Cybersecurity FAQ
Get your questions about malware, data breaches, and cybersecurity IT services answered
The first layer of defense is a robust firewall and a well-mapped network. However, cybercriminals and their tools are becoming more sophisticated, so these protections alone are no longer enough to keep you safe. A cybersecurity partner will keep your systems protected from new and evolving threats.
Unfortunately, cybercriminals look at small businesses as easy targets. They see your team names and email addresses right on your website, ready to be duplicated for a phishing campaign. They know the payroll department’s email address so they can easily use it to change bank details, or they can mimic the CFO’s email address and request sensitive data. The question isn’t will you be attacked, but when.
Here’s a few simple steps to get started:
Enforce the use of strong passwords with two-step authentication
Start security awareness training to recognize phishing emails
Start routine penetration testing
Follow the compliance measures for your industry
Malware is any software that can harm your devices or penetrate your network. It’s the broad term referring to viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other programs designed to cause damage to IT systems.
End-to-end encryption is a security measure required for HIPAA compliance. It provides private, secure communications even over phone lines. Typically, fax is considered the strongest end-to-end encrypted platform, which is why medical practices only fax documents instead of emailing.
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts all the files on a specific server. You cannot decrypt the files without paying a ransom. Even then, the decryption software may run slowly so you cannot access files when you need them. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid the damage ransomware causes, such as secure data backups. Contact us to learn more.
Start with carefully reading emails to avoid phishing attempts, and never write down your password! The most effective way to stay safe is to partner with a reliable managed IT services provider with cybersecurity experience. US IT has the knowledge and expertise to keep your company protected from cyberthreats and compliant with all regulatory agencies.
