In 4 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses (Part 1), I previously shared about cybersecurity. It includes creating better passwords, setting restrictions, and so on. For this blog post, I will discussed more helpful tips for small businesses.

5. Plan for any Data Breach that May Happen

For this step, you may want to consult an IT staff. Perhaps, you may want to seek the advice of I.T. service providers like Omnipotech. Because cyber attacks keep increasing and increasing, it is recommended to prepare for the worst case scenario. For instance, backing up your data really helps in case data loss may happen.

6. Hack Your Own System

To check whether an outsider can easily get in your network, it is best to hire someone who look for these vulnerabilities and weaknesses. An IT consulting firms, like Omnipotech, can help you do a technical audit. now to audit your system in search of weaknesses. From there, you can think of better solutions or come up with better ways to connect with your clients.

7. Set Up a Firewall

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released a blog post called Cybersecurity for Small Business, and in that article, they specifically said,

A firewall is a set of related programs that prevent outsiders from accessing data on a private network.

The FCC recommends to all small businesses to create a firewall as a barrier between important company data and cybercriminals. Aside from having an external firewall, other companies also install internal firewalls to add another layer of protection.

8. Back Up Important Data

Yes, these to security measures prevent cyber attacks as possible, but there is no such thing as a perfect defense. You can still be breached regardless of extreme caution. The U.S. Small Business Administration reminds businesses to back up the data on all computers.

Important data include financial statements, invoice, spreadsheets, and other financial files. Do not forget to save word processing documents, databases, human resources files, and other company data. If possible, set up an automatic weekly back up, and store these files on another location. Keep it away from water and/or fire hazards.

9. Install Anti-Malware Software

Don’t leave it all to chance. It’s easy to say that your employees know what they are doing. They could have, unknowingly, opened phishing emails. Perhaps, they thought it was just another harmless email.

In fact, Verizon’s Data Breach Report indicated that 30 percent of employees admitted to opening phishing emails. Once these malicious emails are clicked, malware can quickly spread on the employee’s computer. Thus, it is extremely important to have anti-malware software.

If you can and if budget permits, install an anti-malware software on all devices using the company network. According to an article posted on Entrepreneur.com, phishing attacks go after certain employees. They target anyone who has access to confidential data from executives to human resources.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity should not be the last item on your security checklist. In fact, it should be the utmost priority of any business. Contact Omnipotech Support Center now to learn about the different cybersecurity solutions that you can add to protect your business.

Often times, we often hear about data breaches on the news. These may involve huge corporations and government offices being hacked. However, the truth is that all businesses are vulnerable to attacks. Whether you manage a big or a small company, you can still be a victim of hacking and data breach.

Unfortunately, small businesses are prone to being hacked because these companies are not well protected. It may be because of the lack of resources or lack of employees to handle the cybersecurity division.

Hackers can get into big companies without a hitch. What is gonna to stop them from going for the small fishes in the sea? Small companies are easy money for these hackers because they cannot afford a tight level of online protection. With that being said, I will list some cybersecurity tips that every small business can apply.

1. Create Better Passwords

The first thing to do create strong password to protect your devices and your network. This step should be mandatory, and do not even try to implement “temporary” weak passwords.  If you have a secure network, you should follow strict standards.

Strong passwords are needed, and the one should change/update on a regular basis. Apply certain policies in order to avoid any accidental sharing of passwords even to co-workers.

2. Set Certain Restrictions

Next, you should not only depend on passwords. A secure defense contains layers upon layers of security. This is to avoid any sensitive data safe from going out. This means you should limit the access of certain information. In addition, you should put extra layer of password, encryption, and more.

3. Monitor the Devices Used

Being a newbie, your business cannot afford getting laptops and personal computers at the time being. Naturally, your starting group of employees will have to use personal devices when working.

To make sure that company data won’t leak, it will help if you install a monitoring software on their devices. Implement rules to make sure the devices are secured such as installing security updates, and changing passwords from time to time.

These are security measures in order to protect your business. Hence, you have to clearly explain to your employees that this is not invasion of privacy. You just being careful especially if employees may put the business at risk while using their own devices.

