Category Cybersecurity

Most small businesses aren’t falling short because they don’t care. They’re falling short because they didn’t build their security strategy as one coordinated system. They added tools over time to solve immediate problems, a new threat here, a client request there.

On paper, that can look like strong coverage. In reality, it often creates a patchwork of products that don’t fully work together. Some areas overlap. Others get overlooked.

And when security isn’t intentionally designed as a system, the weaknesses don’t show up during routine support tickets. They show up when something slips through and turns into a disruptive, expensive problem.

Why “Layers” Matter More in 2026

In 2026, your small business security can’t rely on a single control that’s “mostly on”. It must be layered because attackers don’t politely line up at your firewall anymore. They come in through whichever gap is easiest today.

The real story is how quickly the landscape is changing.

The World Economic Forum’s Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 says “AI is anticipated to be the most significant driver of change in cyber security… according to 94% of survey respondents.”

That’s more than a headline. It means phishing becomes more convincing, automation becomes more affordable, and “spray and pray” attacks become more targeted and effective. If your security model depends on one or two layers catching everything, you’re essentially betting against scale.

The NordLayer MSP trends report highlights that active enforcement of foundational security measures is becoming the standard. It also points to a future where you are expected to actively enforce foundational security measures, not just check a compliance box.

It also highlights that regular cyber risk assessments will become essential for identifying gaps before attackers do. In other words, the market is shifting toward consistent security baselines and proactive oversight, rather than best-effort protection.

And the easiest way to keep layers practical and not chaotic, is to think in outcomes, not tools.

A Simple Way to Think About Your Security Coverage

The easiest way to spot gaps in your security is to stop thinking in products and start thinking in outcomes.

A practical way to structure this is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, which groups security into six core areas: Govern, Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.

Here’s a simple translation for your business:

• Govern: Who owns security decisions? What’s considered standard? What qualifies as an exception?
• Identify: Do you know what you’re protecting?
• Protect: What controls are in place to reduce the likelihood of compromise?
• Detect: How quickly can you recognize that something is wrong?
• Respond: What happens next? Who is responsible, how fast do they act, and how is communication handled?
• Recover: How do you restore operations, and demonstrate that systems are fully back to normal?

Most small business security stacks are strong in Protect. Many are okay in Identify. The missing layers usually live in Govern, Detect, Respond, and Recover.

The 5 Security Layers MSPs Commonly Miss

Strengthen these five areas, and your business’s security becomes more consistent, more defensible, and far less reliant on luck.

Phishing-Resistant Authentication

Basic multifactor authentication (MFA) is a good start, but it’s not the finish line.

The common gap is inconsistent enforcement and authentication methods that can still be tricked by modern phishing.

How to add it:

• Make strong authentication mandatory for every account that touches sensitive systems
• Remove “easy bypass” sign-in options and outdated methods
• Use risk-based step-up rules for unusual sign-ins

Device Trust & Usage Policies

Most IT systems manage endpoints. Far fewer have a clearly defined and consistently enforced standard for what qualifies as a “trusted” device, or a defined response when a device falls short.

How to add it:

• Set a minimum device baseline
• Put Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) boundaries in writing
• Block or limit access when devices fall out of compliance instead of relying on reminders

Email & User Risk Controls

Email remains the front door for most cyberattacks. If you’re relying on user training alone to stop phishing and credential theft, you’re betting on perfect attention.

The real gap is the absence of built-in safety rails, controls that flag risky senders, block lookalike domains, limit account takeover impact, and reduce the damage from common mistakes.

How to add it:

• Implement controls that reduce exposure, such as link and attachment filtering, impersonation protection, and clear labeling of external senders
• Make reporting easy and judgement-free
• Establish simple, consistent process rules for high-risk actions

Continuous Vulnerability & Patch Coverage

“Patching is managed” often really means “patching is attempted.” The real gap is proof, clear visibility into what’s missing, what failed, and which exceptions are quietly accumulating over time.

How to add it:

• Set patch SLAs by severity and stick to them
• Cover third-party apps and common drivers/firmware, not just the operating system
• Maintain an exceptions register so exceptions don’t become permanent

Detection & Response Readiness

Most environments generate alerts. What’s often missing is a consistent, repeatable process for turning those alerts into action.

How to add it:

• Define your minimum viable monitoring baseline
• Establish triage rules that clearly separate “urgent now” from “track and review”
• Create simple, practical runbooks for common scenarios
• Test recovery procedures in real-world conditions
  

The Security Baseline for 2026

When you strengthen these five layers—phishing-resistant authentication, device trust, email risk controls, verified patch coverage, and real detection and response readiness—you turn your business’s security into a repeatable, measurable baseline you can be confident in.

Start with the weakest layer in your business environment. Standardize it. Validate that it’s working. Then move to the next. If you’d like help identifying your gaps and building a more consistent security baseline for your business, contact us today for a security strategy consultation. We’ll help you assess your current stack, prioritize improvements, and create a practical roadmap that strengthens protection without adding unnecessary complexity.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Think about your office building. You probably have a locked front door, security staff, and maybe even biometric checks. But once someone is inside, can they wander into the supply closet, the file room, or the CFO’s office? In a traditional network, digital access works the same way, a single login often grants broad access to everything. The Zero Trust security model challenges this approach, treating trust itself as a vulnerability.

For years, Zero Trust seemed too complex or expensive for smaller teams. But the landscape has changed. With cloud tools and remote work, the old network perimeter no longer exists. Your data is everywhere, and attackers know it.

Today, Zero Trust is a practical, scalable defense, essential for any organization, not just large corporations. It’s about verifying every access attempt, no matter where it comes from. It’s less about building taller walls and more about placing checkpoints at every door inside your digital building.

Why the Traditional Trust-Based Security Model No Longer Works

The old security model assumed that anyone inside the network was automatically safe and that’s a risky assumption. It doesn’t account for stolen credentials, malicious insiders, or malware that has already bypassed the perimeter. Once inside, attackers can move laterally with little resistance.

Zero Trust flips this idea on its head. Every access request is treated as if it comes from an untrusted source. This approach directly addresses today’s most common attack patterns, such as phishing, which accounts for up to 90% of successful cyberattacks. Zero Trust shifts the focus from protecting a location to protecting individual resources.

The Pillars of Zero Trust: Least Privilege and Micro-segmentation

While Zero Trust frameworks can vary in detail, two key principles stand out, especially for network security.

The first is least privilege access. Users and devices should receive only the minimum access needed to do their jobs, and only for the time they need it. Your marketing intern doesn’t need access to the financial server, and your accounting software shouldn’t communicate with the design team’s workstations.

The second is micro-segmentation, which creates secure, isolated compartments within your network. If a breach occurs in one segment, like your guest Wi-Fi, it can’t spread to critical systems such as your primary data servers or point-of-sale systems. Micro-segmentation helps contain damage, limiting a breach to a single area.

