Blog » Step-up your Digital Vigilance: Cybersecurity Strategies for Accounting in 2024

Step-up your Digital Vigilance: Cybersecurity Strategies for Accounting in 2024

Last updated: 18 Jan, 2024 By Ashish Rana | 6 Minutes Read

The rapid strides of technology and their integration in business functions have become indispensable for the smooth and efficient running of businesses. Every facet of a business today depends on a horde of tools and applications for faster, error-free and efficient processing. No other function perhaps feels the digital need more acutely than accounting. Considering this deep dependence on technology, the need for robust cybersecurity accounting has assumed heightened importance. As the accounting functions of businesses become increasingly interconnected and reliant on digital platforms, the threat landscape for cyberattacks loom large. Businesses have to gear up with adequate preparedness to mitigate any impending cyber risk.

This blog will help understand the cybersecurity accounting imperatives. It will trace the rise of cyber attacks in accounting, list the different forms of cybersecurity accounting hazards, emerging trends in accounting cybersecurity, best practices for accounting cybersecurity, and how outsourcing can go a long way in mitigating these risks.

Current Landscape of Cybersecurity Accounting Attacks

Cybersecurity threats in accounting have increased owing to increasing use of digital tools and cloud-based accounting systems by businesses. Cybercriminals are quick to exploit vulnerabilities in a company’s digital architecture for financial gain, theft, corporate espionage, and also ransomware attacks seeking substantial payouts.

According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, “Cybersecurity risks to the financial system have grown in recent years, in part because the cyber threat landscape is worsening; in particular, state-sponsored cyberattacks targeting financial institutions are becoming more frequent, sophisticated, and destructive. In 2017, the G20 warned that cyberattacks could “undermine the security and confidence and endanger financial stability.”

Cyber-attacks listed by them include:

OP Financial Group cyberattack in January 2022 which disrupted its services
Aon ransomware attack causing limited disruption to a number of their services in February 2022
Beanstalk Farms cryptocurrency theft of $180 million in April 2022

This rise in cyber threats underscores the critical need for accounting firms to bolster their cybersecurity measures. From implementing robust encryption protocols to educating staff on phishing awareness, cybersecurity and accounting functions must work hand-in-hand to adapt swiftly to this evolving threat landscape.

What are the different types of cyber risks in accounting?

Cyber accounting risks are constantly evolving with attacks getting more and more sophisticated by the day. Listed below are some key financial cybersecurity risks:

Data security breach: This entails unauthorized access to sensitive financial and personal information, leading to potential misuse or theft. It compromises client confidentiality, causes reputational damage, and brings legal consequences
Ransomware attack: These are malicious software that encrypt critical data, demanding payment for its release. They disrupt operations, cause financial losses, and also data loss if the ransom is not paid
Phishing and social engineering: This form of cybersecurity accounting attack involve deceptive tactics, often through emails, to trick individuals into divulging confidential information. They result in compromised login credentials, unauthorized access, and potential data breaches
Business Email Compromise (BEC): In this type of attacks, cybercriminals impersonate trusted entities through email to manipulate employees into transferring funds or sensitive information, causing financial loss, compromised business relationships, and reputational damage
Insider threat: As the name suggests, here the enemy lies within. These include malicious actions or negligence by individuals within the organization, whether intentional or unintentional. These may result in unauthorized access, data breaches, and even financial losses
Supply chain attack: This form of cybersecurity accounting attacks exploit vulnerabilities in the supply chain to gain unauthorized access to an organization’s systems. Such attacks compromise integrity of financial data, disrupt operations, and dent goodwill
Advanced Persistent Threat (APT): APTs are long-term, targeted cyber-attacks where adversaries gain unauthorized access to a system and remain undetected for an extended period. They bring about persistent data breaches, potential manipulation of financial records, and compromised system integrity
Malware attack: One of the most common forms of cybersecurity accounting attacks, malicious software are designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. They disrupt operations and cause both data loss, and financial damage
Cloud attack: These exploit the increasing dependence on cloud-based accounting systems and hunt for weaknesses or misconfigurations in them. Vulnerable links result in unauthorized access, data exposure, and compromised financial information

Emerging trends in accounting cybersecurity

Both threat detection and adequate security measures form vital aspects in cybersecurity in accounting for financial data protection. While AI and ML help with threat detection, blockchain is helping businesses secure their transactions. Let us understand the process in greater detail:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Threat Detection: The integration of AI and ML technologies have revolutionized threat detection and response in accounting cybersecurity. AI and ML algorithms make the detection of sophisticated cyber-attacks easier. Both these technologies together, have the capability to analyze vast swathes of data to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential security threats in real-time They predict future threats, and automate responses. Overall, they bring about a cutting-edge cybersecurity posture of accounting systems. The technology in accounting has indeed transformed the landscape, enhancing the overall security of financial data
Blockchain for secure financial transactions: Blockchain technology is gaining traction in accounting for its ability to provide a secure and transparent framework for financial transactions. It is a decentralized model that ensures the integrity of financial data, and reduces the risk of tampering or fraud. Smart contracts, powered by blockchain, automate and enforce contractual agreements. This enhances the efficiency and security of financial transactions. The blockchain technology is particularly valuable in preventing unauthorized changes to financial records and in maintaining a verifiable and unalterable audit trail

Best practices for accounting cybersecurity

Balance technological additions with adequate security measures
Continuously monitor unusual activities
Enforce robust password policies and files sharing protocols
Regularly update software and patches
Train employees on cybersecurity awareness
Switch on encryption, have a VPN in place, and enable secure file sharing with clients
Define a corporate Cybersecurity Strategy
Check security measures for apps that the employees are authorized to use
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on everything
Backup your cloud accounting data at regular intervals
Define and follow audit trails for your internal audit
Define user role hierarchy to view or edit accounts
Implement robust Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

How outsourcing is helping to reduce risks in accounting cybersecurity

Accounting outsourcing has been playing a strategic role in reducing risks in accounting cybersecurity through several key mechanisms. Listed below are a few synergies that outsourcing brings in:

In-depth expertise and specialization: Outsourcing service providers bring in-depth expertise to all their clients to ensure preparedness against the latest cybersecurity threats. They also have access to global threat intelligence networks, allowing them to stay informed about emerging cyber threats worldwide. The technologies and best practices help implement robust security measures and responses, reducing the risk of cyber attacks
Access to advanced technologies: Most outsourcing partners are continuously investing in cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies and upgrading their existing security infrastructure for intrusion detection systems, threat intelligence platforms, and advanced encryption methods. Outsource accounting services to leverage these technologies that may not be otherwise viable to invest in-house
24/7 monitoring and response: Outsourcing providers compulsorily offer around-the-clock monitoring and rapid response capabilities, ensuring that potential cybersecurity incidents are detected and addressed promptly
Cost efficiencies and compliance management: In-house cybersecurity infrastructure and teams are costly and resource-intensive. Outsourcing brings cost efficiencies to big businesses and also enhances CPA In addition, they bring a strong understanding of industry-specific regulations and compliance requirements related to cybersecurity, helping ensure that accounting practices adhere to these standards of financial data security compliance
Appropriate incident response planning: Outsourcing of accounting services further brings comprehensive and tailored incident response plans. These reduce the impact of a security breach, minimize damage, and ensure swift recovery in case of breaches

Data security in accounting is a mammoth necessity. Businesses that opt for outsource accounting services stand to gain both technology and a competitive edge by harnessing the offerings and security assets of their service providers. Considering this is a specialized field that requires huge investments, outsourcing is a prudent business decision for overall efficiency, agility, and ongoing secure environments.

Get in touch with Cogneesol at +1 833-313-3143 or email us at [email protected] for your cybersecurity accounting needs.

How is cybersecurity used in accounting?

Cybersecurity is crucial in accounting to protect sensitive financial information from unauthorized access, tampering, or theft. Here are some ways cybersecurity is employed in accounting:

Data Encryption: Utilizing encryption methods to safeguard financial data during transmission and storage, ensuring that the information remains unreadable even if intercepted without the appropriate decryption key.
Access Controls: Implementing stringent access controls and user authentication measures to limit access to financial systems and data only to authorized personnel.
Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Employing firewalls to monitor and control network traffic and intrusion detection systems to identify and respond to potential cyber threats in real time.
Regular Audits and Monitoring: Conduct regular audits of systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and proactively monitor for any unusual activities that may indicate a security breach.
Employee Training: Educating accounting staff about cybersecurity best practices, recognizing phishing attempts, and promoting a security-conscious culture within the organization.

What are the cybersecurity strategies?

Cybersecurity strategies encompass a range of measures designed to protect systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Some key strategies include:
Risk Assessment: Identifying and evaluating potential cybersecurity risks to understand the organization’s threat landscape.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing systems or data.
Incident Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan to address and mitigate the impact of cybersecurity incidents effectively and efficiently.
Regular Software Updates: Keeping all software, including security applications and operating systems, up to date to patch vulnerabilities and protect against known exploits.
Security Awareness Training: Educating employees about cybersecurity risks and best practices to reduce the likelihood of falling victim to social engineering attacks.

What are the 5 best methods used for cybersecurity?

Firewalls and Network Security: Implementing firewalls to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking or allowing data packets based on pre-established security rules.
Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: Using robust antivirus and anti-malware tools to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software that could compromise the security of systems and data.
Encryption: Employing encryption algorithms to protect sensitive data by converting it into unreadable code, which can only be decrypted by those with the appropriate authorization.
Regular Backups: Performing regular backups of critical data to ensure that organizations can restore their systems and resume operations with minimal disruption in the event of a cyberattack or data loss.
Employee Training and Awareness: Training employees on cybersecurity best practices, including recognizing phishing attempts, creating strong passwords, and understanding the importance of maintaining a security-conscious mindset.

What are the 5 C's of cybersecurity?

The 5 C’s of cybersecurity are vital principles that help guide a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy:

Cyber Hygiene: Emphasizing good cybersecurity practices, such as regular software updates, secure password management, and responsible internet use.
Continuous Monitoring: Implementing systems and processes to continuously monitor networks and systems for any signs of unusual or malicious activities.
Comprehensive Risk Management: Taking a holistic approach to identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks across the organization.
Collaboration: Fostering collaboration and information-sharing among different departments, organizations, and industry sectors to enhance collective cybersecurity defense.
Crisis Management and Incident Response: Establishing effective plans and procedures to manage and respond to cybersecurity incidents promptly, minimizing potential damage and downtime.