The 7 Layers of Cybersecurity…and what that means for SMBs

Cybercrime is on the rise, and business owners are paying the price. According to recent statistics published by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), the average cost of cybercrime per report has surged by 14 per cent. Small businesses face an average cost of $46,000, medium-sized businesses at $97,200, and large businesses at $71,600. Furthermore, there has been a staggering 23 per cent increase in cybercrime reports, translating to an average of one report every six minutes.

It’s up to business owners and directors to handle cybersecurity, and now it’s not just the big companies that have to report data breaches. In 2024, the Data Privacy Act is going through some important updates. Most businesses with an annual turnover of $3 million or less must report any data breaches and notify their client base. The impact this could have on the business’s reputation and the repair costs could be devastating.

Now more than ever, businesses need to adopt a holistic and multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. These seven fundamental layers create a powerful protection system against unwanted cyber threats. All businesses are different, and not all of the layers mentioned below will need to be implemented to secure the safety of your data. Our team at Synergy will help identify your business’s cybersecurity needs and create an affordable protection plan.

Human Layer

This layer focuses on educating and training users to recognise potential threats, practice good security hygiene, and follow security policies and procedures. By empowering individuals with knowledge, organisations can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cyber-attacks initiated through social engineering or employee negligence.

Physical Layer

Securing tangible assets is critical in the physical layer. This involves safeguarding servers, devices, and infrastructure through access control, surveillance, and secure facility design. Fortifying an organisation’s boundaries reduces the risk of physical breaches or theft.

Perimeter Layer

The perimeter layer concentrates on securing the network boundary. This is achieved by implementing firewalls, routers, and gateways that create a barrier between internal and external networks. This layer blocks unauthorised access by filtering traffic while facilitating the smooth flow of acceptable data.

Endpoint Layer

Endpoint security protects individual devices like computers, mobile devices, and IoT devices. Employing tools such as antivirus software, encryption, and access controls helps shield endpoints from malware, data breaches, and unauthorised access attempts.

Network Layer

The network layer secures the communication infrastructure, utilising technologies such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and virtual private networks (VPNs). These systems detect and prevent unauthorised access and suspicious activities within a network.

Application Layer

This layer focuses on ensuring the security of software and applications from start to finish. Essential practices like secure coding, regular updates, and vulnerability assessments ward off potential attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities at the application level.

Data Layer

This layer is dedicated to data security, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorised access, changes, or destruction. We employ encryption, access controls, and tools for data loss prevention (DLP) to protect data, whether at rest, in transit, or being processed.

Ensuring your business’s security from online threats requires a well-rounded approach tackled from different angles. While all seven layers play a crucial role in building a solid defence against the evolving world of online threats, it’s essential to recognise that only some businesses may need each layer. 

Creating a realistic and affordable cybersecurity strategy tailored to your needs is critical. When companies implement measures across these layers, it significantly boosts their ability to withstand cyberattacks.

Business owners bear the ultimate responsibility for safeguarding their enterprises against cyber threats. If you need clarification on what cybersecurity measures are necessary to protect your business, contact our team at Synergy.