Why Businesses do not Manage VPN Security Properly!

‍In this article, I am going to tell you Why Businesses do not Manage VPN Security Properly. So if you want to know about it, then keep reading this article. Because I am going to give you complete information about it, so let’s start.

The Net, Deep Web, Blackhat—any bells ringing? Swordfish, Italian Job, Ocean’s Series—surely bells ringing now! Cybercrime and hacking have been part of movie scripts where some hacking is for good but predominantly for the bad. In the real world, for businesses, it’s damn ugly!

In recent years, cybercrime has become a significant concern for businesses worldwide. With the increasing number of cyberattacks on companies, businesses must take the necessary steps to protect their networks and data. Astonishing as it may sound, as of 2023, cybercrimes are estimated to cost 1% of the global GDP. Yes, you read that right!

One of the most common methods businesses adopt to protect their networks is using a virtual private network (VPN). Ever since remote work became the new normal, the criticality of VPN has gained global prominence. But like any other tech solution, it’s how you manage VPN matters, not just having it. Many businesses do not manage VPN security properly, which can lead to cybercrimes.

This article will discuss why businesses do not properly manage VPN security, the consequences of such negligence, and some VPN management best practices.

Today’s article focuses on the same, i.e., “Why Businesses do not Manage VPN Security Properly” The articles entail each bit of information necessary for you to know.

Let’s get started!✨

Why Businesses do not Manage VPN Security Properly!

There are several reasons why businesses do not manage VPN security properly. One of the main reasons is the lack of knowledge and understanding of VPN technology. Many businesses believe that using a VPN alone is enough to protect their networks and data from cyberattacks. However, this is not true. A VPN is just one component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Understanding how VPNs work thoroughly and the potential vulnerabilities they can expose is essential.

Let’s list down some top reasons for VPN negligence or management pitfalls. No point in guessing that all these reasons are intertwined and cascading.

Lack of Awareness

The first and foremost reason for improper management of any technology is lack of awareness about its importance. Many businesses believe installing a VPN client on employee devices is enough to secure their online activities without realizing that managing VPN security is equally important. It’s important that IT admins know the nuances of VPN inside out. It’s equally important for employees to do their bit and not be at sea when accessing corporate networks via a VPN client.

Limited Resources

Managing VPN security requires significant resources, including time, money, and skilled professionals. Many businesses, especially small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), do not have the resources to manage VPN security properly. They may rely on free or low-cost VPN services, which may not provide the level of security they need. Another constraint is that businesses may not have the resources to hire skilled professionals to manage their VPNs or invest in the latest security technologies. In other cases, when companies consider using AI content writing tools, they should prioritize security as well.

Lack of Expertise

Organizations need a high level of expertise and knowledge of the latest security technologies and best practices to manage a VPN. Many do not have the in-house expertise to manage VPN security properly. They may rely on their IT staff, who do not have the necessary expertise or are overwhelmed with other tasks.

Some businesses may not have the budget to hire external experts to manage their VPNs. And indeed, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree! If IT staff lacks the expertise to manage VPN, they can’t pass the necessary knowledge to employees on VPN essentials. Lack of expertise means troubleshooting is not on point, creating a gateway for cybercriminals to sneak into corporate networks.

User Error

Another reason why organizations fail to manage VPN security properly is user error. Users may inadvertently compromise VPN security by using weak passwords, sharing login credentials, or accessing the VPN from unsecured networks. Additionally, they may not follow best practices, such as updating their devices and software, leaving the VPN vulnerable to cyber threats.

Consequences of Neglecting VPN Security

Neglecting VPN security can have severe consequences for businesses. Corporate networks can therefore become hunting fields for cybercriminals. Below are some of the possible consequences:

Data Breaches: VPNs are designed to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. However, if VPN security is not managed the right way, cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in the VPN network to gain access to sensitive data. A data breach can lead to financial losses, loss of customers’ trust, and even legal penalties.
Malware Infections: Neglected VPNs can also become a vector for malware infections. Malware can infiltrate a network through a vulnerable VPN, leading to the theft of sensitive data and damage to the network’s infrastructure. Malware infections can also lead to costly downtime and disruption of business operations.
Network Outages: VPNs are integral to a business’s network infrastructure. A poorly managed VPN can lead to network outages, leading to the disruption of business operations. Network outages can also result in lost revenue and damage the business’s reputation.
Regulatory Non-Compliance: Many businesses operate in regulated industries (like BFSI and healthcare) that require compliance with specific cybersecurity regulations. Neglecting VPN security can lead to non-compliance with these regulations, hefty fines, and legal penalties. When VPN lapses lead to personally identifiable information (PII) leakage, data privacy laws like GDPR can take businesses to court.
Ransomware Attacks: One of the most significant consequences of neglecting VPN security is the risk of ransomware attacks. Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the VPN network to deploy ransomware, which can encrypt a business’s data, making it inaccessible until a ransom is paid. Ransomware attacks can cause significant financial losses, damage the business’s reputation, and even lead to bankruptcy.

Best Practices for Managing VPN Security

Organizations, IT teams, and employees must work together to keep cybercriminals at bay. For that, adhering to the best practices and protocols for managing VPN security is a must. Here are some best practices:

Strong Password Policies: A weak password is one of the easiest ways for attackers to access a VPN network. Businesses should implement strong password policies that require complex passwords and password changes regularly.
Multi-factor Authentication: Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is an effective way to add an extra layer of security to VPNs. Businesses should implement MFA for all users accessing the VPN network.
Keep VPN Software Up to Date: VPN software is vulnerable to exploits just like any other software. Businesses should ensure that they keep their VPN software up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Applying timely patches to VPN software should be an IT mandate.
Monitor and Audit VPNs: Businesses should regularly monitor and audit their VPN networks to identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Regular Security Training: Many cybercrimes result from human error, such as clicking on a malicious link or downloading a file from an untrusted source. Regular security training can help employees understand the risks associated with VPNs and how to use them securely.
Deploy an MDM Software: While VPN protects corporate networks, mobile device management (MDM) software improves device-level security. MDM solutions offer valuable features for IT admins to secure devices, including application and website blocking. This feature ensures that employees don’t access malicious apps or websites via a VPN or any network, for that matter.

MDM also reduces the probability of cybercriminals breaching corporate data stored on devices. Another noteworthy MDM feature is automated third-party app patch management. IT admins can ensure that the VPN client on all devices used for work is patched and updated, prohibiting cybercriminals from exploiting vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:)

Protagonists of cybercrime-based movies follow the script to get even with threat actors. In the real world, organizations and IT teams must be on their toes to deal with cybercrimes. Using a VPN won’t suffice. How to leverage VPN in the best way is what separates smart businesses from the ones that aren’t proactive enough on security grounds.

Apart from sticking to the best practices for VPN security management, businesses must invest in solutions like MDM to strengthen their security posture. Cybercriminals will remain at work; the onus is on IT and security teams on how they use VPNs to prevent cyberattacks.

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