Cybersecurity is a threat to businesses across industries. Sometimes, organizations invest in security software without realizing the risks that come with it. Here are compelling reasons why identifying threats before buying cybersecurity products is paramount. Uncover threats and vulnerabilities Every business should run a risk assessment to evaluate its current cybersecurity infrastructure. Doing so is one of the easiest ways to identify, correct, and prevent security breaches. After discovering potential issues that cyberterrorists could exploit, rate them based on probability of occurrence and potential impacts on your business. Keep in mind that risk assessments are specific to every business, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach for technology that will work for small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Variables like your line of business and operating environment will account for differences in needs and risks. For instance, manufacturing companies and insurance groups … READ MORE »

As a smartphone user, you should be just as concerned about your phone’s security from malware as you are about its physical safety. Malware and other forms of cyberthreats are becoming more and more common in smartphones and ignoring them can lead to disaster. Mobile malware MO Mobile malware can be just as harmful to a business’s network as infected desktops and laptops are. Potential problems include overcharges on phone bills, stolen data, intercepted messages, phishing attacks, and fake notifications to one’s contact list. Most examples of malware come from applications downloaded from third-party app stores. These give hackers access to passwords, user account information, and other sensitive personal data. Since many business users link their Android devices to each other, malware could transfer across multiple devices with ease. Who is responsible? The burden doesn’t fall solely on smartphone users. … READ MORE »

More businesses are now allowing their employees to use mobile devices to increase productivity and profitability. But smartphones and tablets are just as vulnerable to hacking as desktops and laptops. Worse, employees may be exposing their mobile devices unwittingly to cybercriminals. Here are some helpful tips to keep your devices safe. Ensure mobile OS is up-to-date The updates on Apple and Android operating systems (OSs) improve overall user experience, but their most important function is to fix security vulnerabilities. Reduce your business’s exposure to threats by installing updates for all devices as soon as they become available. Don’t wait for a few weeks or months to update, as this give hackers ample time to exploit vulnerabilities on devices that run on an outdated OS. Install business applications only Downloading apps seems harmless. But lenient policies on what should and shouldn’t … READ MORE »

If most of your company’s computers are obsolete, they double or even triple your chances of experiencing a data breach. This emphasizes how dangerous it is to have outdated applications, operating systems, and even web browsers. Failing to update your firmware could expose your business to major security threats. What is firmware? Firmware is a basic type of software that is embedded into every piece of hardware. It cannot be uninstalled or removed, and is only compatible with the make and model of the hardware it is installed on. Think of it like a translator between your stuff and unchanging hardware and your fluid and evolving software. For example, Windows can be installed on almost any computer, and it helps users surf the internet and watch YouTube videos. But how does Windows know how to communicate and connect with your … READ MORE »