As companies adopt new technologies to improve operations and services, they also take on new cybersecurity risks. IT professionals with certifications like CompTIA Security help assess dangers and implement protections to allow businesses to safely leverage emerging technologies.
Cloud Computing Convenience with New Vulnerabilities
Many companies now use cloud hosting and software services. This provides convenient access to data from more locations and devices. Nevertheless, it also expands the attack surface hackers can exploit. Certified experts know techniques attackers leverage against the cloud, like hijacking accounts, intercepting data, or poisoning shared storage. CompTIA Security covers mitigations like multifactor authentication, encryption, anti-malware tools and firewalls IT teams deploy to harden cloud environments.
Internet of Things Creates Opportunities and Challenges
Interconnected Internet of Things (IoT) devices are also entering workplaces, from smart lights to IP cameras. While they provide new data or efficiencies, networked IoT gadgets have vulnerabilities, too. IT professionals stay on top of frequent IoT firmware updates and use network monitoring to detect suspicious activities that indicate breaches. Segmenting IoT systems protects business networks if a device gets hacked. According to the experts over at ProTrain.edu, the CompTIA Security certification ensures IT pros have IoT device risk knowledge to avoid incidents.
Mobile Workforce Security Issues
Supporting remote and mobile workers with bring-you-own-device (BYOD) flexibility introduces fresh security headaches as well. Personnel connecting from home networks expose more attack paths to company data. Certified experts configure secure virtual private network (VPN) apps that encrypt data in transit over the internet. Multi-factor authentication adds a second ID check before granting application access, while security training improves remote employee caution regarding phishing emails or questionable links that can infect devices with malware. Ongoing patches and anti-malware tools provide additional protection.
Supplying a mobilized remote workforce with flexible access introduces significant risk if not managed properly. Devices used off the corporate network can more easily fall victim to theft or get manipulated by attackers on public Wi-Fi networks. Once compromised, bad actors could leverage these devices to penetrate internal systems. Fortunately, CompTIA Security certified professionals are proficient in mobile device security principles and know how to institute robust endpoint management protocols. Coupling comprehensive protections with user security training tailored for remote work scenarios ensures employees access information safely outside the office.
Big Data Analytics Need Privacy and Security
Sophisticated big data analytics drive informed business decisions using customer and operational information. However, massive, centralized datasets also attract cyber criminals. Certified IT professionals implement layered data security such as access controls and segmentation. Encryption both at rest and in transit protects private details. Rights management policies also prevent unauthorized aggregation or analytic model development that exposes sensitive information.
Artificial Intelligence and Automation Carry Risk
Artificial intelligence like chatbots and business process automation using robotic process automation (RPA) hand off certain tasks to machines. But coded applications contain vulnerabilities too. IT experts use input validation, encryption, and access restrictions to mitigate malware or data manipulation risks in AI/RPA apps, while testing extensively before deploying to live systems.
Conclusion
Emerging technologies undoubtedly empower businesses with new capabilities and insights. However, as companies implement innovations like cloud services, IoT, BYOD policies, big data analytics, AI and automation, they take on new cybersecurity vulnerabilities. IT professionals who pursue respected, comprehensive certifications understand how to adapt protections and train employees regarding new threat vectors these emerging tools introduce. Their specialized knowledge allows organizations to safely capitalize on cutting-edge technologies for competitive advantage. Partnering with certified IT experts is imperative, as companies support new tech trends while ensuring corporate and customer data privacy.