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	<title>Business Continuity | Network Doctor</title>
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		<title>Keep Your Passwords Secure: Use a Password Manager</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/keep-your-passwords-secure-use-a-password-manager/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:50:07 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.networkdr.com/?p=22347</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>How many passwords do you have? Do you constantly find yourself resetting the same passwords over and over because it&#8217;s too hard to remember all of them? If this sounds familiar, then you should consider using a password manager. A password manager is an application that helps store, generate, and organize your passwords in one [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/keep-your-passwords-secure-use-a-password-manager/">Keep Your Passwords Secure: Use a Password Manager</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How many passwords do you have? Do you constantly find yourself resetting the same passwords over and over because it&#8217;s too hard to remember all of them? If this sounds familiar, then you should consider using a password manager. A password manager is an application that helps store, generate, and organize your passwords in one secure location.</p>
<p>How Password Managers Work<br />
Password managers are designed to help keep your online accounts secure. Each time you create an account on a new website or app, the password manager will generate random, secure passwords for you and store them in its secure database. You&#8217;ll only have to remember one master password—the one used to access the password manager itself—and the software will take care of the rest. This makes it much easier to keep track of multiple complex passwords while also taking proactive steps to prevent hackers from getting into your accounts.</p>
<p>The Benefits of Using a Password Manager<br />
Using a password manager can save you time and stress by eliminating the need to constantly reset forgotten passwords. It can also help protect against hackers by making it harder for them to guess your passwords, since they&#8217;re all unique and stored securely within the password manager&#8217;s encrypted database. Plus, with features like two-factor authentication built into most modern versions of the software, it&#8217;s even more difficult for potential intruders to gain access to your accounts without authorization.</p>
<p>Choosing a Password Manager<br />
When selecting a password manager, it&#8217;s important that you choose one that offers advanced security features such as two-factor authentication, encryption, and other security measures designed to protect against unauthorized access. Additionally, make sure that whatever option you choose has both desktop and mobile versions so that you can access your data from any device at any time. Finally, be sure to read customer reviews before making any decisions; this will give you an idea of how reliable each service is and what other users think about its performance overall.</p>
<p>There are many good reasons why using a password manager is a smart idea for anyone who wants added security when managing their online accounts. Not only does it make remembering multiple complex passwords easier than ever before but it also provides additional layers of protection against hackers trying to gain unauthorized access. With so many options available on the market today, there’s no reason not give one a try!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/keep-your-passwords-secure-use-a-password-manager/">Keep Your Passwords Secure: Use a Password Manager</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Unlocking the Benefits of AI for Your Business</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/technology/unlocking-the-benefits-of-ai-for-your-business/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:36:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.networkdr.com/?p=22344</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/technology/unlocking-the-benefits-of-ai-for-your-business/">Unlocking the Benefits of AI for Your Business</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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				<div class="et_pb_text_inner">Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be a complex and intimidating concept to understand. But at its core, AI is simply a tool that can help you streamline processes, increase efficiency, and make accurate predictions. As technology continues to advance, more businesses are leveraging AI to gain an edge in their respective industries. Are you ready to join them?</p>
<p>What Can AI Do For You?<br />
From predictive analytics to customer service automation, there are numerous ways that you can use AI to improve your business operations. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, data-driven decision making becomes easier than ever before. You can use AI for marketing automation tasks such as crafting targeted campaigns or analyzing customer feedback surveys. Additionally, AI-powered customer service bots allow customers to get answers quickly and efficiently &#8211; even outside of normal office hours!</p>
<p>The Benefits of Working with Network Doctor<br />
If you’re ready to take the plunge into the world of AI but don’t know where to start, Network Doctor is here to help. We would be happy to have a discussion about how AI can benefit your business. With our help, you’ll be able to unlock all the potential benefits that come with utilizing artificial intelligence in your business operations!</p>
<p>Are you ready to join the many businesses who have already achieved success using artificial intelligence? Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process so that you can maximize the benefits of incorporating AI into your business strategy. Contact us today and find out what we can do for your business!</div>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/technology/unlocking-the-benefits-of-ai-for-your-business/">Unlocking the Benefits of AI for Your Business</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Spring is almost Here! Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster?</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/spring-is-almost-here-is-your-business-prepared-for-disaster/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:28:37 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[IT Consulting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.networkdr.com/?p=22340</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>As the saying goes, &#8220;April showers bring May flowers.&#8221; But for businesses, springtime can also bring severe weather that can lead to power outages, data loss, and equipment damage. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s so important to have a disaster preparedness plan in place—and Network Doctor can help! What is a Disaster Preparedness Plan? A disaster preparedness [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/spring-is-almost-here-is-your-business-prepared-for-disaster/">Spring is almost Here! Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As the saying goes, &#8220;April showers bring May flowers.&#8221; But for businesses, springtime can also bring severe weather that can lead to power outages, data loss, and equipment damage. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s so important to have a disaster preparedness plan in place—and Network Doctor can help!</p>
<h4>What is a Disaster Preparedness Plan?</h4>
<p>A disaster preparedness plan is a document that outlines the steps your business will take in the event of a major disruption. This could be anything from a severe weather event to a cyberattack. By having a plan in place, you can minimize the impact of a disaster on your business and ensure that you&#8217;re up and running as quickly as possible.</p>
<h4>Why You Need a Disaster Preparedness Plan</h4>
<p>Disasters can strike at any time, without warning. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s so important to be prepared. A well-thought-out disaster preparedness plan can help you minimize downtime, protect your data, and keep your business running smoothly—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.</p>
<h4>How Network Doctor Can Help</h4>
<p>Network Doctors has over 20 years of experience helping businesses recover from disasters. We can work with you to create a customized disaster preparedness plan that fits the needs of your business. We&#8217;ll also provide you with access to our state-of-the-art data center, which is designed specifically for business continuity.</p>
<p>Don&#8217;t wait until it&#8217;s too late—now is the time to start preparing for disaster! Network Doctor can help you create a customized disaster preparedness plan that fits the needs of your business. We&#8217;ll also provide you with access to our state-of-the-art data center, which is designed specifically for business continuity. In the event of a power outage or natural disaster, our data center will keep your data safe and secure. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you prepare for the unexpected!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/spring-is-almost-here-is-your-business-prepared-for-disaster/">Spring is almost Here! Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Keyboard shortcuts that will change your life</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/technology/keyboard-shortcuts-that-will-change-your-life/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Mar 2023 23:24:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.networkdr.com/?p=22337</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Keyboard shortcuts are the unsung heroes of productivity. They make it easier and faster to complete tasks with a few keystrokes. Implementing keyboard shortcuts into your daily routine can save you time and energy, allowing you to be more productive in less time. Read on to find out some of the best keyboard shortcuts that [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/technology/keyboard-shortcuts-that-will-change-your-life/">Keyboard shortcuts that will change your life</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Keyboard shortcuts are the unsung heroes of productivity. They make it easier and faster to complete tasks with a few keystrokes. Implementing keyboard shortcuts into your daily routine can save you time and energy, allowing you to be more productive in less time. Read on to find out some of the best keyboard shortcuts that will change your life!</p>
<p>Copy &#038; Paste<br />
The Copy and Paste keyboard shortcut is one of the most widely used shortcuts in computing. To quickly copy any text, simply highlight it, then press Command+C (on a Mac) or Ctrl+C (on Windows). To paste the copied text somewhere else, press Command+V (on a Mac) or Ctrl+V (on Windows). This shortcut is an absolute lifesaver if you’re trying to quickly move text from one document to another or if you need to copy large amounts of information quickly.</p>
<p>Save File<br />
Another incredibly useful shortcut is the Save File command. On both Macs and PCs, simply pressing Command+S (Mac) or Ctrl+S (Windows) will save your current file without having to click through menus and dialog boxes. This is especially helpful when you’re working on something important and don’t want to lose your progress in case something goes wrong with your computer.</p>
<p>Undo &#038; Redo<br />
Have you ever accidentally deleted something only to realize that you wanted it back? The Undo/Redo command can help with this problem! Simply press Command+Z (Mac) or Ctrl+Z (Windows) to undo any changes you have made in the current window or application. If you decide that those changes were actually needed, simply press Command+Y (Mac) or Ctrl+Y (Windows) to redo them!</p>
<p>Keyboard shortcuts are incredibly powerful tools for increasing productivity and efficiency while using computers. Learning just a few basic shortcuts can save you time and energy as well as reduce frustration when using applications such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop. Start incorporating these keyboard shortcuts into your daily routine today and see how much time they can save!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/technology/keyboard-shortcuts-that-will-change-your-life/">Keyboard shortcuts that will change your life</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Staying Cyber Secure in 2023</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/staying-cyber-secure-in-2023/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2022 21:30:22 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybercrime]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.networkdr.com/?p=20618</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The new year is a great time to make resolutions and set goals. For business owners, one of the top priorities should be staying cyber secure. In today&#8217;s digital world, cyber security is essential for any business. Here are some tips to help you stay safe in 2023. Know the Risks The first step in [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/staying-cyber-secure-in-2023/">Staying Cyber Secure in 2023</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The new year is a great time to make resolutions and set goals. For business owners, one of the top priorities should be staying cyber secure. In today&#8217;s digital world, cyber security is essential for any business. Here are some tips to help you stay safe in 2023. </p>
<p>Know the Risks<br />
The first step in protecting your business from cyber threats is understanding the risks. That means knowing what hackers are after, how they’re going after it, and what they can do with it once they get their hands on it. Knowing the risks will help you identify possible vulnerabilities in your system and develop strategies to protect yourself against them. </p>
<p>Develop a Security Plan<br />
Once you understand the risks associated with cyber security, it’s time to develop a plan for how to protect your data and systems from those threats. This includes setting up firewalls and other measures to keep out malicious actors, as well as implementing policies that require employees to use strong passwords and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files. It’s also important to regularly update software, systems, and applications so that they are up-to-date with the latest security patches. </p>
<p>Train Your Employees<br />
No matter how secure your system may be, it will only be as secure as its weakest link—your employees. To ensure that every employee understands their role in maintaining a secure system environment, provide regular training sessions on cyber security best practices such as using complex passwords, avoiding phishing scams, recognizing potential threats such as malware or ransomware attacks, reporting suspicious activity immediately, etc. Regularly testing employees on these topics is also an effective way to ensure that everyone remains vigilant when it comes to cyber security issues. </p>
<p>Staying cyber secure is an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance and effort from everyone involved in your organization. By understanding the risks associated with online activity and developing robust plans for protecting yourself from them combined with regular employee training sessions will help ensure that your business remains safe from malicious actors in 2023 and beyond!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/staying-cyber-secure-in-2023/">Staying Cyber Secure in 2023</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>Self-Assessment: How strong is Your Cybersecurity Plan?</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-self-assessment-how-strong-is-your-cybersecurity-plan/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2021 18:48:39 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Locations]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://3zd.15b.mywebsitetransfer.com/uncategorized/insights-self-assessment-how-strong-is-your-cybersecurity-plan/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Anyone who has a small to medium-sized business has “an” IT plan, but per a recent study, only 14% of them rate their own cybersecurity plans as “effective.”  This is alarming when you consider that 43% of small businesses are targeted by cyberattacks. It’s like having a rowboat with leaking life vests because you don’t [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-self-assessment-how-strong-is-your-cybersecurity-plan/">Self-Assessment: How strong is Your Cybersecurity Plan?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/Infographic-How-Solid-is-Your-Cyber-Security-Plan.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" style="width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 0px 16px;" src="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/Infographic-How-Solid-is-Your-Cyber-Security-Plan-scaled.jpg" alt="Infographic - How Solid is Your Cyber-Security Plan" width="300" /></a></p>
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<p>Anyone who has a small to medium-sized business has “an” IT plan, but per a recent study, only 14% of them rate their own cybersecurity plans as “<a href="https://smallbiztrends.com/2017/01/cyber-security-statistics-small-business.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">effective</a>.”  This is alarming when you consider that <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/resources/8-reasons-smbs-are-a-top-target-for-cyber-attacks" rel="noopener">43% of small businesses are targeted by cyberattacks</a>. It’s like having a rowboat with leaking life vests because you don’t really believe your boat can sink; only yachts sink, right?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Patch up those floaties, it’s going to be a long ride. You don’t want to be one of the 60% of small businesses that have to <a href="https://cybersecurityventures.com/60-percent-of-small-companies-close-within-6-months-of-being-hacked/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%2060%20percent%20of,to%20monitor%20suspicious%20network%20activity." target="_blank" rel="noopener">close their doors forever following a single cyberattack</a>.</p>
<p>Let’s look at your cybersecurity plan. Does it have the elements you need to keep floating, or will one mistake send you to the bottom of the lake?</p>
<h2 id="h-how-solid-is-your-cybersecurity-plan-for-meeting-compliancy-issues">How Solid is Your Cybersecurity Plan for Meeting Compliance Issues?</h2>
<p>In case you missed it, compliancy is kind of a big deal these days. Governmental regulatory standards are tightening as they hold businesses accountable for client privacy.</p>
<p>If you are found to be in violation of these industry standards, you are looking at stiff fines and lawsuits. Many of these violations can be avoided by proving you have your business’ data secured under an effective cybersecurity plan.</p>
<p>The health agency has more hoops than other agencies, with rules ranging from HIPAA to the <a href="https://www.healthit.gov/topic/laws-regulation-and-policy/health-it-legislation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HITECH Act</a>.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, law firms answer to the BAR association, and <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">financial institutions</a> face the BSA AML, FACTA, and the GLBA.</p>
<p>These are all before you even factor in state regulations and good common-sense best practices. If you don’t understand the regulations governing your small to medium-sized business, you may need to hire a professional who does. When it comes to compliance issues, what you don’t know <em>will </em>hurt you.</p>
<h2 id="h-documenting-your-it-plan-is-more-important-than-you-realize">Documenting Your IT Plan is More Important Than You Realize</h2>
<p>It’s not enough to buy some boxed anti-virus software and call it a day. You need to have your complete cybersecurity strategy documented. If a governmental agency randomly chose your office for an IT audit ensuring compliance, how can you prove that you are taking the necessary steps?</p>
<p>In addition to documenting the plan itself, document your backup and recovery plans and your <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">Business Continuity Plan</a> as well, and document all routine testing. Like those life vests stored under your boat’s seat, you don’t want to wait until you’re sinking to find out how leaky they really are.</p>
<h2 id="h-how-solid-is-your-it-plan-for-remote-workers">How Solid is Your IT Plan for Remote Workers?</h2>
<p>It’s a pretty good bet that at least some of your remote workers will continue to work remotely now. How are their devices secured? Are you providing them the tools they need to protect your network like email safety rules, an Acceptable Use Policy, and cybersecurity awareness training?</p>
<p>Are your <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">password requirements</a> strong enough, and do they discourage the repetition of passwords? Do you require a <a href="https://go.iconicit.com/two-factor-authentication-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">multifactor log-in process</a> for an added layer of security?</p>
<p>Your remote workers are a special “breed” of vulnerability. They tend to be laxer about security, log into unsecured WIFI networks, allow family and friends to use their devices, “cheat” on passwords, remain logged in, store files directly to their PCs, and other risky practices.</p>
<p>Using a VPN and switching to cloud services is a good start for beefing up your <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">cybersecurity strategies when working remotely</a>.</p>
<h2 id="h-speaking-of-documentation-do-you-have-clear-written-policies-for-employees">Speaking of Documentation, Do You Have Clear Written Policies for Employees?</h2>
<p>Your employees are your first line of defense. Cybersecurity rests at their fingertips. Do they know that using email for personal reasons or using personal devices may expose your network?</p>
<p>Having clearly defined policies such as <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">BYOD policies</a>, remote workforce guidelines, and Acceptable Use Policies will protect your network and your reputation.</p>
<p>It’s important to keep signed policies in employee files. If the unthinkable happens and an employee accidentally launches malware into your network, having a signed policy in place:</p>
<ul>
<li>Helps prove to regulatory agencies that you took appropriate actions to avoid the breach</li>
<li>Closes loopholes from <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-service-provider/insights-what-is-an-msp/" rel="noopener">cyber risk insurance companies</a> looking for a way to get out of paying your claim</li>
<li>May help limit monetary damages for lawsuits by proving that you took reasonable precautions prior to the breach</li>
</ul>
<p>Employee policies should be renewed as your office tech changes and made a part of your new employee onboarding process.</p>
<p>Some things covered in these policies would include who, what, when, where, and how:</p>
<ul>
<li>Who has access to devices?</li>
<li>What are the permissions required for the user to perform their job?</li>
<li>When can a user use a personal device rather than a work-issued device?</li>
<li>Where is it appropriate for the employee to use the device? (secured WIFI access spots only, for instance)</li>
<li>How is the device secured to protect your network?</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="h-iconic-it-can-help">network doctor Can Help</h2>
<p>Cybersecurity threats to small and medium-sized businesses are increasing in both number and sophistication, and it’s imperative that your cybersecurity plan can meet the rising challenge. Even if you have strategies in place, it never hurts to have a second opinion (especially a free one).  Schedule your no-cost, no-obligation network assessment, and complementary dark web scan today to ensure your organization has a secure tomorrow.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000; font-weight: bold;">Next step:</span> <a href="/insights/cybersecurity_risks_faqs" rel="noopener">What business executives want to know about cyber risk</a></p>
<p>Let Network Doctor give you the answers you need to get started on solidifying your IT plan.</p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-self-assessment-how-strong-is-your-cybersecurity-plan/">Self-Assessment: How strong is Your Cybersecurity Plan?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>6 Ways Financial Institutions Can Improve Their Cybersecurity Strategy</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-6-ways-financial-institutions-improve-cybersecurity-strategy/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:47:06 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cybercrime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Financial Services]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://3zd.15b.mywebsitetransfer.com/uncategorized/insights-6-ways-financial-institutions-improve-cybersecurity-strategy/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>With the delicate nature of the data handled by financial institutions, it’s no wonder that this industry remains one of the most vulnerable targets for hackers. While the FFIEC (Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council) has many regulations in place to protect the industry and its clientele, hackers show no signs of slowing down. Cybersecurity threats to the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-6-ways-financial-institutions-improve-cybersecurity-strategy/">6 Ways Financial Institutions Can Improve Their Cybersecurity Strategy</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>With the delicate nature of the data handled by financial institutions, it’s no wonder that this industry remains one of <a href="https://blog.eccu.edu/industries-that-are-most-and-least-vulnerable-to-cyberattacks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the most vulnerable targets for hackers</a>. While the FFIEC (Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council) has many regulations in place to protect the industry and its clientele, hackers show no signs of slowing down. <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/resources/fighting-cybercrime-over-4.2-billion-lost-in-2020" rel="noopener">Cybersecurity threats to the financial sector</a> are growing, and the stakes have never been higher.</p>
<p><span id="more-29"></span></p>
<p>With so many cybercriminals using increasingly sophisticated weapons, your financial institution’s cybersecurity strategy needs to address these six trending threats.</p>
<h2 id="h-1-cyber-security-threats-to-the-financial-sector-targeting-the-iot">1. Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector Targeting the IoT</h2>
