safe browsing and app selection, and leverages Mobile Device Management (MDM) to enforce policies and secure devices. For Android, it advises on app vetting, OS updates, and anti-malware. For iOS, it discourages jailbreaking and encourages App Store vigilance. Trusted Internet helps users safeguard their mobile devices and data by promoting best practices and security tools.

Compliance is a critical foundation for cybersecurity, but it's not the end of the road. By partnering with a trusted provider like Trusted Internet, you can build a robust security posture that goes beyond checkboxes and effectively protects your organization from evolving cyber threats.

Need more information? Contact us at staysafeonline@trustedinternet.io