Data Security in a Crisis: Top Tips from Cybersecurity Expert Zohar Rosenberg

In this episode of the *GDPR Now* podcast, Karen Heaton from *Data Protection for Business* interviews Zohar Rosenberg, Chief Security Officer at Elron, about the changing landscape of data security. With a career spanning 20 years, Zohar has vast experience in cybersecurity, including a background in the Israeli military’s Intelligence Unit 8200. In this post, we summarise the key points from their conversation on the current state of data security and how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can better protect themselves.

How Cybersecurity Has Grown

Cybersecurity has expanded rapidly since the 1990s. Zohar recalls that back then, only a few companies, such as Check Point, were involved. Today, there are around 500 cybersecurity firms in Israel alone, and thousands more worldwide. Cybersecurity conferences have grown significantly as well, showing just how essential this field has become.

The expansion of cybersecurity isn’t just about tech advancements; it’s driven by the rise of cybercrime. With much of it moving online, cybercrime has become a safer, more lucrative business for criminals.

The Business-Like Structure of Cybercrime

One of the most eye-opening points Zohar made is how cybercrime has become organised like a business. Some cybercriminal groups even have help desks to guide victims through paying ransoms, usually in Bitcoin. With minimal investment in phishing or ransomware attacks, these criminals can achieve significant returns.

Unfortunately, stopping cybercrime on a global scale remains challenging. International cooperation is limited by political, philosophical, and economic differences, making a unified approach difficult.

How COVID-19 Has Changed Data Security

The COVID-19 pandemic created new data security challenges as businesses shifted to remote working. Many companies, particularly SMEs, were unprepared for the cyber risks associated with employees working from home on unsecured networks.

While larger enterprises have been able to strengthen their cybersecurity over the years, SMEs remain at risk. Limited budgets and a lack of dedicated cybersecurity personnel mean many SMEs are vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

Cybersecurity Solutions for SMEs

One major gap in the market is the lack of cybersecurity solutions designed specifically for SMEs. Many cybersecurity products target large enterprises and require a professional team to install and manage.

Elron and other companies are working to address this gap. Zohar highlights some solutions aimed at SMEs, including anti-phishing tools that integrate easily with platforms like Microsoft 365. Cyber insurance tailored for SMEs is also emerging as an accessible option, providing essential protection with minimal setup.

Track and Trace Apps: Balancing Security and Privacy

The episode also covers the role of track and trace apps in the fight against COVID-19. These apps, already successful in countries like Taiwan and South Korea, have the potential to help manage the pandemic in other regions too. However, they come with significant privacy and security challenges.

Track and trace apps require a reliable data baseline and constant fine-tuning to avoid false positives in places like shopping centres and schools. Privacy is another concern, especially in Europe, where GDPR compliance is essential. Zohar points out that cybercriminals could exploit these apps, so robust security is critical to protecting user data.

Preparing for Future Cybersecurity Challenges

As businesses continue adapting to a digital-first world, Zohar believes that immediate, practical cybersecurity solutions will remain a priority. He advises SMEs to focus on cost-effective, easy-to-deploy solutions that address urgent security needs rather than investing heavily in long-term strategies during these uncertain times.

Looking ahead, Zohar emphasises the need to plan proactively for cybersecurity in future pandemics and crises. Tracking technologies will only become more prevalent and attractive to cybercriminals, so organisations need to be prepared.

Conclusion

Zohar’s insights serve as a reminder of the cybersecurity risks we all face as the world becomes more digital. For SMEs, investing in straightforward, affordable cybersecurity solutions is crucial. Proactive planning is also essential to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

This episode sheds light on the cybersecurity challenges that both governments and businesses face today. For more information on Elron’s cybersecurity solutions, visit elron.com.

Key Takeaways for SMEs:

• Cybercrime is highly organised and lucrative, making it a persistent threat.
• COVID-19 has increased data security challenges, especially for SMEs.
• Affordable, user-friendly cybersecurity solutions are emerging for smaller businesses.
• Proactive planning and GDPR compliance are essential for data protection.