As technology continues to advance, the importance of data security becomes increasingly apparent. But what exactly is it, and how can it be managed while remaining secure? Explore the definition of data security, its relevance in today's digital world, and how it differs from data security. As you navigate these concepts, understand how realistic solutions can be implemented.
In today’s society, preserving security while managing privacy is not only possible but essential. While some might perceive the two as mutually exclusive, organizations and IT experts have created methods and systems to uphold both.
For better understanding, you should know the clear difference between these terms and what they mean. Though they might be used interchangeably, they denote different aspects of information safety. Security involves protecting data from unauthorized access, including breaches and attacks. Privacy, on the other hand, concerns how the data is used, ensuring it respects the individual's rights and is not used in a discriminatory manner.
Implementing realistic data security solutions is crucial to protecting sensitive information and preventing data breaches. Here are some steps to follow:
– Start by identifying the types of data that need to be protected. This includes personal information, financial records, intellectual property, and anything that could cause substantial harm if compromised.
– Assess the potential vulnerabilities and threats to your data. This can involve evaluating physical and digital risks, such as unauthorized access, malware attacks, or insider threats. This step helps to prioritize security measures based on the level of danger.
– Create a comprehensive security policy that outlines the necessary protocols and procedures to protect data. This policy should include guidelines for user access controls, data backup and storage, incident response, and employee security awareness training.
– Ensure that physical access to storage locations, such as server rooms or data centers, is securely restricted. Use access controls, surveillance cameras, and alarms to enhance physical security.
– Implement multi-factor authentication, strong passwords, and user access controls to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data. Regularly monitor and review user accounts and access privileges to prevent access by outdated or compromised accounts.
– Encrypt all sensitive data, both during storage and transmission. This ensures that even if hackers gain access to the data, it will be in an unreadable format. Use strong encryption algorithms and regularly update encryption keys.
– Keep all systems, software, and applications up to date with the latest security patches. Regularly update antivirus and antimalware programs to detect and prevent any potential threats.
– Regularly back up all sensitive data to an offsite location or cloud storage. This ensures that it can be recovered in case of loss due to hardware failure, natural disasters, or cyberattacks.
– Provide regular training and awareness programs to educate employees about data security risks, policies, and procedures. This helps employees understand their role in protecting sensitive data and reduces the risk of human error.
– Implement a system to monitor and audit the security of your data regularly. This includes monitoring network traffic, reviewing access logs, and performing penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities and address them promptly.
By following these steps, organizations can implement realistic data security solutions that effectively protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of breaches.
Investing in a data security management team is the cornerstone of protecting data security. A dedicated team can manage the storage area network, oversee cloud storage technologies, ensure data sovereignty, and keep up-to-date on changing regulations and threats.
Complying with data privacy laws and securing your data can be complex. Thankfully, Onward Technology has got you covered. Get top-notch IT support as you boost your business’s efficiency and security with our range of services. Our experts will ensure your network is fortified with top-notch security measures.
Your peace of mind is our top priority. Contact us today.
Your IT infrastructure is a critical component of your organization’s success. But are you underestimating its potential? Learn more about the costs of poor IT management and get tips for improving your environment. Explore the benefits of infrastructure optimization and how a managed service provider can help elevate your IT network.
Today's businesses largely depend on information technology. From data centers to cloud infrastructure, it is the backbone of modern operations. Many companies find themselves struggling with slow systems, dead-end troubleshooting, and high operational costs. Everything from edge computing devices to hybrid cloud systems plays a role in business efficiency.
Poor IT infrastructure management can cost organizations in a variety of ways, both financially and operationally. These issues often translate to:
Thankfully, companies can avoid these issues with just a few tips:
Starting with the network infrastructure is crucial. This includes your local network hardware, data center, and connections to external service providers and cloud computing environments. Having a strong, fast, and reliable network is the foundation for all your IT operations.
Cyber threats are constantly evolving and can pose a serious risk to your organization. Secure your IT network by implementing robust antivirus and antimalware solutions, maintaining updated software, enforcing strict access controls, and training employees on cybersecurity best practices.
Ensure your business can quickly recover from a data loss event by equipping effective backup and recovery systems. Both your data center hardware and cloud infrastructure should have robust backup solutions and disaster recovery plans in place.
To identify potential problems before they cause significant damage, make it a habit to monitor your IT regularly. This includes keeping a close eye on your data centers, cloud infrastructure, and edge computing devices.
Depending on the size and needs of your business, it may be beneficial to set up a physical or virtual data center. Modern infrastructure is built to handle vast amounts of information with high levels of security and performance.
A well-managed IT infrastructure can grant so many benefits, such as the following:
Managed service providers (MSPs) are skilled at handling a variety of tasks, so you can focus on what you do best. They can enable better performance, security, and value from your current IT assets while setting you on a path to future readiness Additionally, they can help establish firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data encryption protocols to safeguard valuable information.
If securing IT infrastructure services from a managed service provider is something you’re interested in, ensure your partner has the following traits:
Are you tired of dealing with frustrating tech problems that hinder your productivity? Look no further! Onward Technology is a leading managed service provider (MSP) in Utah, and we’re here to simplify your operations and unleash your business’s full potential.
Your organization's IT infrastructure is the backbone of your operations, and it deserves the best protection. Onward Technology offers a range of services, including daily support, data backups, cybersecurity, and patch management, to ensure that your business stays secure and your data remains intact.
We understand that improving your bottom line is a top priority for every business. That's why we offer fixed-cost pricing models for our managed services. With our transparent pricing, you'll have a consistent monthly fee, making budgeting a breeze and helping you lower operating costs.
Learn more about our next-level solutions and contact us today!
AI is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s technological landscape, and that includes cybersecurity. On the one hand, it gives cybercriminals another tool to attack networks and steal information. On the other hand, it’s used to create more efficient security protocols. Whichever way you look at it, the impact of AI is bringing significant changes to cybersecurity.
Continue reading to learn more about the impacts of AI on cybersecurity and how you can use it to get ahead of your competition.
AI systems can provide incredible benefits by automating many of the cybersecurity tasks that would otherwise require untold resources and hours of labor. Here are some of the most positive impacts of AI on cybersecurity that users may experience.
One of the many benefits of AI in cybersecurity is the implementation of network monitoring. While humans are perfectly capable of monitoring a network, they cannot do so 24/7. They also make mistakes, and their efforts could be better used elsewhere. Using an AI system to monitor your network security allows for automated tracking on a greater scale.
AI cybersecurity uses machine learning to develop pattern recognition and quickly discover network anomalies in real time. A system that can detect and resolve cyber threats as they’re happening protects businesses from having their sensitive information stolen and used against them. Through continuous learning, AI systems have an edge over human cybercriminals who can’t keep up with the program’s detection rates.
Using historical and current data, AI-driven cybersecurity can accurately predict risks and threats before they emerge, giving you an added layer of protection. Typically, making accurate predictions is incredibly difficult due to the massive amounts of data that must be analyzed, but AI technology can do so at an accelerated rate.
AI can assist businesses in minimizing their risks by conducting an in-depth assessment of their network security and analyzing large data pools. After gaining an understanding of the systems, AI can pinpoint weak spots and work to improve overall protection.
While the impacts of AI can benefit cybersecurity, it also has a handful of challenges to overcome, some of which make it harder for businesses to protect their assets. Here are some of the biggest challenges facing AI cybersecurity.
One of the main drawbacks of using AI is that it’s still in its earliest stages of development. AI has come a long way since its inception and implementation, especially over the previous year. However, there’s still a lot of ground to cover. Consider smartphones: they have come a long way from the flip phones of the late 90s and have made leaps and bounds over the rotary phones of the 1960s. Phones are likely to advance even further, but we won’t know to what extent until that day comes.
AI development is no different. What it looks like today may seem ancient compared to what it can achieve in five, ten, or fifty years. However, this means that the current state of AI-driven technology isn’t perfect and should be used cautiously to avoid setbacks. Hiring an AI expert to monitor automated tasks is best.
Just as companies can use AI systems to improve and automate tasks, cybercriminals use AI to create new forms of advanced cyberattacks. Malware and other forms of cyberattacks can be integrated with AI algorithms to find ways of navigating, tricking, or penetrating network defenses. The impact of AI on cyberattacks is especially concerning because it can adapt to countermeasures deployed to prevent data breaches, including voice and facial recognition methods. Combining human and AI cybersecurity measures is the best solution to combating complex cyber threats.
While AI's technological innovations are undoubtedly helpful, they don’t come cheap. Investing in AI requires many resources, including the cost, time, and expertise to build, install, and maintain systems. Because the current state of AI isn’t perfect, the cost of implementation may not be worth the results, especially for smaller companies that don’t have an abundance of disposable resources.
One must also consider the resources spent training AI systems to learn intricate data sets. Due to the massive amounts of data that programs must work through, the process can take considerable time to comprehend information effectively. Even after an AI system has become self-sufficient, it still requires regular monitoring, updates, and maintenance to produce the desired results.
If you need a cybersecurity service provider that can evolve alongside artificial intelligence, Onward Technology is your best bet.
