Secure Your Cloud Today or Bear the Consequences.

Posted on 2 March 2021 in Business | Gabriel Chua

The Importance of Cyber Security

Here’s the thing about the internet. It can be a scary place. Many may not realise, that while the internet has given us access to everyone and everything, it has also given everyone and everything access to us.

In 2019 , at least 57% of large enterprises in Singapore have already

transitioned their finance systems to the cloud. HR Systems are soon to follow. It has been forecasted that as a result of Singapore’s superior connectivity, there would be a cut in traditional infrastructure by 60% and an increase in hybrid cloud adoption by 150%.

With the momentum shift to cloud adoption, cyber security systems have to be more robust than ever, detecting any potential threats at the earliest moment. Especially Human Resources (HR) systems, where a wealth of highly confidential data is stored. Ill-willed individuals often employ various underhanded means to retrieve this data for their own selfish gain, to the detriment of both you and your clients.

Prominent companies in Singapore have fallen victim to cyber-crimes in the past, such as the 2018 SingHealth cyber-attack , where 1.5 million patient personal particulars were stolen, including that of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. In consideration of the facts, such an attack on Singapore businesses could have untold repercussions. No doubt, Singapore businesses have to be on a constant lookout, equipping their cloud systems with the highest-level cyber-security features to ensure all information is kept safe.

So, what essential features does HR have to look out for in their HRMS to ensure the highest-level security?

Essential Security Features for a Cloud Software

#1 – Identity Access Management

Identity Access Management, or IAM, is a fundamental aspect of any cloud-based system, for the very reason it grants basic user rights.

Functions of IAMs includes specifying which resources users can access, what can be done with those resources, and what requirements must be met for utilisation of resources.

Through IAMs, sensitive data and information is fundamentally protected as at the most basic level, individuals will require more than basic knowledge and know-how for access.

Essentially, they form an 'obstacle' that non tech-savvy individuals have to overcome, thus deterring individuals from entertaining the thought of illegally accessing stored data and

information. With IAMs playing the starting role in cloud computing, it is a feature where the foundations and basics of any cloud-system have to be right from the get-go.

#2 – Dual-Side Encryption

Data encryption is a process whereby data is altered into different configurations, where only people with the right encryption keys can read the data in its original state. When using any system, data is sent and received from the end-user's device to the server, and it is necessary that data is encrypted on both ends. Such a process is known as dual-side encryption.

Since data breaches can occur at any stage, it is essential that data is protected by a cloud-system possessing dual-side encryption features, providing data protection and security at both ends.Servers that do not provide such coverage or security will be at greater risk of having sensitive information leaked. In the event of a breach of a HR system, not only would sensitive employee or client data be exposed, it would also affect the reputation of the company.

#3 – Firewall Installation

Firewalls act as the first line of defence when it comes to computer systems. The 2 main types, Internal and External firewalls both play an integral part when it comes to data security.

External Firewalls inspect source and destination packets, to confirm the integrity of whoever or whatever that is trying to access your data and files. Internal Firewalls on the other hand, are an additional layer of protection for unrestricted access for threats that are already in your systems.

Firewalls form a two-pronged defence mechanism: External firewalls help prevent unauthorised access, while Internal firewalls help maintain the infrastructure of your cloud systems. In tandem

with one another, firewalls provide a streamlined defence to ensure that your security is detailed down to every last aspect for holistic protection.

#4 – Strong Physical Security

Cloud servers work by expanding their network over a vast expanse. This is usually done via the help of physical data centres that facilitate the capabilities of cloud networks. Thus, if individuals are not able to hack into the devices remotely, their next bet would be to retrieve

the information by making a physical hardware connection.

As such, it is highly advisable that when choosing a cloud-based system, companies that own such systems are deemed to be highly reputable in term of not just virtual security, but physical security as well.

