Cybersecurity Starts with Awareness
Cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, but many of the biggest risks facing organisations today are surprisingly avoidable. In this special Cyber Awareness Month edition, we shine a light on overlooked cyber hygiene practices, hidden vulnerabilities, and the everyday habits that could be quietly exposing your business. Reinforcing this message, a recent ministerial letter urged CEOs and Chairs of major UK organisations to adopt Cyber Essentials across internal systems and supply chains, positioning it as the minimum standard for protecting against common threats and strengthening overall cyber resilience. Read more about it here
Data Destruction Done Wrong
Simply deleting files or formatting drives doesn’t mean your data is truly gone. Improper disposal of hard drives, USBs or old devices can leave recoverable information behind. That’s a potential goldmine for cybercriminals.
Why It Matters:
Disposing of devices without securely wiping or destroying the data can result in customer information, internal documentation or login credentials falling into the wrong hands.
How to Avoid the Risk:
Include data disposal in your offboarding and equipment lifecycle process.
Partner with an IT provider who offers secure disposal services.
Insecure API's in Your Everyday Tools
Modern software tools often connect through APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). Think CRMs talking to email platforms or project tools integrating with document storage. But not all APIs are built with security in mind.
Why It Matters:
Vulnerable APIs can be exploited to bypass authentication, access sensitive data or manipulate system behaviour. Many businesses don’t realise how many tools rely on them.
Why It’s a Risk:
Audit what apps and systems are connected via APIs.
Work with vendors who follow secure development practices.
Use API gateways, access controls and encryption where possible.
Forgotten Digital Footprints from Past Employees
When employees leave, they don’t always take their digital access with them. That’s a major risk. From old credentials still stored in browsers to lingering third-party app logins, these overlooked entry points can be exploited later.
Why It Matters:
A past user’s login could still access company files, cloud platforms or collaboration tools. This is especially risky if password policies aren’t enforced.
How to Stay Secure:
Revoke access as part of your offboarding checklist.
Monitor for orphaned accounts in cloud tools and local systems.
Use identity management solutions to track access and credentials.
More Cybersecurity Insights from Symetri
Whether you're revisiting the basics or exploring emerging risks, our latest cybersecurity resources offer practical, actionable guidance:
Vulnerabilities to Be Aware Of:
Here are some critical vulnerabilities identified this month:
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Adobe Maximum-Severity Flaw Now Exploited
CISA advisory → CISA: Maximum-severity Adobe flaw now exploited in attacks -
Microsoft Fixes Critical ASP.NET Core Flaw
Details here → Microsoft fixes highest-severity ASP.NET Core flaw ever -
ConnectWise Automate Bug Used in Attacks
Learn more → ConnectWise fixes Automate bug allowing AiTM update attacks -
WatchGuard VPN Bug Could Lead to Takeover
Research report → SonicWall: Firewall configs stolen for all cloud backup customers -
SonicWall Firewall Configs Stolen
SonicWall: Firewall configs stolen for all cloud backup customers -
Microsoft October Patch Tuesday
172 vulnerabilities patched, including 6 zero-days.
Summary → Microsoft October 2025 Patch Tuesday fixes 6 zero-days, 172 flaws
Cracks in the System
Cybersecurity threats don’t always kick the door down—sometimes, they slip in through the cracks. This month, we’re spotlighting three subtle but serious security risks that could be undermining your defences right now.
Cyber Threats in 2025: What We Learned & What Comes Next
Cybersecurity threats don’t always kick the door down—sometimes, they slip in through the cracks. This month, we’re spotlighting three subtle but serious security risks that could be undermining your defences right now.
What is Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)?
Learn what Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is and how it helps teams manage product data, processes, and collaboration across the lifecycle. Discover the key benefits and PLM tools driving innovation.
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