CommCore Blog and News

CommCore Observer: Russian Cyberattacks in Ukraine are Closer Than We Think

Russia unleashed a series of massive cyber-attacks on Ukraine’s government infrastructure and industry to create confusion and chaos in advance of its military operation. While this crisis is taking place more than 5,000 miles from the U.S. mainland, it reminds us that cyberattacks are increasing – not just from state actors, but from criminal networks, politically motivated true believers, and copycats.

According to statistics, a cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds. This means that defensive IT measures and plans to handle communications around cyberattacks have become more important than ever.

Here is a checklist to consider in advance of an attack:

  • Are you able to communicate effectively with stakeholders in the “Golden Hour” after you discover your data, assets, or business operations have been infiltrated or compromised?
  • Do you have an updated cyberattack response plan to immediately inform customers, investors, employees, boards of directors, law enforcement, regulators, and the media?
  • Do your C-Suite, breach coach, and legal counsel collaborate to ensure that organization’s communications don’t harm your legal and financial positions?
  • Do you have a response plan in place to repair and restore your brand’s reputation?

A good plan is like a spare tire. You periodically need to inspect it to make sure it’s filled with air. A dusty old plan, like a flat spare tire is worthless when you really need it.

“We’ve been hacked.”

Cyber attacks, data breaches, and all manner of security issues related to customer and stakeholder data are making headlines at a record pace, and have been more costly than ever in our post-pandemic world.

In 2020, businesses were forced to quickly adapt their technology approaches, with many encouraging or requiring employees to work from home. New findings released by IBM in July of 2021 suggest that security may have lagged behind these rapid IT changes, hindering organizations’ ability to respond to data breaches.

Handling communications around cyber attacks has become more important than ever.

Do you suspect a data breach or cyber attack?

Was your confidential or sensitive data stolen? CommCore can help you rebuild customer trust after a data breach or cyber attack happens. We can also help you plan your response before disaster strikes.

Learn More About Our Data Breach & Cyber Attack Communications Services

To schedule a PressureTest™ Crisis Communications Training Demo, please contact our firm today.