The National Cyber Security Centre (NGSC), an arm of the United Kingdom’s intelligence service, has released a new online tool designed to help organizations test their resilience to cyberattacks. Called Exercise in a Box, the tool has been testing by government agencies, small businesses, and emergency service organizations. Says Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington, “This new free, online tool will be critical in toughening the cyber defences of small businesses, local government, and other public and private sector organisations.”
The tool itself contains an assortment of scenarios based on common threats which companies can use to practice their responsiveness and technical skills, through both technical simulations and tabletop exercises. These exercises will allow organizations to examine their current defenses and techniques, allowing them to identify potential gaps in knowledge or procedures, with the intent of improving cyber defenses before attacks occur. Emphasis is also placed on improving how users discuss cybersecurity issues, to ensure smooth communications and consistent understanding. Says CEO of the NCSC Ciaran Martin of the tool, “The NCSC considers exercising to be one of the most cost-effective ways an organisation can test how it responds to cyber incidents.”
It is hoped the tool can also assist in educating the general public, as Lidington notes the level of education and understanding of cybersecurity remains low. “We’ve also got to demystify cybersecurity for the average citizen,” says Lidington. We need to get away from the outdated image of wargames, and begin thinking more about botnets and malvertising. There remains a deep lack of awareness about these threats.”
Source:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/cyber-security-this-free-tool-lets-you-test-your-hacker-defences/
