1 Do not store information on your network that doesn’t have to be there. There is usually no good reason for companies to store the credit card numbers of customers. Do not store hash from credit card transactions. Access to hash makes it much easier for hackers to get credit card numbers. 2 Don’t think that custom software will not be hacked. While it may be true that fewer hackers will challenge the system, it only takes one to beat it. 3 Pay attention to your entire business infrastructureIT and otherwise. Hacking is just one way for outsiders to get inside information. 4 Make someone responsible for installing all security updates. Every company says they do this, but many do not. 5 If you choose to communicate with hackers, do not make promises you can’t keep. Serious damage can result. Related content feature Top cybersecurity M&A deals for 2023 Fears of recession, rising interest rates, mass tech layoffs, and conservative spending trends are likely to make dealmakers cautious, but an ever-increasing need to defend against bigger and faster attacks will likely keep M&A activity steady in By CSO Staff Sep 22, 2023 24 mins Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions brandpost Unmasking ransomware threat clusters: Why it matters to defenders Similar patterns of behavior among ransomware treat groups can help security teams better understand and prepare for attacks By Joan Goodchild Sep 21, 2023 3 mins Cybercrime news analysis China’s offensive cyber operations support “soft power” agenda in Africa Researchers track Chinese cyber espionage intrusions targeting African industrial sectors. By Michael Hill Sep 21, 2023 5 mins Advanced Persistent Threats Cyberattacks Critical Infrastructure brandpost Proactive OT security requires visibility + prevention You cannot protect your operation by simply watching and waiting. It is essential to have a defense-in-depth approach. By Austen Byers Sep 21, 2023 4 mins Security Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe