Information security is no longer purely an IT topic -- it is a business-critical success factor that affects the entire organization. From executive management through business departments to every individual employee, everyone contributes to either ensuring or endangering information security. In this article, we present the most effective measures that organizations should implement to sustainably improve their information security.
The Fundamentals: A Systematic Approach
Effective information security does not begin with purchasing the latest security product, but with a systematic approach. Implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) according to ISO 27001 provides a proven framework that supports organizations in structurally planning, implementing, reviewing, and continuously improving their security measures. This Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle ensures that information security is not a one-time project but a living, constantly evolving process.
Technical Measures
1. Network Segmentation and Zero Trust Architecture
The classic perimeter defense -- a strong firewall at the network edge -- is no longer sufficient in the modern IT landscape. Organizations should segment their networks to limit the spread of attacks and implement a Zero Trust architecture. The principle of "Never trust, always verify" ensures that every access -- regardless of the user's location -- is authenticated and authorized. Microsegmentation enables enforcement of granular security policies and effectively prevents lateral movement by attackers.
2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Implementing MFA for all critical systems and applications is one of the most effective measures against credential-based attacks. Even if a password is compromised, the second factor prevents unauthorized access. Organizations should adopt phishing-resistant MFA methods such as FIDO2 security keys, as SMS-based methods are increasingly being bypassed by attackers.
3. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Traditional antivirus solutions are only partially effective against modern threats such as fileless malware, living-off-the-land attacks, and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). EDR solutions provide more comprehensive endpoint security through continuous monitoring, behavioral analysis, and automated response capabilities. They enable security teams to detect, investigate, and contain threats early.
4. Patch Management and Vulnerability Management
Unpatched systems are among the most common entry points for attackers. Structured patch management ensures that security updates are applied promptly. Additionally, continuous vulnerability management should be implemented that regularly scans for known vulnerabilities, prioritizes them by criticality, and tracks their remediation. Internet-exposed systems are particularly critical and require immediate attention.
5. Encryption and Data Protection
Data must be encrypted both in transit and at rest. TLS 1.3 should be enforced for all communication channels, and disk and database encryption ensures that data is protected even in case of physical access or theft. Solid key management is as important as the encryption itself.
Organizational Measures
6. Security Policies and Governance
Clear, understandable, and enforceable security policies form the backbone of information security. They define responsibilities, behavioral rules, and processes for handling sensitive information. It is important that these policies not only exist on paper but are actively communicated, trained, and their compliance regularly verified.
7. Incident Response Plan
Every organization must assume that it will sooner or later be the target of a cyberattack. A detailed incident response plan defines clear roles, responsibilities, and escalation paths for emergencies. Regular exercises -- so-called tabletop exercises -- ensure that all stakeholders know what to do in an emergency and uncover weaknesses in the process early.
Monitoring and Detection
8. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
A SIEM system collects and correlates security events from various sources and enables early detection of security incidents. Combined with SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation and Response), many routine tasks can be automated and response times for incidents drastically reduced.
9. Penetration Tests and Red Team Exercises
Regular penetration tests and red team exercises simulate real attacks and uncover vulnerabilities before attackers find them. While penetration tests focus on technical testing, red team exercises go a step further and simulate realistic attack scenarios that also incorporate social engineering and physical security.
Conclusion: Security Is a Process, Not a Product
Effective information security requires a holistic approach that equally considers technical, organizational, and human aspects. No single measure covers all risks, but the combination of the presented measures creates a robust defense against the diverse threats of today's cyber landscape. SecTepe supports organizations in identifying, prioritizing, and effectively implementing the right measures -- for measurably better information security.