How Can Cloud Technology Help Your Business Save Money

Most people want to keep unnecessary expenses low. However, we all know how easy it can be for regular expenses to increase over time. Even if everything is running smoothly, saving a little more can give you capital that you can use to invest in your business’ growth. There are many reasons why you should consider cloud technology.

There are many ways to save money for your business. However, one strategy that is often overlooked is to switch over to cloud-based accounting or support applications.

Cloud technology offers many other benefits than monetary, but it is also cost-effective. This is why people frequently make the switch to the cloud.

Ways That Cloud Technology Can Save Your Company Money

Equipment costs are lower

Terminal-based systems have equipment. This includes monitors, computers, software, data storage, and other equipment.

Cloud systems offer greater flexibility and are usually less expensive because they include many back-end features such as data storage and security.

A cloud system requires only a computer and an internet connection. Traditional terminal-based systems require extensive IT infrastructure.

Maintenance and updates

A cloud application is more cost-effective than a terminal-based platform. Regular maintenance and updates are included in the monthly fee.

This is a great option for small- to medium-sized companies that don’t have the budget to hire an IT department but lack the skills to maintain their systems. A cloud system gives you the advantage of an experienced IT staff, while the cost of the system is low as it’s shared among all users.

Scalability

This is a key feature of cloud platforms that are attractive to startups and small businesses. It allows you to scale up or decrease without having to incur huge costs.

Businesses often struggle to hire more employees, which puts stress on their IT infrastructure. This can result in higher costs because they will need to upgrade their IT infrastructure to accommodate the additional users. Cloud-based systems allow you to easily add or remove users.

Streamlined pricing.

Cloud-based systems typically offer a subscription-based pricing model. This means that you only pay a monthly fee for all services.

It is simple to budget and predict. It can be hard to predict the costs of terminal-based systems as upgrades and issues often occur unexpectedly.

You can drive your business forward.

The basic effect of all these cost-saving means you have more money for your business, and a greater level of visibility. This allows you to increase your profitability and drive your business ahead.

It is worth looking into a cloud-based solution if you want to make more money for your business or reduce your monthly expenses.

Call SpartanTec, Inc. today for a consultation to learn more about cloud technology for accounting. We can help you stay on top of your processes and save time.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston

How Can Cloud Computing Save You Time And Money

Cloud computing is the ideal IT support service for small businesses. It offers many capabilities to protect data and information. It provides authentic security and is cost-effective for all businesses, small and large. Small businesses can use the internet and a web browser to access the software. Small businesses can also use cloud computing with a monthly payment processes. Cloud computing allows businesses to access all data, from data backup to CRM (Customer Relations Management) systems.

These factors will help you understand how cloud computing can save time and money.

It’s easy to connect Cloud computing allows businesses to work from any location or device that has an internet connection.

Cloud computing allows for collaboration. The cloud computing program is ideal for remote employees. Cloud computing can be used by business owners to allow employees to work anywhere. Cloud computing also comes in handy when it comes to protecting data. Cloud-based software allows users to work together with documents from different locations. It doesn’t require any email attachments, task lists, or calendars.

Flexibility is key to growth Cloud-based programs allow you to increase your resources. These programs can be used with expanded resources because they are flexible. Cloud computing allows you to connect documents to multiple sources. Even if you don’t plan for the future, this can be a great way to save time. You can share documents to instantly extend resources if your client needs more. Cloud computing allows you to manage the growth of your resources.

Cost effective Cloud computing has many benefits. It saves you time and money. Cloud computing helps to save server maintenance, cooling, and power costs. Cloud computing can save you money on software licensing and upgrades. Instead of spending a lot on hardware that is rarely used, cloud computing allows you to choose software that can help expand your business. This option is ideal for small-business owners.

Backup of data securely Cloud Computing is the best IT Service. Cloud computing allows you to store and retrieve backup data. This means that you can access your most recent backups even if your system is down. Cloud computing allows you to automatically store backup data and protects your online location.

Conclusion  No matter how big or small your business is, a high-level management approach is essential to maximize productivity and generate a handsome revenue stream. SpartanTec, Inc. can provide cloud computing services with great assistance.