4. Train Your Employees About Cybersecurity

Even if you apply the best cybersecurity solution there, your employees can unknowingly trigger a data breach. So, train your employees regarding the repercussions of their actions. Hence, you have to make sure that all your employees learn on how to properly use company resources with compromising security. Lastly, they should know that security should be the top priority.

Level up your cybersecurity!

Cyber attacks are NO joke, and you should not take it lightly. These cyber criminals can bring down businesses if they want to. Luckily, you can protect your business with the help of IT service providers such as Omnipotech. It’s about time to take cybersecurity very seriously!

 

More on 5 Cybersecurity Tips for Small Businesses (Part 2)

With reliable cloud service provider, you won’t have to manage every single thing. A trusted provider can be a helping hand in managing your business, and you won’t have to lose sleep for juggling every task.

In this post, here are 5 tips to help you pick the right cloud solutions provider.

1. Know Your Budget Before You Go Shopping

Whether you are shopping for groceries, for shoes, or for a cloud service, you should formulate a list on what YOU want. Before making a purchase, things to consider are:

  • set a budget, and
  • anticipate the fees that come with it

How much are you going to pay for it upfront? What are the other fees to consider? Is there a yearly maintenance fee? Ponder on these questions and see what fits your budget.

Finally, set a realistic of what you are buying. If it’s cheap, then, there will surely a downside. Perhaps, compromising on the storage space and other features.

2. Know the Industry Trends and Identify the Leaders

In any industry, there are, of course, the innovative pioneers. There will be people on top of the game. From there, you will know how much cloud computing would normally cost.

Then, you can work around your budget, and find cheaper alternatives. Do your research and investigate what could be a possible option for you.

3. Choose a Cloud Service that Could Keep Up with You

You should not compare your “small” business with someone else’s empire. Their needs will be different from yours. Thus, what applies to them will NOT necessarily apply to your business.

Volume-wise, since other companies are bigger, of course, they would need larger storage. As you do your research, tell potential cloud partners what you currently need.

Then, if they can provide it, then, discuss possible expansions in the future. Be transparent on how you want to grow. If they don’t share the same vision as you, then, find another cloud provider who can grow with you.

4. Understand that the Server’s Location Will Affect How You Do Business

Where you store your data is really up to you. No one will mind because it is a matter of personal preference!

However, the “where” could potentially put you in danger, especially when it comes to lawsuits. Ask the provider outright about the location of the servers, and if it can bring legal complications in the future.

Make sure that legal factors won’t affect how you would access and store your data today and in the coming days.

5. Security Is an Important Factor

Data encryption is essential, but it should not be the sole security measure. Choose a cloud provider that will implement the necessary precautionary measures to keep your data safe. There should be a series of checks to ensure cloud security, privacy, and protection.

Find the Cloud Storage that Fits Your Business

Different strokes for different folks. For sure, you can find something that will match your needs. Whether you own a small business or a large organization, you can rely on Omnipotech for cloud computing solutions.

So, contact Omnipotech Support Center now, and we will discuss the necessary steps in upgrading your business. Aside from cloud computing, we currently provide managed I.T. services, cybersecurity solutions, and communication solutions.

You can do your own research and find viable options. To know more about Omnipotech, you may call the number 281-768-4800!

According to University of Maryland’s School of Engineering, cyber attacks happen every 39 seconds. On average, computers with Internet access get hold with accounts using their corresponding username and password. Worse, the success rates are higher on accounts with a weak username and password.

Honestly, I consider this as a huge threat to personal privacy and to our collective privacy as a society. Last year, the managed I.T. services was anticipated to be around 170 billion US dollars. So, if you do not apply security measures, your personal data could be leaked.

Below, I have listed 4 quick tips to keep your data safe. Take action now because each day, there tons of data made available online. If you don’t do something now, how are you sure that your personal data is free from the prying eyes of these hackers?

Store Files on the Cloud

  • The cloud makes data available for any device. Data is solely restricted one computer or one storage device. Backing up your data using cloud storage is essential because if your offline data gets stolen, you can still access it. The cloud storage saved a copy of it. Thus, saving you from potentially losing all your data.
  • Numbers don’t lie; there are reports saying that 60% of small business close within the first 6 months because of cyber attacks. Hence, prevent data breach by securing your files on a reliable cloud storage.

