The Importance of Web Security
Web security involves implementing a robust set of protocols, practices and technologies to prevent cyberattacks on websites. These include browser, server and application layer protections, as well as data security and access control. A strong web security protocol also includes regular monitoring and maintenance to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
Web threats wreak havoc in a variety of ways, from disrupting business services (e.g., DDoS attacks) to stealing confidential information and financial transactions. They can also damage an organization’s reputation, causing customers to lose trust in the brand. In addition, most organizations are accountable to a wide range of regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA and GDPR, that must be met to protect sensitive customer and employee data.
As web use becomes more prevalent in the workplace, companies are challenged to secure their websites and online applications without sacrificing performance. To do so, they need a solution that will keep pace with remote workers and protect their devices from web threats. Harmony Browse, a browser-based solution from Check Point, provides powerful protections for both desktop and mobile users to safeguard against web attack vectors like phishing, DDoS, malware, bots and other threats without impacting business operations or limiting flexibility and productivity.
Most of the work that we do is done over the web. This is true for both employees working from home and businesses that need to support a mobile workforce. Unfortunately, these gains in productivity and accessibility come with an increased threat surface that hackers are eager to exploit. That’s why it’s so important to have a complete web security strategy in place.
The most common web attacks involve exploiting flaws in browsers or apps to steal information or take control of a website or server. To mitigate these risks, a website should use HTTPS (or SSL), a security protocol that encrypts the communication between a web server and a browser or app, and prevents third parties from intercepting data.
Other popular web security features include URL filtering, sandboxing, and access controls. Strong passwords that are changed regularly, two-factor authentication, and limiting administrative access help limit potential breaches. It’s also best practice to have a backup and recovery plan in case of an incident.
Most web security solutions are deployed as a “stack” of hardware appliances that monitor and inspect traffic or requests between an environment and the internet. However, the hardware approach is often expensive, and patching can fall behind leaving open and exploitable vulnerabilities. A more cost-effective and practical alternative is a cloud-delivered platform of services that provides holistic coverage to prevent policy violations, malware infections, data loss, DDoS, and other threats. This type of security stack is also more scalable and flexible to handle new challenges and requirements.