Regardless of size or experience, all managed IT services should offer cybersecurity to customers. It has become too critical of an issue to ignore as cybercriminals continue to learn new ways to breach even the most sophisticated security solutions. Luckily, there are actionable steps to take to improve internet safety.
WHY BUSINESSES MUST PRIORITIZE CYBERSECURITY
No business is completely shielded from a cyberattack regardless of how new or complex the security software is. Every managed IT services provider must take a proactive stance to defend their customers. Preventing cyberattacks should be a top priority of any business because all it takes is one breach to ruin a company’s reputation.
Businesses that implement a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policy must take extra precautions since it can involve multiple types of devices and operating systems. Remote employees must be careful about public WiFi hotspots at establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and airports since not all of them have sufficient security. At one time, businesses could get away with minimal security, but that era is becoming ancient internet history.
RAISING CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS
The solution to preventing attacks is a mix of software, ongoing training, vulnerability testing, routine foothold analysis and strict policies. Modern machine learning software can monitor networks and detect intruders. IT teams can train employees on how to steer clear of malware. Developing a data backup and recovery plan completes the equation to build strong layers of protection around your assets.
With a virtual private network (VPN), you will be able to encrypt data, which adds another layer of production. Backing up data to a virtual cloud server diminishes the threats posed by ransomware, which is a malware with a ransom demand attached. You won’t have to worry about losing your data if your team backs it up in multiple places.
October is a National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which is an excellent time for businesses and their IT teams to review cybersecurity threats and strategies to counter them.
When employees are not trained in cybersecurity, it opens the door to vulnerabilities, such as using the same passwords for different accounts. It’s also better to use hard-to-read passwords. By using complex alpha-numeric passwords combined with PIN numbers, you will slow down hackers to the point they may give up. Employees must also be advised to be careful clicking anything that is unfamiliar or triggers even the slightest suspicion.
STEPS TO ENHANCE SECURITY WITH MANAGED IT SERVICES
- Change passwords throughout the year
- Establish two-factor authentication (TFA)
- Avoid posting private information on social media
- Train staff to be selective of applications and websites
- Use modern security solutions, such as 24/7 monitoring
Every IT support team needs to demonstrate expertise in protecting an infrastructure. Make sure the provider you choose has a deep concern for managing and staying up to date on cybersecurity. Businesses looking for a reliable managed IT services provider should ask for a consultation from ION247. Contact us to learn more.
*Blog post updated September 23, 2020.