At Onward Technology, our team is dedicated to providing cybersecurity solutions no matter what our industry brings. As the impact of AI continues to change cybersecurity with technological innovations and advanced threats, we’ll keep you one step ahead of the competition. Our team closely monitors, tests, and develops solutions for emerging AI systems, then implements them into our security practices. By integrating AI and assessing new threats as they surface, we can create efficient security models that protect business networks from AI-powered cyberattacks.
Regardless of how advanced AI technology development becomes, we succeed because of the people behind the screen. Contact us today to secure your network and prepare your company for the future.
Successful malware attacks can devastate ill-prepared businesses, resulting in stolen data, reduced profits, unwanted downtime, expensive repairs, and a weakened public perception. With more complex types of malware attacks today than ever before, companies must take the necessary steps to protect their assets—starting by familiarizing themselves with the most common types of malware attacks.
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Malware is malicious software or programs a threat actor creates to damage or gain access to mobile devices, operating systems, and networks. By infecting computer systems and being granted remote access, cybercriminals can download and steal sensitive information from a company or individual, which can then be used as blackmail, held for a ransom fee, destroyed, exposed to the public, or used against the owner in any number of ways.
Malware is typically administered through email attachments, fake links, ads, or specific websites. With one misplaced click, malware can infect devices and begin administering its program.
There are numerous types of malware attacks, some much worse than others. In some cases, the effects of malware are simply annoying distractions. Other times, it can cost businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars and tarnish their reputation.
The more types of malware attacks you’re familiar with, the better prepared you can be when they attempt to breach your defenses. Here are eight of the most common forms of malware attacks.
The most well-known form of malware, a virus is a malicious code that infects the programs it spreads to. Viruses attach themselves to files, and when the file is launched, the malware steals, corrupts, moves, or alters your data. They can also be used to conduct DDoS attacks or launch ransomware attacks. The most common way to contract a virus is by clicking on unsafe links or visiting malicious websites.
One of the most common types of malware attacks, ransomware decodes your encrypted information and holds it against users as ransom. By demanding a ransom payment, cybercriminals can extort users by threatening to release sensitive information to the public or even destroy data, costing companies massive amounts of money. A ransomware attack can be carried out by an individual but is often executed by a team.
Adware—often called spam—is more than an annoying pop-up. This type of malware continuously pesters users with harmful ads that, when clicked on, can direct them to other forms of malware. Increased adware can slow your computer systems and prevent normal operations.
Spyware gathers information about a user’s activities without their knowledge, such as PINs, passwords, credit card information, addresses, and more. Spyware can be used on numerous devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. Frequent spyware attacks can reduce your device’s performance over time, even if no sensitive information is accessed.
Bots perform tasks automatically without requiring human interaction. When used in large numbers, bots create what is known as a botnet, which consists of a network of bots that spam networks with attacks. These infections can spread to other devices and launch disruptive DDoS attacks and brute force attacks.
Worms attack operating systems by targeting vulnerabilities and installing themselves into networks similar to viruses. However, they don’t require a host program to replicate themselves and spread. They may be used to attack a computer’s memory or hard drive, launch DDoS attacks, steal information, and more.
Trojan horses are malware disguised as an authentic program. Often relying on social engineering techniques, trojan horses infiltrate users' devices and take control of their systems by installing viruses and worms, stealing information, running keyloggers, and more.
Whereas most malware works by infecting file systems and programs, fileless malware uses non-file objects like Powershell or Microsoft Office macros. Without a file to target, antivirus software has difficulty detecting and eliminating fileless malware, leading to infected systems that steal your information and destroy software.
With all of the types of malware attacks that cybercriminals can employ, succumbing to a malicious software infection is a real possibility. Here are some common warning signs that your computer has been compromised:
Experiencing one or several of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean your computer has been infected by malware, but it is grounds for further investigation.
There are internal steps your business can take to prevent or at least minimize malware attacks, such as increasing employee training, implementing regular updates, and monitoring network activity consistently. However, the best way to protect your company from malware attacks is by partnering with a professional IT service provider.
IT services include expert security teams that can protect your network from malware attacks before they disrupt your workflow or compromise company information. The price of hiring a service provider to handle your network security is often much more affordable than paying an internal team to do the same job. It also allows your IT staff to redirect their attention to other areas of the business.
There are a lot of IT services available, but it all simply amounts to choosing the best partner for your business model—that’s where Onward Technology can help.
Onward Technology is the trusted malware prevention expert you’ve been searching for. With cybercriminals finding new and advanced ways to employ various types of malware attacks, your security operations need to be handled by a fully equipped IT service provider. We perform detailed risk assessments to locate gaps in your security measures, then use that information to create protection plans for your business. We also continuously monitor and tweak your security as needed to guarantee the highest level of protection.
