As Nottingham’s trusted IT support provider, Oak MSP understands that the dark web poses a significant threat to local businesses. This hidden part of the internet, inaccessible through standard search engines, has become a marketplace for stolen corporate data. For businesses in Nottingham and across the East Midlands, dark web monitoring is no longer optional – it’s essential.
With Nottingham’s growing business community, from the Creative Quarter to ng2 Business Park, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting local companies. Dark web monitoring provides real-time surveillance of your business data, alerting you immediately if sensitive information appears on dark web marketplaces.
The cost of cyber crime to Nottingham businesses can be devastating. When corporate credentials or customer data end up on the dark web, it can lead to:
As your local Nottingham IT support partner, Oak MSP provides comprehensive dark web monitoring services specifically designed for East Midlands businesses. Our monitoring helps protect your:
Our Nottingham-based IT security team employs advanced monitoring tools that continuously scan the dark web for your business information. We combine local IT expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver:
Our artificial intelligence systems work 24/7 to protect Nottingham businesses, scanning the dark web for any trace of your company’s data. This proactive approach helps prevent cyber attacks before they impact your operations.
When our systems detect your business information on the dark web, our Nottingham IT support team immediately alerts you and provides actionable steps to secure your data.
While dark web monitoring is crucial, Oak MSP provides comprehensive IT security services for Nottingham businesses:
As your local IT partner, Oak MSP understands the unique challenges facing Nottingham businesses. Our dark web monitoring service is part of our complete IT security package, designed specifically for East Midlands companies.
If we detect your business data on the dark web, our Nottingham IT support team will:
Don’t wait until your business data appears on the dark web. Contact Oak MSP today for expert IT support and dark web monitoring in Nottingham. Our local team is ready to help secure your business against cyber threats.
Call our Nottingham office or visit our website to learn how we can protect your business with professional IT support and dark web monitoring services.
Looking for reliable IT support in Nottingham? Trust Oak MSP to keep your business safe from dark web threats. Contact us today for a free security assessment.
At least once a month I hear of someone falling for or nearly falling for a scam on their mobile phone. This could be a WhatsApp message from your child asking for money becaase they have lost their phone or an offer they cannot refuse.
Your smartphone is a digital wallet, communication hub, and personal assistant. All rolled into one portable device. It’s packed with sensitive data, from financial information to personal photos. This makes it a prime target for cybercriminals.
Mobile malware is often overlooked. People focus on securing their laptops or desktops. But they don’t pay as close attention to smartphone and tablet security.
In 2023, attacks on mobile devices increased by 50% over the prior year.
The fact is that hackers haven’t overlooked mobile devices. They set many traps to get users to infect their devices with malware. We’ll uncover common mobile malware traps and tell you how to avoid them.
Mobile malware is just like its computer counterpart. It is malicious software designed to harm your device or steal your data. It can arrive in various forms, from sneaky apps to deceptive links. Ignorance is not bliss here. Understanding the common traps is your first line of defense.
Here are a few more layers of protection you can use to fortify your smartphone’s defenses.
By following these tips, you can significantly enhance your smartphone’s security. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Stay vigilant, informed, and proactive in protecting your digital life.
Your smartphone is a powerful tool. But it’s also a potential target for cybercriminals. By understanding the threats and taking proactive steps, you can prevent catastrophe. Enjoy the benefits of mobile technology without compromising your (or your company’s) security!
A majority of employees use personal devices for work. This means mobile malware can impact more than one individual. It can also lead to a data breach of an entire company network.
Be proactive and put mobile security in place now. Our team of experts can help with reliable solutions to secure all your devices.
Contact us today to schedule a chat about mobile device protection.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Traveling with technology has become a necessity. Whether for work, communication, or entertainment, we rely heavily on our devices. But traveling exposes these gadgets to various risks. Theft, damage, and loss are common concerns.
We’ve put together some helpful tips to mitigate the risk of any tech mishaps on your next trip. Follow these eight best practices to ensure your devices remain safe when traveling.
