Cybersecurity has fast become vital to organisations of all sizes with an ever-growing reliance of digital technologies across all industries, governments and the lives of individuals. Advanced persistent threats, AI-driven attacks and increasingly lucrative cybercrime operations are meaning its tougher than ever to remain secure, protected and have that piece of mind. In today’s landscape, Small-Medium Businesses (SMBs) can face 6-figure sums, or more, to respond and recover from a cyber incident. For many SMBs, those sorts of costs can mean the end of the business entirely. 

Introduced in 2017, the ASD’s Essential 8 Framework, and other similar frameworks across the globe, have quickly become phenomenal tools to assist businesses to become more compliant with data protection regulations and adopt new technologies to better protect their organisation. There’s a huge number of frameworks available out there, and we here at A Corp have studied quite a few. Many of them tackle very similar areas of concern and vary in depth and levels of ability for a business to execute on a particular framework. 

In Australia, the Federal Government has thrown its support behind the Essential 8 and recommended businesses look to ensure compliance to that framework to better protect their organisation while also enhancing their understanding of the current threat landscape. 

With the investment in Essential 8 Australia has provided and the growing need to ensure compliance across industries, we don’t think its far fetched to assume that over the next few years some industries may be forced to be compliant with the Essential 8 Framework and be audited against it.

Why not stay ahead of the curve, and be better prepared now; whilst also improving your cyber defenses.

How Essential Eight Protects Your Business

Essential Eight Compliance focuses on eight key principles designed to mitigate cyber risks effectively:

1.      Application Whitelisting: By allowing only approved applications to run, you minimize the risk of malicious software infiltrating your systems.

2.      Patch Applications: Regularly updating software applications ensures known vulnerabilities are patched, reducing the likelihood of exploitation.

3.      Configure Microsoft Office Macros: Limiting macro use in Microsoft Office minimizes the risk of macro-based malware attacks.

4.      User Application Hardening: Enforcing security settings in web browsers and PDF viewers enhances your defense against web-based attacks.

5.      Restrict Administrative Privileges: Limiting admin privileges reduces the potential for unauthorized access and system compromise.

6.      Patch Operating Systems: Keeping operating systems up to date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched, bolstering your overall security posture.

7.      Multi-Factor Authentication: Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for unauthorized individuals to access your systems.

8.      Daily Backups: Regular data backups help in data recovery in the event of a breach or ransomware attack.

Achieving and Maintaining Essential Eight Compliance

To become an Essential 8 pro, consider these expert tips:

1.      Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities and prioritize security measures.

2.      Employee Training: Educate your staff about cybersecurity best practices and the importance of compliance.

3.      Engage an MSP: Partnering an MSP like A Corp to conduct a cybersecurity audit using the Essential Eight framework offers unparalleled expertise and knowledge in identifying potential vulnerabilities and threats specific to your business. A Corp’s Highly Trained Experts are well-versed in the Essential 8 principles, ensuring a comprehensive assessment that aligns with industry best practices. By leveraging A Corp’s services, your company can achieve robust cybersecurity measures, safeguard sensitive data, and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

Checking Your Essential Eight Compliance

To determine if your business meets all Essential Eight requirements, review your current security practices against the eight principles mentioned above. Engaging a professional cybersecurity consultant like A  Corp. can also provide valuable insights.

Discovering Essential Eight Superiority

In Australia, Essential 8 Compliance is the bedrock of a robust cybersecurity strategy. As a business owner, you cannot afford to gamble with your data. Implementing and maintaining Essential Eight principles ensures that your business is well-protected from cyber threats, reducing the risk of costly data breaches and safeguarding your reputation.

Protect your business today! Reach out to A Corp for expert guidance on achieving Essential Eight Compliance. Our team of Highly Trained Experts is ready to provide you with Quality IT Solutions and Exceptional Customer Service, empowering your business to stay secure in the face of evolving cyber threats. Don’t leave your data vulnerable—get Essential Eight compliant now!

Contact us now about Essential Eight Compliance and fortify your cybersecurity defenses. Your business deserves nothing less than the best protection.