But don’t just take our word for it—let us show you. Contact Onward Technology today to set up a free network assessment and consultation, and if you’re pleased with the results, we’ll begin securing your network from all types of malware attacks.
Network security prevents businesses from having their data stolen, but tight security measures are only as effective as the employees that access company data. Unaware staff members are less likely to detect and prevent cyber attacks that can harm work operations and impact your bottom line. However, conducting proper cyber security training for your employees can keep your network secure and protect your company from emerging cyber threats.
Continue reading to learn more about cyber security training for employees, including the following:
Cyber security training for employees is a way of raising their digital security knowledge and awareness to minimize the risk of a successful data breach. Training programs are created with the intent of helping employees understand what cyber attacks look like, how to detect them, how to respond to them, what can be done to prevent them, what actions pose security risks, and how to navigate operating systems safely. Cyber security training for employees is typically conducted via internal IT members, online courses, and occasionally by professional IT consulting services.
Having employees that are well-versed in cyber security is essential for protecting your company information. Most data breaches are caused by human error and could be prevented with proper training. By having a team that is ill-prepared to deal with emerging threats, you’re putting your data, productivity, finances, and reputation on the line.
On the other hand, investing in employee training provides numerous benefits for your business, including more robust network security, reduced downtime caused by data breaches and recovery periods, and an increased bottom line as a result of remaining productive.
Training your employees on the importance of cyber security doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time and recurring sessions to fully develop a grasp of digital security awareness, but by instilling these data security tips in employees, they can better protect themselves and the company.
Weak passwords are one of the leading causes of data breaches, and with common passwords like “Password,” it’s not hard to imagine why. Poorly created passwords leave users and networks vulnerable to potential hacks that could grant attackers massive amounts of sensitive information. Encourage your employees to develop strong passwords that contain at least eight characters, use both upper and lower case letters, have at least one number, and another special character. If employees are expected to remember multiple passwords for various systems, consider using a password manager to make the process easier.
Multi-factor authentication takes password protection one step further by combining two or more forms of credentials that users must present to gain access to a system. Forms of authentication can include a password, biometric scans like fingerprints, PINs, a token or badge, and more. MFA provides layered security and grants employees maximum protection for their personal information.
With more employees working out of the office at venues like hotels or coffee shops than ever before, there are more opportunities for attackers to access company data via compromised Wi-Fi. Malware and other digital threats can transfer to devices on the same network, which is why using public Wi-Fi can be dangerous. However, this can be avoided by insisting that employees only work from secure Wi-Fi or conduct work using a virtual private network (VPN).
Strong passwords and multi-factor authentication are effective ways for employees to protect their information, but it only helps if they remember to lock their devices. Leaving devices unattended while programs are open and accessible is irresponsible, as it allows anyone to steal your data. Stress to employees the importance of manually locking their devices anytime they aren’t using them, whether that means picking up their order at a coffee shop or going to the restroom at the office.
Phishing tests are an effective way to show your employees what potential threats could look like and whether or not they would fall victim to them. You can construct phishing tests for your specific business model and choose which employees to send them to via email. By sending out controlled phishing attacks, your employees are more likely to detect similar scams moving forward.
When internal security awareness training and safety tips don’t seem to minimize the number of data breaches you experience, it’s time to utilize security consulting services. Security consultants can help create unique security procedures that are instructive and easy to implement for your business. Every security plan recommended via a consultation aims to accomplish a particular goal for your company and is carefully tailored toward your internal IT operations. Their services can help improve your organization's ability to detect early signs of a cyber attack, how to respond to cyber attacks appropriately, and ways to minimize the risk of threats.
If professional cyber security training for your employees still isn’t enough, consider hiring a managed IT service to protect your network for you. By handing your network security off to a professional, your data is guaranteed to remain under tight wraps while allowing your in-house IT team to focus their attention elsewhere. Thankfully, we happen to know the perfect provider.
As a reliable and established IT solutions provider based in Utah, Onward Technology has the expertise to tighten your network security. At Onward, we not only use the most efficient methods and technology to help your business succeed in today’s competitive virtual landscape, but we help you do so safely. We know how essential your company data is, which is why we’ve curated a host of IT solution strategies to accommodate your specific requirements.
Our team offers a variety of security and IT services, including:
If you’re ready to take the next step to secure your company data, contact us today—we’ll handle the hard stuff and work with you closely through every phase of the process.