<p>Even though you haven’t thought about how the IoT increases your vulnerabilities, the hackers certainly have.  2020 has seen several IoT botnets deployed in attacks such as  Dark Nexus, LeetHozer, Mozi, and Hoaxcalls, and the trend isn’t likely to stop any time soon.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>Stopping IoT Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector:</em></strong></span> Network Doctor recommends a <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-cybersecurity" rel="noopener">cybersecurity strategy</a> with a combination of multifactor authorization, timely installations of security patches, and rigorous cybersecurity hygiene habits.</p>
<h2 id="h-2-supply-chain-attacks">2. Supply Chain Attacks</h2>
<p>Supply chain attacks are hacks that occur through a third-party vendor. One of the most notable supply chain attacks hit Equifax in 2019, stemming from, of all things, an HVAC vendor. In fact, 56% of organizations, according to a <a href="https://www.csoonline.com/article/3191947/what-is-a-supply-chain-attack-why-you-should-be-wary-of-third-party-providers.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSO article from 2019</a>, have had a breach caused by their third-party vendors.</p>
<p>Shockingly, although the average number of vendors with access to sensitive data is 471 per organization, only an estimated 35% of companies have a true understanding of what outside parties have access to sensitive data.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>Stopping Supply Chain Attack Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector: </em></strong></span>Third-Party Vendor Management is a part of Network Doctor&#8217;s services. The best ways to detect supply chain attacks is by routine monitoring and auditing of all third-party vendors.</p>
<h2 id="h-3-insider-cyber-security-threats-to-the-financial-sector">3. Insider Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector</h2>
<p>Whether it is a disgruntled employee, an employee who unwittingly uploads a malicious file, or any other form of employee error, <a href="https://hbr.org/2016/09/the-biggest-cybersecurity-threats-are-inside-your-company" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">60% of all cybersecurity threats</a> come from inside the company itself. Phishing emails, spoofing, and business email compromise are frequent weapons for hackers to gain access to a network.</p>
<p>Once inside, they can mine for sensitive data, launch a ransomware attack, or remain undetected for days, weeks, and even months.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>Stopping Insider Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector</em></strong>:</span> Network Doctor understands that the largest amount of insider threats come from lax <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/resources/cybersecurity_risks_faqs" rel="noopener">employee cybersecurity awareness training</a>. Training employees to spot threats along with teaching them a “zero trust” mindset is one of the most important parts of your overall cybersecurity strategy.</p>
<h2 id="h-4-global-operational-risks">4. Global Operational Risks</h2>
<figure><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-2259 aligncenter" src="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/cybercrimestats.png" alt="Cybercrime Stats" width="771" height="474" srcset="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/cybercrimestats.png 771w, https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/cybercrimestats-480x295.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 771px, 100vw" /></figure>
<p>Every financial organization wants to expand, and many of them have a global reach. With growth, however, comes an increase in the chances of a cyberattack. Financial institutions are especially attractive to hackers because most of them are looking for the largest monetary gains they can find.</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="color: #000000;">Stopping Global Operational Risk Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Sector:</span> </em></strong>Constant assessment of your business’ risk is a key factor for stopping global operational risks.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Monitor the dark web</span> routinely to make sure your organization’s information isn’t for sale and find an MSP that offers dark web scanning as part of their service offerings.</p>
<h2 id="h-5-ddos-distributed-denial-of-service">5.DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service)</h2>
<p>A DDoS is one of the more serious cybersecurity threats to the financial sector. In a DDoS attack, the hacker slams the target with so much unwelcome traffic that the network is overwhelmed and can’t keep up. Hackers use this approach to crash a network so customers and employees can’t conduct business.</p>
<p>Even an inexperienced hacker can launch a DDoS against a targeted organization. DDoS malware is for sale on the dark web, and a week’s worth of destruction <a href="https://www.digitalattackmap.com/understanding-ddos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">costs the hacker only $150</a>. It’s estimated that nearly one-third of downtime is caused by a DDoS attack.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>Stopping DDoS Cyber Security Threats to The Financial Sector: </em></strong></span>Network Doctor recommends a cybersecurity strategy that combines reputation-based AI antivirus, redundant network resources, and moving applications to the cloud.</p>
