Better processes will protect IT

Gartner predicts 80 per cent of damage could be avoided

Companies could prevent 80 per cent of the damage caused by IT security breaches over the next two years if they improve their processes and infrastructure, according to Gartner.

The analyst says better IT security procedures and greater integration in the areas of password control, intrusion prevention, identity and vulnerability management could help businesses combat the threat of hackers and computer viruses.

Speaking at the Gartner IT Security Summit in London today (Thursday), vice president of security research Jay Heiser will outline the key steps businesses must take to guard against the increasing criminalisation of IT security threats.

‘Script-kiddies, who used to write viruses in their bedrooms for fun, are growing up and realising there’s money to be gained. At the same time, organised crime gangs from Eastern Europe are targeting this area more,’ he said.

‘There’s a need for a greater education of employees, but there are also key things IT departments need to look at.’

Criminals are also increasingly targeting cracks in IT security systems and looking for both physical and technological ways to exploit working practices, such as remote working, that are still in their infancy, says Heiser.