Invest in quality protective cases. They shield your gadgets from bumps, drops, and scratches. Look for cases that are sturdy and provide a snug fit. For laptops and tablets, consider hardshell cases. For smartphones, use cases that cover the edges and have raised bezels. This simple step can save you from costly repairs.
Install tracking apps on your devices. These apps help you locate your devices if they are lost or stolen. Many operating systems have built-in tracking features. Enable them before you travel. For example, use “Find My” for Apple devices or “Find My Device” for Android. These tools provide the location of your devices. They also offer remote locking and wiping capabilities.
Always keep your devices within reach. Avoid placing them in checked luggage. Carry them in your personal bag. Use a backpack or a crossbody bag with secure compartments. If you need to leave your device unattended, store it in a hotel safe. The less exposure your gadgets have, the lower the risk of theft or damage.
Protect your devices with strong passwords. This includes smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words. Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. Strong passwords help protect your data if your device falls into the wrong hands.
Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but risky. Avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your data, making it harder for hackers to intercept. Turn off automatic connections to public networks. Always verify the legitimacy of the Wi-Fi network before connecting.
Regularly back up your data before you travel. Use cloud storage or external hard drives. This ensures that you don’t lose important information if your device is lost or stolen. Set up automatic backups to simplify the process. Backing up your data protects you from data loss. It also ensures continuity even if something goes wrong.
Stay alert to your surroundings. Crowded places are hotspots for theft. Be particularly cautious in airports, train stations, and tourist attractions. Don’t leave your devices unattended. Keep a firm grip on your bag. When using your gadget in public, avoid displaying it for long periods. Awareness and vigilance go a long way in protecting your gadgets.
Invest in anti-theft accessories. These include items like locks and cables for laptops. Anti-theft backpacks have hidden zippers and cut-proof materials. They make it difficult for thieves to access your belongings. Consider using RFID-blocking wallets to protect against electronic pickpocketing. Anti-theft accessories provide extra security for your gadgets.
Besides the main tips, consider following the measures below. They can enhance the safety of your gadgets while traveling.
Consider getting insurance for your gadgets. Many insurance companies offer policies that cover theft, loss, and damage. Check the coverage details and ensure it fits your needs. Insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind. This is especially true when traveling with expensive devices.
Before you travel, adjust your device settings for added security. Enable remote wiping capabilities. This allows you to erase your data if a thief steals your device. Turn off Bluetooth and location services when not in use. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and tracking.
Document the make, model, and serial numbers of your gadgets. Keep this information in a secure place. If you have your device lost or stolen, these details are useful for reporting and recovery. They also help when filing insurance claims.
Be aware that customs officials may inspect your gadgets. Have them easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. Be ready to turn them on if requested. Ensure your devices are fully charged before you travel. Compliance with customs inspections prevents unnecessary delays and complications.
Let’s look at some practical scenarios where you can apply these tips.
At airport security, remove your laptop from your bag. Place it in a separate bin for screening. Keep a close eye on your belongings as they pass through the X-ray machine. After screening, quickly retrieve and secure your devices before moving on.
In your hotel room, store your gadgets in the room safe when not in use. If there is no safe, use a portable lockbox. Avoid leaving your devices out in the open, especially when housekeeping is scheduled. This minimizes the risk of theft.
On public transport, keep your gadgets close and secure. Use a bag with anti-theft features. Avoid using your devices near exits where they can be easily snatched. Be discreet when taking out your gadgets and put them away securely after use.
Technology is indispensable for modern travelers. Protecting your devices requires proactive measures and vigilance. Would you like some help beyond these tips?
Contact us today at Oak MSP in Nottingham to schedule a chat about beefing up your device security.
Oak MSP is a Managed Service Provider in Nottingham providing IT to companies in the East Midlands.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
The rise of remote work has redefined the modern workplace. Gone are the days of rigid office schedules and commutes. But with this flexibility comes a new set of challenges – cybersecurity threats. Remote work environments often introduce vulnerabilities to your organization’s data and systems.
