IT Security Audit: Why Your Company (Probably) Needs One
How long has it been since your company had a comprehensive IT security audit? We’re not just talking about a simple scan of your systems, but an actual, in-depth audit. If it’s been longer than you care to remember then it’s probably time. An IT audit helps your organization prepare for and weather any number of security risks and challenges to technological operations. It will also help your business take advantage of up and coming IT opportunities.
Here are a few of the indicators that your business might be falling behind on its IT security audits:
Out of Date Tech Not Stacking Up to New Challenges
One of the biggest issues with IT security can come from being dependent on older technology. Old hardware, old software, outdated services, and outdated policies and practices can leave you open and vulnerable to new threats. Even if you’ve regularly updated your most mission-critical components, you could be leaving your shiny new tech vulnerable.
Newer Technology Brings Challenges of its Own
It’s not just the stuff that’s been gathering dust that brings on security challenges. New additions to your IT can also contribute to a need for security audit. What are your company’s policies on social media? How well do you understand the security associated with data your company is storing in the cloud? Are employees using their own tablets and smart phones for work? What about smart watches? Which messenger and collaboration systems are you using, and are you using them securely? If you haven’t been adding to your IT arsenal (which you should be!), you’re probably due for a security audit.
Risks Running Rampant Over Opportunities
As we noted above, you should be innovating and experimenting with new tech. If you’ve been shying away from doing so because you’re afraid innovating will leave you vulnerable to new technological threats, you need an IT audit.
An IT security audit isn’t just about addressing weaknesses in your current system. It can also be a great way to learn about opportunities to introduce innovation safely and securely.
Thinking Your Company is “Too Small” for an Audit
If you think only companies with an IT department require IT security audits, think again! As a matter of fact, now that IT is becoming an increasingly outsourced service, it’s even more important to have a third party take a close look at your IT systems and practices. Even if you’re running a small organization, you can benefit from an IT security audit.
An IT Security Audit is Almost Always a Good Investment
All things considered, you’ll almost always receive some benefits from an IT security audit, even if you don’t strictly “need” one yet. It’s one of the easiest, safest things you can invest in and know you’ll have a worthwhile return on your investment. So what are you waiting for?