<h2 id="h-6-ransomware-is-one-of-the-growing-cyber-security-threats-to-the-financial-institution">6. Ransomware is One of the Growing Cyber Security Threats to the Financial Institution</h2>
<figure><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-2260 aligncenter" src="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/HealthcareRansome.png" alt="Healthcare Ransome" width="771" height="474" srcset="https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/HealthcareRansome.png 771w, https://www.networkdr.com/wp-content/uploads/HealthcareRansome-480x295.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 771px, 100vw" /></figure>
<p>It’s estimated that ransomware against financial institutions <a href="https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/attacks-on-banks-spike-238-during/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">rose ninefold</a> in the early part of 2020. Ransomware is usually unleashed by an employee via a phishing attack and will halt the functionality of the network until the ransom is paid. Paying the ransom may not be enough, as hackers will release all captured data on the dark web despite the monies paid to retrieve it.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>Stopping Ransomware Threats to the Financial Sector: </em></strong></span>Since most ransomware infections rely on human interaction, such as clicking infected links, Network Doctor recommends a cybersecurity strategy that focuses on employee training. In addition, having rigorous anti-spam and anti-malware protections set up for your organization’s email is an important step.</p>
<h2 id="h-is-your-financial-organization-s-cyber-security-strategy-up-to-the-challenge">Is Your Financial Organization’s Cyber Security Strategy Up to the Challenge?</h2>
<p>Check your current cybersecurity strategy to make sure it is giving you all the protection you need. The basic strategies you need to make sure you have covered are:</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Routine cybersecurity awareness training</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Regulatory compliance</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Data encryption for all data</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Multifactor authentication for all employees and clients</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Incident response and business continuity plans</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Rigorous antivirus and anti-spam protection</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Routine assessments and event monitoring</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Timely security patching and upgrades</em></strong></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d3e40;"><strong><em>Simulations and testing of your cybersecurity strategy</em></strong></span></li>
</ul>
<h3 id="h-iconic-it-has-a-free-network-assessment-and-dark-web-scan-to-help-you-evaluate-your-cyber-security-strategy" style="line-height: 1.25;"><span style="color: #9e2b2b;"><span style="color: #3d3e40; font-weight: normal;">READ NEXT: </span>How solid is your IT plan?</span></h3>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-6-ways-financial-institutions-improve-cybersecurity-strategy/">6 Ways Financial Institutions Can Improve Their Cybersecurity Strategy</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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		<title>My IT Guy Quit, Now What?</title>
		<link>https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-my-it-guy-quit-now-what/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ward Vogt]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 09 Apr 2021 18:56:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Cybersecurity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Business Continuity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Locations]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://3zd.15b.mywebsitetransfer.com/uncategorized/insights-my-it-guy-quit-now-what/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Receiving a resignation letter from your IT manager can set off the panic alarm – and for good reason. Most organizations rely heavily on their IT people to keep their business secure and operational, and picking up where they left off isn’t easy – especially if you don’t gather the necessary information before they go. [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-my-it-guy-quit-now-what/">My IT Guy Quit, Now What?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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<p>Receiving a resignation letter from your IT manager can set off the panic alarm – and for good reason. Most organizations rely heavily on their IT people to keep their business secure and operational, and picking up where they left off isn’t easy – especially if you don’t gather the necessary information before they go. However, it doesn’t have to be a disaster. This guide will give you the tools necessary to secure your business after losing key IT resources, while preventing too much power residing with one person.</p>
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<h3>Step 1: Block their accounts and access</h3>
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<p>Your former employee may not be leaving on bad terms, but it’s still essential that you remove their access to accounts and files. If you leave their accounts and passwords active, you’re leaving your network and data at risk. This is especially true for IT staff, who typically have privileged administrator access to your most vital systems and data.</p>
