Most cyber incidents are preventable: 8 strategies to protect your business

October 30, 2025

Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporations – it’s essential for every Australian business.

GMC Technology Partner, eManaged discusses The Essential Eight – proven strategies to prevent the majority of cyberattacks, developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).

The Essential Eight are eight core cybersecurity strategies proven to reduce the majority of common attacks.

Despite cybersecurity often starting with basic precautions such as restricting admin privileges, enabling multi-factor authentication, and backing up data regularly, many small and medium businesses still overlook them, assuming they’re too technical or not relevant.

That assumption can be costly. Industries like manufacturing and professional services are prime targets for ransomware and scams.

Here’s a list of the Essential Eight — and why each one matters:

Application Control – Stops malicious or unauthorised programs from running. (Because ransomware loves sneaking in through “free” tools.)
Patch Applications – Keeps your software up to date, closing holes hackers target first.
Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings – Prevents hidden scripts from hijacking your system through email attachments.
User Application Hardening – Turns off risky browser and software features that attackers exploit.
Restrict Administrative Privileges – Limits access so only the right people can make major system changes.
Patch Operating Systems – The easiest fix most businesses ignore. Out-of-date systems are open doors.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Even if a password gets stolen, MFA stops attackers from walking in.
Regular Backups – Because if you can’t restore your data quickly, your business stops — full stop.

Implementing the Essential Eight not only reduces incidents but also improves recovery, lowers insurance costs, and builds trust.

eManaged has developed a free 3-minute Essential Eight Quiz — a simple way to assess your businesses cyber maturity, identify gaps and take action.