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5 minute read

30/06/2023

Exploring Professional Security Services

 

There’s been a huge shift in remote and hybrid working over the past few years. This means there are now more places and devices to attack for cyber criminals.

Many employees now work either some time or full time away from the office. They also could use their own devices to connect to company networks. This could increase the potential risk of cyber-attacks.

Building cyber strength is now an important strategy for all businesses. Cyber attacks themselves are now extremely advanced, as cyber criminals find new ways to exploit vulnerabilities and weaknesses.

Different providers offer a range of cyber security solutions, to help companies navigate the constantly evolving threat landscape. As such, choosing a provider that’s well established and experienced in both professional security services (PSS) and managed security services (MSS) can be extremely helpful to your business. This is because it means you can be sure your cyber security is in safe hands.

Three types of cyber attack

  1. Phishing

    There’s been a considerable rise in phishing attacks in recent years1. These attacks target businesses by sending malicious emails or texts disguised as legitimate ones and continue to be widespread. This means employees need to be educated and trained on the latest phishing methods, as it will be critical for your cyber security.
     

    Phishing Attack Statistics2

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    As of March 2023, the National Cyber Security Centre received reports of 19 million phishing attempts

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    In the last 12 months, 79% of identified UK business attacks were phishing attempts, easily the most common threat

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    In the past year, 19% of businesses used tests like phishing exercises to identify cyber risks

  2. Ransomware

    Ransomware is a type of malware. It prevents businesses from accessing devices and any data on it, usually by encrypting the files. You’ll then be asked to pay a ransom to a criminal group to decrypt the files.

  3. Denial of service (DoS)

    DoS attacks are when cyber criminals attack services to make them inaccessible. When websites suffer DoS attacks, the apparent effect will depend on your perspective. It will appear to most users that the site has stopped displaying content. For businesses, it could mean online systems that they need do not work.

Mitigate cyberattacks with the right services

Companies often outsource their cyber security services to trusted providers, who offer managed security services (MSS) and professional security services (PSS). Businesses can benefit from both.

The big question is though, what is the difference between the two and which one suits your business needs?

MSS vs PSS

MSS are capabilities specific to business security technologies and outcomes.

Instead of building a cyber security team in house, companies might hire a partner that offers expert cyber security services, such as:

  • Security technology implementation
  • Security monitoring
  • Managed detection and response
  • Exposure assessment and management
  • Vulnerability management

PSS are like security consultancy services, which can include:

  • Phishing awareness assessments
  • Vulnerability assessments of specific services, operating systems and applications
  • Penetration testing for networks and web applications to expose weaknesses
  • Cyber breach response services to help you respond to cyber attacks
  • Exposure diagnostics which provide wider assessments of applications, users and data, as well as highlighting areas where cyber security could be enhanced

What are professional security services?

A PSS is a project-based model aimed at solving problems.

Often, a PSS does not need a long-term commitment. This means the flexible service could be beneficial for businesses looking to address specific concerns, for example phishing and ransomware attacks.

Phishing awareness tests can help businesses understand and learn the security awareness level in their organisation.

Fake phishing emails are created and sent to employees in the business, with the aim of obtaining sensitive information, like a real phishing email would.

The results show how cyber conscious employees are and find potential improvements needed to protect the business against further possible attacks, such as employee training.

What are the benefits?

  • One-time: project-based solution addressing a particular problem, involving a one-time fee
  • Focused: a targeted approach, addressing a specific issue
  • Flexible: solution tailored to your business needs and goals
  • Access: to specialist security skills
  • Actionable outcomes: providing your business with data and the next steps to tackle cyber vulnerabilites

Why does your business need professional security services?

Expert PSS providers focus on solving problems and addressing challenges.

They carry out robust, thorough testing and validation of your security controls and IT infrastructure. They can also help you if you’ve been breached to recover from the situation and protect against repeat occurrences. They provide expertise, so you can focus on your business.
 


  1. Beware of Quickly Evolving Coronavirus Email Phishing Attacks - Mimecast
  2. APWG report
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