Cyber Security Framework: A Step-by-Step Guide

TL;DR

This guide walks you through building a basic cyber security framework for your organisation. It covers risk assessment, policy creation, technical controls, training, and ongoing monitoring.

1. Understand Your Risks

1. Identify Assets: What needs protecting? This includes data (customer info, financial records), hardware (servers, laptops), software, and even your reputation.
2. Threat Modelling: Who might attack you, and how? Consider common threats like malware, phishing, ransomware, and insider threats.
3. Vulnerability Assessment: Find weaknesses in your systems. Use tools to scan for outdated software or misconfigurations.
4. Risk Prioritisation: Rank risks based on likelihood and impact. Focus on the biggest threats first. A simple matrix can help:
   • High Likelihood, High Impact = Critical Risk (Address immediately)
   • High Likelihood, Low Impact = Important Risk (Address soon)
   • Low Likelihood, High Impact = Monitor Closely
   • Low Likelihood, Low Impact = Acceptable Risk

2. Create Security Policies

1. Acceptable Use Policy: Defines how employees can use company devices and networks.
2. Password Policy: Sets requirements for strong passwords (length, complexity, change frequency). Example:

   Minimum length: 12 characters
   Require uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
   Change password every 90 days

3. Data Protection Policy: Outlines how sensitive data is handled, stored, and shared.
4. Incident Response Plan: Details the steps to take in case of a security breach (who to contact, what systems to isolate).
5. Remote Access Policy: Defines secure methods for accessing company resources remotely (VPNs, multi-factor authentication).

3. Implement Technical Controls

1. Firewall: Acts as a barrier between your network and the outside world. Configure rules to allow only necessary traffic.
2. Antivirus/Anti-malware: Protects against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Keep definitions updated.
3. Intrusion Detection System (IDS)/Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Monitors network traffic for suspicious activity.
4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Requires users to provide multiple forms of identification (password + code from phone). Enable this wherever possible.
5. Regular Backups: Create copies of your data in case of loss or damage. Store backups securely, offsite if possible. Use the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies of your data, on 2 different media, with 1 copy offsite.
6. Software Updates: Patch vulnerabilities promptly. Automate updates where feasible.

   # Example using apt (Debian/Ubuntu)
   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

4. Train Your Staff

1. Security Awareness Training: Educate employees about common threats like phishing and social engineering.
2. Phishing Simulations: Test employees’ ability to identify phishing emails.
3. Role-Based Training: Provide specific training based on job responsibilities (e.g., developers need secure coding training).

5. Ongoing Monitoring and Improvement

1. Log Analysis: Review system logs for suspicious activity.
2. Security Audits: Regularly assess your security controls to identify weaknesses.
3. Penetration Testing: Hire ethical hackers to simulate attacks and find vulnerabilities.
4. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest threats and security best practices. Subscribe to security newsletters and attend industry events.