Practical First Steps for a Small Business

You do not need to overhaul everything overnight. You can use the following simple steps as a start:

• Secure your most critical data and systems: Where does your customer data live? Your financial records? Your intellectual property? Begin applying Zero Trust principles there first.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on every account: This is the single most effective step toward “never trust, always verify.” MFA ensures that a stolen password is not enough to gain access. 
• Segment networks: Move your most critical systems onto a separate, tightly controlled Wi-Fi network separate from other networks, such as a Guest Wi-Fi network.

The Tools That Make It Manageable

Modern cloud services are designed around Zero Trust principles, making them a powerful ally in your security journey. Start by configuring the following settings:

• Identity and access management: On platforms like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, set up conditional access policies that verify factors such as the user’s location, the time of access, and device health before allowing entry.
• Consider a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution: These cloud-based services combine network security, such as firewalls, with wide-area networking to provide enterprise-grade protection directly to users or devices, no matter where they are located.

Transform Your Security Posture

Adopting Zero Trust isn’t just a technical change, it’s a cultural one. It shifts the mindset from broad trust to continuous monitoring and validation. Your teams may initially find the extra steps frustrating, but explaining clearly why these measures protect both their work and the company will help them embrace the approach.

Be sure to document your access policies by assessing who needs access to what to do their job. Review permissions quarterly and update them whenever roles change. The goal is to foster a culture of ongoing governance that keeps Zero Trust effective and sustainable.

Your Actionable Path Forward

Start with an audit to map where your critical data flows and who has access to it. While doing so, enforce MFA across the board, segment your network beginning with the highest-value assets, and take full advantage of the security features included in your cloud subscriptions.

Remember, achieving Zero Trust is a continuous journey, not a one-time project. Make it part of your overall strategy so it can grow with your business and provide a flexible defense in a world where traditional network perimeters are disappearing.

The goal isn’t to create rigid barriers, but smart, adaptive ones that protect your business without slowing it down. Contact us today to schedule a Zero Trust readiness assessment for your business.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

You invested in a great firewall, trained your team on phishing, and now you feel secure. But what about your accounting firm’s security? Your cloud hosting provider? The SaaS tool your marketing team loves? Each vendor is a digital door into your business. If they leave it unlocked, you are also vulnerable. This is the supply chain cybersecurity trap.

Sophisticated hackers know it is easier to breach a small, less-secure vendor than a fortified big corporate target. They know that they can use that vendor’s trusted access as a springboard into your network. Major breaches, like the infamous SolarWinds attack, proved that supply chain vulnerabilities can have catastrophic ripple effects. Your defenses are irrelevant if the attack comes through a partner you trust.

This third-party cyber risk is a major blind spot, and while you may have vetted a company’s service, have you vetted their security practices? Their employee training? Their incident response plan? Assuming safety is a dangerous gamble.

The Ripple Effect of a Vendor Breach

When a vendor is compromised, your data is often the prize. Attackers can steal customer information, intellectual property, or financial details stored with or accessible to that vendor. They can also use the vendor’s systems to launch further attacks, making it appear as if the malicious traffic is coming from a legitimate source.

The consequences of a successful breach are catastrophic to various aspects of your operation. For instance, beyond immediate data loss, you could face regulatory fines for failing to protect data, devastating reputational harm, and immense recovery costs. According to a report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), federal agencies have been urged to rigorously assess software supply chain risks, a lesson that applies directly to all businesses.

The operational costs after a vendor breach are another often-overlooked expense. Suddenly, your IT team is pulled out of their regular tasks to respond, not to fix your own systems, but to investigate a threat that entered through a third party. They may spend days or even weeks conducting forensic analyses, updating credentials and access controls, and communicating with concerned clients and partners.

This diversion stalls strategic initiatives, slows daily operations, and can lead to burnout among your most critical staff. The true cost isn’t just the initial fraud or fines; it’s the disruption that hampers your business while you manage someone else’s security failure.

Conduct a Meaningful Vendor Security Assessment

A vendor security assessment is your due diligence since it moves the relationship from “trust me” to “show me.” This process should begin before you sign a contract and continue throughout the partnership. Asking the right questions, and carefully reviewing the answers, reveals the vendor’s true security posture.

• What security certifications do they hold (like SOC 2 or ISO 27001)? 
• How do they handle and encrypt your data? 
• What is their breach notification policy? 
• Do they perform regular penetration testing?
• How do they manage access for their own employees? 

Build Cybersecurity Supply Chain Resilience

Resilience means accepting that incidents will happen and having plans in place to withstand them. Don’t rely on a one-time vendor assessment, implement continuous monitoring. Services can alert you if a vendor appears in a new data breach or if their security rating drops.

Contracts are another critical tool. They should include clear cybersecurity requirements, right-to-audit clauses, and defined protocols for breach notifications. For example, you can require vendors to inform you within 24 to 72 hours of discovering a breach. These legal safeguards turn expectations into enforceable obligations, ensuring there are consequences for non-compliance.

Practical Steps to Lock Down Your Vendor Ecosystem

The following steps are recommended for vetting both your existing vendors and new vendors.

• Inventory vendors and assign risk: For each vendor with access to your data and systems, categorize them by assigning risk levels. For example, a vendor that can access your network admin panel is assigned “critical” risk, while one that only receives your monthly newsletter is considered “low” risk. High-risk partners require thorough vetting.
• Initiate conversations: Send the security questionnaire right away and review the vendor’s terms and cybersecurity policies. This process can highlight serious vulnerabilities and push vendors to improve their security measures.
• Diversify to spread risk: For critical functions, consider having backup vendors or spreading tasks across several vendors to avoid a single point of failure.

From Weakest Link to a Fortified Network

Managing vendor risk is not about creating adversarial relationships, but more about building a community of security. By raising your standards, you encourage your partners to elevate theirs. This collaborative vigilance creates a stronger ecosystem for everyone.

Proactive vendor risk management transforms your supply chain from a trap into a strategic advantage and demonstrates to your clients and regulators that you take security seriously at every level. In today’s connected world, your perimeter extends far beyond your office walls.

Contact us today, and we will help you develop a vendor risk management program and assess your highest-priority partners.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

For years, enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) has been a cornerstone of account and device security. While MFA remains essential, the threat landscape has evolved, making some older methods less effective.

The most common form of MFA, four- or six-digit codes sent via SMS, is convenient and familiar, and it’s certainly better than relying on passwords alone. However, SMS is an outdated technology, and cybercriminals have developed reliable ways to bypass it. For organizations handling sensitive data, SMS-based MFA is no longer sufficient. It’s time to adopt the next generation of phishing-resistant MFA to stay ahead of today’s attackers.

SMS was never intended to serve as a secure authentication channel. Its reliance on cellular networks exposes it to security flaws, particularly in telecommunication protocols such as Signaling System No. 7 (SS7), used for communication between networks.