73% of executives believe that remote work increases security risk.
But this doesn’t mean you can’t mitigate that risk. Below, we’ll equip you with essential security practices for remote teams. You’ll learn how to keep company data safe and secure, no matter your location.
Ensure that your Wi-Fi is encrypted with the latest security protocols, such as WPA3. This is a foundational step in securing a home network. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing your network and intercepting data.
Many routers come with default usernames and passwords. These are well-known to cyber criminals. Change these to unique, strong credentials. This helps prevent unauthorized access to your network.
Remote workers use several accounts and services to access their work. This means managing passwords can be a daunting task. Password managers can generate, store, and autofill complex passwords. This helps ensure that each account has a unique and strong password.
Installing MFA adds an extra layer of security. Even if a hacker compromises a password, MFA requires a second form of verification. This is usually a text message code or app authentication. This second step makes it much harder for attackers to breach accounts.
Ensure that all devices used for work purposes have up-to-date anti-malware software installed. These tools can detect and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage.
Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that are exploited by cybercriminals. To stay protected against the latest threats, enable automatic updates for your:
Use encrypted storage for sensitive data. This ensures that even if a device is lost or stolen, the data remains inaccessible to hackers. You can use both built-in options and third-party solutions.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic. This makes it difficult for attackers to intercept and access your data. Using a reputable VPN service is crucial. Especially when accessing company resources over public or unsecured networks.
Use encrypted communication tools. These protect the content of your messages and emails. When choosing messaging and email services, ask about encryption. This can ensure that your communications remain private and secure.
Ensure that your web browser is up-to-date and configured for security. This includes:
Phishing attacks are a common threat to remote workers. Be vigilant about unsolicited emails or messages asking for sensitive information. Verify the sender’s identity before clicking on links or downloading attachments. Report suspicious communications to your IT department. This helps others on your team avoid the same emails.
Ad blockers can prevent malicious ads from displaying on your browser. These often contain malware or phishing links. This adds an extra layer of security while browsing the web.
Continuous education on the latest security practices and threats is essential. This includes phishing simulations and best practices for device and data security. Teams should also be aware of any new security protocols.
Put a clear incident response plan in place. This ensures that all employees know what steps to take in the event of a security breach. This should include:
Employees should maintain good digital hygiene on their personal devices. This includes regular backups and secure configurations. They should also separate personal and professional activities where possible.
Social engineering attacks exploit emotions to gain access to systems and data. Being aware of common tactics, such as pretexting and baiting. Maintaining a healthy skepticism can prevent falling victim to these attacks.
The transition to remote work has brought about significant changes. You need to evolve how you approach digital security. As cyber threats continue to grow, so too must security practices.
Do you need some help? Our experts can help ensure that you are well-equipped to handle remote work securely.
Contact us at Oak MSP in Nottingham today to schedule a chat about your cybersecurity.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
QR codes are everywhere these days. You can find them on restaurant menus, flyers, and posters. They’re used both offline and online. QR codes are convenient and easy to use. You just scan them with your smartphone camera. You’re then directed to a link, a coupon, a video, or some other online content.
With the rise in popularity of QR codes comes an unfortunate dark side. Cybercriminals are exploiting this technology for nefarious purposes. Scammers create fake QR codes. They can steal your personal information. They can also infect your device with malware or trick you into paying money.
It’s crucial to exercise caution when scanning QR codes. This emerging scam highlights the potential dangers lurking behind those seemingly innocent squares.
QR codes were originally designed for tracking parts in the automotive industry. They have experienced a renaissance in recent years. As a result, they’re used as a form of marketing today.
They offer the convenience of instant access to information. You simply scan a code. They’ve become an integral part of various industries, including retail and hospitality.
Unfortunately, cybercriminals are quick to adapt. A new phishing scam has emerged, exploiting the trust we place in QR codes.
