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We’re sharing this informative, 17-minute podcast on cyber threats and network security mistakes with Hemanshu Nigam of SSP Blue, a US based advisory firm for online safety and security.
Studies show that 70% of all business cyber attacks happen against small businesses. You are not “too small” to be targeted. Listen in or review the highlights below and be sure to update your network. Network audits are recommended every 3-5 years. If you are due, be sure to schedule time for this important task this quarter.
Network Security Mistakes – Take Away Points
At the 8:03 mark, when asked what are the top mistakes that contribute to network attacks, Hemanshu’s first answer addresses how business owners invest (or fail to invest) in their business. He stated that businesses will spend their dollars on marketing or business opportunities, without allotting money to network security and he cites this as a primary, high level mistake. You can avoid this mistake. Audit your network today.
At the 09:10 mark, Hemanshu talks about business managers taking a short term view on network security, and not allowing their IT departments or tech support companies to bring down the network for maintenance or security updates. You can avoid this mistake and take a long term view. Have your network security updates done this quarter. Make a plan with your IT team and make it happen.
At 13:30 the interviewer asks about what individual users can do to keep the entire network safe. Listen and see if you too are guilty of the simple way you open yourself and your entire network up to risk.
At 14:30 Hemanshu talks about IT system upgrades. Newer systems built by better informed engineers are a wise investment in your computer and network security.
At 14:55 he talks about common sense tips, similar to tips we share to our users via our email newsletters regularly.Losses Caused By Poor Network Security Practices
At 16:10, Hemanshu talks about how Microsoft uses data security as a business opportunity, and how you should consider data security a business opportunity as well. Let’s talk real world examples of local small businesses who lost out due to poor security practices.A local massage clinic lost my monthly business because of the way my credit card information was stored. My business is now going elsewhere, due to poor data security practices. And so are all my referrals.
In the last year, four businesses called us in because they had their entire networks infected by a Crypto locker virus due to poor network security. Customer data was exposed.
Another small clinic owner almost lost all her files and client records from her server due to a complete lack of network security and a virus on the server.
Two separate companies called on us after suffering damage from internal employee sabotage- employees accessing, stealing and selling company data to competitors.
Another company failed to meet the minimum network security expectations from a vendor posting a request for proposal. Fortunately for them, the vendor agreed to give them the bid because of their truly unique work portfolio, so long as they could implement all IT upgrades within a strict timeline. We were able to help them achieve all data security compliance requirements, they won the bid, and are now prepared to win more. But they could have lost out. Clients and vendors alike want to work with companies that value and prioritize data security. In fact, Microsoft conducted research that revealed that 61% of consumers are more likely to choose your competitor if you are using software or operating systems just 5-10 years old.
Your security practices and IT systems should be up to date and protected. If your team has poor habits or limited tech security knowledge, then hire a knowledgeable tech support company. Make 2015 safer for your business and for your customers by updating your network and security practices. Make it a top level priority, and something you review regularly to avoid the top network security mistakes Mr. Nigam covered in his podcast.
Network Support Services in Toronto: For the SMB seeking network security support services, call on TUCU. Established in 2003, TUCU is a top rated IT Solutions Company in Toronto. We design and implement IT Solutions for small teams of 5-75 people. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
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