Install a Firewall and Antivirus Protection

  • A firewall will line your line of defense and it  will help you filter all outgoing and incoming messengers. Moreover, it can stop potentially dangerous activities to enter your network of computer.
  • Meanwhile, an antivirus software can help you detect potentially malicious software that can compromise or harm your system. Together, both the firewall and antivirus can do something to hinder harmful attacks from happening.
  • These two are extremely important in making sure your data is protected. So, never neglect the comfort and protection these tools give.

Bolster the Physical Security of Your Office

  • Like internal security, physical security is also equally important.  You should store data in a physically secure location. Perhaps, you can also implement pass codes, and restrict access by locking doors, and monitor the premises by installing security cameras.
  • Also, keep away important storage from any other risks like fire and water hazards. Avoid situations that could compromise your precious data.

Hire Someone to Manage Your Data

  • For small businesses, hiring someone can be expensive. So, outsourcing may be a convenient solution for you. Just someone that will guide you to get the hang of it. Eventually, your will get used to terms like cloud storage, firewall, malware, and so on.

Final Thoughts

Today, cyber attacks are becoming more and more common. These attacks can pose as a threat, and cyber criminals have the power to close down your business in an instant. Fortunately, there are managed I.T. service providers like Omnipotech to help you.

So, you should not compromise your cybersecurity. As a matter of fact, you should prioritize it. Contact Omnipotech Support Center now to know more about the cybersecurity solutions we currently offer.

Nowadays, cloud computing have its own ways of protecting data. Even so, you can’t help it that cloud-based services will interact and collaborate with other systems. All your employees will access, edit, remove, and transfer data from the cloud on a daily basis.

Aside from that, your employees may not always use company devices. They will perhaps use their mobile phones to quickly access data. There is no threat on the cloud storage per se, but the humans accessing the cloud could be. Human error could put your cloud security at risk. For instance, their logins could be stolen or they could have unintentionally deleted their login details. Whatever the reason be, here are the tips in order to keep your data safe.

  1. Two-Factor Authentication

  • Hackers may be able to steal your login, but if you use two-factor authentication, it will not be easy to access the cloud storage or access any cloud-based apps that are used in your business.
  • Hence, aside from the usual username and password, a two-factor authentication is an added protection to prevent unauthorized access. A two-factor authentication (TFA), or multi-factor authentication, will only allow authorized personnel to access data. Not to mention, TFA is a cost-effective of banning outsiders from accessing company data.
  1. Use Automated Solutions to Detect Unusual Patterns

  • You would not know with your naked eye if someone is logging in from another device or using a different IP address. This can only be noticed if one uses automated solutions.
  • Monitoring user logins through automated tools can help in detecting unconventional patterns. If a login comes from an unauthorized device, this could be a sign of an anomaly. A foreign IP could get into your system. So, you can immediately block this and be one step ahead of these security breaches.
  1. Protect Yourself from Your Previous Employees

  • Ex-employees should NOT be able to access sensitive company information like client information and specific project details. If they can still have access to these files, it could land on the hands of your direct competitors. Thus, the moment they leave the company, revoke the access of your ex-employees immediately.
  1. Remind Your Employees About the Phishing Schemes Proliferating Around

  • To be honest, social media stalking and spying are a common occurrence nowadays. Website spoofing and phishing are done to acquire login details and know other personal data.
  • To avoid getting scammed, educate your employees on how to protect their data. Applying tips such as strong passwords and avoid clicking suspicious links that aren’t from verified sources.
  1. Explore Cloud to Cloud Back-Up

  • Most of the cloud storage services do not keep deleted files for long. This can greatly affect business who follow strict operational guidelines. In fact, having a corrupted (or missing) data can be the cause of companies filing a lawsuit. Luckily, court cases can be avoided if cloud to cloud backup is available.
  • So, you better ask your cloud provider if it keeps log of deleted files. Additionally, find out how long they store the files, and if the restoration process comes with a fee. If you agree with what they have to offer, then, you should seriously look into cloud to cloud backup.

Developing a strong cloud security is one of the best decisions you can make for your business. If you want to explore the world of cloud computing, contact Omnipotech Support Center now. We will be happy to discuss with you all the different managed I.T. services Omnipotech currently offers.

