The top 10 IT & Cyber Security Questions Answered!

Being concerned about cybersecurity is crucial in today's digital world. In fact, according to the Cyber security breaches survey 2022  results show that in the last 12 months, 39% of UK businesses identified a cyber attack. For this reason, we’ve answered the top 10 questions about IT and Cyber Security that can help guide you on how to prevent your business from cyber threats.

 

What is the most common cyber threat right now?

Phishing emails are the most dominant, especially because they work. People frequently fall for phishing attempts as they can sometimes be almost imperceptible from regular, legitimate emails. Implementing robust cyber security solutions and focusing on end-user education is the key to helping keep your organisation secure.

 

What is a VPN?

VPN = Virtual Private Network. A VPN allows teams to access their office data, no matter where they are working from. As long as the VPN is configured correctly, your data will be secure. 

Do I need to update/upgrade my systems regularly?

Keeping up to date with the latest software updates is a must. These updates are known as patches and they protect you from vulnerabilities in software that hackers can exploit. Upgrading/updating your physical and cloud-based systems can help enhance the security of your organisation's most sensitive data. Furthermore, at the point a software r product becomes end-of-life and updates are no longer being issued, you must make the switch to an upgraded system.

At ADT Systems our team will get to know your business IT systems in detail and will be able to recommend the right products and services to help reach your organisation’s needs. 

 

I'm not sure that my IT team are staffed suitably.

Determining the appropriate staffing levels for an IT team can be a complex task that depends on various factors, including the size of your organisation, the scope and complexity of your IT infrastructure, the nature of your industry, and your specific IT needs and goals. If you have been struggling to find the right IT specialists to join your team, then you can look to outsource some of your IT to a Managed Support Provider (MSP) like ourselves. At ADT Systems we can deliver a large scope of IT and cybersecurity services, that can support, and help your business's prosperity as well as the in-house IT team could do.

 

 

I just need IT Support, is a roadmap necessary?

If you're specifically looking for IT support, such as a helpdesk or technical assistance for your business, a roadmap may not be necessary in the traditional sense. A roadmap typically outlines the strategic direction, goals, and milestones for an initiative or project. However, in the case of IT support, your primary focus is on ensuring that your IT team is capable of effectively handling support requests and providing timely resolutions to issues.

At ADT Systems you will have a dedicated Technical Consultant who will work closely with you to ensure your roadmap aligns with your business goals and objectives. 

 

What obligations does my business have regarding Cyber security and GDPR?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a legal requirement that means businesses must have robust technical and organisational measures in place to help control data from being leaked, stolen, or inappropriately accessed. When this occurs, it is a breach of the GDPR and can lead to not only financial penalties but reputational damage too. All businesses have the legal obligation to protect not only your clients’ but your teams’ data. This can be achieved, in part, through a robust cyber security plan, that we can help you prepare. 

 

How should we respond in a cyber security emergency?

In a cyber security emergency, it is essential to respond promptly and effectively to minimise damage and protect sensitive information. You must have a disaster recovery plan to refer to if the worst-case scenario arises. Whether you have lost data due to human error or a cyber attack, a disaster recovery plan gives you clear steps to follow in an emergency, helping to limit downtime and get your business back up and running.

 

 

Do we know where our data is and if it is safe?

The location and safety of your data depend on various factors, including the specific services or platforms you use, as well as the security measures implemented by those providers. Here are some general points to consider: To help mitigate this threat, pick a couple of locations to store data, such as Microsoft SharePoint and OneDrive and make a formal record of what is stored in these locations.

 

What is the best way to protect my accounts?

Protecting your accounts is crucial in maintaining your online security. Here are some best practices to help you safeguard your account:

The first step would be through creating a strong password using a combination of random words/letters (upper and lower case) numbers and symbols. Avoid using personal things such as your date of birth or your pet’s name – which are easily traced. The next step would be to enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, usually a temporary code sent to your mobile device or generated through an authentication app. Enable 2FA for your important accounts, such as email, banking, and social media, whenever possible. Be cautious of phishing attempts: Be vigilant about suspicious emails, messages, or calls asking for your personal information. Phishing attempts often impersonate legitimate organizations to trick you into revealing sensitive data. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information unless you are confident in the source. Another useful tip is to limit personal information shared online: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your full address or phone number, on public platforms. Be cautious about the information you provide on social media and adjust privacy settings accordingly.

 

Do I have to regularly train my staff on cyber security?

Yes, it is highly recommended to regularly train your staff on cybersecurity. Cyber threats and attack techniques are constantly evolving, and it's essential to keep your employees up to date with the latest best practices and security measures to protect your organization's sensitive information and systems.

Regular cybersecurity training helps raise awareness among your staff about potential risks, such as phishing attempts, social engineering tactics, malware, and data breaches. It equips them with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to security incidents effectively, reducing the likelihood of successful cyber attacks.

 

Contact us today if you would like more advice on IT Support and Cyber Security or would like to learn more about our service offering for your business.