With an increasingly dangerous worldwide internet, it remains ever important that company’s data and operating systems are protected from attack by a cybersecurity plan. A company’s sensitive data, personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI) and industry information systems are all at risk without proper security in place. And that risk is quantifiable:
- There were 2,365 cyber incidents in 2023, with more than 343 million victims.
- More than 94% of organizations have reported email security incidents. Email is the most common vector for malware, with around 35% of malware delivered via email in 2023.
- The number of data breaches continues to grow each year. According to securitymagazine.com, more than 3,205 data breaches occurred in 2023, impacting an estimated 353 million victims. These types of attacks cost businesses between $4.62 and $4.69 million on average. And the compromises represent a 78% increase over 2023.
To help your business become cyber secure, Macomb County Planning and Economic Development will host a new Macomb Next workshop titled, “Understanding Cyber Threats: How to Recognize and Respond” on Oct. 23.
The event will take place at Macomb Community College South Campus in Warren in Building K from 8-10 a.m. It will feature important discussions that can ensure all businesses have the resources they need to stay safe and secure online.
Speakers include:
- Eric Castaglia, the Chief Growth Officer at BAE Networks, who will discuss strategies to stay ahead of cybercriminals on the dark web.
- Karen Kiewski, an IT professional at Systems X, will discuss the steps the businesses should be taking to prevent potential threats.
- Special Agent Karen Kiberg of the FBI Detroit Cyber Taskforce, will discuss how to respond quickly and effectively to a cyber compromise.
“Effective, updated cybersecurity compliance is more important than ever to protect our business from data theft, damage and misuse,” MCPED Director Vicky Rowinski said. “On the heels of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we are offering this workshop to help our local organizations gain first-hand knowledge from cybersecurity professionals on how they can shield and protect their business from threats.”
The Oct. 23 event is open to any business looking to learn more about recent cyber attacks, steps for prevention, and how to respond to an attack. A light breakfast will be served with ample time for networking and visiting with vendors and experts on cybersecurity. There is no cost to attend, but seating is limited, and registration is required.
The workshop is made possible by Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, in partnership with Macomb County Emergency Management, Macomb County Chamber, and First State Bank.
To learn more about the Macomb Next project, Industry 4.0 and grant opportunities, please visit macombnext.com.
