The modern digital workplace has enabled organizations worldwide to benefit from several key aspects, including better operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved customer service. However, cybercrime is an issue that poses a threat to this modern working landscape. The consequences of cyber attacks can have lasting effects, often causing operational problems, financial difficulties, and reputational damage.

The estimated cost of cybersecurity crime is expected to increase by 6.4 trillion U.S. dollars from 2024 to 2029, representing a growth of more than 69.41%. The worldwide cost of cybersecurity is forecasted to reach $15.63 U.S. dollars in 2029. Fortunately, there are effective tools and strategies for cybersecurity and data protection. Keep reading to discover how you can utilize technology and best practices to ensure optimal cybersecurity in your organization.

Digital Workplace Cybersecurity Tools

Systems like high-end hardware and accessories that are used for video conferencing can be effective cybersecurity tools. While its main purpose is to enhance audio, visual, and collaboration in meetings, AV hardware like Microsoft Teams conference equipment also includes features that contribute to a secure digital workplace. These built-in features include:

  • Device and data security: High-quality conference equipment has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that encrypts login details. This ensures that sensitive information stays safe, even if the device has been hacked or affected by malware.
  • Secure boot: Secure boot is a hardware security tool that is enabled by default. During startup, secure boot ensures that a device only loads its operating system if the software is trusted by the original manufacturer. When the device starts, secure boot firmware verifies signatures on the boot software and allows the operating system to take control if the signatures are valid. 
  • Kernel direct memory access (DMA) protection: DMA is a Windows setting in Microsoft Teams conference equipment that protects the system against malicious DMA attacks. It safeguards against unauthorized access to memory in the system from devices like microphones and webcams. It also ensures that system memory can only be accessed by authorized drivers, reducing the chance of DMA attacks. 
  • Virtualization-based security (VBS): VBS is a security tool that creates separate spaces in the computer to store and protect sensitive information and operations. It's like having a secure safe in a computer where confidential tasks are performed separately from the rest of the IT system.

There are also different cybersecurity tools that organizations can use to safeguard their digital workplaces from cybercrime and ensure optimal data protection. It's important to consider factors like specific threats, the size of your organization, and the intricacy of IT systems when choosing the right tools. Some of the key technologies include the following:

  • Network security tools: Network security tools play an integral role in cybersecurity, protecting data from breaches, unauthorized access, and theft. Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) are often used to detect suspicious activity on a network and actively block threats if they are identified. Also, virtual private networks (VPNs) can be used to protect data sent over public networks by encrypting connections. 
  • Data loss prevention (DLP) tools: A DLP tool can be compared to a screen that intercepts sensitive data before it leaves an organization. It works by observing how information is used and shared. If something looks suspicious, such as an attempt to send classified data outside the organization, it stops the action and signals an alert. 
  • Endpoint protection: Endpoint protection in the digital workplace involves the protection of any devices that connect to a company system, like employee laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It works by installing software on each device, and this software constantly checks for any threats like malware, viruses, and unauthorized access attempts. 
  • Antivirus software: Antivirus software protects computers from programs like malware, spyware, and viruses. It does this by scanning information like emails and files on your computer for any signs of known risks or threats. If it identifies anything suspicious, it prevents it from running or removes it from the system.

Strategies for Cybersecurity

An integral part of enhancing security in your digital workplace is to develop strategies that promote best practices for cybersecurity among employees. Providing frequent training sessions to help employees identify phishing attempts and ensure they apply cybersecurity measures like using secure passwords can protect your organization from threats. The following are additional strategies you can use:

  • Frequent assessments to check for vulnerabilities: Carry out assessments of your IT systems to identify potential areas of weaknesses where a malicious attack might occur. This could involve checking your network for outdated software, misconfigurations, or open ports.
  • Implement strong access controls: Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to prevent unauthorized access. This involves using more than one method for users to verify their identity such as mobile verification or fingerprint in addition to a password. Also, you can implement role-based access control (RBAC) which restricts network access, ensuring individuals only have access to the tools and data that are needed for their specific job.
  • Utilize secure cloud services: Partnering with an established cloud provider can effectively secure your digital workplace and safeguard sensitive data. Cloud services can provide support with compliance certifications, encryption, and data redundancy, ensuring that information is still available if lost or corrupted.

Conclusion

It is integral to frequently check and update your cybersecurity tools and strategies, as cybercrime is a problem that is continuously developing. Keeping the digital workplace protected is a constant challenge, and organizations generally need to take a proactive approach. This may involve integrating many layers of protection to ensure cybersecurity and data safety.