Our world is hurting. Disturbing images from Ukraine make visible the horrors of war. Far less tangible is the covert surge of Russian-waged cyber crimes being unleashed to destabilise their opponents.

Experts warn the targets of these attacks aren’t limited to a certain region of the world. As the conflict continues, Russian forces are likely to take aim at global financial systems, energy sectors, and communication infrastructure.

Now’s the time to evaluate your security posture and fortify your cyber defences.

Escalating Threats

The Kremlin didn’t waste any time launching cyber attacks while advancing into Ukraine. Within 48 hours of the invasion, vicious cyber incidents increased over 800% – and they’re likely just a fraction of those Russia has planned.

This modern military tactic is swift, hostile, and takes no prisoners. The threats are so pervasive and disruptive that a global council of cybersecurity authorities has formed to help the world stay cyber vigilant in the face of looming chaos.

The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) shares that “On April 20, 2022, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom released a joint Cybersecurity Advisory to warn organisations that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine could expose organisations both within and beyond the region to increased malicious cyber activity…The advisory provides an overview of Russian state-sponsored advanced persistent threat groups, Russian-aligned cyber threat groups, and Russian-aligned cybercrime groups to help the cybersecurity community protect against possible cyber threats.”

Cyber Security Preparations

If you’re starting to feel a sense of urgency, you’re not alone. Forbes security experts remind us that, “No matter how small the company, a breach can lead to a national security emergency.”

They’re also imploring businesses to invest their resources in these six security preparations to help defend against real and impending cyber danger.

1. Double down on your security patches.

Do a methodical inventory of any internet-facing software or applications you use and make absolutely certain they’re up to date.

2. Update your recovery and continuity plans.

When you created your security plans, they probably didn’t include hostile cyber warfare. Make sure your backups have been tested, validate your responses, and scenario plan for any/all business-critical systems you operate.

3. Practice cyber “fire drills”.

Your security responses should be a well-oiled machine. Even if that means simulating a cyber emergency, make sure your organisation can immediately launch into action to contain a threat.

4. Make your network impenetrable.

Coxblue, a business and technology content hub, recommends engaging in these ten network security practices to batten down the hatches.

5. Go beyond the basics.

Businesses must act as if advanced, global cyber attacks are imminent – because they are. Security plans need to be continuous and comprehensive. Teaming up with a reputable security partner who can provide 24/7/365 surveillance is more essential than ever.

6. Take a community approach to security.

Harvard business review encourages businesses to adopt a unified front, which includes: helping their employees develop a security-first mindset, actively engaging their peer networks, vendors, and law enforcement around cyber intrusions, and ensuring corporate intelligence and IT teams work closely together on solutions.

From the electrical grid to the internet itself, every conceivable infrastructure is a potential target for attack. Is your business prepared to continue operating in an analog environment? If you don’t already know the course of action you’d take should the unthinkable happen, start thinking.