October is a great time to talk about cybersecurity.
But awareness only matters if it leads to action.
So, before Cyber Security Awareness Month comes to an end, here are 10 practical things your organisation can do now to strengthen everyday security.
1. Turn on MFA
Make multi-factor authentication the standard, particularly for email, administrator accounts and remote access.
2. Review who has access
Does everyone still need the access they have? Remove old accounts and unnecessary permissions.
3. Test your backups
Having backups is not enough. Test that you can actually restore them.
4. Make reporting easy
Employees should know exactly where to report a suspicious email, potential phishing attack or security incident.
5. Review your incident response plan
Who takes charge? Who communicates with customers? Who contacts suppliers? Make sure everyone knows their role.
6. Run a phishing exercise
A simple simulation can help identify where your organisation needs more awareness and support.
7. Check your suppliers
Your cybersecurity doesn’t stop at your network. Understand who has access to your systems and data.
8. Update critical systems
Check that operating systems, applications and security tools are patched and up to date.
9. Have a conversation about passwords
Encourage strong, unique passwords and the use of a password manager where appropriate. Never reuse passwords across important accounts.
10. Practise your response
You may be surprised by the gaps that appear.
Don’t let October be the finish line
Cyber Security Awareness Month is a reminder, not a deadline.
The strongest security culture is built through small, consistent behaviours throughout the year.
So don’t just ask what your organisation learned this October.
Ask:
What will we do differently in November?
One new habit. One improved process. One better conversation could make a real difference.
