Detecting and Managing Persistent Threats
The Internet is rife with an array of security threats that is only growing larger by the day. Consequently, any device, network or system connected to the Internet or connected to other device/network/system over the Internet, is vulnerable to threats. The good news is most organizations are aware that threats exist and have put in place, at least some strategies to combat the commonly known and feared threats. The bad news is, their knowledge of the known and feared threats is mostly outdated.
The increasing use of embedded software and devices, virtualization and Internet-of-Things devices (to name a few) have given birth to a whole new spectrum of IT security and privacy threats, of which most firms are unaware. Because they’re unaware, they’re unprotected as well.
Take for example, the rise of embedded devices. While embedded software and hardware connectivity makes it easier for businesses to track, monitor and manage productivity, they also expose businesses to a host of new threats. The network is at risk of being affected by viruses or malware from the very many connected devices on the system, which are essentially different from traditional PCs. Not only that, the network stands the risk of targeted attacks by hackers and people of malicious intent as well. Traditional security measures will not be able to address and mitigate these threats. In addition, as technology progresses further, embedded system networks are becoming more complex, and hackers are getting smarter. And because businesses are unaware of these threats, they’re unprepared for these threats.
Businesses must therefore, step-up their security game by detecting persistent threats to their networks and systems, and managing them individually. The need is to build a culture of design for security that integrates security into embedded software development lifecycle.