Attackers know that many businesses still use SMS for MFA, which makes them appealing targets. For instance, hackers can exploit SS7 vulnerabilities to intercept text messages without touching your phone. Techniques such as eavesdropping, message redirection, and message injection can be carried out within the carrier network or during over-the-air transmission.

SMS codes are also vulnerable to phishing. If a user enters their username, password, and SMS code on a fake login page, attackers can capture all three in real time and immediately gain access the legitimate account.

Understanding SIM Swapping Attacks

One of the most dangerous threats to SMS-based security is the SIM swap. In SIM swapping attacks, a criminal contacts your mobile carrier pretending to be you and claims to have lost their phone. They then request the support staff to port your number to a new blank SIM card in their possession.

If they succeed, your phone goes offline, allowing them to receive all calls and SMS messages, including MFA codes for banking and email. Without knowing your password, they can quickly reset credentials and gain full access to your accounts.

This attack doesn’t depend on advanced hacking skills; instead, it exploits social engineering tactics against mobile carrier support staff, making it a low-tech method with high‑impact consequences.

Why Phishing-Resistant MFA Is the New Gold Standard

To prevent these attacks, it’s essential to remove the human element from authentication by using phishing-resistant MFA. This approach relies on secure cryptographic protocols that tie login attempts to specific domains.

One of the more prominent standards used for such authentication is Fast Identity Online 2 (FIDO2) open standard, that uses passkeys created using public key cryptography linking a specific device to a domain. Even if a user is tricked into clicking a phishing link, their authenticator application will not release the credentials because the domain does not match the specific record. 

The technology is also passwordless, which removes the threat of phishing attacks that capture credentials and one-time passwords (OTPs). Hackers are forced to target the endpoint device itself, which is far more difficult than deceiving users.

Implementing Hardware Security Keys

Perhaps one of the strongest phishing-resistant authentication solutions involves hardware security keys. Hardware security keys are physical devices resembling a USB drive, which can be plugged into a computer or tapped against a mobile device.

To log in, you simply insert the key into the computer or touch a button, and the key performs a cryptographic handshake with the service. This method is quite secure since there are no codes to type, and attackers can’t steal your key over the internet. Unless they physically steal the key from you, they cannot access your account.

Mobile Authentication Apps and Push Notifications

If physical keys are not feasible for your business, mobile authenticator apps such as Microsoft or Google Authenticator are a step up from SMS MFA. These apps generate codes locally on the device, eliminating the risk of SIM swapping or SMS interception since the codes are not sent over a cellular network.

Simple push notifications also carry risks. For example, attackers may flood a user’s phone with repeated login approval requests, causing “MFA fatigue,” where a frustrated or confused user taps “approve” just to stop the notifications. Modern authenticator apps address this with “number matching,” requiring the user to enter a number shown on their login screen into the app. This ensures the person approving the login is physically present at their computer.

Passkeys: The Future of Authentication

With passwords being routinely compromised, modern systems are embracing passkeys, which are digital credentials stored on a device and protected by biometrics such as fingerprint or Face ID. Passkeys are phishing-resistant and can be synchronized across your ecosystem, such as iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager. They offer the security of a hardware key with the convenience of a device that you already carry. 

Passkeys reduce the workload for IT support, as there are no passwords to store, reset, or manage. They simplify the user experience while strengthening security.

Balancing Security With User Experience

Moving away from SMS-based MFA requires a cultural shift. Since users are already used to the universality and convenience of text messages, the introduction of physical keys and authenticator apps can trigger resistance. 

It’s important to explain the reasoning behind the change, highlighting the realities of SIM-swapping attacks and the value of the protected information. When users understand the risks, they are more likely to embrace the new measures.

While a phased rollout can help ease the transition for the general user base, phishing-resistant MFA should be mandatory for privileged accounts. Administrators and executives must not rely on SMS-based MFA.

The Costs of Inaction

Sticking with legacy MFA techniques is a ticking time bomb that gives a false sense of security. While it may satisfy compliance requirements, it leaves systems vulnerable to attacks and breaches, which can be both costly and embarrassing. 

Upgrading your authentication methods offers one of the highest returns on investment in cybersecurity. The cost of hardware keys or management software is minimal compared to the expense of incident response and data recovery.

Is your business ready to move beyond passwords and text codes? We specialize in deploying modern identity solutions that keep your data safe without frustrating your team. Reach out, and we’ll help you implement a secure and user-friendly authentication strategy.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

The modern office extends far beyond traditional cubicles or open-plan spaces. Since the concept of remote work became popularized in the COVID and post-COVID era, employees now find themselves working from their homes, libraries, bustling coffee shops, and even vacation destinations. These environments, often called “third places,” offer flexibility and convenience but can also introduce risks to company IT systems.

With remote work now a permanent reality, businesses must adapt their security policies accordingly. A coffee shop cannot be treated like a secure office, as its open environment exposes different types of threats. Employees need clear guidance on how to stay safe and protect company data.

Neglecting security on public Wi-Fi can have serious consequences, as hackers often target these locations to exploit remote workers. Equip your team with the right knowledge and tools, and enforce a robust external network security policy to keep company data safe.

The Dangers of Open Networks

Free internet access is a major draw for remote workers frequenting cafes, malls, libraries, and coworking spaces. However, these networks rarely have encryption or strong security, and even when they do, they lack the specific controls that would be present in a secure company network. This makes it easy for cybercriminals to intercept network traffic and steal passwords or sensitive emails in a matter of seconds.

Attackers often set up fake networks that look legitimate. They might give them names such as “Free Wi-Fi” or give them a name resembling a nearby business, such as a coffee shop or café, to trick users. Once connected, the hacker who controls the network sees everything the employee sends. This is a classic “man-in-the-middle” attack.

It is critical to advise employees never to rely on open connections. Networks that require a password may still be widely shared, posing significant risks to business data. Exercise caution at all times when accessing public networks.

Mandating Virtual Private Networks

The most effective tool for remote security is a VPN. A Virtual Private Network encrypts all data leaving the laptop by creating a secure tunnel through the unsecured public internet. This makes the data unreadable to anyone trying to snoop.

Providing a VPN is essential for remote work, and employees should be required to use it whenever they are outside the office. Ensure the software is easy to launch and operate, as overly complex tools may be ignored. Whenever possible, configure the VPN to connect automatically on employee devices, eliminating human error and ensuring continuous protection.

At the same time, enforce mandatory VPN usage by implementing technical controls that prevent employees from bypassing the connection when accessing company servers.

The Risk of Visual Hacking

Digital threats are not the only concern in public spaces since someone sitting at the next table can easily glance at a screen. Visual hacking involves stealing information just by looking over a shoulder, which makes it low-tech but highly effective and hard to trace.

Employees often forget how visible their screens are to passersby, and in a crowded room full of prying eyes, sensitive client data, financial spreadsheets, and product designs are at risk of being viewed and even covertly photographed by malicious actors. 

To address this physical security gap, issue privacy screens to all employees who work remotely. Privacy screens are filters that make laptop and monitor screens appear black from the side, and only the person sitting directly in front can see the content. Some devices come with built-in hardware privacy screens that obscure content so that it cannot be viewed from an angle. 

Physical Security of Devices

Leaving a laptop unattended is a recipe for theft. In a secure office, you might walk away to get water or even leave the office and expect to find your device in the same place, untouched. In a coffee shop, that same action can cost you a device, since thieves are always scanning for distracted victims and are quick to act.

Your remote work policy should stress the importance of physical device security. Employees must keep their laptops with them at all times and never entrust them to strangers. A laptop can be stolen and its data accessed in just seconds.

Encourage employees to use cable locks, particularly if they plan to remain in one location for an extended period. While not foolproof, locks serve as a deterrent, especially in coworking spaces where some level of security is expected. The goal is to make theft more difficult, and staying aware of the surroundings helps employees assess potential risks.

Handling Phone Calls and Conversations

Coffee shops can be noisy, but conversations still travel through the air. Discussing confidential business matters in public is risky, as you never know who might be listening. Competitors or malicious actors could easily overhear sensitive information.

Employees should avoid discussing sensitive matters in these “third places.” If a call is necessary, they should step outside or move to a private space, such as a car. While headphones prevent others from hearing the other side, the employee’s own voice can still be overheard.

Creating a Clear Remote Work Policy

Employees shouldn’t have to guess the rules. A written policy clarifies expectations, sets standards, and supports training and enforcement.

Include dedicated sections on public Wi-Fi and physical security, and explain the reasoning behind each rule so employees understand their importance. Make sure the policy is easily accessible on the company intranet.

Most importantly, review this policy annually as technology changes. As new threats emerge, your guidelines must also evolve to counter them. Make routine updates to the policy, and reissue the revised versions to keep the conversation about security alive and ongoing.

Empower Your Remote Teams

While working from a “third place” offers flexibility and a morale boost, it also requires a higher level of vigilance. This makes prioritizing public Wi-Fi security and physical awareness non-negotiable, and you must equip your team to work safely from anywhere.

With the right tools and policies, you can manage the risks while enjoying the benefits of remote work. Success comes from balancing freedom with responsibility, and well-informed employees serve as your strongest line of defense. Protect your data, no matter where your team works.

Is your team working remotely without a safety net? We help businesses implement secure remote access solutions and policies, ensuring your data stays private, even on public networks. Call us today to fortify your remote workforce.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

For small businesses navigating an increasingly digital world, cyber threats aren’t just an abstract worry, they’re a daily reality. Whether it’s phishing scams, ransomware attacks, or accidental data leaks, the financial and reputational damage can be severe. That’s why more companies are turning to cyber insurance to mitigate the risks.

Not all cyber insurance policies are created equal. Many business owners believe they’re covered, only to find out (too late) that their policy has major gaps. In this blog post, we will break down exactly what’s usually covered, what’s not, and how to choose the right cyber insurance policy for your business.

Why Is Cyber Insurance More Crucial Than Ever?

You don’t need to be a large corporation to become a target for hackers. In fact, small businesses are increasingly vulnerable. According to the 2023 IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report, 43% of all cyberattacks now target small to mid-sized businesses. The financial fallout from a breach can be staggering, with the average cost for smaller businesses reaching $2.98 million. That can be a substantial blow for any growing company. 

Moreover, today’s customers expect businesses to protect their personal data, while regulators are cracking down on data privacy violations. A good cyber insurance policy helps cover the cost of a breach but also ensures compliance with regulations like GDPR, CCPA, or HIPAA, which makes it a critical safety net.

What Cyber Insurance Typically Covers

A comprehensive cyber insurance policy is crucial in protecting your business from the financial fallout of a cyber incident. It offers two main types of coverage: first-party coverage and third-party liability coverage. Both provide different forms of protection based on your business’s unique needs and the type of incident you’re facing. Below, we break down each type and the specific coverages they typically include.

First-Party Coverage

First-party coverage is designed to protect your business directly when you experience a cyberattack or breach. This type of coverage helps your business recover financially from the immediate costs associated with the attack.

Breach Response Costs

One of the first areas that first-party coverage addresses is the cost of managing a breach. After a cyberattack, you’ll likely need to:

• Investigate how the breach happened and what was affected
• Get legal advice to stay compliant with laws and reporting rules
• Inform any customers whose data was exposed
• Offer credit monitoring if personal details were stolen

Business Interruption

Cyberattacks that cause network downtime or disrupt business operations can result in significant revenue loss. Business interruption coverage helps mitigate the financial impact by compensating for lost income during downtime. It allows you to focus on recovery without worrying about day-to-day cash flow.

Cyber Extortion and Ransomware

Ransomware attacks are on the rise, and they can paralyze your business by locking up essential data. Cyber extortion coverage is designed to help businesses navigate these situations by covering:

• The cost of paying a ransom to cyber attackers.
• Hiring of professionals to negotiate with hackers to lower the ransom and recover data.
• The costs to restore access to files that were encrypted in the attack.

Data Restoration

A major cyber incident can result in the loss or damage of critical business data. Data restoration coverage ensures that your business can recover data, whether through backup systems or through a data recovery service. This helps minimize disruption and keeps your business running smoothly.

Reputation Management

In the aftermath of a cyberattack, it’s crucial to rebuild the trust of customers, partners, and investors. Many policies now include reputation management as part of their coverage. This often includes:

• Hiring Public Relations (PR firms) to manage crisis communication, create statements, and mitigate any potential damage to your business’s reputation.
• Guidance on how to communicate with affected customers and stakeholders to maintain transparency.

Third-Party Liability Coverage

Third-party liability coverage helps protect your business from claims made by external parties (such as customers, vendors, or partners) who are affected by your cyber incident. When a breach or attack impacts those outside your company, this coverage steps in to defend you financially and legally.

Privacy Liability

This coverage protects your business if sensitive customer data is lost, stolen, or exposed in a breach. It typically includes:

• Coverage for legal costs if you’re sued for mishandling personal data.
• It may also cover costs if a third party suffers losses due to your data breach.

Regulatory Defense

Cyber incidents often come under the scrutiny of regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or other industry-specific regulators. If your business is investigated or fined for violating data protection laws, regulatory defense coverage can help with:

• Coverage may help pay for fines or penalties imposed by a regulator for non-compliance.
• Mitigating the costs of defending your business against regulatory actions, which can be considerable.

Media Liability

If your business is involved in a cyberattack that results in online defamation, copyright infringement, or the exposure of sensitive content (such as trade secrets), media liability coverage helps protect you. It covers:

• Defamation Claims – If a data breach leads to defamatory statements or online reputational damage, this policy helps cover the legal costs of defending the claims.
• Infringement Cases – If a cyberattack leads to intellectual property violations, media liability coverage provides the financial resources to address infringement claims.

Defense and Settlement Costs

If your company is sued following a data breach or cyberattack, third-party liability coverage can help cover legal defense costs. This can include:

• Paying for attorney fees in a data breach lawsuit.
• Covering settlement or judgment costs if your company is found liable.

Optional Riders and Custom Coverage

Cyber insurance policies often allow businesses to add extra coverage based on their specific needs or threats. These optional riders can offer more tailored protection for unique risks your business might face.

Social Engineering Fraud

One of the most common types of cyber fraud today is social engineering fraud, which involves phishing attacks or other deceptive tactics designed to trick employees into revealing sensitive information, transferring funds, or giving access to internal systems. Social engineering fraud coverage helps protect against:

• Financial losses if an employee is tricked by a phishing scam.
• Financial losses through fraudulent transfers by attackers.

Hardware “Bricking”

Some cyberattacks cause physical damage to business devices, rendering them useless, a scenario known as “bricking.” This rider covers the costs associated with replacing or repairing devices that have been permanently damaged by a cyberattack.

Technology Errors and Omissions (E&O)

This type of coverage is especially important for technology service providers, such as IT firms or software developers. Technology E&O protects businesses against claims resulting from errors or failures in the technology they provide.

What Cyber Insurance Often Doesn’t Cover

Understanding what’s excluded from a cyber insurance policy is just as important as knowing what’s included. Here are common gaps that small business owners often miss, leaving them exposed to certain risks.

Negligence and Poor Cyber Hygiene

Many insurance policies have strict clauses regarding the state of your business’s cybersecurity. If your company fails to implement basic cybersecurity practices, such as using firewalls, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), or keeping software up-to-date, your claim could be denied.

Pro Tip: Insurers increasingly require proof of good cyber hygiene before issuing a policy. Be prepared to show that you’ve conducted employee training, vulnerability testing, and other proactive security measures.

Known or Ongoing Incidents

Cyber insurance doesn’t cover cyber incidents that were already in progress before your policy was activated. For example, if a data breach or attack began before your coverage started, the insurer won’t pay for damages related to those events. Likewise, if you knew about a vulnerability but failed to fix it, your insurer could deny the claim.

Pro Tip: Always ensure your systems are secure before purchasing insurance, and immediately address any known vulnerabilities.

Acts of War or State-Sponsored Attacks

In the wake of high-profile cyberattacks like the NotPetya ransomware incident, many insurers now include a “war exclusion” clause. This means that if a cyberattack is attributed to a nation-state or government-backed actors, your policy might not cover the damage. Such attacks are often considered acts of war, outside the scope of commercial cyber insurance.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about such clauses and be sure to check your policy’s terms. 

Insider Threats

Cyber insurance typically doesn’t cover malicious actions taken by your own employees or contractors unless your policy specifically includes “insider threat” protection. This can be a significant blind spot, as internal actors often cause severe damage.

Pro Tip: If you’re concerned about potential insider threats, discuss specific coverage options with your broker to ensure your policy includes protections against intentional damage from insiders.

Reputational Harm or Future Lost Business

While many cyber insurance policies may offer PR crisis management services, they usually don’t cover the long-term reputational damage or future business losses that can result from a cyberattack. The fallout from a breach, such as lost customers or declining sales due to trust issues, often falls outside the realm of coverage.

Pro Tip: If your business is especially concerned about brand reputation, consider investing in additional coverage or crisis management services. Reputational harm can have far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond the immediate financial losses of an attack.

How to Choose the Right Cyber Insurance Policy

As cyber threats continue to evolve, so too must your business’s protection. The right policy can be a lifesaver in the event of a breach, but not all policies are created equal. When selecting a cyber insurance policy, it’s important to understand what your business needs and to choose a policy that specifically addresses your risks. Let’s break down the steps to ensure you’re selecting the best coverage for your organization.

Assess Your Business Risk

Start by evaluating your exposure:

• What types of data do you store? Customer, financial, and health data, all require different levels of protection.
• How reliant are you on digital tools or cloud platforms? If your business is heavily dependent on technology, you may need more extensive coverage for system failures or data breaches.
• Do third-party vendors have access to your systems? Vendors can be a potential weak point. Ensure they’re covered under your policy as well.

Your answers will highlight the areas that need the most protection.

Ask the Right Questions

Before signing a policy, ask:

• Does this cover ransomware and social engineering fraud? These are growing threats that many businesses face, so it’s crucial to have specific coverage for these attacks.
• Are legal fees and regulatory penalties included? If your business faces a legal battle or must pay fines for a breach, you’ll want coverage for these costly expenses.
• What’s excluded and when? Understand the fine print to avoid surprises if you file a claim.

Get a Second Opinion

Don’t go it alone. Work with a cybersecurity expert or broker who understands both the technical and legal aspects of cyber risk. They’ll help you navigate the complexities of the policy language and identify any gaps in coverage. Having a pro on your side can ensure you’re adequately protected and help you make the best decision for your business.

Consider the Coverage Limits and Deductibles

Cyber insurance policies come with specific coverage limits and deductibles. Ensure that the coverage limit aligns with your business’s potential risks. For example, if a data breach could cost your business millions, make sure your policy limit reflects that. Similarly, check the deductible amounts, these are the costs you’ll pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Choose a deductible that your business can afford in case of an incident.

Review Policy Renewal Terms and Adjustments

Cyber risk is constantly evolving. A policy that covers you today may not cover emerging threats tomorrow. Check the terms for policy renewal and adjustments. Does your insurer offer periodic reviews to ensure your coverage stays relevant? Ensure you can adjust your coverage limits and terms as your business grows and as cyber threats evolve. It’s important that your policy evolves with your business needs.

Cyber insurance is a smart move for any small business. But only if you understand what you’re buying. Knowing the difference between what’s covered and what’s not could mean the difference between a smooth recovery and a total shutdown.

Take the time to assess your risks, read the fine print, and ask the right questions. Combine insurance coverage with strong cybersecurity practices, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever the digital world throws your way. Do you want help decoding your policy or implementing best practices like MFA and risk assessments? Get in touch with us today and take the first step toward a more secure future.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Have you ever wondered how vulnerable your business is to cyberattacks? According to recent reports, nearly 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, often exploiting weak security measures. 

One of the most overlooked yet highly effective ways to protect your company is through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). This extra layer of security makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain access, even if they have your password. 

This article explains how to implement Multi-Factor Authentication for your small business. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to take a crucial step in safeguarding your data and ensuring stronger protection against potential cyber threats.

Why is Multi-Factor Authentication Crucial for Small Businesses?

Before diving into the implementation process, let’s take a step back and understand why Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is so essential. Small businesses, despite their size, are not immune to cyberattacks. In fact, they’re increasingly becoming a target for hackers. The reality is that a single compromised password can lead to massive breaches, data theft, and severe financial consequences.

This is where MFA comes in. MFA is a security method that requires more than just a password to access an account or system. It adds additional layers, typically in the form of a time-based code, biometric scan, or even a physical security token. This makes it much harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your systems, even if they’ve obtained your password.

