In today’s business environment, cybersecurity is an essential aspect of any business continuity and disaster recovery plan (BCDRP), and we understand the significance of protecting your business against cyber threats, alongside natural disasters and non-technical events. While natural disasters and disruptions can threaten business continuity, cyber threats have become one of the most significant risks to any business, and the consequences of a successful cyberattack can be devastating.
- According to a study by IBM, the average cost of a data breach in 2022 was $4.35 million, and the cost of a cyberattack can also damage a company’s reputation and customer trust. Therefore, it’s vital to include cybersecurity measures in your BCDRP to ensure the safety of your data and systems.
- Moreover, natural disasters can create extended disasters if cybersecurity isn’t considered in a BCDRP. For example, in the aftermath of a hurricane or flood, cybercriminals may take advantage of the chaos to launch a cyberattack against vulnerable systems, causing even more damage and disruption.
- Furthermore, cybersecurity is now part of nearly everything in a business, from protecting intellectual property and customer data to ensuring the integrity of financial transactions and safeguarding the supply chain. A comprehensive cybersecurity plan should encompass all aspects of your business to ensure that you’re fully protected against cyber threats.
To battle test the effectiveness of your BCDRP, tabletop exercises can be a useful tool. A tabletop exercise is a simulation of an emergency situation that allows key stakeholders to practice their roles and responsibilities in the event of an actual disaster. For example, a tabletop exercise could involve simulating a cyberattack and testing the response of your IT team and other relevant stakeholders. By conducting these exercises regularly, you can identify gaps in your plan and make improvements to ensure that your business is fully prepared for any potential cyberattacks, natural disasters, or non-technical events.
While Managed Service Providers (MSPs) offer essential IT services, cybersecurity requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Guard Street Partners offers specialized cybersecurity services to help businesses develop comprehensive BCDRPs that address all potential risks in just a few weeks. We start by gaining an understanding of your technology and business environment, evaluating existing controls and protections, and identifying potential threats. After building your plan, we can facilitate a tabletop exercise or advanced testing to ensure that your business is fully prepared for any potential disasters.