The scammer prints out a fake QR code. They place it over a legitimate one. For example, they might stick it on a poster that advertises a product discount or a movie.
You come along and scan the fake QR code, thinking it’s legitimate. The fake code may direct you to a phishing website. These sites may ask you to enter sensitive data. Such as your credit card details, login credentials, or other personal information.
Or scanning the QR code may prompt you to download a malicious app. One that contains malware that can do one or more of the following:
The code could also direct you to a payment page. A page that charges you a fee for something supposedly free.
Here are some tactics to watch out for.
Cybercriminals tamper with legitimate QR codes. They often add a fake QR code sticker over a real one. They embed malicious content or redirect users to fraudulent websites.
Scammers often use QR codes to lure users into fake promotions or contests. When users scan the code, it may direct them to a counterfeit website. The website may prompt them to provide personal information. This can lead to potential identity theft or financial fraud.
Some malicious QR codes start downloads of malware onto the user’s device. This can result in compromised security. Including unauthorized access to personal data and potential damage to the device’s functionality.
Be cautious when scanning QR codes from unknown or untrusted sources. Verify the legitimacy of the code and its source. This is especially true if it prompts you to enter personal information.
Consider using a dedicated QR code scanner app. Use that rather than the default camera app on your device. Some third-party apps provide extra security features such as code analysis and website reputation checks.
Before visiting a website prompted by a QR code, review the URL. Ensure it matches the legitimate website of the organization it claims to represent.
Trust your instincts. If a QR code looks suspicious, refrain from scanning it. Scammers often rely on users’ curiosity. Be careful when scanning QR codes that you see in public places. Don’t scan them if they look suspicious, damaged, or tampered with. Exercising caution is paramount.
Keep your device’s operating system and QR code scanning apps up to date. Regular updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
Don’t enter any personal information on a website that you accessed through a QR code. This includes things like your address, credit card details, login information, etc.
Don’t pay any money or make any donations through a QR code. Only use trusted and secure payment methods.
QR codes can be useful and fun. But they can also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always scan them with caution. Protect yourself from scammers who want to take advantage of your curiosity.
This scam falls under the umbrella of phishing. Phishing is one of the most dangerous modern risks for individuals and organizations. If you need help ensuring your devices are phishing resistant, just let us know.
Contact us at Oak MSP today to learn more.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
In the digital age, data is the lifeblood of businesses. It fuels operations, decision-making, and customer interactions. But there is a dark underbelly of this data-centric landscape. It’s the persistent threat of data breaches.
Oak MSP is fully aware of the repercussions of a data breach extend far beyond the immediate aftermath. They often haunt businesses for years. Only 51% of data breach costs occur within the first year of an incident. The other 49% happen in year two and beyond.
We’ll take a look at the long-term consequences of a data breach. As well as examine a real-world example. You’ll see how a single breach can have enduring implications. Ones that impact a business’s reputation, finances, and regulatory standing.
The 2019 cybersecurity breach at First American serves as a stark illustration. It reminds us of the far-reaching consequences of a data breach. In this case, the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) imposed a $1 million fine. Cybersecurity sites announced the fine in the fall of 2023. The company’s fine was for failing to safeguard sensitive consumer information.
The breach exposed over 880 million documents. These files contained personal and financial data. The breach represented a significant violation of data protection standards.
This is one example of how costs can come long after an initial breach. Here are some other ways security incidents can haunt businesses for years.
The financial toll of a data breach is significant. Immediate costs include things like:
Beyond those, businesses face long-term expenses. These relate to legal battles, regulatory fines, and reparations. Regulatory penalties are just one facet of the financial repercussions. Others include potential legal actions from affected individuals. As well as class-action lawsuits adding to the monetary strain.
The impact on a business’s reputation is arguably the most enduring consequence. Customers lose trust in a company’s ability to protect their sensitive information. This loss of trust can result in a decline in customer retention. As well as acquisition difficulties and long-lasting damage to the brand image.
