7 Measures to Protect Against Cyber Attacks

Editor's note: The following is an excrept of a soon to be published article in ISE Magazine. October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so we're sharing this preview of the upcoming article.

Common Cyber Threats Facing ISPs

Cybercriminals deploy a variety of tactics to breach ISP networks, often combining multiple methods in sophisticated attacks:

Ransomware Attacks: Cybercriminals infiltrate networks, encrypt critical data, and demand a ransom for its release. What may begin with a seemingly minor compromise, such as a hacked email account, can quickly escalate into full-scale network outages. According to industry reports, $449.1 million was paid to ransomware groups in the first half of 2023 alone.

Data Theft: In addition to encrypting data, attackers often steal sensitive information and threaten to release it unless a ransom is paid. The pressure to comply is intense but paying a ransom not only funds further criminal activity but also fails to guarantee the safe return of stolen data.

Phishing and Social Engineering:  A leading cause of cybersecurity breaches, cybercriminals craft convincing emails or messages designed to trick employees into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information, thus granting attackers access to the network.

Measures to Protect Against Cyber Attacks

To combat these evolving threats, ISPs must implement a robust cybersecurity strategy. The following measures are essential for protecting networks and customer data:

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA requires users to verify their identity using multiple methods, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access even if login credentials are compromised.

2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Advanced EDR tools leverage artificial intelligence to detect and respond to suspicious network activity in real time, stopping threats before they escalate.

3. Security Operations Center (SOC)

A SOC provides 24/7 monitoring of network activities, enabling immediate responses to potential security breaches. ISPs should consider having a U.S.-based SOC to meet local regulatory requirements.

4. Employee Training

Human error is a chief cause of cyberattacks. Regular, comprehensive training on recognizing phishing attempts and understanding cybersecurity protocols is critical. Conducting phishing simulations can further strengthen employee awareness.

5. Incident Response Plan

Every ISP must have a well-developed incident response plan, outlining the steps to take during a cyberattack. This plan should include immediate shutdown procedures, communication strategies, and recovery protocols to minimize damage.

6. Advanced Network Security Tools

Leveraging AI-driven security tools can help ISPs detect and block emerging threats. Regular security assessments ensure that defenses are updated to meet new challenges.

7. Secure Access Controls

Implementing strict access controls, including network segmentation and role-based permissions, helps limit the impact of a breach by containing the spread of an attack.

Check out the rest of this article in an upcoming issue of ISE Magazine