Page 223 - Cyber Defense eMagazine RSAC Special Edition 2025

for protecting sensitive customer data. Cybersecurity awareness is not an optional activity to tick off – it’s
a necessary practice to ensure an appropriate level of protection for a company.

Double defense: password management and MFA for stronger cybersecurity

For small manufacturers, multi-factor authentication (MFA), paired with a strong password management
system, offers an efficient and inexpensive security solution. Password managers provide simplified
solutions for the creation and storage of strong, original passwords for each account, reducing the
likelihood of breaches spurred by weak or reused credentials, the primary cause of data breaches. In
addition, there are helpful tools to provide features such as centralized admin controls, secure password
sharing, and integration with MFA tools.

MFA enhances security by requiring multiple forms of verification, such as a one-time code from an
authenticator app or text message, adding an extra layer of protection. For small businesses,
implementing a strong MFA strategy is one of the most valuable technical safeguards. When combined
with password managers, these tools create a simple yet highly effective security framework, even for
teams without dedicated IT support.

Cloud coverage: backup to weather cyberattacks

Regular data backups are essential safeguards against cyberattacks, hardware failures, human error,
and natural disasters. It's crucial to back up critical data, such as HR records, financial files, and
databases, offline and in secure cloud environments. Organizations should prioritize solutions that allow
the creation of immutable offline copies, as many ransomware attacks specifically target backup data to
hinder recovery efforts. In fact, McKinsey found that most modern ransomware attacks begin by
encrypting backup data to prevent restoration.

For manufacturers without dedicated cybersecurity teams, a cloud Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
provider serves as a built-in security partner—offering enterprise-grade backup strategies without the in-
house burden. Cloud ERP vendors ensure that software, security patches, and compliance updates are
automatically maintained, reducing risk from outdated systems. Migrating business-critical systems like
ERP and HRM to the cloud means that security best practices, including regular encrypted backups and
rapid disaster recovery, are managed by experts, offering enhanced protection and peace of mind.

Preparing for tomorrow’s cyber threats

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and even the most secure systems remain vulnerable to advanced
attacks and human error. Prioritizing a cloud-first approach, paired with strong password management,
multi-factor authentication, endpoint detection, automated data backups, regular vulnerability
assessments, and ongoing employee training, lays the groundwork for a resilient defense.

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