Rebuilding a tarnished reputation takes time. It also takes concerted efforts. These may involve public relations campaigns and enhanced security measures. These actions help assure stakeholders of renewed commitment to data protection.
Regulatory bodies increasingly hold businesses accountable for safeguarding consumer data. A data breach triggers regulatory scrutiny. This may lead to fines and ongoing compliance requirements.
Regulatory authorities take a stringent stance on data security. As well as on companies that fail to meet cybersecurity standards. The fallout includes financial penalties. As well as increased oversight and mandatory security improvements.
The aftermath of a data breach disrupts normal business operations. Companies must take remediation efforts and put in place enhanced security measures. These can divert resources away from core business functions.
The company feels the impact across departments, affecting productivity and efficiency. The ripple effect of operational disruption can extend for years. This impedes growth and hinders the organization’s ability to adapt to market changes.
A data breach often leads to customer churn. Individuals lose confidence in the business’s ability to protect their data. Acquiring new customers becomes challenging. Potential clients are wary of associating with a brand that has suffered a breach. The prolonged effects on customer acquisition can hinder the company’s growth. As well as its market competitiveness.
The repercussions of a data breach extend far beyond the immediate incident. They can impact the financial health and reputation of a business for years. As well as its regulatory standing.
The frequency and sophistication of cyber threats continue to rise. Proactive cybersecurity measures are not just a necessity. They are a strategic imperative for safeguarding the long-term success of businesses.
The true cost of a data breach is not always immediately evident. It’s a complex interplay of things like:
These impacts can persist for years. It’s important to learn from real-world examples. As well as focusing on robust cybersecurity measures. This helps businesses mitigate the risks associated with data breaches. As well as safeguarding their immediate interests and their long-term viability.
There are many ways that hackers can breach a network. From endpoints to cloud tools, you must run a tight security ship. Need some help?
Schedule a cybersecurity assessment at Oak MSP today. This is the first positive step into understanding and addressing your risk. As well as avoiding the consequences of a data breach.
Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Oak MSP in Nottingham realise that breached or stolen passwords are the bane of any organization’s cybersecurity. Passwords cause over 80% of data breaches. Hackers get in using stolen, weak, or reused (and easily breached) passwords.
But passwords are a part of life. Technologies like biometrics or passkeys haven’t yet replaced them. We use them for websites, apps, and more. So, companies need a secure way to share passwords with employees. As well as help them manage those passwords more effectively.
Cybersecurity threats are rampant and safeguarding sensitive information has never been more critical. Properly managing passwords securely is a top priority. At the same time, employees deal with more passwords than ever. LastPass estimates that people have an average of 191 work passwords.
Since you can’t get around passwords, how do you share them with employees safely? One solution that has gained popularity in recent years is using password managers.
Let’s explore the benefits of password managers next. We’ll also delve into why it’s one of the most secure ways to share passwords with employees.
Password managers give you a secure digital vault for safeguarding passwords. The business versions have setups for separating work and personal passwords. They also have special administrative functions so companies never lose a critical password.
Here are some of the reasons to consider getting a password manager for better data security.
A primary advantage of password managers is their ability to centralize password management. They keep employees from using weak, repetitive passwords. And from storing them in vulnerable places. Instead, a password manager stores all passwords in an encrypted vault. This centralized enhances security. It also streamlines the process of sharing passwords securely within a team.
Leading password managers use robust encryption techniques to protect sensitive data. End-to-end encryption scrambles passwords. It turns them into unreadable text when stored and transmitted. This makes it nearly impossible for unauthorized users to access the information.
When sharing passwords with employees, encryption provides an extra layer of security. It helps ensure that the data remains confidential even during transmission.
Password managers often come with secure password-sharing features. They allow administrators to share passwords with team members. And to do this without revealing the actual password.
Instead, employees can access the required credentials without seeing the characters. This ensures that employees do not have direct access to sensitive information. This feature is particularly useful when onboarding new team members. As well as when collaborating on projects that require access to specific accounts.