It’s no longer a matter of if your small business will face a cyberattack, but when. Implementing MFA can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to common online threats, like phishing and credential stuffing.

What is Multi-Factor Authentication?

Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security process that requires users to provide two or more distinct factors when logging into an account or system. This layered approach makes it more difficult for cybercriminals to successfully gain unauthorized access. Instead of relying on just one factor, such as a password, MFA requires multiple types of evidence to prove your identity. This makes it a much more secure option.

To better understand how MFA works, let’s break it down into its three core components:

Something You Know

The first factor in MFA is the most traditional and commonly used form of authentication (knowledge-based authentication). It usually involves something only the user is supposed to know, like a password or PIN. This is the first line of defense and is often considered the weakest part of security. While passwords can be strong, they’re also vulnerable to attacks such as brute force, phishing, or social engineering.

Example: Your account password or a PIN number

While it’s convenient, this factor alone is not enough to ensure security, because passwords can be easily stolen, guessed, or hacked.

Something You Have

The second factor in MFA is possession-based. This involves something physical that the user must have access to in order to authenticate. The idea is that even if someone knows your password, they wouldn’t have access to this second factor. This factor is typically something that changes over time or is something you physically carry.

Examples:

• A mobile phone that can receive SMS-based verification codes (also known as one-time passcodes).
• A security token or a smart card that generates unique codes every few seconds.
• An authentication app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, which generates time-based codes that change every 30 seconds.

These items are in your possession, which makes it far more difficult for an attacker to access them unless they physically steal the device or break into your system.

Something You Are

The third factor is biometric authentication, which relies on your physical characteristics or behaviors. Biometric factors are incredibly unique to each individual, making them extremely difficult to replicate or fake. This is known as inherence-based authentication.

Examples:

• Fingerprint recognition (common in smartphones and laptops).
• Facial recognition (used in programs like Apple’s Face ID).
• Voice recognition (often used in phone systems or virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa).
• Retina or iris scanning (used in high-security systems).

This factor ensures that the person attempting to access the system is, indeed, the person they claim to be. Even if an attacker has your password and access to your device, they would still need to replicate or fake your unique biometric traits, which is extraordinarily difficult.

How to Implement Multi-Factor Authentication in Your Business

Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is an important step toward enhancing your business’s security. While it may seem like a complex process, it’s actually more manageable than it appears, especially when broken down into clear steps. Below is a simple guide to help you get started with MFA implementation in your business:

Assess Your Current Security Infrastructure

Before you start implementing MFA, it’s crucial to understand your current security posture. Conduct a thorough review of your existing security systems and identify which accounts, applications, and systems need MFA the most. Prioritize the most sensitive areas of your business, including:

• Email accounts (where sensitive communications and passwords are often sent)
• Cloud services (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, etc.)
• Banking and financial accounts (vulnerable to fraud and theft)
• Customer databases (to protect customer data)
• Remote desktop systems (ensuring secure access for remote workers)

By starting with your most critical systems, you ensure that you address the highest risks first and establish a strong foundation for future security.

Choose the Right MFA Solution

There are many MFA solutions available, each with its own features, advantages, and pricing. Choosing the right one for your business depends on your size, needs, and budget. Here are some popular options that can cater to small businesses:

Google Authenticator

A free, easy-to-use app that generates time-based codes. It offers an effective MFA solution for most small businesses.

Duo Security

Known for its user-friendly interface, Duo offers both cloud-based and on-premises solutions with flexible MFA options.

Okta

Great for larger businesses but also supports simpler MFA features for small companies, with a variety of authentication methods like push notifications and biometric verification.

Authy

A solution that allows cloud backups and multi-device syncing. This makes it easier for employees to access MFA codes across multiple devices.

When selecting an MFA provider, consider factors like ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and scalability as your business grows. You want a solution that balances strong security with practicality for both your organization and employees.

Implement MFA Across All Critical Systems

Once you’ve chosen an MFA provider, it’s time to implement it across your business. Here are the steps to take:

Step 1: Set Up MFA for Your Core Applications

Prioritize applications that store or access sensitive information, such as email platforms, file storage (Google Drive, OneDrive), and customer relationship management (CRM) systems.

Step 2. Enable MFA for Your Team

Make MFA mandatory for all employees, ensuring it’s used across all accounts. For remote workers, make sure they are also utilizing secure access methods like VPNs with MFA for extra protection.

Step 3. Provide Training and Support

Not all employees may be familiar with MFA. Ensure you offer clear instructions and training on how to set it up and use it. Provide easy-to-access support resources for any issues or questions they may encounter, especially for those who might not be as tech-savvy.

Remember, a smooth implementation requires clear communication and proper onboarding, so everyone understands the importance of MFA and how it protects the business.

Regularly Monitor and Update Your MFA Settings

Cybersecurity is a continuous process, not a one-time task. Regularly reviewing your MFA settings is crucial to ensuring your protection remains strong. You should:

Keep MFA Methods Updated

Consider adopting stronger verification methods, such as biometric scans, or moving to more secure authentication technologies as they become available.

Re-evaluate Authentication Needs

Regularly assess which users, accounts, and systems require MFA, as business priorities and risks evolve.

Respond to Changes Quickly

If employees lose their security devices (e.g., phones or tokens), make sure they can quickly update or reset their MFA settings. Also, remind employees to update their MFA settings if they change their phone number or lose access to an authentication device.

Test Your MFA System Regularly

After implementation, it’s essential to test your MFA system regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly. Periodic testing allows you to spot any vulnerabilities, resolve potential issues, and ensure all employees are following best practices. This could include simulated phishing exercises to see if employees are successfully using MFA to prevent unauthorized access.

In addition, monitoring the user experience is important. If MFA is cumbersome or inconvenient for employees, they may look for ways to bypass it. Balancing security with usability is key, and regular testing can help maintain this balance.

Common MFA Implementation Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While MFA offers significant security benefits, the implementation process can come with its own set of challenges. Here are some of the most common hurdles small businesses face when implementing MFA, along with tips on how to overcome them:

Employee Resistance to Change

Some employees may resist MFA due to the perceived inconvenience of having to enter multiple forms of verification. To overcome this, emphasize the importance of MFA in protecting the business from cyber threats. Offering training and support to guide employees through the setup process can help alleviate concerns.

Integration with Existing Systems

Not all applications and systems are MFA-ready, which can make integration tricky. It’s important to choose an MFA solution that integrates well with your existing software stack. Many MFA providers offer pre-built integrations for popular business tools, or they provide support for custom configurations if needed.

Cost Considerations

The cost of implementing MFA, especially for small businesses with tight budgets, can be a concern. Start with free or low-cost solutions like Google Authenticator or Duo Security’s basic plan. As your business grows, you can explore more robust, scalable solutions.

