Continuous network monitoring [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6], also known as continuous security monitoring (CSM), is a critical aspect of cybersecurity in today’s landscape, particularly for financial institutions [4]. This approach automates the monitoring of information security controls [6], vulnerabilities [1] [2] [3] [5] [6], and cyber threats [6], providing real-time visibility of indicators of compromise [6], security misconfiguration [6], and infrastructure and network vulnerabilities. Traditional methods like firewalls and point-in-time scanning are no longer sufficient to ensure network security [1]. It is now necessary to extend network security beyond the perimeter and protect all devices and systems used to access the network.
Description
To address these risks, continuous network monitoring [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6], supported by regular scanning [1] [3] [5], is essential [1] [4]. This approach involves sending probes to search for open ports and services [3], probing each one for configuration weaknesses or known vulnerabilities [3] [5]. It allows for the detection and identification of flaws and weak spots in devices, application software [3], and operating systems [1] [3] [5]. It provides near-immediate feedback on changes and prioritizes vulnerabilities [1], enabling quick problem resolution [1].
Advanced network monitoring tools like Intruder offer daily scans to ensure an accurate and up-to-date view of the network [1] [3] [5], including active and unresponsive targets [3] [5], changes since the last scan [3] [5], expiring certificates [1] [3] [5], and exposed ports and services [3] [5]. They prioritize vulnerabilities based on context and provide comprehensive visibility across the entire IT environment [1]. Intruder combines continuous network monitoring [5], automated vulnerability scanning [5], and proactive threat response in one platform [5], offering comprehensive visibility across the entire IT environment [1] [3] [5]. It continuously scans networks to identify vulnerabilities [2], highlighting what is exposed to the internet and prioritizing issues [2]. Additionally, it automatically initiates new scans when changes are detected in the IT environment [2]. Intruder also notifies users of any changes to open ports and synchronizes hostnames or IPs [2].
To help organizations enhance their security and resilience, Intruder provides a free trial experience of continuous network monitoring firsthand for 14 days. Partnering with a trusted managed security services provider (MSSP) adds an extra layer of protection and allows institutions to leverage a team of security professionals for threat monitoring and remediation [4]. MSSPs also help institutions remain compliant with regulatory requirements [4]. Data loss prevention software helps ensure sensitive data stays within the network [4], and educating employees and customers about cybersecurity risks is crucial for effective risk mitigation [4]. By continually monitoring their networks [4], systems [1] [3] [4] [5] [6], and applications [4], financial institutions can detect cyberattacks in real time and take immediate action [4]. This monitoring provides visibility into the entire network and uses automated tools to collect and analyze data from various sources [4], including user behavior logs [4]. By identifying suspicious activity [4], institutions can address security incidents before they become a major threat [4]. To stay ahead of evolving cyber risks [4], institutions must stay informed about the latest tactics and technologies [4].
Continuous security monitoring solutions [6], such as those offered by UpGuard, can automatically run a discovery process to identify digital assets that contain or process sensitive data [6]. They actively discover exposed datasets on the open and deep web [6], ensuring the security of sensitive information [6]. UpGuard has the ability to detect leaked credentials and exposed data before it falls into the wrong hands [6]. Continuous security monitoring helps organizations reduce cybersecurity risk [6], mitigate the impact of cyberattacks [6], and reduce the cost of data breaches [6]. It helps discover and protect digital assets and sensitive data [6], regardless of whether they are managed by the organization or a third-party [6]. Security ratings are a popular method of continuous security monitoring for vendor risk management and attack surface management teams [6]. They provide a simple and easy-to-understand rating that can be presented to non-technical stakeholders [6].
Conclusion
Continuous network monitoring plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and resilience of financial institutions in today’s cybersecurity landscape. By automating the monitoring of information security controls [6], vulnerabilities [1] [2] [3] [5] [6], and cyber threats [6], organizations can gain real-time visibility and take immediate action to address any issues. Partnering with managed security services providers and utilizing advanced monitoring tools like Intruder and UpGuard can further enhance security measures. Continuous security monitoring helps organizations reduce cybersecurity risk [6], protect sensitive data [6], and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. It is essential for institutions to remain informed about the latest tactics and technologies to effectively mitigate risks and ensure the safety of their networks, systems [1] [3] [4] [5] [6], and applications [4].
References
[1] https://thehackernews.com/2023/08/why-you-need-continuous-network.html
[2] https://www.intruder.io/blog/how-to-build-a-resilient-remote-working-business
[3] https://patabook.com/technology/2023/08/17/why-you-need-continuous-network-monitoring/
[4] https://www.csiweb.com/what-to-know/content-hub/blog/continuous-cybersecurity-monitoring/
[5] https://vulners.com/thn/THN:7B95B582004839CA185C3C152188D2F9
[6] https://www.upguard.com/blog/continuous-security-monitoring
