December 2020 Newsletter

Did you know the average website is attacked 94 times every day? As cybercriminals become better equipped with more advanced technology, that number will increase. Small-business websites (and small businesses, in general) are the most at risk for attack. Small businesses are tempting targets because SMB websites are often a direct link to that SMB’s network, where all kinds of goodies are stored, including sensitive business and customer data. This is data cybercriminals want.

Cybercriminals and hackers can be aggressive when it comes to attempting to access your network and data. They use malware, ransomware, phishing scams, bot attacks and even direct attacks to get to your data. If you don’t have protections in place against these kinds of incursions, you are putting your business in harm’s way.

There are many “barriers” you can put between your business and the bad guys, but there are four things you can do (and should do) right now to put yourself ahead of the curve. These will protect your business and protect your data.

  1. Create A Culture Of Awareness.
    Education is a powerful tool, and that is 100% true when it comes to cyber security. There are several steps you can take to create a culture of awareness. This includes employee cyber security training, along with ongoing education that keeps everyone in your organization informed about the latest threats and the latest ways to combat those threats. Training helps your team identify threats and recognize when someone is trying to break into your network (such as through a phishing scam).

  2. Monitor Threats 24/7.
    This is where partnering with an experienced IT services firm really comes in handy. An IT services company can help you create a culture of awareness, but more than that, they can keep two eyes on your network 24/7. This way, if something or someone attempts to force their way into your network, they can stop it before it becomes a problem.

  3. Make Sure Protections Are Up-To-Date.
    Practically every piece of hardware and software you use needs to be updated at some point. When you don’t update, you put yourself at serious risk. Hackers are constantly looking for vulnerabilities in the apps and devices you use. Should a vulnerability be found, hackers won’t waste any time attempting to exploit it. In response, the makers of that software should send out a security patch. If you do not make the update, your risk increases significantly.

  4. Have A Plan.
    Every single person on your team should be on the same page. They should all change their passwords every 60–90 days. They should all be required to use secure passwords. They should know how to identify potential phishing scams and what to do if their devices go down for any reason. You should have an IT handbook – a plan that spells out every detail of your IT protocol and cyber security strategies. When you have a plan, you know exactly what to do when threats come your way.

Cyber threats are always going to be out there. But there are things you can do for yourself and your business to prepare for those threats. Put these four points into action, work with an IT services provider and give yourself the advantage over those who want to take advantage.

A Warning About Using Bluetooth Devices

We all know using WiFi comes with risks, especially unsecured public WiFi. But what about your device’s wireless Bluetooth connection? Many devices use Bluetooth as a way to pair with other devices (like smartphones to wireless earbuds). However, recent hacks highlight the danger that comes with Bluetooth. One example is called BLESA (Bluetooth Low Energy Spoofing Attack), which targets devices using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol. If you aren’t actively paired with another device, it should always be turned off.

Contact

Affinity Tech Solutions, LLC