<p>Be thorough in disabling all their digital access points, including email, cloud accounts, remote logins to company assets, other third-party software, and VPN/IP addresses they may have used previously. As well as changing the passwords of all administrative, employee and generic accounts they had access to, you should disable any email forwarding and remove any Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone call forwarding they have in place.</p>
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<h3>Step 2: Audit your documentation</h3>
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<p>Before any IT person leaves, it is essential that you have your documentation in order. By doing this, you can ensure that you maintain access to everything that keeps the business running smoothly and securely.</p>
<p>It’s best practice to have all of your IT networks and configurations listed and stored on an encrypted server that you keep control over. This should include details of administrator login credentials, a software and hardware inventory, software licenses, hardware warranties, network diagrams, license keys, and encryption keys.</p>
<p>Your IT person should have also kept a log of previous issues and how they were resolved, including break-fix support desk incidents and larger-scale preventative projects. This forms an important part of your IT contingency plan as it will provide their replacement with an understanding of existing problems to be aware of.</p>
<p>Finally, be sure to ask for documentation of general IT processes, such as how and when to upgrade certain systems. This will ensure that you are able to maintain operations once your team member has left.</p>
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<h3>Step 3: Learn the basics</h3>
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<p>If you do not already know how to handle basic IT tasks, such as how to change passwords, how to access and maintain hardware, how to log into and update software, and how to monitor security alerts, you should ask your IT person to teach you before their notice period is up.</p>
<p>Once you understand how to carry out these tasks, you can refer to the process documentation mentioned in step 2 as a reminder. It is good practice to maintain this basic knowledge, not only because it helps in this scenario, but also because it is invaluable when your IT staff are on leave.</p>
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<h3>Step 4: Check your backup and recovery protocols</h3>
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<p>It’s essential to know how and where your data backups are being stored before the person in charge of them leaves your organization. While it is likely that your backups are automated, it is important to understand how to configure this process and how to restore your backups when needed.</p>
<p>The above should be part of a fully-tested business continuity plan that ensures you can restore business operations quickly if any failures occur. It is essential that you maintain routine backups in order to facilitate swift recovery in the event of data breach or loss. Be sure to ask your departing staff member for details of this recovery plan so you are prepared to react in the event of a cyber attack, data loss event, or natural disaster.</p>
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<h3>Step 5: Fill in the gaps</h3>
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<p>Although someone leaving may be a major headache, it can also be the perfect opportunity to reevaluate how your business IT operates. If you have become too reliant on a single IT “gatekeeper”, with fundamental information not being disseminated throughout the business, it may be time to look at other IT management options.</p>
<p>Work with your remaining IT employees to fill in any gaps or call a <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/it-for-it-people" rel="noopener">Managed IT Provider</a> like a Network Doctor to help. Ideally, you should have a contingency plan for losing IT people before you hire them. By carrying out a Technology Roadmap Assessment, we can provide a clear picture of your current strengths and weaknesses to ensure a smooth transition and continued security. Switching to <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/managed-it-services" rel="noopener">Managed IT Services</a> is also a great way to make sure that no single IT expert has too much influence over your business.</p>
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<h2>Get help with your IT today</h2>
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<p>If you’re in the unfortunate position where your IT guy has quit and your contingency plan has come up short, then there’s no need to panic. If you need help, Network Doctor is only a call away. <a href="https://www.networkdr.com/contact-us" rel="noopener">Contact us today</a> for a no-obligation chat.</p>
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<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com/cybersecurity/insights-my-it-guy-quit-now-what/">My IT Guy Quit, Now What?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.networkdr.com">Network Doctor</a>.</p>
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