How Much Cybersecurity Is Enough? A Reality Check for Businesses in 2025

Cybersecurity is no longer optional, it’s a necessity. Yet, during recent audits, we’ve noticed a disturbing trend: many organizations underestimate what it takes to truly secure their digital infrastructure. This blog aims to shed light on this issue and offer actionable advice for organizations looking to bolster their defenses.

The Misconception: “We’re Secure Enough”

Too often, we hear companies confidently proclaim, “We’re secure. We’ve got this.” But when we conduct audits, the reality paints a very different picture. Whether it’s outdated tools, insufficient policies, or a lack of layered defenses, many businesses are leaving themselves dangerously exposed.

If Your Cybersecurity Hasn’t Changed Since Pre-COVID

Here’s a hard truth: if you haven’t updated your cybersecurity strategy or tools since before COVID-19, or using strategies developed before the pandemic, you’re incredibly vulnerable. The tools and tactics cybercriminals use have evolved dramatically in the past few years. Without corresponding updates to your defenses, a data breach or ransomware attack isn’t just likely… it’s inevitable.

The Bare Minimum Isn’t Enough

Many businesses rely on three basic pillars of cybersecurity:

1. A robust firewall
2. Spam filters
3. EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) or antivirus software

While these are essential, they’re just the foundation—a starting point, not a complete solution.

Why These Alone Are Insufficient

• Firewalls: A firewall can block incoming threats, but it can’t stop a user from clicking a malicious link or downloading a compromised attachment.
• Spam Filters: These tools are imperfect by design; for email to function, some questionable content must be allowed through.
• EDR: Even the best EDR solutions can only do so much. They’re often reactive, becoming the last line of defense after an attack has already begun.

In short, relying solely on these tools leaves significant gaps in your security posture.

What Your Cybersecurity Strategy Should Include

To protect against today’s sophisticated threats, businesses need a layered approach. Here’s what that looks like:

Cloud Detection and Response (CDR)

The cloud is the most exposed aspect of your network.

• Indicators of Compromise: 3^rd party CDR tools that look for unusual behavior such as: logins from outside the country, forwarding rules, unusual mailbox rules, and impossible logins.
• Office 365 Defender: Tools like Defender for Office 365 can help quarantine suspicious emails and neutralize threats before they spread.
• Safe Links and Attachments: These features sandbox potentially malicious content, offering an added layer of scrutiny.

Advanced Endpoint Protection

Beyond basic antivirus, you need:

• Threat hunting: Proactively searching for potential vulnerabilities or breaches.
• Ransomware detection: Systems that can identify and isolate ransomware activity before it spreads.
• Application whitelisting: Ensuring only pre-approved software can run on your network.

Strong Policies and Procedures

• Patch Management: Regularly updating systems to address vulnerabilities.
• Network Monitoring: Ensuring no unauthorized devices can access your network without triggering alerts.
• User Guidance: Policies and procedures for users to follow to know their role in company cyber security.
• User Training: Policies are worth nothing if your employees don’t know they exist. Training on what to look for, how to spot potential threats, and how to report if something unusual happens.

Governance

• Auditing: Regularly check your IT systems to ensure they follow security policies and spot any weaknesses. Include network security, data protection, and access controls.
• User Account Management: Keep user accounts secure by updating permissions, deactivating unused accounts, and requiring strong passwords.
• License Checks: Review software licenses often to ensure all tools are authorized and updated, avoiding risks from outdated or unauthorized programs.
• MFA Reviews: Verify that Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is active and secure for all users. Regularly update methods to keep MFA effective.

Redundancy and Disaster Recovery

Even with the best defenses, breaches can happen. Having a robust backup and disaster recovery plan ensures your business can recover quickly and minimize downtime.

A Call to Action

If your cybersecurity isn’t up to current standards, now is the time to act. Every organization can benefit from a fresh set of eyes on their defenses. Our audits consistently help businesses identify gaps, reduce risks, and improve operational efficiency.

Cybersecurity is complex, but securing your business doesn’t have to be. With the right partner, you can achieve significant improvements in just weeks.

Let’s Start the Conversation

Reach out to us at 4BIS Cyber Security. Call 513-494-4444 or fill out our contact form to get started. Together, we’ll ensure your business is prepared to face modern threats.

Your security is our priority. Let’s make 2025 the year you take control of your cybersecurity.