People also ask

Does cloud really save money?
The reality is that the cloud can and often does save companies money, but only if you build your system in such a way as to promote cost savings. Even then, it tends to be a long-term payoff rather than a short-term windfall. https://manageditserviceswilmington.com/it-services-wilmington-nc

What are the main advantages of cloud services?
1) Back-up and restore data.
2) Improved collaboration.
3) Excellent accessibility.
4) Low maintenance cost.
5) Mobility.
6) IT Services in the pay-per-use model.
7) Unlimited storage capacity.
8) Data security.
https://manageditserviceswilmington.com/cloud-prevent-disasters-companies

Call SpartanTec, Inc. now if you want to know more about cloud computing and managed IT services.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston

The Hidden Costs Of Cyberattacks

Cyberattacks can have many effects on an organization. The impact will vary depending upon the severity and nature of the incident.

However, common perceptions are shaped largely by what companies must report publicly, namely theft of personally identifiable information (PII), personal payment data and personal health information. The cost of customer notification, credit monitoring and legal penalties are the most common topics. The industry has made significant progress in this area and is now able to agree on the “cost per record” calculation for data breaches by consumers.

However, cases of intellectual property theft, espionage and data destruction, attacks upon core operations, and attempts to disable critical infrastructure are rarely brought to the public’s attention. These attacks can have a far greater impact on organizations than what is visible. They also result in additional costs that are often harder to quantify and hidden from the public. Deloitte Advisory’s new study “Beyond the surface of a Cyberattack: A deeper Look at Business Impacts” recently highlighted the extent and duration of cyberattacks in financial terms. CFO Insights will concentrate on the seven costs that may not be obvious and why they are important to consider when trying to determine the total cost.

Below the surface costs

The cyber report revealed 14 business effects of cyber incidents as they unfold over a five year incident response process. There were seven direct and seven hidden costs. Different financial modeling techniques were used for the intangible cost estimates (see “Assigning value and intangible losses”) Research showed that data breaches are more costly than their “hidden” counterparts. They accounted for less that 5 percent of the total business effect in Deloitte scenarios.

Cyberattacks hidden costs are important to CFOs because of their impact.

Increases in insurance premiums Cyber incident-related premium increases can lead to an increase in insurance premiums. Unfortunately, there is not much information available about actual premium increases after cybersecurity attacks. Deloitte did informal research among cyber insurance providers and found that policyholders can face a 200% increase in premiums or even be denied coverage until strict conditions are met. * Our sources say that future costs can be affected by factors such as the willingness and depth of information given by policyholders upon reviewing the incident, the plan of the policyholder to improve incident handling and other aspects of its security program, anticipated litigation, and assumptions about the company’s cybersecurity maturity.

Costs to raise debt are rising. An increase in the cost of raising debt is caused by a decrease in credit ratings. The victim organization will be charged higher interest rates when borrowing capital. This could happen when they are trying to raise new debt or restructure existing debt. In the months after a cyber attack, organizations are perceived as more risky borrowers. Deloitte compared the credit ratings of nine companies from the same industry, which were all comparable in size, and found that the average Standard & Poor’s credit rating was A. These companies were also compared to companies that had suffered a cyber attack. In the short-term, credit-rating agencies tend to downgrade one-level companies who have suffered a cyber attack.

Operational disruption and destruction. Operational disruption or destruction is a variable cost category. It includes costs related to the alteration or manipulation of usual business operations as well as costs linked to rebuilding operational capacities. This could be the need to fix equipment or facilities, create temporary infrastructure, divert resources, or increase existing resources to support other business operations that replace those temporarily disabled. This could include the loss of goods and services. Each situation is unique and therefore requires a detailed understanding of many information components.

Customer relationships are lost value. It can be difficult to quantify the number of customers lost during the initial period following a breach. Marketing teams and economists approach this problem by assigning a value to each customer or member in order to determine how much investment the business needs to acquire them. Then they look at the revenue this customer or member is likely to generate over time for the business. These numbers can be compared by industry to determine how much investment is required to acquire and attract new customers.

The value of the lost revenue from contracts. The value of the lost contract revenue will include the revenue, lost chances, and ultimate income loss, linked with contracts ended due to a cyber attack. Deloitte calculated the value of test cases to determine the financial impact of lost premiums or contracts before and after the cyberattack. It was assumed that the company would lose revenues if it suffered a cyberattack. The present value, which is an estimate of future income streams in dollar terms. Since one could earn interest on the dollar received today, a dollar today would be worth more than a dollar in future dollars), of cash flows that the company would generate over the term of these contracts was then determined.

Trade name devaluation. The devaluation of trade names is an intangible category that refers to the decrease in value of symbols, names, and marks used by organizations to differentiate their products and services. A brand name refers to a company or product name, while a trade name refers to the entire organization. The likely value of a trade name before and after a cyber attack must be evaluated to determine its financial impact on a company’s business name. Deloitte used the relief-from–royalty method to value the trade name. Commonly used to value IP assets like trade names, the relief-from-royalty approach estimates the value by analyzing the price another entity would pay to license the company’s trade name. Deloitte used the actual royalties or rates that were paid in royalty transactions for similar IP types to establish a reasonable royalty fee. Profit margins across industries were also examined to determine how much a typical company would be able to pay.

Intellectual property loss. The loss of intellectual property (IP) is an intangible expense that results from losing exclusive control over trade secrets and copyrights, investment strategies, and other proprietary or confidential information. This can cause a loss of competitive advantage and revenue loss, as well as lasting and possibly irreparable economic damages to the company. IP includes, but is not limited to, patents and designs, copyrights trademarks and trade secrets. Trade secrets, unlike other IP types, are indefinitely protected until they are publicly disclosed. The value of IP can be approximated by estimating how much another party would pay for it to be licensed.

A fuller cost picture

Despite all the media attention given to major data breaches, business leaders, including CFOs rarely see the reality behind an organization’s efforts to recover from it. Cyber incidents are not just a technical issue. They often impact business value and performance, and go beyond technology. You can also see the subtler effects of cyber incidents.

Multidisciplinary approaches are required to understand the more subtle effects of cyberattacks on computer security. This requires deep understanding of cyber incidents, as well as financial quantification, valuation techniques, business context, and financial quantification. Leaders can improve their ability to recover from cyberattacks and manage cyber risk by having a better understanding of all the possible business effects, including the seven described here.

Call SpartanTec, Inc. now if you need help in protecting your information against online threats.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston

30 Questions Vendors Should Ask to Reduce Cybersecurity Risk

It is not easy to make a decision about any major organizational change. There are many stakeholders to please, budgets to be met, and risks to manage. There are many issues to consider when you choose and implement a new system. It can also be difficult to ensure that the system meets your cybersecurity expectations and needs. Here are 30 questions to ask when you’re considering a new system.

Questions about data

Where and how is data stored?

You may be able to store your data in-house, or they might store it in the cloud. If your system is cloud-based you should determine the location of the servers. Data is not always stored in the same country as the vendor. This can cause problems if your organization has strict confidentiality policies.

What is the best way to encrypt data?

To reduce the risk of unauthorized access to confidential information in your organization, it is important to ensure that it is properly encrypted.

What is the best way to transmit data?

Data is transferred from one system to another when a new system is implemented. Is there a way to transfer data securely? How will information be transferred to or from the system in the future?

What cybersecurity data protection measures are in place?

What IT security measures has the vendor put in place to protect your data This is a difficult question to answer. Let them talk about their safeguards and strategies.

How can you manage remote access?

Switching to a cloud-based platform is a way for employees to work remotely from anywhere, including home or at a client’s location. It is important that the cloud-based system is secure and allows for complete data access without compromising any data.

How do you manage confidential data and authorized users?

Many companies require different levels of access to their systems. A front-line employee might only have access to information, while an executive may be able modify or delete data. In the same way, confidential data belonging only to one department might be accessible only by those who have logins for that particular department. You should ensure that your system tracks data changes to be able to determine who and when they occurred.

You also need strong password management. This includes regular updates and character requirements.

Who is the owner of the data?

Data ownership refers to the “legal rights and total control over one piece of data or set thereof”. While some vendors might become the owners of your data if you transfer it into their systems, others will allow you to retain ownership. While this may not be a significant issue for some companies, it could have a major impact on others. Make sure the system meets your requirements.

What happens to data when the partnership is ended?

Let’s say your contract expires and you decide to terminate the relationship with the vendor. Is the vendor going to return the data or will it be deleted? This is an important concern and should be addressed in your contract.

Is data permanently deleted after it is deleted?

You must ensure that you can delete a file without any doubt. Some systems allow you to delete an item as an “archive” function. It is hidden from view but still accessible. This could be good or bad depending on the situation. Make sure you fully understand the system’s functions.

What is the best way to recover data in case of loss?

It’s a bad sign if the vendor doesn’t have a data recovery plan. It’s unlikely that they will be able to retrieve your data if they don’t know how to do it.

Do any third parties have access?

Although you are outsourcing data management to a vendor they might have their own outsourcing agreements. You may be able to open your data to multiple entities by entering into an agreement only with one vendor. You must ensure that you have all the relevant information and that any third parties are not a risk to your data. How much access can these organizations have and what management methods do they use to manage them?

Security questions

What are you doing to prevent breaches?

Similar to the previous data protection question, this question confirms that multiple cyber security practices and policies are in place. This question is easy to answer, provided the vendor uses reasonable strategies.

Are you a holder of (x) security certificates?

Vendors may be required to demonstrate a high level of security compliance by your organization. All documentation should be provided by the vendor.

Are you able to provide (x) security measures?

You may need certain methods to protect your data. You should ensure that the vendor can meet all your security requirements and needs.

What are the best cyber security practices?

Formal documentation of internal procedures can help answer this question. This document shows that cyber security is being taken seriously by the company and that employees follow a set of rules.

How often do your scans for vulnerabilities occur?

Vendors who are trusted with sensitive data should regularly scan their systems for vulnerabilities. It is important to know how many issues are typically found and how fast they can be fixed so customers are not adversely affected.

How often does the system get updated?

Technology is constantly changing at a rapid pace. Systems need to be updated regularly to fix vulnerabilities and other issues. While some updates can be released automatically on a regular schedule, others may require system downtime.

Could you please provide the results from your most recent security audit?

It is useful to get a second opinion about the vendor’s security procedures. It will help you clarify any doubts.

Are you using physical data protection?

It’s easy for vendors to overlook physical protection, even though cyber security is so important. For example, there are secured entryways that allow them into data-hosting areas.

Are there any security breaches or issues that you have experienced in the past?

Ask vendors to detail any incidents, including how they were solved, the duration of the exposure, and the impact it had on affected organizations. Most vendors will have experienced some form of security breach, no matter how severe. This should not be taken as a sign that the vendor isn’t trustworthy. It’s more important to look at how the events were managed. The vendor probably has a plan that minimizes losses and recoveries. If they are unable to speak about recovery procedures or if there are frequent incidents, this is a red flag.

Which system monitoring procedures are in use?

It is not unusual to hear of breaches that were not reported until months later, sometimes because vendors didn’t know there was a problem. Vendors should be notified immediately if data is exposed or becomes vulnerable.

What are the reporting requirements?

The vendor should be notified immediately if a potentially dangerous person enters or unauthorized changes are made to the system. Will they get an urgent notification, such as a phone call or alert? Or will it be an email that is not missed? This could make a big difference in a prompt response.

How can you tell customers about security concerns?

Notify you as soon as possible. Determine the typical communication methods and response times of vendors. To properly manage risk, you need to be confident that you are informed about any security issues. So that the vendor can understand your expectations, you should specify your preferred communication method.

Questions for the Security Team

Who is responsible to ensure cyber security?

You can provide information on key contacts or executives responsible for cyber security to show that there are dedicated people working to protect your data. This also helps you to understand who will be responsible in the future for any questions or concerns.

How often do your security personnel receive training?

Cyber risks change constantly and best practices must be updated as well. Regular training should be provided to team members on the policies and procedures that are needed to protect data against the latest hacker attacks and threats.

How can you evaluate the security team’s knowledge?

Information about the selection and monitoring of progress will allow you to understand the depth and knowledge of your employees and will reassure you that all your data will be safe.

How can you get information about cyber security?

Information updates are essential for teams to keep abreast of new threats and risks. Even though a system may be considered the most secure in the market today, tomorrow will bring new vulnerabilities to the surface. To ensure that they are always ready, serious vendors will continue to seek out information on trends.

Other Questions

Are you prepared for a business continuity or disaster recovery plan?

Cyber security is all about when, not if. Do they have a plan for when something happens to their vendor? Are they able to quickly initiate recovery procedures to minimize downtime and possible losses?

Are you covered for cybersecurity and liability?

Insurance is an important risk management tool. It transfers financial responsibility for an incident to another party. A strong cyber policy will guarantee that you are able to get compensation from the vendor in the worst case.

Referring people who have had similar experiences to yours?

Sometimes third parties can provide objective information about a product or system. Talk to the vendors’ customers about your concerns and find out what they think of the system. Before you move forward, ask the vendor if there were any security issues or if they have any advice.

Although this list might seem lengthy, cyber security is essential in today’s world. You can never be too thorough. These questions will ensure that you get the best possible vendor while minimizing risks.

Call SpartanTec, Inc. now if you need the appropriate security measures to be set in place to protect your information.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston

What is More Dangerous: Malware, Viruses, or Spyware?

An antivirus program that focuses solely on computer viruses protection would be almost useless. Computer viruses are one type of threat, and they are not the only kind. Antivirus software is able to protect against any type of malicious software. We encourage you to get antivirus protection. This includes protection against all types of malware.

Why are viruses so rare? Coders, malware coders included, just want to make money. The virus business is not as lucrative as the revenge business. Spyware can steal personal data and bank Trojans steal directly from the source. Ransomware also demands untraceable money from its victims. There is plenty of money available. Modern antivirus software offers full-spectrum protection against all kinds of malware. Antivirus software that protects against all types of threats is the best, so you don’t have to be able to tell which one.

However, there may be situations where you need to know more about malware and malware protection than you know. There are many news stories that talk about hacks and security breaches. You don’t have to worry about it: This quick guide to the most common threats that you will encounter (in the news, as we hope), can help you get up-to-speed.

Antivirus Tips: Learn about security threats and how they spread

When a user launches infected programs or boots from infected USB drives or disks, a virus is launched. Because viruses need to spread quickly and are not easily detected, they keep a low profile. Virus codes are usually infected by new programs and disks. The virus payload is usually activated at a specific date and time. Early virus payloads were often mindless destruction and pointless showboating. They are more likely to steal information from major websites or take part in DDoS (Distributed Deny of Service) attacks.

Worms can spread like viruses. However, they are not susceptible to being launched or mounted by a user. A worm copies itself onto another computer, then launches it. The Morris worm caused severe damage in 1988. It was originally intended to be a test of the internet’s potential. Although it was not malicious, the Morris worm’s overly enthusiastic self-replication took up significant bandwidth.

Trojan horse programs, also known as Trojans, are malicious software that hides code in a seemingly useful program. This is just like how the Greek forces tricked the peoples of Troy by hiding their warriors within the Trojan Horse. The utility, game or other application usually performs its intended task but it soon does something dangerous. When users or websites share this information with others, it spreads. Trojans can make you a lot of money. Bank Trojans can inject fake transactions into your online banking accounts to drain them. Others Trojans will steal your personal information so that their creators may sell it on Dark Web.

Learn about security threats and what they do

The way in which they spread is what defines viruses, worms and Trojans. Others malicious programs get their names from the things they do. Spyware is software that monitors your computer and steals passwords and other personal information. Spyware can also spy on your computer by monitoring and listening to conversations. Spyware can take over your phone and make every part of your life available for anyone who wants to. Modern antivirus programs often include components that are specifically designed to protect against spyware.

Adware displays unwanted advertisements that may be targeted at your interests using information stolen from a spyware component. Sometimes, the ads can be so frequent that they interrupt your normal computer use.

Rootkit technology is a way to disguise malicious programs’ components by hacking into the operating system. Rootkit technology intercepts a security program’s request to access Windows files. It deletes its name and sends the compromised list to the program. Rootkits are capable of performing the same kind of chicanery when requesting data from the Registry.

Although a bot infestation won’t actually harm your computer, it can make your system complicit in the harming of others. It hides quietly until its owner or bot herder broadcasts an order. It then follows the instructions of hundreds, or even thousands, and does what it is told. Spam is often sent by bots, which means that spammers’ systems are not involved.

There are many types of malware. There are malicious programs that aid in spreading other malware. Although these dropper programs are small and discreet, they can send a steady stream to your computer with other malware. Droppers may be given instructions by their remote owners, just like a bot, about which malware they should distribute. This distribution service is paid for by malware writers.

Ransomware is a program that holds your computer and your data hostage for ransom. Ransomware can encrypt documents and demand ransom money in return for decryption keys. This is the most common type. Your antivirus should be able to deal with ransomware in the same way as other types of malware. You may want to install a ransomware protection tool, as the consequences of missing ransomware attacks can be so severe.

Not all security software is legitimate

Antivirus programs may not be as effective as they appear. Many are fake programs, or rogue programs that do not protect your security and can damage your bank account. These programs are not designed to provide any protection, but they can be actively harmful. These programs are often called scareware because they work hard to get you to pay for registration. Registering will only make you waste your money, and you will also give your credit card details to scammers.

As programs become more sophisticated, it becomes more difficult to avoid scareware. Before purchasing any antivirus or security software, smart consumers will read reviews. Be sure to only trust reputable sites. You may find reviews that are as fake as the programs they endorse.

Protect your PC with mix-and-match protection

These categories are not mutually exclusive. One threat could spread virus-style, steal personal information such as spyware, and then use rootkit technology in order to hide from antivirus. Scareware programs are Trojans that can also steal private information.

You should also keep in mind that you can have multiple security solutions. An antivirus component is a key part of a full-scale security solution. However, other components can be added to enhance that protection. The firewall protects against attacks from the Internet and can also prevent attempts to exploit system weaknesses. Spam filters stop attempts to install malware on your computer via email. Many suites now offer a VPN for protecting your internet traffic. However, access to all VPN features may be required to pay an additional fee.

All these malicious programs are included in the term malware. Malware programs are any program that has a malicious purpose. This term is used by industry groups such as the Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization. However, consumers are more familiar with the term antivirus than anti-malware. The word is what we have remained. Remember that your antivirus must protect you from all forms of malware.

Now you have a good idea how you can determine the primary types of malicious software. Hopefully, you don’t have to face problems with malware, spyware, or ransomware. If you still want to know more, contact SpartanTec, Inc. Wilmington NC.

Call SpartanTec, Inc. now if you need help in protecting your information against malware, virus, spyware, and other online threats.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston

How Can Managed IT Services Protect Your Systems From Ransomware

According to a survey by InfoSec professionals in 2018, the greatest cybersecurity problem globally was ransomware prevention. That’s why managed IT services are essential for businesses.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that threatens the victim’s data by publishing or blocking it. If the ransom is not paid, the victim will be unable to access their data. Sounds nasty, doesn’t it? It is.

You may be able reverse certain attacks if you are knowledgeable about ransomware. Advanced malware is more difficult to combat because it encrypts victim’s files and demands money to decrypt them. This is known as crypto-viral exortion.

Without the decryption keys, it is almost impossible for victims of cybercrime to retrieve their files. It is also difficult to report cybercriminals as ransoms are paid in digital currencies that are hard to trace such as Bitcoin.

Do I need Ransomware Protection

Ransomware can be used to target anyone who has an internet connection and a computer. The risk of being attacked is high, regardless of whether it’s an individual user or business. Ransomware protection is necessary.

You might be curious about ransomware’s operation. When it infects computers, victims are shown a warning message on their screen. There is also a demand for payment.

In the 1980s, ransomware was first developed. Payment was sent by snail mail. Today, however the payment can be made using cryptocurrency or credit cards.

According to research, Iran, Thailand, and the UAE had the highest ransomware infections rates in 2018. These infections are most often caused by spam/phishing emails and a lack of cybersecurity training.

Managed IT service providers reported that CryptoLocker was the most common ransomware strain by victims, followed by WannaCry (WannaCry) and CryptoWall.

Ransomware can target backups

Advanced ransomware can delete any backups it finds. One common tactic is to delete backups of files that have been created on Windows. You can’t revert back by restoring the system.

Ransomware can also be spread to other computers via shared network drives. Ransomware crawls the system searching for certain file types depending on its intent. It will most likely encrypt any backup file extensions it finds.

Ransomware actually aims to infect as many systems as possible.

Backups need not be vulnerable. Reputable managed IT providers can help protect your backups and systems from ransomware attacks.

How can managed IT services prevent ransomware attacks?

Small and large businesses today want to learn how to avoid ransomware. Most small businesses turn to managed service providers for reliable solutions. Here are some ways they can make sure that adequate protections are in place so as to reduce the chance of infection.

Advanced Defense to Minimize Risques

Ransomware is a form of malware so it is crucial to have reliable antivirus software on all computers. This is the first line defense and is installed by managed IT service providers.

DNS filtering is another line of defense that prevents users from accessing dangerous web pages. DNS filtering redirects user’s web traffic via a cloud-based security system that can be adjusted so that protections are in place that stop threats at the network’s door and prevent users from accessing malicious sites.

Increased email security:

Ransomware uses emails as a main route to spread its malicious code. This is why it is important to have a solution that reduces the chance of malware reaching users’ inboxes. If ransomware does manage to reach the user’s inbox, this solution will prevent it from causing any damage.

You may be mistaken if you believe the spam filter will quarantine ransomware. Multi-layered security inspection is crucial. An IT service provider may be able to provide advanced protection against unsafe attachments and links. You can also block people from accessing infected files.

Patching and Updating

It is important to patch and update your system regularly in order to reduce the chance of ransomware attacks. Managed service providers ensure that all systems are kept up-to date by following a strict patching schedule. This allows your business to continue its day without interruption and prevents you from being delayed in getting patches that could make your system vulnerable.

Training end users

It is crucial to educate all employees and users about cybersecurity and possible threats in order to ensure that they use their devices and apps responsibly.

Users may use any method necessary to complete their tasks quickly. Clients may send files via their email. Or they might use external storage drives to transfer files. You must inform them of the consequences of their actions, including the possibility of placing your systems at risk.

Managed service providers provide continuous education to users in order to increase their awareness of cyber threats and to test their knowledge. Simulators allow users to track their responses to a threat.

This information may be used by organizations to reward users who correctly identify threats and take corrective action. They also provide additional training for users who require it.

Regular backups are essential

Ransomware can still be a threat to systems even if they have all the necessary defenses. Trustworthy managed service providers will be able to anticipate any possible infection and use the right software to restore sensitive data. Clients have access to both cloud-based and local backup to facilitate this.

Cloud-to-cloud backup solutions are another necessity. Microsoft has taken many safeguarding measures to ensure Office 365 backups, but users can upload malicious files into OneDrive, which could lead to all files being infected. Only an experienced managed services provider can protect your files in such a situation.

Monitoring and mitigation

Finally, managed IT providers closely monitor your IT environment and ensure it is safe. Your systems are equipped to respond to ransomware attacks automatically. If an attack occurs, you will be notified immediately. The provider’s settings will immediately isolate the infected machine and run an anti-malware scan to prevent other files from being infected. This will limit the damage and protect other computers.

Conclusion

There is no single solution to ransomware prevention. To protect their systems against attacks, both individuals and businesses would be well advised to hire a reliable managed IT service provider. A reliable service provider can help you defeat such attacks by removing malware from the system and training your employees on internet security. We would love to hear about your security measures to protect your system from malicious malware. Please share them with us in the comments section.

Call SpartanTec, Inc. now if you are interested in getting managed IT services for your business.

SpartanTec, Inc.
Wilmington, NC 28412
(910) 218-9255
http://manageditserviceswilmington.com

Serving: Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Florence, Charleston