As SMBs are increasingly faced with the reality of cyber-attacks, it is imperative to adopt proactive measures not only around prevention but also to minimize the damage in the event of an incident. We recently spoke with our Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Michel Fecteau, about the seven essential steps a SMB should take to effectively manage cybersecurity incidents and ensure a swift recovery.

1. Isolation of the Affected System: Act Quickly to Contain the Threat
When a cybersecurity incident occurs, the crucial first step is the isolation of the affected system. "It is essential to act quickly to contain the threat and prevent its spread to the entire network," emphasizes Michel Fecteau. He recommends having clear protocols and well-defined procedures to minimize risks related to the spread of attacks.

2. Evidence Collection: A Solid Foundation for Investigation
Evidence collection is often overlooked but is crucial for any subsequent investigation. "It is imperative to carefully document the incident, collect activity logs, and identify attack vectors," insists Michel Fecteau. These elements are essential to understanding the nature of the attack, assessing its impact, and collaborating with the relevant authorities.

3. Notification to Authorities: Collaborate to Counter Threats
In the event of an incident, collaboration with necessary authorities is essential. Michel Fecteau recommends promptly reporting the incident to the appropriate regulatory bodies. "This enhances transparency and allows for the expertise of law enforcement to resolve the incident and prevent future attacks."

4. Communication with Stakeholders: Transparency and Trust
Effective communication is key to mitigating damage caused by a cybersecurity incident. "It is crucial to maintain transparent communication with internal and external stakeholders, including employees, clients, and partners," notes Michel Fecteau. Timely information reinforces trust and enables proactive management of the company's image.

5. Data Restoration from Backups: Return to Normalcy
Recovery after an incident inevitably involves restoring data from reliable backups. "It is essential to implement regular backup procedures and periodically test restoration," emphasizes Michel Fecteau. This ensures the immediate availability of critical data in case of an emergency.

6. Incident Response Plan: The Key to Effective Management
A well-developed incident response plan is the cornerstone of effective incident management. "It is crucial to develop detailed procedures, train staff, and conduct regular simulations," insists Michel Fecteau. This ensures a swift and coordinated response in the event of an attack.

7. Post-Incident Evaluation: Learning to Strengthen Security
After resolving an incident, a post-incident evaluation is essential to identify underlying vulnerabilities. "It is important to analyze each incident in depth, draw lessons from the experience, and implement continuous improvements," encourages Michel Fecteau. This strengthens the overall security of the company.

Conclusion 
In conclusion, cybersecurity is a constant challenge for SMEs. By adopting a proactive approach and following well-defined procedures, companies can not only minimize damage from cybersecurity incidents but also enhance resilience against emerging threats. Collaboration with security experts and the implementation of best practices are essential investments to ensure the protection of data and critical operations.