Many password managers support multi-factor authentication. This adds an extra and important layer of security. MFA requires two or more forms of verification before accessing an account.
MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. According to Microsoft, it lowers the risk by 99.9%. This makes it an essential feature for businesses looking to enhance password security. Especially when sharing sensitive information with employees.
Password managers often come with built-in password generators. They create strong, complex passwords that are difficult to crack. When sharing passwords with employees, employers can use these generated passwords. They ensure that employees are using strong, unique passwords for each account.
This eliminates the common practice of using weak passwords. As well as reusing passwords across many accounts. This feature mitigates the risk of security breaches.
Monitoring is a valuable feature offered by many password managers. It provides the ability to track user activity and access history. Admins can track who accessed which passwords and when. This provides transparency and accountability within the organization.
This audit trail helps in identifying any suspicious activities. It also allows companies to take prompt action. This ensures the security of the shared passwords.
Password managers offer secure methods for sharing credentials with third-party collaborators or contractors. Companies can grant these external parties limited access to specific passwords. They can do this without compromising security.
This functionality is particularly useful for businesses. Especially those working with external agencies or freelancers on various projects. It keeps control of the passwords within the organization.
You also never have to worry about losing a password when the only employee who knows it leaves.
Ready to Try a Password Manager at Your Office?
Password managers offer a secure and convenient way to share passwords with employees. They’re an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to enhance their cybersecurity posture.
By adopting password managers, businesses can protect their sensitive information. They also promote a culture of security awareness among employees. Investing in password management solutions is a proactive step toward safeguarding valuable data.
Need help securing a password manager? Give us at Oak MSP in Nottingham a call today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Cybercriminals can launch very sophisticated attacks. But it’s often lax cybersecurity practices that enable most breaches. This is especially true when it comes to small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs).
Small business owners often don’t prioritize cybersecurity measures. They may be just fully focused on growing the company. They think they have a lower data breach risk. Or they may think it’s an expense they can’t bear.
But cybersecurity is not only a concern for large corporations. It’s a critical issue for small businesses as well. Small businesses are often seen as attractive targets for cybercriminals. This is due to many perceived vulnerabilities.
Fifty percent of SMBs have been victims of cyberattacks. More than 60% of them go out of business afterward.
Cybersecurity doesn’t need to be expensive. Most data breaches are the result of human error. But that is actually good news. It means that improving cyber hygiene can reduce the risk of falling victim to an attack.
To address the issue, you need to first identify the problem. Often the teams at SMBs are making mistakes they don’t even realize. Below are some of the biggest reasons small businesses fall victim to cyberattacks. Read on to see if any of this sounds familiar around your company.
One of the biggest cybersecurity mistakes of SMBs is underestimating the threat landscape. Many business owners assume that their company is too small to be a target. But this is a dangerous misconception.
Cybercriminals often see small businesses as easy targets. They believe the company lacks the resources or expertise to defend against attacks. It’s essential to understand that no business is too small for cybercriminals to target. Being proactive in cybersecurity is crucial.
When was the last time you trained your employees on cybersecurity? Small businesses often neglect cybersecurity training for their employees. Owners assume that they will naturally be cautious online.
But the human factor is a significant source of security vulnerabilities. Employees may inadvertently click on malicious links or download infected files. Staff cybersecurity training helps them:
Weak passwords are a common security vulnerability in small companies. Many employees use easily guessable passwords. They also reuse the same password for several accounts. This can leave your company’s sensitive information exposed to hackers.
People reuse passwords 64% of the time.
Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords. Consider implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security.
Failing to keep software and operating systems up to date is another mistake. Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to systems. Small businesses should regularly update their software to patch known security flaws. This includes operating systems, web browsers, and antivirus programs.
Small companies may not have formal data backup and recovery plans. They might mistakenly assume that data loss won’t happen to them. But data loss can occur due to various reasons. This includes cyberattacks, hardware failures, or human errors.
