Category: Business Security
How JENLOR Protects SMBs
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming targets of cyber threats. To safeguard sensitive data and operations, companies are employing various strategies to protect SMBs effectively. Here’s a concise overview:
- Risk Assessment: Companies begin by assessing potential vulnerabilities in an SMB’s IT infrastructure. Identifying weak points helps tailor protective measures.
- Employee Training: Educating staff about cybersecurity is paramount. Regular training sessions ensure that employees can identify and respond to potential threats.
- Firewalls and Antivirus: Implementing robust firewalls and updated antivirus software guards against unauthorized access and malware.
- Secure Network Setup: Setting up secure Wi-Fi networks with strong encryption prevents unauthorized access by outsiders.
- Regular Updates: Ensuring operating systems, software, and applications are updated with the latest security patches prevents exploiting known vulnerabilities.
- Data Encryption: Encrypting sensitive data safeguards it from unauthorized access even if a breach occurs.
- Access Control: Implementing access controls and permissions ensures that employees have access only to the data and systems necessary for their roles.
- Backup and Recovery: Regular data backups and efficient recovery plans are critical to restore operations swiftly in case of a breach or system failure.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification for access.
- Security Policies: Establishing cybersecurity policies outlining acceptable practices, password requirements, and data sharing guidelines ensures a uniform security approach.
- Vendor Assessment: If using third-party vendors, assessing their cybersecurity measures before integration prevents potential vulnerabilities.
- 24/7 Monitoring: Employing continuous monitoring tools detects and mitigates threats promptly, minimizing potential damage.
- Incident Response Plan: Preparing for the worst with a comprehensive incident response plan helps contain and manage breaches effectively.
- Cloud Security: When using cloud services, opting for providers with strong security measures and compliance certifications enhances protection.
- Regular Audits: Periodic cybersecurity audits evaluate the effectiveness of protective measures and identify areas for improvement.
- Cyber Insurance: Investing in cyber insurance provides financial support in case of a breach and aids in the recovery process.
- User Awareness: Cultivating a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees encourages responsible online behavior.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to industry-specific regulations ensures that your SMB meets cybersecurity standards.
In conclusion, protecting SMBs from cyber threats demands a multifaceted approach. Companies focus on comprehensive risk assessment, employee education, advanced technologies, and proactive measures to secure sensitive information and maintain seamless operations.
Are you ready to have a conversation? Call 412-220-9330 X110 or click here: https://www.jenlor.com/contact/
Keeping IT Running in the Event of a Disaster
In today’s digital age, ensuring the continuity of IT operations during a disaster is vital for businesses to survive and thrive. Disruptions like natural disasters or cyberattacks can strike unexpectedly, but with a solid plan, you can keep IT running smoothly. Here’s how:
- Business Impact Analysis (BIA): Begin by assessing critical IT systems and processes. Identify which components are essential for business operations and prioritize them.
- Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP): Develop a comprehensive DRP detailing step-by-step procedures for restoring IT systems and data. Regularly update and test the plan to ensure effectiveness.
- Offsite Data Backup: Regularly back up your data to secure offsite locations. Cloud-based solutions offer secure storage and quick access during recovery.
- Redundancy and Failover: Implement redundancy for critical systems. Failover mechanisms automatically switch to backup systems if the primary ones fail.
- Communication Protocols: Establish clear communication channels during a disaster. Ensure that employees, stakeholders, and IT teams can coordinate effectively.
- Emergency Response Team: Form an emergency IT response team with designated roles and responsibilities. This team should be well-versed in the DRP.
- Remote Work Capability: Enable remote work capabilities for employees. Cloud-based tools and VPNs ensure continued productivity during disruptions.
- Continuous Monitoring: Use monitoring tools to keep a watchful eye on IT infrastructure. This allows for immediate response to any anomalies.
- Regular Testing: Conduct disaster recovery drills to validate the effectiveness of your plan. Identify weaknesses and make necessary adjustments.
- Vendor Communication: If IT services are outsourced, maintain open communication with vendors regarding their disaster recovery strategies.
- Power and Connectivity: Ensure power backups like generators or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). Secure alternative internet connections to prevent connectivity loss.
- Documentation: Maintain up-to-date documentation of network configurations, software licenses, and hardware inventory. This aids in faster recovery.
- Cybersecurity Measures: Fortify your IT systems against cyber threats. Regularly update security protocols and educate employees about cybersecurity best practices.
- Employee Training: Educate employees about disaster recovery procedures and their roles in ensuring IT continuity.
- Regular Review: Revisit and update your disaster recovery plan periodically to account for changes in technology, personnel, or business processes.
In conclusion, safeguarding your IT operations during a disaster requires proactive planning, preparation, and coordination. A well-thought-out disaster recovery plan, combined with robust backup solutions and continuous monitoring, helps mitigate risks and ensures your business can weather any storm.
To schedule a meeting with a company that can help, click here: https://www.jenlor.com/contact/
Should I Decommission My File Server and Move to SharePoint?
If you’re contemplating whether to decommission your file server and migrate to SharePoint, you’re not alone. Many businesses are considering this move to enhance collaboration, improve document management, and embrace the benefits of cloud computing. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when making this decision.
First and foremost, let’s talk about the advantages of SharePoint. One of the biggest benefits is its ability to facilitate seamless collaboration. SharePoint allows multiple users to access and edit documents simultaneously, fostering teamwork and productivity. It also provides version control, ensuring that everyone is working on the most up-to-date file.
Another crucial aspect to consider is document management. SharePoint offers robust organization and search capabilities, making it easier to find and retrieve files. With metadata tagging, you can categorize documents based on specific criteria, enabling efficient sorting and filtering.
Furthermore, migrating to SharePoint means embracing the power of the cloud. By storing your files in the cloud, you eliminate the need for on-premises infrastructure and reduce maintenance costs. SharePoint also provides automatic backups and disaster recovery, ensuring the safety and availability of your data.
However, before you make the leap, there are some considerations to keep in mind. First, assess your organization’s specific needs and requirements. SharePoint offers a wide range of features and customization options, so make sure it aligns with your business goals.
Additionally, plan your migration strategy carefully. Evaluate the volume of data you need to transfer and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure a smooth transition. It’s essential to involve your IT team or seek professional assistance to minimize any potential disruptions.
Lastly, consider the learning curve for your employees. SharePoint has a different interface and workflow compared to a traditional file server. Training and support should be provided to ensure a seamless adoption process.
In conclusion, migrating from a file server to SharePoint can offer numerous benefits such as enhanced collaboration, improved document management, and reduced infrastructure costs. However, it’s crucial to evaluate your specific needs, plan the migration carefully, and provide proper training to ensure a successful transition. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about decommissioning your file server and embracing the advantages of SharePoint.
What to Consider When Choosing a Regulatory-Compliant Cloud Provider
In today’s data-driven world, businesses must prioritize data security and compliance. When it comes to cloud services, choosing a regulatory-compliant provider is crucial. But what should you look for in such a provider? In this blog post, we’ll explore key factors to consider for ensuring both SEO optimization and readability.
Data Encryption and Security Measures:
A regulatory-compliant cloud provider should prioritize robust data encryption methods. Look for providers that employ strong encryption algorithms and adhere to industry best practices. Additionally, inquire about their security protocols, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls.
Compliance Certifications and Standards:
To ensure regulatory compliance, it’s essential to select a cloud provider that meets relevant certifications and industry standards. Look for providers that comply with frameworks like HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001, and SOC 2. These certifications validate the provider’s commitment to data protection and regulatory requirements.
Data Location and Jurisdiction:
Knowing where your data is stored is crucial for compliance. Check if the cloud provider stores data in regions that align with your regulatory requirements. Understand the jurisdiction under which your data falls, as it affects legal obligations and access to your data.
Transparent Data Handling and Privacy Policies:
A regulatory-compliant cloud provider should have transparent data handling policies and robust privacy practices. Review their privacy policy to understand how they handle data, who has access, and how they respond to data breaches. Ensure their practices align with your industry’s specific regulatory requirements.
Backup and Disaster Recovery:
Look for a cloud provider that offers reliable backup and disaster recovery solutions. Data loss can be detrimental, so it’s crucial to have backup measures in place. Inquire about their backup frequency, data recovery procedures, and how quickly they can restore services in case of an incident.
Choosing a regulatory-compliant cloud provider requires careful consideration to ensure data security and compliance with industry regulations. By prioritizing factors like data encryption, compliance certifications, data location, privacy policies, and disaster recovery, you can select a provider that meets your specific needs. Remember to conduct thorough research and consult legal and compliance experts to make an informed decision. Safeguarding your data is paramount in today’s digital landscape.
5 Reasons for the Manufacturing Industry to Outsource IT
In today’s technology-driven world, manufacturing companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of efficient IT systems to enhance productivity and stay competitive. However, managing an in-house IT department can be costly and time-consuming. That’s where outsourcing IT services can be a game-changer. In this blog, we will explore five compelling reasons why your manufacturing company should consider outsourcing its IT needs.
1. Cost-effectiveness:
Outsourcing IT services can significantly reduce your company’s expenses. By partnering with a specialized IT provider, you can eliminate the need for in-house IT staff, hardware infrastructure, and software licensing costs. Outsourcing allows you to pay for services on a flexible, as-needed basis, saving you money in the long run.
2. Focus on core competencies:
Manufacturing companies excel when they can focus on their core competencies. Outsourcing IT enables you to redirect your resources and attention to areas that directly impact your business’s growth and success. By entrusting IT tasks to experts, you can optimize your operations while maintaining a competitive edge in your industry.
3. Access to specialized expertise:
IT is a complex and ever-evolving field. Outsourcing IT services gives you access to a team of experienced professionals who possess specialized knowledge and skills. These experts stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices, ensuring that your manufacturing company benefits from cutting-edge technology solutions.
4. Scalability and flexibility:
Manufacturing businesses often experience fluctuations in IT requirements based on project needs or market demand. Outsourcing IT allows you to scale up or down your services easily, depending on your business needs. This flexibility ensures that you have the right IT resources at all times without overburdening your organization.
5. Enhanced security and data protection:
Manufacturing companies handle sensitive data, including intellectual property, customer information, and proprietary manufacturing processes. Outsourcing IT to a reputable provider can bolster your cybersecurity measures. Experienced IT professionals employ robust security protocols, conduct regular audits, and implement backup and disaster recovery plans, safeguarding your company’s vital assets.
Outsourcing IT services in your manufacturing company can bring numerous benefits, from cost savings to improved security and flexibility. By partnering with a trusted IT provider, you can streamline your operations, enhance productivity, and focus on what your company does best. Embrace the power of outsourcing and unlock your manufacturing company’s true potential in the digital era.
Video Conferencing Security Best Practices
Video conferencing has become a crucial part of how organizations communicate and collaborate in today’s world. However, with the rise in remote work, cybercriminals have been exploiting video conferencing platforms to gain access to sensitive information. It’s essential to implement video conferencing security best practices to keep your organization safe. Here are some best practices to follow:
Use a Secure Video Conferencing Platform
Ensure that you use a secure video conferencing platform that uses end-to-end encryption to protect your data. Platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams provide robust security features.
Create Strong Passwords
Use strong passwords and avoid sharing them with anyone. Passwords should be a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.
Enable Waiting Rooms
Enable waiting rooms to avoid unauthorized people from joining your video conference. This feature allows you to vet participants before granting them access to the conference.
Keep Software Updated
Ensure that the video conferencing software is up-to-date with the latest security patches. This helps to protect your organization from known vulnerabilities.
Use Virtual Backgrounds
Encourage participants to use virtual backgrounds that do not reveal sensitive information in the background. This is especially important when conducting video conferences from home.
Educate Participants
Educate all participants on video conferencing security best practices, including the risks associated with sharing sensitive information over video conferences.
Monitor Participants
Designate a moderator to monitor participants and remove anyone who is not authorized to join the conference. This helps to ensure that only authorized individuals are participating.
By following these video conferencing security best practices, you can protect your organization from cyber threats and ensure that your data is secure. Remember to always stay vigilant and update your security measures regularly.
Is Sharepoint Secure?
SharePoint is a popular platform for businesses to store, manage, and share their documents and data. However, one question that comes up frequently is whether SharePoint is secure or not. In this blog, we will examine the security features of SharePoint and determine if it is a safe platform to use.
SharePoint has several security features that make it a secure platform. One of the most important features is the ability to set up permissions for users and groups. This allows businesses to control who has access to their documents and data, and what they can do with them.
Another security feature of SharePoint is its integration with Microsoft’s Active Directory. This means that businesses can use their existing security infrastructure to authenticate users and control access to SharePoint.
In addition to these features, SharePoint also has several built-in security protocols, such as SSL encryption, to ensure that data is transmitted securely over the network. It also has tools to help detect and prevent malware and other malicious attacks.
Despite these security features, there are still some risks associated with using SharePoint. For example, if users are not careful about how they share documents and data, sensitive information could be accidentally leaked. Additionally, if businesses do not properly configure their SharePoint environment, they could leave themselves vulnerable to attacks.
To mitigate these risks, it is important for businesses to follow best practices for SharePoint security. This includes regularly reviewing permissions and access control, implementing multi-factor authentication, and training employees on how to use SharePoint safely.
In conclusion, while no platform can be completely secure, SharePoint has several security features that make it a safe choice for businesses to manage their documents and data. By following best practices for SharePoint security, businesses can further reduce their risk of security breaches and ensure the safety of their sensitive information.
Top Considerations for Single Sign-On (SSO)
Single Sign-On (SSO) is a critical tool for streamlining access to multiple applications, but choosing the right SSO solution can be daunting. Here are some top considerations to keep in mind when evaluating SSO options.
- Security: Your SSO solution should be highly secure and offer robust authentication options, such as two-factor authentication and encryption of data in transit.
- Integration: Make sure your SSO solution can integrate with your existing IT infrastructure and applications, so your users can seamlessly access all the resources they need.
- Scalability: As your organization grows, your SSO solution should be able to scale up to meet the needs of more users and applications.
- User Experience: A good SSO solution should provide a seamless and user-friendly experience for your employees or customers, minimizing the number of passwords they need to remember and reducing the time it takes to access resources.
- Customization: The ability to customize your SSO solution to meet the unique needs of your organization is crucial, whether it’s the branding, the user interface, or the authentication methods.
- Cost: SSO solutions can vary significantly in cost, so it’s essential to find one that fits your budget while still meeting your security and usability requirements.
- Support: Ensure that your SSO provider offers excellent support and training resources to help your IT team get up and running quickly and efficiently.
- Compliance: Depending on your industry, your SSO solution may need to comply with specific regulations, such as HIPAA or GDPR, so make sure to choose a provider that can meet those requirements.
- Flexibility: Your SSO solution should be flexible enough to adapt to the changing needs of your organization and the evolving threat landscape.
How to Keep Your Business More Secure Online
The modern workplace has changed as a result of technology. More companies than ever, including small and medium-sized businesses, are utilizing the power of the internet and digital technologies to increase productivity, increase efficiency, and maintain business continuity. These technologies range from remote working to cloud-based apps and systems.
The ability to reach the workplace from anywhere in the world presents great opportunities for many organizations and their employees, but those opportunities come with some risks. Cybercriminals are standing by, ready to prey on internet users and systems with weak defenses.
It is critical to scale up efforts to safeguard your company and personnel from the threat of cyberattacks with new cyber threats being revealed every year. Here are some helpful hints for securing your systems and keeping your online business security.
Be Prepared for Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware attacks are intended to shut down or illegally take control of business systems in return for money, disrupting operations, and resulting in enormous financial losses. One of the techniques that cybercriminals are known to use to access computers is known as phishing.
Phishing scams are when cybercriminals get an unsuspecting person to click on an attachment or link, sending ransomware into their computer. Once inside, it’s only a matter of time before systems and data are compromised, locking users out.
In order to launch a ransomware attack, consumers are often persuaded to click on fraudulent links or attachments. PDF’s, ZIP files, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and more are all examples of attachments that could potentially contain ransomware
Ensure That You Have Malware Resistant Systems
Malicious software, commonly known as malware, gives hackers access to systems and networks by secretly installing itself on a user’s device. Malware allows access to personal and company information and is frequently difficult to detect.
The most prevalent types of malware are; Trojan horses, spyware, and viruses. Installing antivirus software and making sure that computers are updated frequently are the greatest ways to protect against malware.
Make sure you have the most recent security features that close known security gaps and assist in protecting your systems against viruses and malware by setting up your devices, operating systems, and applications to automatically install updates.
Keep An Eye Out for Social Engineering
Have you ever received an email requesting personal information from you or threatening to suspend your account if you don’t supply login credentials? Cybercriminals psychologically manipulate people into disclosing private information online, also known as social engineering technique. The strongest defenses against a social engineering attack are awareness, watching out for irregularities, and knowing who to trust with confidential information.
Use Unique or Uncommon Passwords
Most individuals use various devices and accounts on a daily basis, often choosing to keep the same password for all their devices rather than having a variety of them. This also applies to staff members who frequently use the same or similar passwords for both personal and professional accounts. This could be risky because if one account is taken over by hackers, it could mean that all of the accounts and the data they store are now easily accessible.
Establish Thorough Company Policies
An organization’s cybersecurity policies lay out the standards and best practices that workers should adhere to in order to protect their systems and keep your firm safe from the threat of cyberattacks.
Company policies are essential for communicating from the top down and increasing staff awareness. Thorough online business security policies for an organization should include the following:
- Effective administration of passwords
- Explain the significance of cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity awareness training for threats like phishing and ransomware
- Implementing security updates
- Locking all computers when not in use
- Reporting stolen or misplaced equipment
- Applying social media privacy settings
To learn more about how JENLOR can help you implement thorough cybersecurity policies for your organization, contact us today and allow us to help provide the best security for your business.