Device Management

Ensuring that employees have access to the necessary devices (e.g., phones or security tokens) for MFA can be a logistical challenge. Consider using cloud-based authentication apps (like Authy) that sync across multiple devices. This makes it easier for employees to stay connected without relying on a single device.

Managing Lost or Stolen Devices

When employees lose their MFA devices or they’re stolen, it can cause access issues and security risks. To address this, establish a device management policy for quickly deactivating or resetting MFA. Consider solutions that allow users to recover or reset access remotely. Providing backup codes or alternative authentication methods can help ensure seamless access recovery without compromising security during such incidents.

Now is the Time to Implement MFA

Multi-Factor Authentication is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your business from cyber threats. By adding that extra layer of security, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and financial losses.

Start by assessing your current systems, selecting the right MFA solution, and implementing it across your critical applications. Don’t forget to educate your team and regularly update your security settings to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

If you’re ready to take your business’s security to the next level, or if you need help implementing MFA, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you secure your business and protect what matters most.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

The digital age has made our lives easier than ever, but it has also made it easier for hackers to take advantage of our online weaknesses. Hackers are getting smarter and using more creative ways to get into people’s personal and business accounts. It’s easy to think of weak passwords and phishing emails as the biggest threats, but hackers also use a lot of other, less well-known methods to get into accounts. This post will talk about seven surprising ways hackers can get into your accounts and how you can keep yourself safe.

What Are the Most Common Hacking Techniques?

Hacking methods have changed a lot over the years, taking advantage of advances in technology and tricks people are good at. Hackers still use brute force attacks and other old-fashioned methods to get around security measures, but they are becoming more sophisticated.

One very common way is social engineering, in which hackers trick people into giving up private information. Another type is credential stuffing, which is when you use stolen login information from past data breaches to get into multiple accounts. There are also attacks that are powered by AI, which lets hackers make convincing fake campaigns or even change security systems.

It is very important to understand these hacking techniques because they are the building blocks of more complex and surprising hacking techniques. We’ll talk more about these less common methods and how they can affect your digital safety in the parts that follow.

How Do Hackers Exploit Lesser-Known Vulnerabilities?

Hackers don’t always rely on obvious weaknesses; they often exploit overlooked aspects of digital security. Below are some of the unexpected ways hackers can access your accounts:

Cookie Hijacking

Cookies are small files stored on your device that save login sessions for websites. While convenient for users, they can be a goldmine for hackers. By intercepting or stealing cookies through malicious links or unsecured networks, hackers can impersonate you and gain access to your accounts without needing your password.

SIM Swapping

Your mobile phone number is often used as a second layer of authentication for online accounts. Hackers can perform a SIM swap by convincing your mobile provider to transfer your number to a new SIM card they control. Once they have access to your phone number, they can intercept two-factor authentication (2FA) codes and reset account passwords.

Deepfake Technology

Deepfake technology has advanced rapidly, allowing hackers to create realistic audio or video impersonations. This method is increasingly used in social engineering attacks, where a hacker might pose as a trusted colleague or family member to gain access to sensitive information.

Exploiting Third-Party Apps

Many people link their accounts with third-party applications for convenience. However, these apps often have weaker security protocols. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in third-party apps to gain access to linked accounts.

Port-Out Fraud

Similar to SIM swapping, port-out fraud involves transferring your phone number to another provider without your consent. With access to your number, hackers can intercept calls and messages meant for you, including sensitive account recovery codes.

Keylogging Malware

Keyloggers are malicious programs that record every keystroke you make. Once installed on your device, they can capture login credentials and other sensitive information without your knowledge.

AI-Powered Phishing

Traditional phishing emails are easy to spot due to poor grammar or suspicious links. However, AI-powered phishing campaigns use machine learning to craft highly convincing emails tailored specifically for their targets. These emails mimic legitimate communications so well that even tech-savvy individuals can fall victim.

In the following section, we’ll discuss how you can protect yourself against these unexpected threats.

How Can You Protect Yourself from These Threats?

Now that we’ve explored some of the unexpected ways hackers can access your accounts, it’s time to focus on prevention strategies. Below are practical steps you can take:

Strengthen Your Authentication Methods

Using strong passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) are essential first steps. However, consider going beyond SMS-based MFA by using app-based authenticators or hardware security keys for added protection.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Keep an eye on account activity for any unauthorized logins or changes. Many platforms offer notifications for suspicious activity—make sure these are enabled.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks are breeding grounds for cyberattacks like cookie hijacking. Use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing sensitive accounts on public networks.

Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps

Before linking any third-party app to your main accounts, verify its credibility and review its permissions. Revoke access from apps you no longer use.

Educate Yourself About Phishing

Learn how to identify phishing attempts by scrutinizing email addresses and avoiding clicking on unfamiliar links. When in doubt, contact the sender through a verified channel before responding.

In the next section, we’ll discuss additional cybersecurity measures that everyone should implement in today’s digital landscape.

What Additional Cybersecurity Measures Should You Take?

Beyond protecting against specific hacking techniques, adopting a proactive cybersecurity mindset is essential in today’s threat landscape. Here are some broader measures you should consider:

Regular Software Updates

Hackers often exploit outdated software with known vulnerabilities. Ensure all devices and applications are updated regularly with the latest security patches.

Data Backups

Regularly back up important data using the 3-2-1 rule: keep three copies of your data on two different storage media with one copy stored offsite. This ensures you can recover quickly in case of ransomware attacks or data loss.

Use Encrypted Communication Tools

For sensitive communications, use encrypted messaging platforms that protect data from interception by unauthorized parties.

Invest in Cybersecurity Training

Whether for personal use or within an organization, ongoing education about emerging threats is invaluable. Understanding how hackers operate helps you identify potential risks before they escalate.

By implementing these measures alongside specific protections against unexpected hacking methods, you’ll significantly reduce your vulnerability to cyberattacks. In the next section, we’ll wrap up with actionable steps you can take today.

Secure Your Digital Life Today

Cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s a necessity in our interconnected world. As hackers continue to innovate new ways of accessing accounts, staying informed and proactive is crucial.

We specialize in helping individuals and businesses safeguard their digital assets against evolving threats. Contact us today for expert guidance on securing your online presence and protecting what matters most.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

The global damage of cybercrime has risen to an average of $11 million USD per minute, which is a cost of $190,000 each second.

60% of small and mid-sized companies that have a data breach end up closing their doors within six months because they can’t afford the costs. The costs of falling victim to a cyberattack can include loss of business, downtime/productivity losses, reparation costs for customers that have had data stolen, and more.

You may think that this means investing more in cybersecurity, and it is true that you need to have appropriate IT security safeguards in place (anti-malware, firewall, etc.). However, many of the most damaging breaches are due to common cybersecurity mistakes that companies and their employees make.

The 2021 Sophos Threat Report, which looked at thousands of global data breaches, found that what it termed “everyday threats” were some of the most dangerous. The report stated, “A lack of attention to one or more aspects of basic security hygiene has been found to be at the root cause of many of the most damaging attacks we’ve investigated.”

