5 Critical Steps to Protect Your Business After a Cyberattack
Using the American Water Cyber Breach as an example.
Summary of American Water’s Statement:
On October 3, 2024, American Water discovered unauthorized activity in its computer networks and determined it to be a cybersecurity incident. In response, they proactively took their customer portal offline and paused all billing. American Water activated their incident response protocols, brought in third-party cybersecurity experts, and notified law enforcement to assist with containment, mitigation, and investigation efforts. Their water and wastewater services remain unaffected. American Water is working around the clock to restore systems safely and strengthen their cybersecurity measures.
So what can we learn from the American Water Cyber Breach?
It is critical to actively monitor your network for unusual activity in order to quickly contain attacks and minimize the impact on your business and customers. Let’s learn from the American Water Cyber Breach. Here are a few steps to protect your business and to respond if there is a cyber incident.
5 Things Businesses Can Do to Stay Safe After a Cyberattack:
- Activate Incident Response Protocols: Immediately deploy pre-established incident response plans and involve cybersecurity professionals to quickly assess and contain the breach.
- Isolate Affected Systems: Disconnect compromised systems to prevent further spread of the attack and safeguard customer data.
- Communicate Transparently: Inform customers and stakeholders about the incident, including steps being taken and any service impacts, while reassuring them that their data and services are a top priority.
- Involve Law Enforcement and Experts: Coordinate with law enforcement and engage third-party cybersecurity professionals to investigate the scope of the breach and ensure legal and technical support.
- Strengthen Cybersecurity Measures: After containment, review and enhance cybersecurity defenses, including patching vulnerabilities and implementing stronger access controls, to prevent future incidents.
Are you confident in your cybersecurity strategy? Do you know what to do in a similar incident? Reach out to Forthright to elevate your cybersecurity protocol and safeguards with our cybersecurity experts.
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