Email initiated cyberattacks are continuously evolving and becoming more effective, necessitating businesses to adopt optimal strategies for enhancing their email security. Recent statistics reveal that since 2020, over 80% of organizations have faced phishing attacks, while human errors, particularly via email, contribute to more than 80% of data breaches.
In the face of this relentless assault, how can organizations fortify their email security? Here are nine indispensable email security recommendations, each considered a best practice:
- Elevate Security Awareness Training
Given that human vulnerabilities remain a prominent aspect of security risks, ongoing training for employees in recognizing threats and adhering to best practices is critical. 1 Call Telecom’s host of providers of Managed Security Awareness Programs and solutions empowers employees to become the primary line of defense, providing them with the tools to identify malicious emails and take appropriate action. However, it’s essential to go beyond just training and regularly assess employee preparedness through phishing simulations.
- Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication stands as a straightforward yet effective method for mitigating common password-related pitfalls in an organization. As the prevalence of weak or easily guessable passwords persists, MFA offers a solution to this vulnerability. By combining something the user knows (like a password) with something they possess (like a token), MFA significantly bolsters the challenge for malicious actors trying to breach authentication. This extra layer of security plays a pivotal role in preventing unauthorized access.
- Layer Your Outlook Email Security
Basic email security measures, while helpful, are insufficient to counter the diversity of threats. The most robust defense strategy involves a multi-layered approach. Instead of relying solely on native security features, augment your defenses with a combination of employee training, email encryption, MFA, and third-party add-ons for comprehensive protection.
- Institute Robust Email Security Protocols
Email protocols can be configured to validate outgoing email encryption and filter incoming emails likely to contain malicious attachments, phishing elements, or spam. This trust-based system for email communication enhances both security and operational efficiency.
- Implement Resilient Endpoint Security
Email clients often render endpoints susceptible to cyberattacks. In light of the escalating remote access, edge computing, and IoT device usage, robust endpoint security solutions are indispensable. 1 Call Telecom’s through its robust solutions provider options can provide you a Managed Endpoint Security Solution is tailor-made to enhance threat detection, enforce compliance, institute security policies, and curtail the expenses associated with threat response.
- Restrict Admin Privileges
Underestimating the potential vulnerability of excessive admin access is a common pitfall. It’s crucial to limit admin privileges to personnel whose responsibilities necessitate such access. Since admin accounts are prime targets for attacks due to their extensive system access, periodically reviewing and containing admin privileges is imperative.
- Prioritize Secure Internet Connections
Mandate the use of secure internet connections, such as VPNs, for accessing company emails. Exercise control over the devices employed for access and strictly avoid public Wi-Fi networks. Neglecting secure connections could expose an organization to man-in-the-middle attacks.
- Subject Suspicious Emails to Analysis
Leverage integrated email tools, like a Managed Inbox Detection and Response, to enable employees to submit suspicious emails for analysis. This proactive approach fosters a learning curve that adapts to emerging threats. Employing AI and human analysis, Managed Inbox Detection and Response identifies and neutralizes malicious emails.
- Employ Email Encryption
Implementing email encryption is a fundamental best practice. Email security protocols such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) guarantee that both outgoing and incoming communications undergo encryption before transmission, adding an extra layer of protection.
Leveraging 1 Call Telecom’s Expertise
By partnering with a managed security services partner like 1 Call Telecom, organizations can enhance email security and mitigate the risk of cyberattacks. 1 Call Telecom’s knowledgeable team ensures the adoption of best practices and cutting-edge technology for safeguarding businesses.
Combatting phishing and ransomware is made easier with 1 Call Telecom’s comprehensive security solutions, covering network, endpoints, and users. For a limited period, 1 Call Telecom offers cyber solutions and affordable ransomware options, Managed Inbox Detection and Response, Cloud Backups, and Security Awareness Training. To explore more about ongoing promotions and offerings, get in touch with a 1 Call Telecom representative today.