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chatbots and human error

Chatbots and Human Error

Businesses face a range of challenges related to data security.  The threats are ever-changing and evolving to offset our ability to recognize them easily. With human error at the top of the list of risk factors, employees giving away sensitive information is a challenge.  The advent of large language models (LLM), chatbots, and other digital assistants like ChatGPT makes this concern particularly relevant.  Especially for companies that deal with confidential client information or proprietary data. In those cases, the consequences of a data breach can be severe....
CIRCA

What is CIRCA?

The Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCA) is a mandate that requires companies to report any significant cyber incidents to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This aims to enhance the security of the nation's critical infrastructure. This includes everything from power plants to financial institutions. While the mandate is primarily aimed at large companies that operate critical infrastructure, it also affects small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The reason for this is that SMBs often provide services or products to these larger entities. SMBs may be less aware of the requirements and implications of CIRCA, but compliance is essential to ensure the security of the nation's critical infrastructure....
The Importance of MSP Engagement and Marketing

The Importance of Ongoing Engagement & Marketing

As a managed service provider (MSP), your clients rely on you to keep their systems secure and running smoothly. However, it's not enough to just provide your clients with a set-it-and-forget-it security solution. You need to create ongoing engagement and marketing to educate them on the importance of cybersecurity. And you need to maintain their interest. But you're busy running your business, and marketing is something you'll 'get to when you can get to it' right? So how can you create awareness of cybersecurity for your clients while also keeping them engaged through ongoing marketing efforts?...
BSN Deep Secrets on the Dark Web

Mental Health Data for Sale

Mental health is for many reasons, a deeply personal and sensitive topic. It is something that many people are not comfortable discussing with even their closest confidants. Finding a trusted professional to help navigate these waters is invaluable. Online resources that include on-demand options continue to expand. This provides individuals with new ways to access treatment that is life-changing. With the advent of online offerings and the proliferation of digital technology, mental health data is collected in new ways....
Romance Scams

Beware of Romance Scams

'Tis the season for love. And with it comes the opportunity for cybercriminals to pitch their romance scams. Millions of people fall victim to these fraudulent schemes every year. In a romance scam, a person posing as a potential romantic partner uses online dating websites, social media platforms, or other online channels to build a relationship with their target, gain their trust, and ultimately trick them into sending money or personal information....
data privacy week

Data Privacy Week

This week marked the annual Data Privacy Week. And we know that cybersecurity is critical when it comes to protecting data privacy and the integrity of information systems. Personal and corporate data are constantly at risk from malicious actors. A strong cybersecurity program is essential for safeguarding this data and maintaining the trust of customers, employees, and other stakeholders. Components One of the most important aspects of a strong cybersecurity program is the regular monitoring and testing of systems....
Cybersecurity Responsibility

The Responsibility of Cybersecurity

In the healthcare industry, HIPAA sets rules and regulations around the requirements of protecting patient data. But in the "rest of the world", professionally speaking there are unspoken rules, but not the same type of enforcement program in place. A lawsuit might be considered the equivalent of a HIPAA fine - both damaging but perhaps in different ways. Cybersecurity is (or should be) a critical concern for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, it is more important than ever for businesses to maintain a robust cybersecurity program. This program should be an integral part of a company's overall risk management strategy and should be taken seriously by all stakeholders....
targeted phishing attack

Phishing: Targeted Attacks

The threat of phishing remains prevalent in all aspects of digital life. Both personal and professional. But a recent deep dive by Mandient into the details of a more specific kind of attack that is on the rise. This shines a light on the threat of industrial-themed email attacks and how they can affect operational technology. What is Operational Technology? Operational technology is the hardware or software that monitors and sometimes controls industrial equipment....
Juniper Research (3)

Breached Records to Skyrocket with SMBs as the Biggest Targets

A lot can happen in 5 years, and unfortunately, not always for the better. According to a recent report by Juniper Research, Cybercrime & the Internet of Threats 2018, data breaches are expected to reach 146 billion records over the next five years....
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Phone-Based 2FA: Not so Secure After All