In the past, I have talked about the Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About and I also shared some tips on What You Can Do to Avoid Mobile Security Threats?

For this blog post, I will focus on the most common network security threats. Let’s all face it; the Internet connects us in a convenient way, breaking geographical boundaries. However, it also brings us closer to various threats.

Like most companies, your business probably manages loads of data on a daily basis. According to the 2017 Cost of Data Breach Study: Global Overview, data breach could happen in 1 out of 4 companies. You could be the next victim!

In 2017, the average cost of a data breach is $3.62 million. With the advancements in technology, it is safe to say the costs keep getting higher and higher each year. The good news is that you can do something to prevent data breach.

Network Security Threats

First, let us discuss the network security threats your company face. Here are the most common threats:

Now that you know the numerous network security threats, the question is… how do you protect your business data?

4 Tips in Protect Your Company

These are the 4 ways you can improve on your company’s overall network security.

  1. Strengthen the Access Control

  • Outsiders can access your data because of weak security. Therefore, strengthen the control measures by applying strong passwords.
  • Follow the basic password guidelines such using a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Next, passwords should not be as short as possible. In fact, the longer, the better.
  • Lastly, never use default passwords. Reset them so that you can create a unique password instead.
  1. Remember to Update Your Software

  • Updates are important to your network’s health. That is why people can access your network because of its outdated state. So, keep everything current from your antivirus to your operating systems.
  • The updates are there to fix the previous issues such as potential vulnerability. So, embrace these updates to maintain a secure wall of defense.
  1. Set a Uniform Software

  • Your company should use one standard tool to isolate attack. What I mean here is that your employees should not use any browser they like. For instance, computers are installed with Firefox plus some privacy add-ons. Then, here goes one employee installing Chrome without approval. This cannot be!
  • Make sure the computers all have the same: operating system, web browser, extensions, multimedia player, and so on.
  1. Conduct an Employee Training

  • External threats can happen because of an internal flaw. An employee could have indirectly given away or hinted a password. So, make sure your employees understand the fundamentals of network security.
  • All of them should know what is risky (and what is not) to your network. This is to avoid unnecessarily comprising the security protocol. Give a security training at least once a year to keep your employees updated about the recent trends.

A Dependable Company for Your Cybersecurity Needs

There are team of experts willing to help you have the proper network security. For all your I.T. needs, Omnipotech is the name you can trust. Contact Omnipotech Support Center now to learn more about the cybersecurity solutions that we provide. The number to call is 281-768-4800!

 

Mobile ransomware is a malware cybercriminals use in order to acquire sensitive information from your mobile device. These criminals could keep your phone or any device locked until a payment is sent. Hence, if you do not heed to their demands, your data may not be returned to you.

Often times, users are deceived into downloading a seemingly harmless mobile app. However, it turns out to be a ransomware. Data will only be decrypted or accessible once the ransom has been paid!

5 Tips to Prevent a Ransomware from Entering Your Mobile Devices

Below, I have listed a few things to remember in order to avoid ransomware attacks.

  1. Stay informed about the latest threats

Like any malware, ransomware constantly changes so you have to keep yourself informed about the latest news. Cybercriminals are known to use variants of previously known malware. In 2017, the EternalBlue exploit kit was used to spread the ransomware WannaCry, and then, eventually, the same kit was also used to spread the ransomware Petya.

Hence, it is important to understand how a malware works and how it develops. Even after a year after the infamous WannaCry attack, it continues to haunt the online world as biggest cybersecurity incident yet.

  1. Keep your devices up-to-date.

Ransomware can enter your mobile device through drive-by downloads. This happens when you accidently click malicious links. Then, you could land on suspicious websites unknowingly. In order to combat this, keep your mobile apps and operating systems use the latest stable version.

  1. Be careful of installing apps

Whether it is fake or not, apps can be a source of malware. Often times, security breach happens when you download apps and programs from unverified sources. Before you download one, make sure it is from App Store or Google Play. Avoid downloading from third-party sources.

  1. Get into the habit of backing up your files.

Don’t just depend on online storage, and back up your important files on an external hard drive. Regularly storing your files on another place is a good practice. By doing so, the backup can come in handy when you lose or damage the original source.

