What are the fundamentals of information systems security? And how can it help you secure your data?
Introduction
In information technology, security is very important. Why? Data theft, malware, and hacking are common. They keep information systems at risk.
In this article, we will talk about the basics of what you need to know about information systems.
Information Systems Security Principles
Information security follows the following principles:
- Confidentiality. Only the authorized people should see and use the information.
- Integrity. The information should remain true. Also, the changes made by authorized users are tracked.
- Availability. When authorized users need the information, it should be accessible.
Information Systems Security: Best Practices
There are so many best practices in information systems security. It will help us secure our information.
Protection with usability
A computer system can be 100% protected if there are no computers and no people to get access. But there is no use to the systems anymore.
Information security does not just protect a system from all threats. Also, they focus on protecting it without making it useless.
Rank the users and their duties
In information systems, you should know who can see and do some things on your computers.
For example, not all employees should be able to see payroll systems. Only those who work in that area should access it.
Moreover, a system admin needs to limit the access of one employee. It depends on the job type.
However, rank does not mean that he can access everything. A CEO can see more data than other employees. But, it doesn’t mean that he has full access.
Give minimum privileges
An employee should only have the access that he needs for his job. If his duties change, his privileges will change too.
For example, let’s say someone from marketing gets transferred to another department. Then, the admin should remove his former privileges.
Use systems protection
There are independent defenses in information security. It makes the attack more difficult for a criminal.
For example, you can use security protocols in your systems. But, they can still be breached. So, use other defenses. It will add complexity to the security of your system.
Think worst-case scenarios
Thinking about the worst-case scenarios will help you plan for failure. Thus, it reduces the actual chances of it.
One way to do it is by applying backup systems before an incident. So, your IT staff can monitor and respond to a breach.
Moreover, it helps you limit the damage. Thus, you’re hitting two birds with one stone. Prevention and proper action.
Regular checking of security
Information systems security should continue to improve. Why? Hackers are getting more and more advance. So IT should keep up.
Regular checkups include:
- Running tests
- Conduct risk assessments
- Make recovery plan
- Check continuity plans
Conclusion
Information systems security can be tricky. It is also a challenging job. Why?
You need to have a keen eye for details. Also, it requires a high level of awareness.
But like any task, you can do this job by knowing the basics. So, we hope this article about the fundamentals of information systems security help you.
