Because cybercrime prevention is on the minds of many small business owners these days, we thought we’d do a mini-blog series going over some of the topics we talk about the most. If you missed our first blog answering some of the common cyber security FAQs, click here. We know there is a lot to consider when choosing a company to handle your cyber security, whether it’s a managed service provider (MSP) or another type of IT company.
What is Multi Factor Authentication?
Sometimes referred to as two-factor or three-factor authentication (2FA/3FA), this helps confirm that the person attempting to login is the person who should be logging in. You likely have used this when logging into your bank. You enter your login and password and then are prompted for an additional step or two. It may be a text or email code or face ID or fingerprint. Some businesses requiring 3FA utilize the something you have, something you know, and something you get. Examples of this are a card inserted or scanned (have), the password you know and a code you receive.
Do I Need a Digital Disaster Plan?
Even businesses with cybercrime prevention plans in place should have a digital disaster plan. This will help your MSP or IT department both work to find where the vulnerability is and what needs restoration. Make sure yours includes everything connected to the internet. Remember most businesses have both ethernet and wireless connections. Also list all the data and software you utilize on all the machines you have. Then detail what you do to protect your data (multi-factor authentication, passwords, training, firewall, guest network). Finally, include your plan for system or data recovery.
What is the Most Common Cyber Crime Today?
Most cyber criminals are either looking to steal your customer’s data (social security numbers and credit card information) or force you to pay a ransom for your data back. How they go about achieving one of these two goals depends. Some of their methods include:
- Phishing emails
- Email compromise hacks
- Malware
- Ransomware
- Scareware
How Do I Know if I’ve Been Hacked?
Unfortunately, it’s not always obvious. Sometimes it takes days for a business to realize that their system or network has been compromised and then it’s often too late. Some signs are unexpected pop-ups, increase in spam email, your mouse moving erratically on your screen, a sudden slow down in the speed your computer does things, and the complete inability to login.
Still Have Questions About Cybercrime Prevention?
As an Indianapolis managed service provider, we work hard to protect our client’s data and network. It’s our goal to make sure that not only does your staff have the tools to do their jobs effectively, but that we take the necessary steps in cybercrime prevention. If you have questions about how we can help you, call us for a free consultation at (317) 376-4874 or fill out our contact form today.
