Cyber Security Tips For The New Year

Monica Morris • Jan 04, 2019

The beginning of a New Year is a great time to start fresh and even reflect a little bit. It’s nice to take a moment to restart and set new goals along with keeping your ongoing business goals running. When it comes to protecting sensitive business data for your company, this is an ongoing business goal you will want to take seriously. You’ll want to continue to make sure your online network remains secure in 2019. Each year hackers find new ways to steal data. Don’t let your company be a victim of a cyber security attack. Especially since 2019 has just begun.

Here are some helpful tips to follow to make sure your online information remains safe and you don’t run into any security vulnerabilities.

Think Before You Click

This is something we can’t express enough to be cautious about. Be careful about what link you click. Hackers have found ways to create links that are not trusted or secure. If you click on a link such as one that is created by a hacker you are at great risk for your personal info to be stolen, a password being hacked, malware attack or even financial loss. Steer clear of links that ask for personal information that look like they are from a sketchy or untrusted source. Only click links from a trusted source such as a well-known website.

Password Maintenance

We highly suggest to continue creating passwords that are unique and meet the requirements of a strong password. Many times you might be in a rush to create a new password. It’s okay to take an extra moment to create a password that meets the standards of a strong password. You can even add an extra layer of security and enable Two-Factor Authentication. By adding Two-Factor to your password set-up this adds not only adds extra protection to your computer network, but it is also another security measure to take in order to keep hackers out. Plus, 2 factor also helps to keep hackers away from your business data too.

Take Inventory

The New Year is a nice time to take inventory of your devices. Take a moment and check to see what devices are connected to who, what and where. You may find that you need to update a device, reassign it to someone else, or maybe a device simply needs to be upgraded. It’s good to review these devices yearly to make sure everything it is working properly and is being accessed by the right people.

Don’t Skip Any Updates

As we just mentioned, taking inventory of your devices is good to do to make sure everyone is using the right device. Next – make sure your devices such as laptops, tablets, desktop computers, etc. are all up-to-date. A device that is not up-to-date is vulnerable to an attack. To keep your devices secure and your valuable information safe, make sure to stay on top of your software updates. Also, some software may be due for patches. Patches will help ensure your software continues to run smoothly and that there are no hiccups along the way while you continue your business efforts in the New Year.

Keep Top Priorities A Priority

For cyber security to work, you need to stay on track. Keep your priorities regular and keep your systems in place in order for your network to stay safe. Don’t let any of your priorities fall through the cracks as that can happen from time to time and can cause a network to become unsafe. Sometimes we get so used to how things are that we tend to not keep it a priority anymore. With cyber security, everything is a priority and needs to be treated as such.

If you are looking to make an update to your cyber security plan, before making any changes, contact your Managed Service Provider. An IT support company can guide you in the right direction for the New Year and help implement stronger and more secure safety measures for your organization. An MSP can also help lessen the threat of your business becoming a victim of a cyber security attack.

With that said, we hope these tips are useful. We’d also like to wish everyone a very Happy New Year!

 

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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