Automation has completely changed how businesses go about things, and it brings its own security issues. To have your automated workflows safe and sound, there is a need to embed security layers. Well, here in this blog, we shall explore 7 key best practices that will be able to protect your automation systems from any threats.
ALSO READ: Ethical Considerations in Intelligent Automation
1. Foundational Security: Security by Design
While a strong foundation sets up any building, the same holds true for the case of automation security. Without incorporating security from the beginning, you cannot really enhance the overall security posture of automation systems.
Integrate from the beginning: Security needs to form a core aspect during the design and development phases of automation projects
Risk assessment needs to be comprehensive: Identify the potential vulnerabilities and make appropriate choices for security controls to be in place
Follow best practices in the industry: This would mean compliance with security standards and procedures
2. Control Access: Limit the Gates
The most elementary principle of security is limiting access to sensitive data and systems. Implementing strong access controls can help prevent unauthorized access that could compromise sources of potential risks.
Limit access to sensitive data and systems: Provide access only to those authorized on a need-to-know basis
Implement strong authentication methods: MFA will definitely provide a better strengthening for a system against unauthorized intrusions
Regularly review and update access permissions: Access permissions should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that access rights are appropriate and updated.
3. Safeguarding Your Assets: Secrets of Encryption
Data is a valuable asset that needs to be protected against unauthorized access. One valuable tool for protecting your data is encryption, which is a powerful feature at your disposal.
The following are good practices for encrypting your data.
Encrypt data both at rest and in transit: Encrypt both at rest and in transit to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information
Use strong encryption algorithms: Use a strong encryption algorithm as the only access mechanism
Regularly update encryption keys: Prevent unauthorized access to encrypted data
4. Keeping Watch: Monitoring and Logging Activities
Effective monitoring and logging are essential for detecting and responding to security threats. By keeping a close eye on your systems, you can identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
Implement robust logging and monitoring systems: Track user activity, system events, and security alerts
Log analysis for suspicious activity: Use a log analysis tool to identify potential threats
Configure real-time alerts: You will be notified in real-time for security incidents
5. Scheduled Check-ups: Security Audits
Security auditing is essential, as it ensures that vulnerabilities in your automation systems are identified and addressed. Providing consistent security best practices will help further reduce breaches.
Perform a scheduled security assessment: Highlight the weaknesses and vulnerabilities in your automation systems
Stay informed on the latest threats: Keep abreast of new security threats
Resolve vulnerabilities in a timely manner: Address the security issue once it is found.
6. Engaging Your Employee: Security Awareness Training
Your employee needs to be aware and trained in an effort to face cyber threats. With comprehensive security awareness training, you can make them think the correct way and help protect your organization.
Provide security awareness training: Educate your team on security best practices
Regular security awareness campaigns: Enforce security principles and encourage vigilance
Incident response procedures: Develop a plan on how your organization will respond to a security breach
7. Staying Ahead of the Curve: The Latest Security Technologies
The cybersecurity arena keeps changing, and there is a need to keep abreast with the latest security technologies. It allows you to amplify your organization’s defenses by embracing advanced security solutions.
Implement security products and technologies: Leverage security tools to safeguard your automation workflows
Be aware of new threats and vulnerabilities: Stay on top of breaking security stories
Monitor, assess, and evolve a security posture: Pivot based on changing threats and technologies
