Cyber threats aren’t just a problem for big corporations. Small and medium businesses are increasingly targeted by cyber criminals, and often, they don’t even know it’s happening. A delayed response to a cyber security breach can cost your business valuable data, money, and trust. That’s why early detection is everything.
What Is a Cyber Security Breach?
A cyber security breach happens when someone gains unauthorised access to your systems, networks or data. It can be as blatant as ransomware locking down your files or as sneaky as a hacker quietly stealing customer data over months.
Here are a few common types of breaches:
- Data breaches: Theft or exposure of sensitive information, such as passwords or personal details.
- Ransomware attacks: Malicious software encrypts files and demands payment for access.
- Phishing: Fake emails trick employees into giving up credentials.
- Insider threats: Employees or former employees access or leak information without permission.
The worst part is that many businesses don’t detect a breach until it’s too late, often after the damage is done.
Why Early Detection Matters
Every hour counts when it comes to responding to a breach. According to industry reports, it takes an average of more than 200 days to identify a data breach. That gives attackers plenty of time to dig deep, steal more data, and cause more damage.
Delayed detection can lead to:
- Loss of sensitive data
- Downtime and disrupted operations
- Fines and compliance issues
- Reputational damage
- Loss of customer trust
Detecting a cyber security breach early means you can contain it faster, protect your data, and reduce recovery costs.
Common Signs You’ve Been Breached
So, how do you know if your business has been breached?
Here are some of the most common red flags to watch out for:
- Unusual network activity: Spikes in outbound traffic, especially outside business hours, could indicate data exfiltration.
- Multiple failed login attempts: Repeated login failures may suggest a brute-force attack.
- Locked-out users: If employees suddenly can’t access their accounts, someone else might be trying to take control.
- New or unfamiliar software: Unauthorised programs could be malware in disguise.
- Slow systems or crashing apps: Performance issues might suggest your network is being overloaded by malicious processes.
- Pop-ups or ransom notes: A clear sign of ransomware at work.
- Disabled security tools: If antivirus software or firewalls are turned off, it could be intentional sabotage.
If something feels off, it’s better to investigate early, even if it turns out to be a false alarm.
Tools and Techniques for Breach Detection
While some signs are easy to spot, others require advanced monitoring tools to uncover. Here are a few effective ways to detect cyber security breaches:
- SIEM tools (Security Information and Event Management): These systems collect and analyse logs from across your network in real time, alerting you to suspicious activity.
- EDR platforms (Endpoint Detection and Response): EDR solutions monitor devices like computers and laptops for unusual behaviour and allow remote investigation.
- Network monitoring: Tracks data flow across your network to detect unauthorised access or malware communication.
- Intrusion detection systems: Flags abnormal or unauthorised activity based on known attack patterns.
- Employee feedback: Staff are often the first to notice when something seems wrong. Encourage a culture of reporting suspicious emails or activity.
The right tools, combined with regular reviews and expert oversight, make it easier to spot breaches before they escalate.
What to Do If You Suspect a Breach
If you suspect your business has been breached, it’s essential to act fast and follow a clear response plan.
- Isolate affected systems: Disconnect them from your network to prevent the attack from spreading.
- Preserve evidence: Don’t delete files or logs. You’ll need them to investigate what happened.
- Alert internal stakeholders: Let your IT team and senior staff know immediately.
- Engage cyber security experts. If you don’t have an in-house team, this is the time to call in external help.
- Notify affected parties: Under Australia’s Notifiable Data Breaches scheme, businesses must report eligible data breaches to the OAIC and impacted individuals.
- Review and patch vulnerabilities: Fix what allowed the breach to occur and update your security protocols.
The faster you act, the less damage is likely to occur.
How to Prevent Future Breaches
Detecting a cyber security breach is one thing. Preventing the next one is just as important. Here are some practical steps to strengthen your defences:
- Keep systems up to date: Always install the latest security patches for your software and operating systems.
- Use strong passwords and MFA: Multi-factor authentication makes it harder for attackers to get in, even with stolen credentials.
- Train your team: Human error is one of the biggest security risks. Regular training helps staff spot phishing attempts and avoid risky behaviours.
- Limit access: Only give employees the access they need. The fewer people with admin rights, the smaller your risk.
- Back up your data: Regular, secure backups ensure you can recover quickly if data is lost or encrypted.
- Schedule security audits: Regular audits help identify gaps in your systems before a breach happens.
Techwell also offers Security Awareness Training to equip your team with the knowledge to protect your business every day.
Need Help Detecting or Preventing a Cyber Security Breach?
Cyber breaches are no longer a question of “if” but “when”. The key is to be prepared, and that starts with knowing how to detect a cyber security breach early. If your systems are acting strangely or you’re unsure whether your current protections are enough, it’s worth getting expert help.
At Techwell, we help Australian businesses strengthen their cyber security from the inside out. Whether you’re looking to detect breaches, train your team, or upgrade your defences, our team is here to support you. Call Techwell or contact us online today to speak with a cyber security specialist.