Regularly back up your company’s critical data. Test the backups to ensure they can be successfully restored in case of a data loss incident.
Small businesses often operate without clear policies and procedures. With no clear and enforceable security policies, employees may not know critical information. Such as how to handle sensitive data. Or how to use company devices securely or respond to security incidents.
Small businesses should establish formal security policies and procedures. As well as communicate them to all employees. These policies should cover things like:
As more employees use mobile devices for work, mobile security is increasingly important. Small companies often overlook this aspect of cybersecurity.
Put in place mobile device management (MDM) solutions. These enforce security policies on company- and employee-owned devices used for work-related activities.
SMBs may not have IT staff to watch their networks for suspicious activities. This can result in delayed detection of security breaches.
Install network monitoring tools. Or consider outsourcing network monitoring services. This can help your business promptly identify and respond to potential threats.
In the face of a cybersecurity incident, SMBs without an incident response plan may panic. They can also respond ineffectively.
Develop a comprehensive incident response plan. One that outlines the steps to take when a security incident occurs. This should include communication plans, isolation procedures, and a clear chain of command.
Cyber threats are continually evolving. New attack techniques emerge regularly. Small businesses often have a hard time keeping up. Yet, they believe they are “too small” to pay for managed IT services.
Managed services come in all package sizes. This includes those designed for SMB budgets. A managed service provider (MSP) can keep your business safe from cyberattacks. As well as save you money at the same time by optimizing your IT.
Don’t risk losing your business because of a cyberattack. Managed IT services can be more affordable for your small business than you think.
Give us at Oak MSP a call today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
As technology continues to advance, so does the need for heightened awareness. As well as proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information.
Cybersecurity can seem like an insurmountable task for everyday people. But it’s not only a job for the IT team. Everyone can play a part in keeping their organization’s data safe. Not to mention their own data.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. It serves as a timely reminder that there are many ways to safeguard data. Following the basics can make a big difference in how secure your network remains.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CAM) is an annual initiative held every October. It promotes cybersecurity awareness and education. It aims to empower individuals and organizations by giving them knowledge and resources. It helps people strengthen their defenses against cyber threats.
CAM started as a U.S. initiative, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Then, it quickly spread around the globe. It’s led by two agencies:
This collaborative effort involves various stakeholders. Government agencies, industry leaders, and cybersecurity experts all come together. The goal is to raise awareness about cyber risks and best practices
This is CAM’s 20th year. To celebrate, the theme revolves around looking at how far cybersecurity has come. As well as how far it has to go. This year, CAM focuses on four key best practices of cybersecurity.
These are:
Let’s take a closer look at these four best practices of good cyber hygiene.
Central to Cybersecurity Awareness Month is the promotion of essential cyber hygiene practices. We follow good hygiene to maintain physical health. For example, we brush our teeth every day.
Cybersecurity also requires ongoing good hygiene practices to secure the online environment. These practices form the foundation of a strong cybersecurity defense. They help both individuals and organizations.
Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of security to all logins. In most cases, a hacker can’t breach an account protected by MFA. This is the case even if the cyber crook has the password.
According to Microsoft, MFA can block 99.9% of attempted account compromise attacks. With that strong track record, everyone really should be using it. And using it on every login they have.
Passwords remain a critical aspect of securing online accounts. Despite the increased use of biometrics, passwords still rule. Encourage your team members to use strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid easily guessable information like birthdays or names.
Companies can help by setting strong password enforcement rules. This requires a strong password before it’s accepted in a system. For example, you may set up a policy that requires a password to have:
Outdated software creates vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Regularly update operating systems, applications, and firmware. This ensures the latest security patches are in place.
Automating updates is a good way to ensure they’re done promptly. Companies can use endpoint device managers to handle updates across all employee devices. Managers like Intune simplify the process and enhance endpoint security.
Phishing attacks are a common vector for cyber threats. Train your team to identify phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsolicited attachments. Encourage them to verify the sender’s email address. As well as never provide sensitive information unless certain of the recipient’s authenticity.