  1. Use a dependable mobile security app

Protect your data through the use of a far-reaching security solution, and make sure this app is from the official vendor.

The POWER is in our hands!

In this technological world, it’s hard to avoid the digital realm. The internet and its services are embedded in us. We shop, we play, and we practically do everything online. Thus, there are also many security threats that pose as a harm to our privacy.

Cybercriminals can use our own personal data as a hostage, and they will use it as a leverage to extort and blackmail us. These criminals will not hesitate to hold important data or phones hostage until the payment has been made. So, do not wait for an attack to happen. Protect yourself through the tips listed above.

Contact Omnipotech Support Center for your cybersecurity needs. We also provide other business solutions such as  cloud computing, managed IT services, and many others. You may call the hotline number 281-768-4800 for more information!

Malware is a short term for malicious software. Typically, this software is made to gain access or to damage a computer. This usually happens without the permission and knowledge of the owner.

These malicious codes will creep in a device, and a malware can manifest in many forms such as adware, spyware, worms, viruses and Trojan horses. I have discussed these in a separate post. (See: Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About)

Generally, malware can take many forms, and it depends on the intent of the creator. The number of malware infection is on a steady rise because of the profitable income to be gained in engaging in Internet crime.

Originally, malware started out as a way to prank and experiment. Eventually, its purpose shifted towards the ruin and slaughter of such devices. Now, most malware out there is made to profit from ads, to steal private data, to spread spam messages and emails, and to extort money.

Some may not harm but steal your personal data

Like adware, spyware is made to gather data about you. This is why spywares go hand in hand with adware in order to deliver an advertisement that’s pretty hard to resist. Where there is adware, there is most probably a spyware.

A spyware may not straightforwardly harm your computer. However, spyware can secretly monitor what you do on your computer. These spywares can know confidential information like your account number, your username, your password, and other personal details that only YOU should know about.

What makes you vulnerable to malware attacks?

There are numerous factors that make computers vulnerable to such attacks. A series of chain reaction can trigger when one takes advantage of the flaws of a computer’s operation system. Then,  when an infected computer is on same network with the other computers, this could lead to a domino effect. Thus, all it really takes is infecting on computer. Since Windows is the most common OS, there more malware attacks that target the operating system.

The best protection against malware.

Whether it is a ransomware, spyware, adware, or whatever kind, always be cautious. Follow these important pointers:

  1. Be careful when opening email messages especially if there are attachments that come with it,
  2. Stay away from incredulous websites, and do not believe everything you read on the web.
  3. Don’t click everything you see, and maintain caution when browsing.
  4. Lastly, install a trusted antivirus program, and keep it updated at all times.
  5. More tips discussed on What You Can Do to Avoid Mobile Security Threats?

Do something about your cybersecurity!

Above all else, I personally believe that cybersecurity should come first. In this digital era, we should all take steps that will help boost privacy. This is particularly important if you manage or own a business.

Once your devices are comprised, third party companies can get hold of your information and the information of your clients. Omnipotech can help you in improving your company’s overall online security. For more information about cybersecurity and the services we offer, kindly contact Omnipotech Support Center or you may call Omnipotech at 281-768-4800!

In Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About (Part 1), I have mentioned madware, spyware, and many terms that may be unfamiliar to many. Have I gone mad? Nope.

Madware is a real thing. To know more about it, I must start with discussing adware.

What is Adware?

  • From the name itself, you can get the hint that it is implying ad or advertising. So, this software will be showing you unwanted advertisements on your screen.
  • These adware programs will give you pop-up ads, and these can be annoying because they will just appear suddenly. Then, they just attack with many unwanted advertisements.

Not Quite a Virus!

  • Just because an adware is not a virus, it doesn’t mean that you have nothing to worry about. Yeah, adware may not seem harmful and malicious as other things that loom on the Internet.
  • Adware can be really irritating every single time they bombard your computer with a bunch of ads.  In fact, adware could also present long-term issues.
  • For one, adware will collect your browsing history in order to serve you with advertisements that are customized your unique interests. Adware infections can interfere with your browsing experience. Of course, you would need to close them when the ads pop-up all at once! Thus, making your browsing slower and burdensome.
  • What is the purpose of an adware? The most common goal is to collect information about you… and sell your information to companies. So, they can make money. Yes, people earn dollars with your information.