A well-trained, experienced IT staff can be a major asset for any business. Certain characteristics define the most successful employees in this field. From problem-solving skills to familiarity with the latest technologies, we'll discuss their four key characteristics and how they can help you maximize productivity and efficiency. We'll also walk through the risks of a bad IT support company, and the benefits of partnering with outsourced IT. Let's jump right in!
Experienced IT professionals have the training and knowledge to identify potential issues before they become problems, and the skills needed to research and analyze those issues to resolve them. They also know how to think outside the box to find creative solutions when traditional approaches fail.
An experienced IT staff should always be familiar with the latest technologies, especially those related to their field. This helps ensure that your team can keep up with changing trends and find ways to maximize efficiency and productivity with new tools or systems. Understanding current technology allows them to quickly recognize any potential flaws or vulnerabilities in existing systems, helping you avoid security issues and keep your data safe.
IT professionals must communicate effectively with all members of your organization for any projects or initiatives they take on together to succeed. This means being able to explain complex concepts in terms that everyone understands, as well as working collaboratively towards a common goal. Communication is key for any successful business relationship, so having experienced IT personnel who know how best to interact with colleagues can make all the difference for your team's success rate.
An experienced team should be prepared for anything that comes their way and capable enough to adjust their approach if necessary. This will help minimize downtime, save resources, and ensure maximum efficiency from your staff members at all times.
With so many managed service providers out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. The truth is that not all IT support companies are created equal, and if you’re not careful, you could end up working with one that does more harm than good.
One of the most frustrating things about working with a bad IT support company is slow response times. If your partner is not responsive to your needs, it could lead to disastrous consequences, such as data loss or system outages. To avoid this, make sure that you choose someone experienced who can respond quickly and efficiently to any issues you may have.
The importance of good communication between your business and IT partner cannot be overstated. If the two are not on the same page, it could result in delays or misunderstandings that can end up costing your business time and money.
If you’re working with an inexperienced IT partner, they might not be able to provide the level of expertise needed to properly manage your systems and keep them running smoothly. To avoid this risk, make sure that you choose someone who has worked with companies like yours before and understands the ins and outs of your industry.
Having your systems hacked or breached by malicious actors is one of the worst nightmares for any business owner, but if you’re working with a bad IT support company, it could become a reality. A lack of security knowledge or sloppy practices can leave you vulnerable to attack and put your data at risk. To protect yourself, always choose an experienced expert who puts security first in their methods and processes.
Outsourcing your IT staff can provide various benefits for your business that you might not be aware of. From cost savings to improved security, an experienced IT staff can help ensure your company is well-positioned in the ever-evolving technology landscape.
Outsourcing your IT services can help you save money in two ways: by reducing the need to hire additional in-house personnel and by taking advantage of the already-built infrastructure that the outsourced team provides. Instead of training and equipping new staff, you can access a team of experts who have already developed and maintained a secure computing environment for their clients. This ensures your business is up-to-date with the latest technology while saving you time and money.
An experienced team can provide expertise on emerging threats targeting your industry or company. They can also help implement firewalls and antivirus software to prevent malicious actors from accessing your systems. With them monitoring your security posture, you can rest assured that all the necessary steps are being taken to keep you safe.
By taking advantage of an external team, you can quickly adjust your services as business requirements change without investing additional resources into hiring or training new personnel. This helps reduce overhead costs and allows businesses to focus on other areas as needed without worrying about insufficient staff or resources when demand increases.
When organizations are looking for a reliable IT solutions partner, they need to know that their chosen team will deliver exceptional customer service. At Onward Technology, our primary mission is to ensure our clients feel like part of the family. Our specialists are always up-to-date on the latest technology and possess extensive industry knowledge, enabling us to manage projects of all sizes and complexities. Contact us today for the best IT services in Utah.
Data breaches are on the rise, and it's more important than ever for businesses to understand what these breaches are, what causes them, and how to prevent them from happening. In this article, we will explore the various causes of data breaches for businesses and discuss prevention techniques to avoid such attacks in the first place. We'll also walk through eight steps of what to do if your business has already experienced a breach.
A data breach occurs when sensitive, confidential, or private information is unintentionally exposed or divulged. It could be a malicious attack from a hacker or an internal mishandling of data by an employee. Data breaches can cause serious financial and reputational damage to a business and put the privacy of customers' personal information at risk.
One of the most frequent causes of data breaches is poor security practices, such as neglecting to update systems with the latest security patches, using weak passwords, and failing encryption. Human error can also play a role if employees are not properly trained on how to handle sensitive information. Malicious attackers, such as hackers and cybercriminals, may seek out vulnerable networks to gain access to your systems and steal valuable customer data for their benefit.
