• Case Studies, Computer Security, Cybersecurity, finance, Financial Services, Internet Security

Fixing Fraud Detection: Smarter Financial Services Cybersecurity Starts Here

• Tony Rare
• May 13, 2025

False alarms slow everything down. Missed threats speed disaster up. That’s the balancing act facing fraud teams across financial institutions every day. Teams are buried under alerts they can’t trust while real risks move faster than their systems can respond.

This is where financial services cybersecurity needs a reset—not more noise, but better clarity. At Global IT, we help institutions stop chasing alerts and start stopping actual fraud with smarter IT tools built for precision and speed.

What Happens When Fraud Tools Fall Short

Too often, the biggest issue isn’t a lack of alerts—it’s too many of the wrong ones. Rigid rules, poor context, and outdated filters create a cycle of false positives, wasted hours, and bad outcomes.

These warning signs point to a bigger problem:

Fraud teams are overwhelmed and can’t respond fast enough.

Blocked transactions or unnecessary reviews impact customers.

Fraud slips through while staff spend time investigating regular activity.

The result isn’t just lost money. It’s lost time, lost trust, and unnecessary friction at every step.

Why Older Systems Struggle to Keep Up

Many fraud detection platforms still rely on static rules—set thresholds that trigger when something appears unusual. That may have worked in the past, but fraud tactics change faster than most systems can. 

Fraudsters have learned how to mimic normal patterns to bypass rules, leaving teams blind to the real risk. As alert volume grows, staff spend more time clearing low-risk flags and less time investigating real fraud. Manual reviews can’t scale to match transaction volume, and rigid systems don’t adapt when behavior shifts. 

Institutions need smarter tools that adjust on the fly instead of relying on outdated logic to stay ahead.

How Smarter IT Tools Change the Game

Instead of flagging every change in user behavior, modern fraud detection tools focus on context. They work to understand what’s truly suspicious and what’s simply different. This shift is key. Instead of forcing analysts to chase low-risk anomalies, systems now prioritize what matters based on each transaction’s who, what, where, and how. Better context leads to better outcomes, with teams spending less time on noise and more time on action. That’s the shift smarter tools make possible.

Here’s how they work:

• Behavioral analytics identify changes that matter, not just changes.
• Risk scoring ranks alerts so teams focus where it counts.
• Real-time monitoringt spot suspicious behavior without waiting for batch reports.

These features reduce alert fatigue and give fraud teams the confidence to act quickly and accurately.

False Positives Are Costing More Than You Think

Every time your system flags a good customer, it damages more than the transaction. It damages your credibility. At scale, false positives create unnecessary escalations, higher call volumes, and customer frustration.

Better systems fix this by:

• Building a dynamic understanding of typical account behavior.
• Adjusting thresholds automatically as user patterns shift.
• Reducing the number of alerts that require human follow-up.

That means your team can focus on fraud, not normal activity that looks strange on paper.

Smart Cybersecurity Starts With the Right Fit

Every financial institution faces different threats. High-volume retail banks need speed and scale. Private lenders may need deeper analysis and stronger controls for fewer but riskier transactions. The type of fraud you face—and the damage it can cause—should shape the technology you choose. A mismatch between the system and risk profile creates more problems than it solves. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Global IT helps you define what success looks like before tools are ever put in place.

Ask these questions before choosing a tool:

What types of fraud are most common in our operation?

Where do false positives hurt us the most?

Do we need real-time responses or deeper analysis?

Global IT works directly with your team to map the right tools to your risks—without adding complexity or bloat.

Avoid the Integration Wall

Even the best fraud detection system can become a liability if it’s hard to use. Integration problems show up fast—conflicting workflows, disconnected data sources, and long ramp-up periods that stall momentum. When fraud teams can’t access clear insights, or IT teams can’t connect systems properly, everything slows down. Tools that work in isolation create more work, not less. That’s why implementation support and system flexibility matter just as much as fraud detection capabilities. 

Global IT helps financial teams avoid these roadblocks by building rollout plans that work with your current systems, not against them.

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Where Financial Services Cybersecurity Is Headed Next

Smart detection will keep getting smarter—but not by flooding your team with more alerts. The future lies in better signal quality, not volume.

Emerging trends include:

• Graph-based analysis to track fraud rings across accounts.
• Device profiling and biometrics to reduce identity spoofing.
• Shared intelligence frameworks help financial institutions coordinate faster.

The best strategy isn’t just new tools. It’s having the right ones in place before you need them.

You Don't Need More Alerts. You Need Better Ones.

Fraud detection doesn’t have to feel like guesswork. If your team is stuck reacting instead of preventing, it’s time to change the system—not just the rules.

At Global IT, we help financial institutions sharpen their cybersecurity with tools that work smarter, scale better, and reduce waste. Let us help you stop the wrong alerts—and stop the right threats.

Talk to Global IT today and start building a fraud detection system that works.

The post Fixing Fraud Detection: Smarter Financial Services Cybersecurity Starts Here appeared first on info.globalit.com.

• Tony Rare
• April 10, 2025
• Computer Security, Data Protection Strategies, Government

Cybersecurity Solutions for Protecting Sensitive Government Data

Government agencies manage vast amounts of sensitive data, making cybersecurity solutions necessary for protecting against cyber threats. Personal records, classified information, and infrastructure systems are valuable targets for cybercriminals. Threats continue to grow, and without strong cybersecurity measures, agencies remain at risk.

Protecting this information requires a balanced approach. Budget limitations, outdated systems, and the complexity of digital environments make security challenging. Agencies need practical strategies that reduce risk while ensuring operational efficiency.