Is your company making a dangerous cybersecurity mistake that is leaving you at high risk for a data breach, cloud account takeover, or ransomware infection?

Here are several of the most common missteps when it comes to basic IT security best practices.

Not Implementing Muti-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Credential theft has become the top cause of data breaches around the world, according to IBM Security. With most company processes and data now being cloud-based, login credentials hold the key to multiple types of attacks on company networks.

Not protecting your user logins with multi-factor authentication is a common mistake and one that leaves companies at a much higher risk of falling victim to a breach.

MFA reduces fraudulent sign-in attempts by a staggering 99.9%.

Ignoring the Use of Shadow IT

Shadow IT is the use of cloud applications by employees for business data that haven’t been approved and may not even be known about by a company.

Shadow IT use leaves companies at risk for several reasons:

• Data may be used in a non-secure application
• Data isn’t included in company backup strategies
• If the employee leaves, the data could be lost
• The app being used might not meet company compliance requirements

Employees often begin using apps on their own because they’re trying to fill a gap in their workflow and are unaware of the risks involved with using an app that hasn’t been vetted by their company’s IT team.

It’s important to have cloud use policies in place that spell out for employees the applications that can and cannot be used for work.

Thinking You’re Fine With Only an Antivirus Application

No matter how small your business is, a simple antivirus application is not enough to keep you protected. In fact, many of today’s threats don’t use a malicious file at all.

Phishing emails will contain commands sent to legitimate PC systems that aren’t flagged as a virus or malware. Phishing also overwhelmingly uses links these days rather than file attachments to send users to malicious sites. Those links won’t get caught by simple antivirus solutions.

You need to have a multi-layered strategy in place that includes things like:

• Next-gen anti-malware (uses AI and machine learning)
• Next-gen firewall
• Email filtering
• DNS filtering
• Automated application and cloud security policies
• Cloud access monitoring

Not Having Device Management In Place

A majority of companies around the world have had employees working remotely from home since the pandemic, and they’re planning to keep it that way. However, device management for those remote employee devices as well as smartphones used for business hasn’t always been put in place.

If you’re not managing security or data access for all the endpoints (company and employee-owned) in your business, you’re at a higher risk of a data breach.

If you don’t have one already, it’s time to put a device management application in place, like Intune in Microsoft 365.

Not Providing Adequate Training to Employees

An astonishing 95% of cybersecurity breaches are caused by human error. Too many companies don’t take the time to continually train their employees, and thus users haven’t developed the skills needed for a culture of good cybersecurity.

Employee IT security awareness training should be done throughout the year, not just annually or during an onboarding process. The more you keep IT security front and center, the better equipped your team will be to identify phishing attacks and follow proper data handling procedures.

Some ways to infuse cybersecurity training into your company culture include:

• Short training videos
• IT security posters
• Webinars
• Team training sessions
• Cybersecurity tips in company newsletters

When Did You Last Have a Cybersecurity Checkup?

Don’t stay in the dark about your IT security vulnerabilities. Schedule a cybersecurity audit to uncover vulnerabilities so they can be fortified to reduce your risk.

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Whether you work remotely or in an office, the line between personal and work tasks can become blurred when working on your company computer. If you’re in front of a computer for most of your time during work, then it’s not unusual to get attached to your desktop PC.

Over time, this can lead to doing personal things on a work computer. At first, it might just be checking personal email while on a lunch break. But as the line continues to get crossed, it can end up with someone using their work computer just as much for personal reasons as work tasks.

In a survey of over 900 employees, it was found that only 30% said they never used their work PC for personal activities. The other 70% admitted to using their work computer for various personal reasons.

Some of the non-work-related things that people do on a work computer include:

• Reading and sending personal email
• Scanning news headlines
• Shopping online
• Online banking
• Checking social media
• Streaming music
• Streaming videos/movies

It’s a bad idea to mix work and personal, no matter how much more convenient it is to use your work PC for a personal task during the day. You can end up getting reprimanded, causing a data breach at your company, or possibly losing your job.

Here are several things you should never do on your work PC.

1. Save Your Personal Passwords in the Browser

Many people manage their passwords by allowing their browser to save and then auto-fill them. This can be convenient, but it’s not very secure should you lose access to that PC.

When the computer you use isn’t yours, it can be taken away at any time for a number of reasons, such as an upgrade, repair, or during an unexpected termination.

If someone else accesses that device and you never signed out of the browser, that means they can leverage your passwords to access your cloud accounts.

Not all older PCs are stored in a storeroom somewhere or destroyed. Some companies will donate them to worthy causes, which could leave your passwords in the hands of a stranger if the PC hasn’t been wiped properly.

2. Store Personal Data

It’s easy to get in the habit of storing personal data on your work computer, especially if your home PC doesn’t have a lot of storage space. But this is a bad habit and leaves you wide open to a couple of major problems:

• Loss of your files: If you lose access to the PC for any reason, your files can be lost forever

• Your personal files being company-accessible: Many companies have backups of employee devices to protect against data loss. So, those beach photos stored on your work PC that you’d rather not have anyone else see could be accessible company-wide because they’re captured in a backup process.

3. Visit Sketchy Websites

You should assume that any activity you are doing on a work device is being monitored and is accessible by your boss. Companies often have cybersecurity measures in place like DNS filtering that is designed to protect against phishing websites.

This same type of software can also send an alert should an employee be frequenting a sketchy website deemed dangerous to security (which many sketchy websites are).

You should never visit any website on your work computer that you wouldn’t be comfortable visiting with your boss looking over your shoulder.

4. Allow Friends or Family to Use It

When you work remotely and your work computer is a permanent fixture in your home, it can be tempting to allow a friend or family member to use it if asked. Often, work PCs are more powerful than a typical home computer and may even have company-supplied software that someone wouldn’t purchase on their own.

But allowing anyone else to use your work computer could constitute a compliance breach of data protection regulations that your company needs to adhere to.

Just the fact that the personal data of your customers or other employees could be accessed by someone not authorized to do so, can mean a stiff penalty.

Additionally, a child or friend not well-versed in cybersecurity could end up visiting a phishing site and infecting your work device, which in turn infects your company cloud storage, leaving you responsible for a breach.

At least 20% of companies have experienced a data breach during the pandemic due to a remote worker.

5. Turn off Company-Installed Apps like Backups and Antivirus

If you’re trying to get work done and a backup kicks in and slows your PC down to a crawl, it can be tempting to turn off the backup process. But this can leave the data on your computer unprotected and unrecoverable in the case of a hard drive crash or ransomware infection.

Company-installed apps are there for a reason and it’s usually for cybersecurity and business continuity. These should not be turned off unless given express permission by your supervisor or company’s IT team

How Secure Is the Device You Use to Work from Home?

Whether you’re working remotely and worried about causing a data breach or are a business owner with multiple remote team members to secure, device protection is important. Schedule a device security checkup today.

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