Ideally, such companies ought to employ proper security systems and/or personnel, such as 24/7 CCTVs and round the clock security guards, at data centres which host cloud networks to establish an overarching defence system which caters to both the front and back end protection.Companies like Microsoft even utilise such measures so as to protect their cloud service, Azure, which serves to highlight the importance of physical security even with the presence state-of-the-art digital security measures put in place.

Prevention & Protection

Cyber security threats present an ever-growing presence especially in this highly digitalised age. As such, there is a need to ensure that your cloud-systems are equipped with all the latest prevention and security features, especially in areas such as HR where a plethora of information exists that may be highly desirable for hackers and ill-willed individuals. This is why it is important to utilise a state-of-the-art HR system to protect your data.

Thus, when utilising a cloud service, what should you be on the lookout for? Though the above features may be possessed, systems you employ should also possess the necessary accreditations.

If you want the best of systems around, an ISO 27001 certification is what you should watch for. A component of ISO standards that governs worldwide standards of system quality, safety and security, an ISO 27001 distinguishes the best from the rest. Containing many annexes such as Human Resource Security, Asset Management, and Information Security Aspects of Business Continuity Management amongst many others, the title recognises 114 control systems set in place amongst 14 different security sets. Essentially, the ISO 27001 certifies security systems of the highest order that emphasise a tremendous amount into ensuring data protection, security compliance and confidentiality.

In addition to the ISO 27001, an MTCS Level 2 award is also highly desirable. Why? MTCS specifically builds upon various international standards such as the ISO 27001, detailing the many layers that has to be covered for thorough protocols when it comes cloud system protection. Specifically, an MTCS Level 2 award comes with a total of 449 controls, detailing features such as Data Governance, Infrastructure Security and Operations Management. Thus, any system that has successfully attained an MTCS Level 2 award shows that they have met all 449 controls to satisfaction, indicating that they are a highly reliable and trustworthy system with robust features to ensure you cloud-data is highly secured.

Your Cloud-Based HRMS of Choice

At QuickHR , keeping your data safe and secure is our top priority. Always on the lookout for security upgrades and improvements, we strive to ensure that all data and information shared with us remains secured and that there’ll be no compromises made.

That being said, why is an ISO 27001 award so precious to a SaaS like QuickHR? Well, it shows that our hard work has ultimately paid off. All accreditations are not internally awarded, but audited by 3rd parties who are experts in the field of technology and security, thus eliminating any associated biasness. Additionally, the ISO 27001 is the only widely recognised information security standard at the international level.

It shows that a SaaS has demonstrated competency across various technical and infrastructural aspects which have been implemented and as such, demonstrates a streamlined approach to both compliance and governance. Only companies that utilise the latest technology, and utilise it well, can claim to have achieved such a distinguished feat. In a nutshell, an ISO 27001 award helps differentiates a SaaS business from the rest, hallmarking any associated service provided as top-notch and reliable, being adroit in its respective field.

Yet again, the MTCS Level 2 award is of utmost value to a SaaS. And the reason is simple. An MTCS award establishes the transparency and precision of an SaaS when it comes to being a cloud-service provider of security provisions, which include, but not limited to, governance, infrastructure protection and operations management. The award further signifies the exceptional ability a SaaS possesses to store, operate and configure data and information of the highest confidentiality. All in all, any SaaS possessing a MTCS award sets itself as a pillar of a well-founded and grounded cloud-service provider with systems of the highest order in place.

All being said and done, QuickHR is proud to announce that we have successfully cleared all 563

hurdles, earning us the coveted ISO 27001 and MTCS-Level 2 awards.These accreditations are but a testament to our commitment in ensuring that our cloud-based HRMS software is protected by the highest security protocols. With this, you can be sure that in choosing QuickHR as your cloud-based HRMS of choice, you’ll be able to go about your business without ever having to worry about a compromise in your data’s security and confidentiality.

Once again, we hope that you've enjoyed a good read. And remember, Think Now, Think Far, Think QuickHR.

* Get in touch with us at https://quickhr.co/ to find out more about our state-of-the-art HRMS solution!