What is Madware?

  • It is called madware when an adware is on a mobile device like your phone or a tablet.
  • That’s clear now: adware is on a computer, and madware is on a mobile device. Whether you call it adware or madware, the same thing will happen. It is going to slow down your computer and it will be more prone to crashing.

How do you get adware?

There are many ways to get infected by an adware, but here are the 2 most common ways.

  • First, it is a freebie from the program you downloaded. Typically, a freeware or shareware come with a free adware. It is added to your device without your permission.
  • The second way to get it is through a bad website. These websites can contain adwares, and infect your web browser.

How to know if a device is infected by an adware?

Here are the most common symptoms of an adware infection:

  • Slow computer
    • When programs take time to launch or run, it’s usually a sign. Adware can slow down your device by hoarding the memory space. Once it takes up space, it will have an impact on your device’s overall performance.
  • Filled with ads
    • As discussed earlier, ads will pop-up while you are browsing. Well, it is normal to see ads, but if you are constantly getting ads, the device may probably be infected by an adware.
  • The homepage of your browser changes
    • An adware is known for making browser changes. It will change the home page and redirect you to another URL that you did not set yourself. In this new page set, you will be able to get more adware and other threats that could harm your device.

Protecting Your Devices Against Adware

Protecting yourself is not hard to do. You just have to apply some common-sense precautions, and follow the tips listed here. If you have questions about cybersecurity, please contact Omnipotech Support Center or call the number 281-768-4800!

Upon reading Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About (Part 1) and Mobile Security Threats that You NEED to Know About (Part 2), you may be scared of the threats that roam around the internet.

But there’s NO need to panic. You can actually do something to protect yourself from these threats. In this list below, I will be sharing some helpful tips:

  1. Update your software.

    • Everything on our phone needs to be updated in order to have the best protection. So, from your operating system down to your messaging apps, always keep them updated.
    • Sadly, in Symantec’s 2018 Internet Security Threat Report, they indicated that only 20 percent of Android phones are using the newest version. Moreover, only 2.3% are installed with the latest release.
  2. Add a mobile security.

    • Like your desktop computer, your phone will also need some security. Install a mobile security software on your phone, and be sure this is from a verified source. Don’t just install something unheard of.
    • If you run a business, ask your employees to make sure their mobile security apps and other tools are regularly updated.
  3. Install a firewall.

    • Speaking of security, most phones do not have a firewall protection by default.  So, installing a firewall will make your defenses agents these threats stronger.
  4. Add a passcode on your phone.

    • Next, always add a password. Remember, theft or actual loss of your mobile phone can also be a cause of a data breach.
    • For those who manage a business, please tell your employees to use unique passwords. Often times, people just repeat the same password across all accounts.
    • Hence, make the business accounts safe and private by password protecting these data.
  5. Get apps from official app stores.

    • To be sure, download only from official stores like Google Play and Apple App. Buying from these stores will not guarantee you won’t get a bad app. However, it will lowers the risk of downloading one.
  6. Know what the terms are.

    • After you click on install, there will be a list of things you allow the app to do. These could be accessing your storage, your camera, and so on.
    • Before installing an app, know the terms and conditions. Of course, you won’t be able to read through the whole T&C. At least, know what you are agreeing to.
    • Check the permissions you are giving these apps.  You can enable and disable these permissions at any time. If apps tend to be invasive, don’t install them.
  7. Use a messaging app that supports end-to-end encryption.

    • Business communications should be kept private. Hence, you and your team should be communicating through an encrypted line. Be sure to use a tool that supports end-to-end encryption. This way, outsiders can’t access classified information.
  8. Uninstall inactive apps.

    • Lastly, check the apps on your phone regularly. Do you still use it? Are they still active? Do the developers still update it? IF NOT, then, it’s time to remove them. Keep the number of apps as fewer as you can.

Hoping you’d be trusting enough

Don’t get fooled and always follow these common-sense precautions. Teach your employees on how to be cautious on the internet and how to use their mobile phones safely. It’s time to take mobile security seriously.

Mobile threats can come from anywhere. Contact Omnipotech Support Center to know more about cybersecurity and the other solutions in order to make your business secure. Call Omnipotech at 281-768-4800!