Air Gap

An air gap is a security measure in which computers, computer systems, or networks are not connected in any way to any other devices or networks. It’s used in instances requiring airtight security without the risk of compromise or disaster. The term “air gap” is a merely metaphoric description of the conceptual gap required by the physical separation between the computers. Air-gapped networks and computers are used when maximum security of that system or the data stored in it must be ensured. Air gaps protect systems from malware, keyloggers, ransomware or other unwanted accesses.

What Does This Mean For An SMB?

Your business needs to take proactive measures today to first reduce its chances of being hit by ransomware, phishing, or other cybersecurity attacks. Secondly, validate backups and disaster recovery plans are current and functioning in case you end up hit with ransomware. CyberHoot recommends the following best practices to avoid, prepare for, and prevent damage from these attacks:

• Adopt two-factor authentication on all critical Internet-accessible services
• Adopt a password manager for better personal/work password hygiene
• Require 14+ character Passwords in your Governance Policies
• Follow a 3-2-1 backup method for all critical and sensitive data
• Train employees to spot and avoid email-based phishing attacks
• Check that employees can spot and avoid phishing emails by testing them
• Document and test Business Continuity Disaster Recovery (BCDR) plans
• Perform a risk assessment every two to three years

Start building your robust, defense-in-depth cybersecurity plan at CyberHoot.

To learn more about this topic, watch this short informational video: