Financial data breaches are not just a possibility but a common occurrence, the importance of robust financial data security cannot be overstated. For IT professionals in leadership roles, safeguarding this sensitive data is paramount. This guide introduces TBL Networks’ approach to leveraging Cisco Umbrella for unparalleled protection of financial data.

Understanding Financial Data Vulnerabilities

Financial institutions are uniquely exposed to a variety of cyber threats, with the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) for 2023 shedding light on the specific vulnerabilities within this sector:

• Prevalent Threats: The financial sector is primarily threatened by Basic Web Application Attacks, Miscellaneous Errors, and System Intrusion, together accounting for 77% of breaches.
  • Basic Web Application Attacks indicate that adversaries can gain access with relatively minimal effort, highlighting the need for robust web application security measures.
  • Miscellaneous Errors, including Misdelivery, suggest that human error remains a significant
    vulnerability, underscoring the importance of thorough training and procedural checks.
• Threat Actors: The majority of breaches (66%) are perpetrated by external actors, although a substantial 34% involve internal parties, indicating the need for both perimeter and insider threat defenses.
• Motivations: Financial gain is the primary driver behind 97% of incidents, emphasizing the need for financial institutions to protect against profit-motivated cybercriminals.
• Compromised Data: Personal information is the most frequently compromised type of data (74%), followed by credentials (38%), making identity theft and credential misuse major concerns.

Given these insights, financial institutions should consider a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that addresses these specific vulnerabilities to effectively shield themselves against these threats.

The Role of Cisco Umbrella in Data Protection

Cisco Umbrella acts as the first line of defense against threats on the internet, providing an effective security layer that blocks malicious activity before it reaches your network or endpoints. By leveraging the internet’s infrastructure to block malicious destinations before a connection is established, Cisco Umbrella provides a powerful shield for financial data.

Key Features of Cisco Umbrella for Protecting Financial Data

Cisco Umbrella offers a robust cybersecurity solution. Features are tailored for the financial sector and include: 

• DNS-Layer Security: Filters DNS requests to block access to malicious domains and IPs.
  • Prevents data exfiltration: Blocks attempts to steal data via DNS.
  • Global network: Leverages Cisco’s worldwide data centers for fast and reliable threat enforcement.
• Secure Web Gateway: Provides deep visibility into internet activity and enforces security policies.
  • Advanced threat defense: Integrates with antivirus and sandboxing technologies.
  • SSL decryption: Inspects encrypted traffic for hidden threats.
• Cloud-Delivered Firewall: Manages and blocks traffic using comprehensive rules.
  • Application visibility and control: Identifies and controls application use across the network.
  • Seamless policy enforcement: Applies consistent security policies across all users and locations.
• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): Offers insights and control over cloud application use.
  • Shadow IT detection: Identifies and manages unsanctioned cloud app usage.
  • Data loss prevention: Monitors and protects sensitive information in the cloud.
• Threat Intelligence: Powered by Cisco Talos for extensive threat detection.
  • Real-time updates: Continuously updated to respond to emerging threats.
  • Broad visibility: Monitors a vast array of internet infrastructure for comprehensive coverage.

These features collectively safeguard financial institutions against a wide spectrum of cyber threats, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and the continuity of financial services.

Best Practices for Financial Data Security

Implementing Cisco Umbrella involves assessing your current security posture, integrating the solution with existing security systems, and ensuring staff are trained and aware of the new protocols. A phased approach, starting with critical assets, ensures a smooth transition.

To complement Cisco Umbrella, IT leaders should enforce regular updates and patch management, implement strong access controls and authentication measures, and establish continuous monitoring and incident response protocols. These practices form a comprehensive defense strategy.

Fortify Your Cybersecurity with TBL Networks

In the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, financial institutions require a reliable partner to enhance their defenses. TBL Networks emerges as a leading figure in cybersecurity expertise, offering unparalleled services to protect against digital threats. Their approach is characterized by a deep understanding of the cybersecurity challenges faced by financial institutions and a commitment to providing tailored solutions.

TBL Networks stands as a trusted ally for financial institutions, offering a combination of advanced cybersecurity expertise and a commitment to client education. Their proactive, knowledgeable, and user-centric approach makes them an ideal partner for navigating the complexities of digital security in the financial sector.

Start Your Umbrella Free Trial with TBL Networks

For financial institutions looking to bolster their data security, Cisco Umbrella presents a compelling solution. To explore how TBL Networks can assist in implementing Cisco Umbrella and transforming your security landscape, reach out for a consultation or to start a free trial.