In today's digital age, businesses of all sizes and types are at risk of experiencing a data breach. To protect their data and prevent unauthorized access, they need solutions that can identify vulnerabilities in their systems and implement measures to mitigate security risks. By investing in data breach protection, they can safeguard their data, maintain their customers' trust, and avoid costly legal and regulatory consequences.
Data breaches are a reality that all businesses must face. It's important to know what steps to take when one occurs, so that your business is properly protected and secure.
Cybersecurity threats are real and can have serious implications for businesses of all sizes. That’s why it’s important to take proactive data breach prevention measures.
This assessment looks at all the potential risks that could cause a data breach. It considers external threats (such as malicious hackers) and internal threats (such as employees mishandling data).
Another effective data breach prevention tip is to ensure that you have up-to-date antivirus software installed on all devices connected to your network. Regularly scan all devices for viruses and other malicious software, and watch for suspicious activity such as network slowdowns or unauthorized access attempts. Consider using firewalls and other protective hardware, such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), to prevent attackers from gaining access in the first place.
You should also pay close attention to vulnerability management processes and patching cycles to detect and fix any security vulnerabilities before they become exploitable by attackers. Regularly audit your systems for any weaknesses or flaws, apply relevant patches in a timely manner, and document all changes made.
No matter how secure your security measures may be, all personnel must receive regular training on cybersecurity best practices. Hence, everyone understands their role in preventing data breaches from occurring.
Onward Technology is the best option for safeguarding your business from cybercriminals, thanks to our comprehensive risk assessments. Our team brings invaluable knowledge, unrivaled skill, and unwavering commitment to keeping your business safe as you pursue success in today's competitive market. Contact us today for the best data breach prevention measures.
The rise of technology means the world is now more connected today than ever before. Phones, laptops, and countless other devices plug vital information into the well of knowledge that is the internet. But whenever there’s a chance to steal this data, hackers will be waiting to pounce on the opportunity. Protecting your network from external threats is incredibly important—both for companies and individuals—but what are you to do with so many types of cybersecurity attacks to safeguard against?
Read on the discover more about cybersecurity, including the following:
The more you understand about cybersecurity attacks, the better equipped your company will be when and if hackers attempt to breach your network. Before diving deeper into the types of cybersecurity attacks, it’s essential to distinguish between attacks, vulnerabilities, and risks.
In simplest terms, security vulnerabilities pop up in your network because of old and outdated software, unsecured WiFi, or a lack of firewalls. While these weaknesses don’t pose any threats alone, they present opportunities for hackers to infiltrate your network. Using many types of cybersecurity attacks, they then attempt to breach your network security by targeting these openings. The resulting attack puts your network at risk of data loss and corrupted software.
There are numerous types of cybersecurity attacks in the hacker’s toolbox. They include:
Malware is malicious software that sneaks into networks by being installed, purchased, or downloaded without the user’s knowledge. Once malware has sunk its fangs into your system, it can cause various issues, such as slowing down your processor, corrupting data, and even sending information without your permission.
Common malware examples include the following:
When secure company data has been made available to external sources that shouldn’t have access, there’s a good chance it was due to an SQL attack. These types of attacks manipulate the SQL coding into granting them permission to view and use delicate information. A fortified firewall can generally keep these types of attacks at bay, but only if it is properly managed and updated accordingly.
Eavesdropping, otherwise referred to as “traffic interception,” is a type of cyberattack in which a person or organization intercepts sensitive information being sent between two parties. This can include passwords, emails, log-in credentials, and other critical data. This is especially common among compromised websites or those without a reliable VPN.
Social engineering attacks are elaborate schemes performed by threat actors—people or organizations that aim to trick users into relinquishing data or control of their systems. These vulnerabilities are especially dangerous because there’s more room for direct human error than something like a firewall. Unaware and untrained users can be fooled into handing system controls over to a stranger with ill intent without even knowing it.
Social engineering tactics can be used through the following means:
Distributed Denial of Service—or DDOS—attacks a company’s servers by spamming them with more traffic than they can handle. When the servers are then overloaded with too much data, their accompanying websites slow to a crawl, making them virtually unusable or shutting down systems entirely. Because these attacks are often performed using multiple IP addresses, they can take time to identify, temporarily taking the servers offline for maintenance.
These are only a handful of the most common types of cybersecurity attacks in a hacker’s arsenal, but there are many more. Thankfully, there are preventative measures companies can take to stop these attacks from occurring.
While awareness of the many types of cybersecurity attacks helps you know which potential threats to watch out for, it doesn’t necessarily solve the problem. The quickest and most reliable solution to all your network security issues is to utilize a managed IT service.
