[For companies] Explanation of information security measures to be careful of during long vacations

Long vacations are a valuable opportunity to refresh and enjoy time with family, but they also increase information security risks. If a system administrator is absent for a long period of time, there is a possibility that the response to a security incident will be delayed and unexpected damage may occur, causing major problems for the company.

Here, we will explain information security measures that you should be careful about during long vacations.

Things to do before going on vacation

Below we will explain the preventive measures to take before going on a long vacation.

Check cloud service security settings

Before going on a long vacation, we recommend reviewing the security settings of the cloud services you are using. By removing access privileges for unnecessary users and keeping them to the minimum level, you can reduce the possibility of information leakage, and even if information leakage occurs, you can quickly identify the cause.
It is also important to check your login history for access from unknown devices.

Introducing multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) refers to an enhanced security system that uses a combination of multiple authentication methods to verify your identity, rather than just a single authentication method.

By implementing multi-factor authentication, you can prevent unauthorized login to your account and prevent unauthorized login due to password leakage or theft. Multi-factor authentication is especially popular among financial institutions that handle sensitive customer information such as account information.

Click here for details on multi-factor authentication.

data backup

The three major elements of information security are "confidentiality," "integrity," and "availability." Backing up data is an important task to meet the "availability" requirement. Availability refers to the availability of necessary information and services when needed.

In the unlikely event that your data is lost or infected with ransomware and data is tampered with or deleted, perform regular data backups. It's important to have an up-to-date backup of important data, especially before a vacation.

Check for easily forgotten devices

Be sure to update the operating systems and software of devices you use at home and on the go (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc.) before your vacation.

This update includes "security patches," which are programs regularly distributed by service providers to users to fix vulnerabilities in the OS, applications, software, etc. If vulnerabilities are left unaddressed, there is a risk that they may be used as a route for unauthorized access from outside, and internal data may be tampered with or deleted.

Don't forget to update the version, as you can fix the vulnerability.

Security education for staff

It is also important to provide information security education to employees before a long vacation. In particular, it is necessary to raise security awareness by alerting people to phishing emails and suspicious links. Also, communicate internally to prevent problems during vacation.

summary

Long vacations are the perfect time to refresh your mind and body, but it is essential to take solid measures against information security risks. Companies using cloud infrastructure can enjoy their holidays safely by implementing these measures. Don't forget to prepare in advance and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind!

Reference site: https://www.ipa.go.jp/security/anshin/measures/vacation.html

If you want to consult a cloud professional

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