cyber security Archives - Page 5 of 14 -

High Alert! Ransomware is locking down local businesses

May 8, 2017

BE AWARE! Ransomware is on the rise and is shutting down businesses in our local community.

If you’re unsure what Ransomware is, it’s a computer malware that installs covertly on a victim’s device (computer, smartphone, wearable devices, etc.). The malware holds the victim’s data hostage, or exposes the victim’s data until the ransom is paid.

Think about how crippling Ransomware is, your entire business is shut down until the ransom is paid. Business transactions cannot be made, disgruntled customers, and negative exposure.

Our company has recently noticed an article from the Providence Journal regarding a Ransomware shutdown of a prominent Providence law firm. The article talks about how the Providence law firm was held captive for months by encrypting its files and then demanding $25,000 in ransom paid in cyber currency to restore access. During the seizure, the firm claims they were left unproductive and unable to operate, resulting in $700,000 lost billing. Not only did they lose $700,000, the insurance company refused to pay their claim.

As a “Complete Security Solution” company, we want to warn our community and inform that cyber threats are no joke. Prevention should not be taken lightly, and you must implement prevention instead of reaction. Listed below are a few prevention tips:

Start with a well-rounded antivirus with active monitoring
- The software must include anti-malware and anti-ransomware programs.
Next, create secure backups of your data on a regular basis
- You can purchase USBs, external hard drive or cloud storage.
Stay Informed
- Read about current events, follow cyber security blogs, search the web, educate yourself.
Outsource
- When all fails or you simply do not want to deal with the cyber drama, you can outsource to the professionals.

In closing, be safe. Complete your due-diligence, understand the different types of cyber threats. Protect yourself, business, employees and customers.

Protect Your Website from Hackers

March 16, 2017

Website Security

5 Tips When Securing Your Website

Website breaches happen every day, and we’re noticing many avoidable methods when they occur. During this blog, SecurityRI will point out five major key points when securing your website.

Make sure your passwords are secure

It’s temping to go with the easy passwords, such as ABC or 123. Although, hackers can crack the common passwords within the blink of an eye. Ensure you’re using passwords with special characters and non-related to your user name, business or personal information.

Use HTTPS

As a consumer, you may already know what a “secure” website looks like. It’s the “green” lock within the URL. If you have an online store, or if any part of your website will require visitors to hand over sensitive information like credit card numbers, you must invest in an SSL certificate. The cost to you is minor, but the extra level of encryption it offers will keep your customers safe along with your reputation. (more…)

Protect Yourself When Using Social Media

February 24, 2017

Social Media

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and list continues. Social Media has been the topic of discussion for some time now. In 2017, it seems everyone has become a victim to the addicting “social world”. However, do not let yourself become a different type of victim, a victim to social media fraud.

Social Media Fraud

Social media has transformed into a hunting ground for identity thieves. If you are a cyber-criminal why wouldn’t you research for detailed information through social media? You can find many user facts, besides their social security number.

Before you continue to read our blog just think about the information you are sharing right now? Even if your account is set to “private”, cyber thieves can obtain the following personal information:

Full Name
Birth date (Don’t you want your followers to wish you a happy birthday!)
Home Address
Work Address
E-mail
Etc

Now think about this simple scenario. Say a cyber thief wants to access your bank account information. They currently have your full name, address, e-mail, etc. The only material they’re missing is your user security Q&A’s. Although, why not dig a little deeper into your profile. Say your “security questions” are regarding my cute puppy Rex. I’m always posting pictures and tagging Rex, well guess what? The cyber-criminal can crack your simple security question by searching through your recent postings. It may sound unreal, although many users do not follow the correct safety protocol. I understand many users like to make their password and security questions simple to remember.

How to Protect Yourself?

Limit the amount of personal information you post – You do not want cyber criminals sniffing around and knowing your every move. Do not allow people to understand your schedule and routine, especially strangers.
Understand that the Internet is a public resource – Only post information you are comfortable with everyone seeing. This includes information, photos in your profile, blogs and other forums. Also, once you post information online, you can’t retract it. Even if you remove the information from a site, saved or cached versions may still exist on other people’s machines.
Be wary of strangers – You wouldn’t allow every stranger in the world into your home, so don’t allow them to see everything on your social media page.
Evaluate your settings – Take advantage to the site privacy settings. Understand the social media engine and benefit from its offerings. Customize your profile to ensure only your close friends and family may see your post / statuses. Sites may update their settings periodically, so make sure you read / understand the revised versions.
Use strong passwords / security questions – Never associate with easy to find information. Also, use special characters when choosing difficult passwords.
Keep software, particularly your web browser, up to date – Install software updates so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Many operating systems offer automatic updates. If this option is available, you should enable it.
Use and maintain anti-virus software – Anti-virus software helps protect your computer against known viruses, so you may be able to detect and remove the virus before it can do any damage. Because attackers are continually writing new viruses, it is important to keep your definitions up to date. Staying Safe US-Cert

Spread the Word

Hopefully, we’re able to reach our followers and help them understand the social media threats. Please enjoy your time on social media, although, be safe and smart when posting.

Feel free to share our blogs! If you have any questions contact SecurityRI at any time.

Thank you –

Do Not Fall Victim!

February 17, 2017

Security Best Practices for Businesses

Best Practices for Cyber Security in 2017

Many individuals believe in cyber security practice, although some people do not see the threats. Why worry about something major if it never happened to you?

Well, statistics prove how damaging cyber threats are and how they can cripple your organization. Please take note – not all cyber protection cost money. If you believe in proper protocol and follow through with simple updates, you may protect yourself and others from future threats.