IT Security Tips for Safe Video Conferencing

Monica Morris • Apr 09, 2020

Video conferencing has always been a common tool to use to communicate with employees whether they are at the office or working remotely. With the current surge of employees transitioning to working from home due to the health concerns of COVID-19, the usage of video conferencing has significantly jumped up. The ability to chat through an online meeting app provides a useful solution for team members to continue to have their face to face meetings. However, with the switch to video conferencing, employees should also know how to stay secure. Hackers and cyber criminals are always looking for new ways to attack and with video conferencing on the rise this is another angle for a cyberattacker to use as another way to travel into a network. IT security should always be practiced by team members in order to maintain a secure IT environment. Here are some helpful IT security tips for employees to practice in order to stay safe when video conferencing.

Check Your Video Invite

Make sure the link you received for your video conferencing meeting is coming from a credible source. Only click on meeting links from someone you know. If you don’t know the person who sent you the link, don’t click it! It could be a phishing scam. Do some extra research and check first to make sure the person who sent you the link to the online meeting is the person hosting the meeting or that they are attending the meeting.

Screen Sharing Options

Keep screen sharing options just for the host to control. This is especially important if you are using zoom. This way you are protected in case anyone should try enter the meeting uninvited and take over screen sharing controls.

Password Protect Your Online Meetings

Always make sure to password protect and send out a password to whom you are inviting to an online meeting. It is important to create a strong password for your video conference meeting so it stays safe and secure. Especially if you will be discussing sensitive information about your company during this meeting.

Keep A Watchful Eye

As a host of a virtual meeting, one should keep a watchful eye on who is attending. Have your roster for the meeting written out ahead of time so you can compare during the meeting who has joined. Therefore, you can detect if any anonymous or unrecognizable guests have entered the meeting. Anyone who enters an online meeting who you do not recognized should be required to confirm to you who they are before you continue on with your meeting.

Stay Up-To-Date

Keep your online video conferencing apps always up-to-date and make sure to be using the latest software.

Sharing Meeting Information

When sharing an invite for a meeting, whether it is a link for where to meet, the password for the online meeting or a summary about the meeting once it has concluded –  share this information in a safe place such as in an email. Or thru your Google or Outlook calendar as long as they are on a secure network. Do not share openly such as in a social media setting. Sometimes it is more convenient to share information quickly in a setting that is readily available to us, however, it may not be secure. Choose an option that will offer the most security when it comes to sharing info about your virtual meeting.

Secure Network

Always be sure to run your online meeting using a secure Wi-Fi network or a VPN.

Employee Training

Work together with your managed IT services provider to learn more about what type of employee training you can offer your team so they are educated on how to keep safe during a video conferencing meeting. Offering employee training to your employees is a great way to help maintain a secure environment. Give your employees the tools they need so they can learn more about how to be safe and make good IT security choices.

Google and Microsoft

Lastly, for all Google G Suite and Microsoft 365 clients – these platforms offer highly secure online meeting platforms with a series of tools that can come in handy for video conferencing. Check with your local IT services provider to learn more about how these programs can help your team.

For more information on how to stay safe and set up a secure network for video conferencing, please give us a call today.

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Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats in Fort Wayne: A Guide for Local Businesses

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.

The Benefits of Cybersecurity Dark Web Monitoring for Business Owners

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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