Cyber criminals have turned your employees into the weakest link of your IT security at your business

Scott Starost • Oct 17, 2016

Cyber theft is a growing concern for many businesses, particularly when it comes to intellectual property. Hacking methods have become so sophisticated that they are now harder to detect until after a system has been compromised. The right security training is needed in order to keep you and your employees safe.

Three Types of Threats

Any business is vulnerable to three types of threats: insider, outsider, and bad IT. To ensure your business is protected, you must guard against all three types.  The insider threat can come in the way of disgruntled employees or from workers who are negligent in how they handle information. External threats can be from organized criminal gangs or even your competition. Bad IT is a threat whenever your equipment is so old and outdated that it becomes an easy target for anyone in either of the other two groups. All three of these threats can be mitigated with the right security training and by implementing a hardware lifecycle replacement plan.

Insider Threat

You can take some proactive measures to reduce the odds of an inside attack. Enforcing separation of duties and monitoring user activities are recommended in order to reduce the odds of someone mishandling information. Good hiring practices that involve performing background checks should be considered if your industry handles sensitive data. Security training is also important if you are to reduce accidental breaches such as sending information to the wrong email address. Teaching your employees how to recognize spear-phishing attacks is also needed, as approximately 91% of all successful data breaches begin in this manner.

Outside Threat

The outside threat is perhaps the most dangerous because it cannot be seen. A group in another part of the world may be actively trying to hack in without you even being aware of it. As such, it is imperative that your employees recognize instances in which your security may be at risk. These days, it is especially important to educate workers on the dangers of cryptoware, which can encrypt all the files on an entire office network, requiring you to then pay a ransom to retrieve them. Developing a plan that will help employees deal with suspicious emails and files is also important, and will help you identify possible problems much sooner.

Bad IT Threat

Security training can also help you avoid problems due to outdated equipment. It creates security awareness with key stake holders that allows for further conversations about the state of overall technology within your business. Creating a hardware lifecycle replacement plan will make it easier to forecast budgets for future years, minimizing surprise expenditures and reduce security risks.

The right security training can help you implement best practices for doing everything from accessing public networks to backing up your systems. When coupled with an analysis of your system, it can even help you identify potential issues such as CEO fraud. This occurs when hackers spoof the email address of your CEO, and is often due to an email server being improperly configured.

Your organization faces different security issues than any other business. For this reason, you should choose security training that is tailored to your unique set of circumstances. It should also be provided on an ongoing basis to increase awareness and ensure your employees are always aware of and prepared to deal with the latest cyber security threats.

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity is paramount to protect sensitive business information from falling into the wrong hands. As a business owner, you understand the value of securing your data and safeguarding your reputation. That's where dark web monitoring comes into play. What is Dark Web Monitoring? The dark web is a hidden part of the internet where illegal activities often take place, including the buying and selling of stolen data. Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web to identify any instances of your business's compromised information being traded or sold. By monitoring these underground networks, you gain valuable insights and can take immediate action to mitigate potential risks. Key Features and Benefits Real-time Alerts: Dark web monitoring provides real-time alerts, notifying you the moment your business's data appears on the dark web. This allows you to respond swiftly and take the necessary steps to protect your sensitive information. Comprehensive Coverage: Dark web monitoring casts a wide net across various dark web platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage. It searches for mentions of your business, compromised credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data that may have been exposed. Access to an Expert Support Team: With dark web monitoring, you're not alone in the fight against cyber threats. You have access to an expert support team that can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide recommendations to strengthen your cybersecurity posture. Addressing Misconceptions Misconception 1: Dark web monitoring is only necessary for large businesses. Cybercriminals do not discriminate based on business size. Any organization, regardless of its scale, can become a target. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable as they often lack the robust security infrastructure that larger enterprises may have. Dark web monitoring is essential for all businesses, regardless of their size, to proactively protect their data. Misconception 2: Dark web monitoring is too technical to understand. While dark web monitoring may involve technical processes, the service providers are equipped to simplify the complexities for you. They will guide you through the setup, explain the monitoring process, and provide actionable insights in a user-friendly manner. You don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to benefit from dark web monitoring. Misconception 3: Dark web monitoring is expensive. The cost of dark web monitoring is a fraction of the potential financial and reputational damage that a data breach can cause. It's an investment in the security and longevity of your business. Additionally, many service providers offer flexible pricing options to suit different business needs, making it an affordable solution for businesses of all sizes. Conclusion As a business owner, the protection of your data is essential for the continuity and success of your organization. Dark web monitoring offers a proactive approach to cybersecurity, enabling you to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly. By leveraging real-time alerts, comprehensive coverage, and the support of experts, you can safeguard your sensitive information, maintain customer trust, and protect your business from reputational damage. Don't wait until it's too late. Invest in dark web monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and gain the peace of mind you deserve. Your business's security is worth it.
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