U.S. Government Warns of Increased Cybersecurity Risks
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a warning to all U.S. businesses of increased cybersecurity risks following this week’s escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian crisis. Yesterday’s imposition of sanctions on Russia by the U.S. and other western nations likely will draw an asymmetrical response from Russia, using its considerable cyber capabilities to wage an economic war.
DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has published free cybersecurity services and tools to assist businesses and other organizations in reducing cybersecurity risks. CISA and cybersecurity experts stress the importance of instilling a security mindset in all employees, as well as taking the following steps for better overall security.
- Fix known security flaws in software.
- Implement multifactor authentication.
- Take steps to halt bad practices, including systems that rely on known, default or unchangeable passwords.
- Sign up for CISA’s Cyber Hygiene Vulnerability Scanning service.
- Get your Stuff Off Search (S.O.S.).
CISA also encourages all organizations to review its Shields Up webpage to find recommended actions on protecting critical assets.
ILMA counsel also suggests that members ensure their teams are empowered to reach out to their regional CISA and FBI field offices to stay on top of alerts and warnings, as well as to share any malicious cyber activity. Additionally, reaching out to peer networks and vendors can improve the odds of identifying and preventing cyber intrusions.
The White House previously has expressed concerns about supply-chain vulnerabilities stemming from U.S. manufacturers’ reliance on certain materials from Ukraine and Russia. A further shock to supply chains from the Russian-Ukrainian crisis is worrisome. ILMA members should assess these risks to their own supply chains.
Keep an eye out for a feature on improving your business’s cybersecurity in the March issue of ILMA’s Compoundings magazine.