Whether your organization runs a ESG website, IR website, or both, it must focus on cybersecurity. Such websites are particularly susceptible to a range of cyber threats due to the sensitive nature of the information they contain and the high-profile traffic they draw.
- Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)Â
These attacks overwhelm a website’s servers with a flood of requests. It causes the website to become inaccessible. This not only disrupts normal operations but can also serve as a distraction while cybercriminals attempt to infiltrate the website’s defenses.
- RansomwareÂ
Ransomware is a type of malware that hijacks information for ransom. Such an attack may encrypt an IR website’s data and ask for money in exchange for an encryption fee. Unfortunately, authors of such attacks don’t even bother unlocking the data after getting paid.
- SQL Injections and Cross-site Scripting (XSS)
Many websites have vulnerabilities. These can be bugs or system misconfigurations. Threat actors can take advantage of them to spy on users or infect them with spyware, Trojans, or ransomware. They can also use bugs to steal sensitive data. The two most common website attacks they can use to exploit vulnerabilities are SQL Injection and XSS attacks. Sadly, most of these attacks are preventable.
Steps to Protect IR & ESG Websites Against Cyberattacks
Protecting your organization’s website against cyberattacks requires a multi-layered approach. Here are some tips:
Work with a Reputable IR Team
You must work with a top investor relations team like Q4 that develops secure IR and ESG websites for its clients.
Their platform features:
- Enterprise Security: SOC-2 Type 2 certified data management and market-leading 24/7 security that delivers 99.9% uptime.
- Guaranteed Compliance: An IR website designed to meet SEC and GDPR compliance.
- 5 Star Support: The highest-rated client experience in the IR market.
Implement Strong Access Controls
This involves using secure login mechanisms, such as two-factor authentication, to verify the identity of administrators accessing the website. Additionally, limiting access privileges to only authorized individuals and regularly reviewing and updating user permissions can help prevent unauthorized access to administrative tools.
Regularly Update Software
Keeping your IR website’s software up to date is crucial. Regularly update the content management system (CMS), plugins, and other components. This can mitigate the risk of bug exploitation.
Conduct Penetration Tests
Regular security audits and penetration tests are essential. These tests simulate real-world cyberattacks. And can evaluate the effectiveness of your security controls. They may also help identify areas for improvement.
Educate Employees
Unfortunately, a significant number of breaches occur due to employee error. That’s why you must train them on cybersecurity best practices, including:
- Recognizing phishing emails
- Creating strong passwords
- Avoiding unsafe downloads.
- Following login safety protocols
Develop an Incident Response Plan
Implementing a robust incident response plan is crucial. For example, it can mitigate the risk of a DDoS attack as it happens. The plan should include monitoring systems, investigation protocols, and remediation measures.
Safeguard Your Company’s Website
Securing your investor relations website is critical. The consequences of a breach can be severe. Work with a top IR team to develop a secure investor relations website. Additionally, monitor for threats, test your website regularly, and implement security updates.