It’s also important to educate employees about phishing beyond email. Phishing via text messages has been increasing significantly. Some criminals phish via direct messages on social media platforms.
Another important aspect of phishing awareness is to report phishing. If it’s reported, then other employees know to avoid that phishing trap. The organization’s IT team also needs to know so they can take action to mitigate the threat. Be sure to let employees know how they can report a phishing email when they suspect one.
CAM offers a valuable opportunity to refocus on the significance of cybersecurity. As well as prioritizing essential cyber hygiene practices. Building a culture of cybersecurity awareness within your team is important. It can be the difference between vulnerability and resilience.
Need some help ensuring a more secure and resilient future? Our IT experts at Oak MSP in Nottingham can get you going on the basics. Once those are in place, your organization will be more productive and much more secure.
Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) has revolutionized the way businesses operate. It offers convenience, scalability, and efficiency. No more dragging software from one device to another. Everyone can collaborate easily in the cloud.
But alongside its benefits, SaaS brings with it potential threats. When software and data are online, they’re more vulnerable to attacks. One of the latest threats to move from endpoint devices to the cloud is ransomware.
Ransomware has been around attacking computers, servers, and mobile devices for a while. But recently there has been an alarming uptick in SaaS ransomware attacks.
Between March and May of 2023, SaaS attacks increased by over 300%. A study in 2022 by Odaseva found that 51% of ransomware attacks targeted SaaS data.
In this article, we’ll delve into what SaaS ransomware is and the risks it poses. And, most importantly, how you can defend against it.
SaaS ransomware is also known as cloud ransomware. It’s malicious code designed to target cloud-based applications and services. These include services like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and other cloud collaboration platforms.
The attackers exploit vulnerabilities in these cloud-based systems. The ransomware then encrypts valuable data. It effectively locks users out of their own accounts. Cybercriminals hold the data hostage. They then demand a ransom, often in the form of cryptocurrencies. The ransom is in exchange for the decryption key.
SaaS ransomware adds a new layer of complexity to the cybersecurity landscape. It presents several risks to individuals and organizations.
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. When it comes to SaaS ransomware, proactive defense is key. Here are some effective strategies to protect your organization against these threats.
Start by educating your employees about the risks of SaaS ransomware. Include how it spreads through phishing emails, malicious links, or breached accounts. Teach them to recognize suspicious activities and report any unusual incidents immediately.
MFA is an essential layer of security. It requires users to provide an extra form of authentication to access accounts. This is often a one-time code sent to their mobile device. Enabling MFA reduces the risk of unauthorized access. This is true, even if a hacker compromises an account’s login credentials.
Frequently backing up your SaaS data is crucial. In the event of a ransomware attack, you still have your data. Having up-to-date backups ensures that you can restore your files. You won’t need to pay the attacker’s ransom demands.
Limit user permissions to only the necessary functions. Follow the principle of least privilege. This means giving users the lowest privilege needed for their job. Doing this, you reduce the potential damage an attacker can do if they gain access.
Ensure that you keep all software (SaaS applications, operating systems, etc.) up to date. They should have the latest security patches installed. Regular updates close known vulnerabilities and strengthen your defense.
Consider using third-party security solutions that specialize in protecting SaaS environments. These solutions can provide many benefits. Including:
Put in place robust monitoring of user activity and network traffic. Suspicious behavior can be early indicators of an attack. One example to watch for is several failed login attempts. Another is access from unusual locations.
Prepare and practice an incident response plan. It should outline the steps to take in the event of a ransomware attack. A well-coordinated response can mitigate the impact of an incident. It can also aid in faster recovery. The sooner your team can respond, the faster business gets back to normal.
SaaS ransomware is a significant cybersecurity concern. The best defense is a good offense. Do you need help putting one together?
Our team at Oak MSP in Nottingham can help you stay ahead of the cyber threats that lurk in the digital world. Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
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