As third-party providers, IT service companies handle your network security for you. Generally, once or twice a year, they perform recurring IT assessments to analyze the current state of your systems. This is important, as it allows them to detect faults in your network security before they can be exploited. Then, by creating a detailed report, they use the results to tighten up your security and make any necessary updates.
Letting a trusted provider take the reins of your company’s IT management allows you and your team to put more energy into daily tasks that keep operations running efficiently—all while maintaining a safe and secure network at a fraction of the cost. And for those that require IT support in Utah, you’re in luck.
If you’re looking for an IT service company in Utah that can handle all your network security needs, you’ve come to the right place. At Onward Technology, we aim to build strong relationships with our clients to let them know their data is in good hands. Years of experience have honed our IT skills into what they are today, allowing us to make your network security air-tight using recurring assessments and reports that identify potential issues.
Are you ready to hand your network security to a professional? Consider partnering with Onward Technology. As your trusted network security team, we’ll keep your data secure and answer any questions you may have.
In our technology-oriented landscape, having a sound IT infrastructure is the key to a business’s success. But without proper cybersecurity protocols that can anticipate and respond to threats, companies can be exposed to costly data breaches and other malicious threat actors.
If you rarely check your organization’s cybersecurity controls or haven’t at all, you may be doing your business a disservice. Educate yourself on the importance of remaining vigilant and understand:
A cybersecurity risk assessment is an evaluation of the security status within an organization that identifies potential vulnerabilities in its infrastructure. This assessment includes physical access, authentication mechanisms, network architecture, communications protocols, system configurations, and more. By identifying these areas of vulnerability, organizations can take proactive measures to prevent or mitigate cyberattacks such as malware infections, data theft, or phishing attempts.
The frequency of your cybersecurity assessment depends on many factors, like:
As a general rule of thumb, most organizations should consider performing a cybersecurity risk assessment at least once every year or two. However, organizations with large networks or more demanding security requirements may want to consider performing assessments more frequently—like every six months, for example—to ensure their systems remain secure.
On top of the frequency of assessments, there are several other important things to consider to ensure you’re getting a quality assessment.
For one, your security risk assessment should cover all security areas—like access control, data protection, disaster recovery, incident response plans, and user training—to provide a complete picture of your security strength. You should also make sure the risk level assessment is performed by qualified professionals with experience identifying these potential risks and weaknesses.
No organization is immune from cybersecurity threats, and, unfortunately, many organizations mistakenly believe that they can simply install antivirus software or firewalls and consider themselves safe from attacks.
While this approach is a great measure, it doesn’t provide an adequate level of protection most businesses need and fails to address the many different kinds of attacks that occur. As you gain an in-depth understanding of the importance of regular cybersecurity risk assessments, understand the immense benefits your business could miss without them.
Without regularly assessing an organization’s IT infrastructure, attackers can exploit weaknesses or vulnerabilities that would otherwise have been identified and addressed. This can lead to devastating data breaches, financial losses, reputational damage, or even regulatory action.
Additionally, you could be even more at risk if you have a small business. Typically, smaller or less-established organizations may need more resources or trained personnel to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of an attack. So while the cyber-risks are the same for businesses of all sizes, some companies may be more equipped to recover from a severe hit than others.
Whether it’s a cybersecurity risk or IT infrastructure assessment in general, there are numerous benefits your business can receive:
The main benefit of the risk assessment process is that it helps organizations identify any areas where their systems are vulnerable to attack, allowing them to make any necessary changes to improve their security. When left unchecked, these vulnerabilities can provide access for malicious actors to infiltrate an organization’s network and potentially steal sensitive data or disrupt services.
Another benefit of regular cybersecurity risk assessments is that they can help organizations stay compliant with regulations and industry standards. Many organizations are subject to data privacy laws and regulations like the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) that require the implementation of specific security protocols, such as encryption tools or two-factor authentication.
By performing periodic assessments, organizations can be sure that they are meeting these requirements and avoiding any potential fines or legal repercussions due to non-compliance.
Finally, regular cybersecurity risk assessments can clue businesses into areas where they may need more resources or personnel to maintain the highest levels of security.
For example, if an assessment reveals weaknesses in password management systems or outdated software, the organization may need additional personnel dedicated to managing user accounts and updating software. By recognizing these issues ahead of time, organizations can be proactive in their cybersecurity strategy.
When it comes to cybersecurity risk assessments, Onward Technology is the perfect choice for your business. Cybercriminals are using more advanced technology than ever before, and we’re here to equip companies with adequate security controls to protect their most precious assets. With our experience, expertise, and dedication, your company can remain protected from cyberattacks as you continue to work toward your business goals.