In a time where data breaches have become the norm, there is no such thing as exercising too much caution when it comes to protecting your online assets, including your login credentials and access to accounts. Two-factor authentication (2FA), a method of confirming a user’s identity via combining two factors is widely accepted and recommended by security experts as a necessity for optimum security online. 2FA is a great added security feature to protect your account because an unauthorized individual is unlikely to supply the factors required to successfully gain access....
exactis

Exactis Database Leaks 340 Million Records of Personal Data

There is a good chance you’ve never heard of the major marketing and data aggregation company Exactis, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know you. In fact, Exactis may know a great deal of your personal information, including your email address, your home address, your habits and hobbies, your children’s ages and genders if you have any, and more. Even more alarming, if Exactis does have that information, so too may a hacker who discovered it leaked publicly on the internet. Marketwatch explores the breach and what it means for nearly every American involved....

Infographic: Cybersecurity: Fighting a Threat That Causes $450B of Damage Each Year

SME Under Threat

Study finds that 30% of SMEs lack an incident response plan

Cybersecurity issues have become very prevalent in the modern era, making headlines with their disasters and fines associated with them. While it may seem obvious that businesses should take precautions to protect themselves against these potential attacks, they have been slow to move forward with improving their security measures – especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). An article on SME dives into a recent study of how prepared SMEs are for a security incident when it comes to their data breach response plan....

Article: What Happens When Your Small Business Is Hacked

Don’t count on getting your data back even if you pay the ransom

Ransomware, a popular form of a cyber-attack usually involves criminals tricking their victims into installing malware. The malware causes serious issues for its victims by preventing them from accessing their files unless a ransom is paid to the criminal. An article on Inc. explains why ransomware is becoming more dangerous and how you can ensure your business does not suffer from its devastation....
Wannacry

Is the massive global cyberattack enough to get people to care about their online security?

A major cyberattack took the world by storm Friday, hitting 150 countries and affecting 200,000 computers and over 20 hospitals in the U.K. This attack serves as a major wakeup call to both companies and consumers that securing systems and devices is vital. Although this incident should prompt immediate action in increasing security measures, if history repeats itself, it will not. An article on MorningStar goes into detail on why this massive cyberattack will not be enough to convince people to care about their online security....
BSN 2.15.2021

Unemployment Scams

We tend to not ask too many questions and let things slide when we aren’t certain about the situation.  Is that normal?  Should that happen like that?  I guess so.  I don’t really know. I mean, it seems ok?? And as with all things related to COVID-19, there’s an air of uncertainty that hasn’t left the planet in nearly a year.  So, we’re all a little uncertain.  We’re all a little confused about what is actually ok or normal.  It’s all new. ...
BSN 2.8.2021

Heartbreak of a Different Kind

Dating or cultivating relationships is hard enough, let alone trying to do it successfully during a pandemic.  You’re putting your heart in the hands of the internet gods and trusting that they will guide you safely along the corridors of the unknown and unseen. ...
BSN 2.1.2021

Degree of Awareness

This week a friend shared a story about her college-aged daughter Jane and her recent experience in finding a job.  She is in graphic design and has a portfolio, so when she came across a well-known company that creates sports-branded gear that was hiring, it was something she wanted to pursue....
BSN 12 7 2020 png

Home Security

When establishing a safe environment at home, we put locks on the doors, latches on the gate, and home security systems that keep uninvited visitors out, and alert us to any intruders otherwise. What we see is what we address – as is the case with most things and situations. But hidden somewhere in your house is an unlocked door – or doors - that may be giving access to information that can be accessed and stolen much more easily than the family heirlooms and jewels. Your home network is an entry point that is far too often overlooked....
BSN 10 19 2020

Smart Appliances & Cybersecurity

And so, the season starts.  Which one is it that we’re referring to?  Cyber Monday, Black Friday, Prime Day…all of these sales tend to lean towards exceptional deals on electronics, and today that means the “smartest” of appliances are being purchased and set up in our homes. By getting the latest and greatest, are we inadvertently putting a spy in our home? Do smart appliances have the ability to hear and see what we are doing?...
BSN 10 12 2020 png

We Don’t Negotiate

The United States government has been known to take a stand of ‘we don’t negotiate with terrorists’ when it comes to discussions of ransom. Whether this has 100% certainty to it can be argued in more ways than we care to discuss here....
BSN 9 21 2020 png

It Was to Be Expected

We knew that any type of newsworthy topic was going to give cybercriminals so much opportunity - and COVID-19 gave them so much bang for the buck.  Just because this was something affecting the world in a detrimental way would never be reason enough for hackers to take a break.  They were going to take full advantage of the situation regardless of how much worse it could make things for people during their time of need or vulnerability....
BSN 8 17 2020 png

Dark Economy

“This pandemic is great for my business!” said very few people. Unless you’re a hacker. And then it’s likely that business is booming. We don’t think of cybercriminals as businesspeople. We tend to think they are individuals lurking about in hoodies in their basement. Quite the opposite – or so we have found through investigations and the exposure of organizations that steal our information. These are well organized and structured businesses that thrive – or fail – within their own economies....
End of Year Blog 768x448

End of Year Preparation

As the end of the year gets closer, it's not just the holiday season that demands our attention—it's also a crucial time for businesses to reflect, analyze, and prepare for the upcoming year. Wrapping up the current year smoothly can set the stage for a successful start to the new one. Let's review the importance of various tasks that ensure business is well-prepared for the year ahead. Software Updates...
AI emails 768x448

The Growing Influence of AI on Phishing Emails

A recent report has unveiled a significant and concerning trend in cybersecurity. The report, compiled by SlashNext Threat Labs, reveals a staggering 1265% surge in malicious phishing emails since Q4 2022. This annual report spans a 12-month analysis of threats across various channels, including email, mobile, and browsers, from Q4 2022 to Q3 2023....
Deepfake 768x448

Recognizing and Defending Against Deepfake Scams

Small businesses, just like large corporations, can fall victim to deceptive tactics. If you haven't yet heard about deepfake, read on and explore what these scams are and learn practical tips on how to recognize and defend against them. It is important to know in order to protect yourself and safeguard your business's reputation and finances....
20 years NCAM 768x448

20 Years of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) has come a long way since its inception in 2004. Over the past two decades, it has evolved into a vital campaign with a crucial role in educating and empowering individuals and organizations. This is especially true for small businesses. Let's take a closer look at the 20 years...
Text Phishing 768x448

Recognizing and Avoiding Text Phishing Scams

Phishing scams have become increasingly sophisticated and prevalent. One form that has gained traction is text phishing, or "smishing" (SMS phishing). This involves sending fraudulent text messages with the intent to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or social security numbers. These messages...
MGM Breach 768x448

MGM Data Breach: A Reminder for Personal Cybersecurity

Technology permeates almost every aspect of our lives, and the security of our personal information is more crucial than ever. Recently the MGM data breach that was reported reminds us that we must proactively safeguard our sensitive data, for no entity can guarantee foolproof protection. According to the Reuters article, MGM, a renowned...
Blog Image 5 768x448

Establishing a Baseline for Cybersecurity Knowledge

The weakest link in any organization's cybersecurity infrastructure is often its employees. To address this vulnerability, it is crucial to have a baseline understanding of where employees stand in terms of cybersecurity knowledge. This knowledge forms the foundation upon which effective training and comprehensive protection for the business can be built....
Blog Image 4 768x448

Cybersecurity in 2023: Weathering the Storm

This year so far in cybersecurity has seen a significant surge in cyber threats and breaches, underscoring the need for robust defenses and preparedness. The shifting landscape of cyber threats in recent years can be likened to a storm, gaining intensity and unpredictability. Understanding these shifts and the importance of adequately training the human workforce is ...
Copy of BSN 12.6.2021 1

Breaking Down the Baseline Employee Cybersecurity Assessment – General Cybersecurity Knowledge

Assessment Overview Our recent launch of the Baseline Employee Cybersecurity Assessment provides MSPs with a new tool to add to their prospecting and baseline risk detection efforts.  As an MSP it gives you the opportunity to show prospects and clients that human security plays a key role in protecting their organization and that without proper ongoing training, employees are an easy entry point for cybercriminals. While a security risk assessment will identify any gaps in a business environment, the human element should never be overlooked or assumed to be foolproof....
BSN 12.21.2021

Introducing the Baseline Employee Cybersecurity Assessment

Is it good or bad news to know that ransomware and phishing are no longer terms that need further explaining to most people?   Yes, it is favorable when you’re trying to explain how important a cybersecurity plan is for your clients to have – you don’t necessarily need to start at the beginning when it comes to identifying the risk factors.  But having a “place to start” is sometimes comforting to people when they are venturing into the unknown, and while a security risk assessment is critical to a business and an invaluable tool to you as an MSP, sometimes management has a hard time accepting that their team may be part of the risk landscape....
BSN 11.15.2021 2

Do Your Healthcare Clients Need an Annual Checkup?

Do Your Healthcare Clients Need an Annual Check-Up? As a Managed Service Provider, you’re in the business of keeping other businesses running.  Which vertical they are in, or what products and services they provide may not be the most pressing detail.  Unless you’re talking about healthcare.  There are two common views when it comes to supporting clients in the healthcare industry and those are: support their network and leave HIPAA out of it, or to avoid taking on those clients altogether because of the complexity of HIPAA....
BSN 11.8.2021

IT Nation Week

‘Tis the season for gathering with friends and family and this year feels especially special because of the limited human interaction we’ve had over the past year.  Or is it years now? It feels like years.   While Thanksgiving is just around the corner, the type of gathering we are referring to is IT Nation in Orlando this month.  If you are not familiar with this event, it is the annual ConnectWise convention held in Orlando Florida where IT professionals get together to taut their wares, discuss new technologies, and have a great time being social.  We’ll get to that social part in a minute, but first, let’s cover the basics. ...
BSN 10.11.2021 2

MSPs Should Make Everyday Cybersecurity Awareness Day!

It Starts at Home With October being designated National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CSAM) by the National Cyber Security Alliance and the United States Department of Homeland Security, we are seeing promotional material from a variety of public-facing businesses.  Everyone from our banks to our credit cards to the grocery store is promoting it on their various platforms.  Which is great…but shouldn’t every day be a day that we’re aware of cybersecurity? This should be true especially if you’re in any way associated with the technology sector. ...
BSN 1 18 2020 png

Cy-BURN-out

New normal. Our new reality. The various ways that we describe everyday life in the time of a global pandemic. It means a lot of change, in a lot of ways, for a lot of people. While parenting is definitely more challenging when it comes to managing to homeschool and work from home at the same time, there is another group that might not be getting as much press when it comes to feeling overwhelmed. The IT industry....
BSN 9 28 2020 png

Home Office Security – Never Too Late to Evaluate

We are past the point of whether or not working remotely, or from home, is something we are unsure of. It is likely our permanent setup, or at the very least, a long term one that we need to move forward with and in confidence. These recommendations should be for readers who find themselves in this situation as well as any IT provider that oversees clients and their cybersecurity....
BSN 9 21 2020 png

It Was to Be Expected

We knew that any type of newsworthy topic was going to give cybercriminals so much opportunity - and COVID-19 gave them so much bang for the buck.  Just because this was something affecting the world in a detrimental way would never be reason enough for hackers to take a break.  They were going to take full advantage of the situation regardless of how much worse it could make things for people during their time of need or vulnerability....
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