Blog Post

In today’s digital age, ensuring the security of our data and systems is more critical than ever. With the constant evolution of cyber threats, organisations must stay vigilant and adopt robust security measures. One framework that has gained prominence in recent years is the Essential 8. In this blog post, we will explore what the Essential 8 is and discuss how Assistech can assist customers in getting their security up to date.

Understanding the Essential 8: The Essential 8 is a set of baseline cybersecurity strategies developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). It provides a practical framework to help organisations mitigate common cyber threats and significantly improve their security posture. The Essential 8 comprises eight security controls that, when implemented effectively, can prevent and respond to a wide range of cyber incidents.

• Application Whitelisting: Application whitelisting allows only approved programs to run on systems, reducing the risk of unauthorised or malicious software execution. 

• Patch Applications: Keeping software and applications up to date with the latest security patches is crucial for addressing vulnerabilities and protecting against known exploits.

• Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings: Configuring macro settings in Microsoft Office applications minimises the risk of malicious macros being executed, reducing the attack surface.

• User Application Hardening: Restricting unnecessary functionalities and reducing the impact of malicious code helps mitigate cyber threats targeting web browsers, PDF readers, and other common applications.

• Restrict Administrative Privileges: Limiting administrative privileges to essential personnel minimises the potential damage that can be caused by compromised accounts or malicious insiders.

• Patch Operating Systems: Applying patches and updates promptly is crucial for addressing vulnerabilities in operating systems and reducing the risk of unauthorised access.

• Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide additional verification, such as a unique code or biometric data, when accessing systems.

• Daily Backups: Regularly backing up critical data ensures that in the event of a security incident or data loss, organisations can recover their information and resume normal operations swiftly.

Assistech and Security Enhancement: Assistech, as a leading provider of assistive technology solutions, can play a crucial role in helping customers enhance their security and implement the Essential 8 controls effectively. Here’s how:

1. Expert Guidance: Assistech employs security professionals who can assess the current security posture of customers’ systems, identify vulnerabilities, and provide expert guidance on implementing the Essential 8 controls.

2. Software Solutions: Assistech offers a range of software solutions specifically designed to aid in implementing and managing security controls such as application whitelisting, patch management, and user application hardening.

3. Training and Education: Assistech provides training and educational resources to customers, ensuring that their employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and implement the Essential 8 controls effectively.

4. Managed Security Services: For customers who require ongoing support, Assistech offers managed security services, which include continuous monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and regular security updates.

5. Assistive Security Tools: Assistech also develops assistive security tools that integrate with existing systems, providing enhanced security features, such as advanced authentication methods, secure data backup solutions, and automated vulnerability scanning.

Conclusion: In an increasingly interconnected world, organisations must prioritise cybersecurity to safeguard their assets and maintain customer trust. The Essential 8 framework offers a practical approach to enhance security, and with the assistance of companies like Assistech, customers can implement these controls effectively. By leveraging expert guidance, software solutions, training, and managed services, organisations can fortify their defences and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats, ensuring a safer digital environment for all.

If you’d like to learn more about how the right IT partnership can help your businesses, our team would love to answer your questions. Call us any time at (02) 9185 0907 or contact us by email at https://www.attechnologies.com.au/contacts/. Remember, we’re here to help!