Our core focus is built on providing a people-first experience where results matter, and that’s why our team of certified professionals is committed to helping you achieve your goals while delivering an outstanding customer service experience. When you give us a call, you’ll get a taste of what a people-first approach looks like.
When it comes to the realm of protecting your devices and network from threats, the broad term that most people are generally familiar with is "cybersecurity." However, this major area has several sub-categories or related themes that are often incorporated into or around it, and one of these that's become much more well-known in the IT world in recent years is called "cyber resiliency."
At Onward Technology, we're happy to assist a huge range of business clients with all their network security and related IT needs, with 24/7 real-time monitoring we apply to numerous different clients and needs. What's meant when discussing cyber resiliency, and what are some simple ways to achieve this approach in your business network? Here's a basic rundown.
You've heard of cybersecurity, and you've also likely heard of disaster recovery (if you haven't heard this latter term, it speaks to having a solid plan in place to quickly get your business operational again after a serious event such as data loss, malware attack, etc.). Cyber resiliency is somewhere in the middle of these two concepts, and can be defined as a proactive and holistic approach to cybersecurity that also incorporates disaster recovery concepts.
In other words, cyber resiliency is about taking multiple efforts to ensure all company data is private, protected, backed-up -- and maybe most importantly, recoverable in case of any type of incident.
The concept of cyber resiliency has become much more prominent in business networking conversations for a few reasons. First, as noted, attacks on all types and sizes of businesses are becoming more common (and often more sophisticated), so there's a heightened need to have stronger protection in place. Second, "cyber incidents" can come in many forms and cause different levels of damage, so it's important to have a plan that can address any type of issue that might come up.
Consider the data breaches at Yahoo and Equifax: In both cases, massive amounts of customer data were stolen by hackers. But while the Yahoo breach was eventually blamed on a state-sponsored actor, the Equifax incident was caused by a much more common type of cyber attack. So while the effects were similar (loss of customer trust, millions spent on recovery efforts, etc.), the root cause was different -- and each required a different type of response.
In other words, a "one size fits all" approach to cybersecurity and disaster recovery simply isn't enough anymore. You need a multi-faceted, proactive plan that can address any type of incident -- and this is where cyber resiliency comes in.
Our next several sections will go over how to achieve cyber resiliency within your business, plus how our team will help.
Simply put, it's hard for most organizations to achieve cyber resiliency on their own. Cybersecurity is a huge and complex topic, with new threats emerging all the time. And while you might have in-house IT staff, they likely don't have the bandwidth or expertise to keep up with everything that's going on in this realm.
This is where professional support comes in. A trusted Managed Services Provider (MSP) like Onward Technology can serve as your "virtual IT department," keeping an eye on your network around the clock and responding quickly to any incidents that might come up.
And when it comes to disaster recovery, an MSP can provide invaluable assistance in developing and testing a comprehensive plan -- so you know exactly what needs to be done in case of an incident, and can have confidence that your plan will work as intended. In other words, partnering with a reputable MSP is one of the best ways to achieve cyber resiliency for your business.
Onward Technology is proud to offer comprehensive cybersecurity and IT support services to businesses of all sizes. We'll work with you to assess your specific needs and put together a custom plan that will help you achieve your goals -- including cyber resiliency.
As you're working with our team to develop a cyber resiliency plan, one of the first steps we'll take is to analyze the risks your business faces and what your specific goals are.
This will help us understand what types of incidents are most likely to occur, how much damage they could cause, and which systems and data are most critical to your operations. We'll also consider any compliance requirements you might have (e.g. HIPAA, PCI, etc.), as these will need to be taken into account in your disaster recovery plan.
From there, we'll work with you to develop a comprehensive strategy that will help you meet your goals and protect your business from the types of incidents that are most likely to occur.
As part of our risk analysis process, we'll also help you create a "baseline expectation" for your business -- in other words, what's the minimum level of service you need to maintain in order to keep your operations running?
This is important because it will serve as the starting point for your disaster recovery plan. For example, if you're a retail business, you might need to be able to process transactions and fulfill orders within a certain time frame in order to keep your customers happy.
On the other hand, if you're a healthcare provider, you might need to have systems in place that allow you to access patient records quickly and efficiently -- even in the case of a major outage.
Once we have a clear understanding of your baseline expectation, we'll work with you to develop a plan that will help you meet (or exceed) it -- no matter what type of incident might occur.
For more on how to achieve cyber resiliency for your business, or to learn about any of our managed IT or IT support services, speak to the team at Onward Technology today.
