Businesses face a host of cyber threats that could jeopardise their operations, assets, and reputation. One common misconception is that IT support alone can protect against these threats. While IT support provides essential services for businesses, it doesn’t always focus specifically on cybersecurity. Therefore, businesses must recognise the importance of engaging both IT support and cyber security professionals to ensure comprehensive protection.
"It's not their responsibility, it's equally yours. IT providers aren't always Cyber Security experts." - Vanessa Eyles, Director of the Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands.
Understanding the differences between IT support and cyber security
To appreciate the necessity of both IT support and cyber security, it's vital to understand the distinctions between them.
IT support typically revolves around maintaining computer systems and networks, troubleshooting software and hardware issues, and assisting users with technical difficulties. In contrast, cyber security focuses on protecting an organisation's digital infrastructure, data, and systems from external threats, such as hackers and malware.
While there’s often some overlap between the two fields, they address different aspects of an organisation's technological needs. IT support ensures that your systems run smoothly and efficiently, whereas cyber security proactively defends your systems from malicious cyber-attacks.
Why you need both cyber security and IT support
Here are several reasons why your business should consider investing in both IT support and cybersecurity services:
Shared responsibility
As Vanessa pointed out, IT providers aren’t solely responsible for protecting your business from cyber threats. It’s equally important for business owners to take responsibility for their own cyber security. By engaging both IT support and cyber security professionals, you ensure that your organisation is proactively addressing potential vulnerabilities and safeguarding its digital assets.
Specialised expertise
IT support professionals may possess some cyber security knowledge but may not have the specialised expertise needed to address complex and evolving threats. Cyber security professionals dedicate their careers to staying updated on the latest trends, tools, and techniques to protect businesses from cyber-attacks. By engaging a professional cyber security expert, you can be confident that your business is benefiting from the most up-to-date strategies to counteract cyber threats.
Comprehensive protection
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and businesses must stay vigilant to protect themselves. With IT support and cyber security professionals working together, your organisation can benefit from a multi-faceted approach to protection. This ensures that your business is not only prepared to address technical issues as they arise but also proactively defend against cyber-attacks.
Regulatory compliance
Many industries are subject to strict regulatory requirements regarding data security and privacy. Failure to meet these standards can result in severe penalties, fines, and legal action. By partnering with cyber security professionals, businesses can ensure that they are compliant with all relevant regulations, minimising the risk of costly consequences.
Damage control
In the unfortunate event that your business does fall victim to a cyber-attack, having both IT support and cyber security professionals on your side can help to mitigate the damage. IT support can assist with system recovery and restoration, while cyber security professionals can investigate the breach, identify vulnerabilities, and implement measures to prevent future attacks.
By engaging both IT support and cyber security professionals, you can ensure that your organisation is adequately equipped to handle the diverse range of technological challenges it may face.
Remember, the responsibility of protecting your business from cyber threats lies not only with your IT provider but also with you as the business owner. By taking a proactive approach to both IT support and cyber security, you can safeguard your business and its assets against an increasingly dangerous digital landscape.