Key Cybersecurity Challenges
Facing Government Agencies

Budget and Complexity: Securing Data Without Overspending

Many agencies rely on legacy systems that lack modern security features. Upgrading technology, training personnel, and implementing security measures require funding that is not always available. A well-planned cybersecurity strategy focuses on high-impact solutions that maximize protection without excessive cost.

Cloud Security Risks: Protecting Data Across Multiple Environments

Government agencies increasingly store data in the cloud. While cloud computing offers flexibility, it also creates risks. Misconfigurations, unauthorized access, and weak encryption can expose sensitive information. A strong security plan includes:

• End-to-end encryption for data at rest and in transit
• Multi-factor authentication for all user accounts
• Continuous monitoring for suspicious activity

Insider Threats: The Risks Within an Organization

Employees, contractors, and vendors have access to critical systems. Some mistakes, such as weak passwords or accidental data sharing, increase vulnerability. Others, like intentional data theft, present more serious risks. Reducing these threats requires:

• Strict access controls based on role and necessity
• AI-driven monitoring tools that detect unusual behavior
• Regular cybersecurity training to reinforce safe practices

Emerging Cyber Threats: Staying Ahead of Attackers

Ransomware, phishing scams, and deepfake technology make it harder to prevent security breaches. Attackers refine their methods constantly, so agencies must stay one step ahead. Investing in proactive security measures such as real-time threat detection, automated response systems, and behavioral analytics helps agencies identify and stop attacks before they cause damage.

Protecting Critical Infrastructure: Addressing Operational Technology (OT) Risks

Power grids, water treatment plants, and transportation systems are high-value cyberattack targets. Many operational technology networks were designed before modern cybersecurity risks existed. Strengthening defenses requires segmenting IT and OT networks, continuous monitoring, and incident response plans for industrial control systems.

Cybersecurity Solutions for
Government Agencies:
Strategies That Work

Practical Security Measures on a Budget

Agencies can improve cybersecurity without a large financial investment by focusing on:

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) to block unauthorized access

Endpoint security for all devices connected to government networks

Automated threat detection to identify risks before they spread

Cloud Security Best Practices

Securing cloud-based data requires:

A Zero Trust approach, where no user or device is automatically trusted

Encryption for sensitive files stored in any cloud environment

Compliance with federal security standards such as FedRAMP and FISMA

Minimizing Insider Threats

Reducing the risks from internal sources includes:

AI-driven security monitoring that detects anomalies in system access

Restricting access to classified data based on job roles

Regular security awareness programs that reinforce best practices

Preparing for Security Challenges with Cybersecurity Solutions

Cybercriminals constantly evolve their attack methods. Agencies that adapt will maintain stronger defenses. Staying prepared involves:

Implementing AI-powered security tools to monitor and respond to threats

Performing regular security audits to find and fix weaknesses

Developing incident response plans that outline recovery steps after an attack

Success Stories: How Agencies Are Strengthening Security

Agencies that prioritize cybersecurity solutions have successfully prevented attacks. Some have used AI-driven threat detection to stop ransomware before it spreads. Others have reduced insider threats by limiting access to sensitive files.

Implementing these strategies protects data, prevents cyberattacks, and maintains public trust.

Global IT: Your Trusted Cybersecurity Partner

As cyber threats evolve, agencies must take a proactive approach to security. Investing in automation, artificial intelligence, and Zero Trust frameworks will create stronger defenses. Global IT specializes in cybersecurity solutions tailored for government agencies. Our team provides proactive strategies, real-time threat detection, and compliance support to keep your data secure. Contact Global IT today to build a stronger cybersecurity foundation for your agency.

The post Cybersecurity Solutions for Protecting Sensitive Government Data appeared first on info.globalit.com.

• Tony Rare
• December 17, 2024
• Computer Security, Internet Security

The Importance of Cybersecurity in Law Firms

The legal industry faces mounting risks from cyber threats. Law firms handle sensitive client information, financial data, and confidential case details, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. A breach disrupts operations and jeopardizes client trust and compliance with regulations, highlighting the importance of cybersecurity in law firms. Addressing these challenges requires a proactive approach tailored to protect the legal sector.

Why Law Firms Face Cybersecurity Challenges

Many firms struggle to maintain strong defenses due to limited resources, outdated systems, and inadequate staff training. These factors leave vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Cybersecurity often takes a back seat to immediate legal needs, but ignoring the risks can have lasting consequences. Modern cyberattacks are sophisticated, targeting both external systems and internal weaknesses.

Legal professionals can never overestimate the value of their data. Hackers view it as highly lucrative due to the sensitive nature of client information and the potential to demand ransom or sell stolen data. This puts law firms in a precarious position unless they take deliberate steps to secure their digital environments.

The Risks of Inaction

Failing to address cybersecurity leaves firms exposed to severe consequences, as breaches result in financial penalties, operational downtime, and reputational harm. Beyond monetary losses, firms face legal repercussions if they fail to comply with data protection regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or state-specific laws.

Cyberattacks can halt operations, forcing firms to pay ransoms or rebuild systems from scratch. Even when resolved, these incidents often erode client trust. A single breach can cause long-term damage to a firm’s reputation, impacting its ability to attract and retain clients.

Key Cyber Threats Targeting Law Firms

Firms face a range of threats designed to exploit vulnerabilities. Understanding these risks helps prioritize defenses.

Phishing Emails

These scams trick employees into sharing passwords or downloading malware by mimicking legitimate communications.

Ransomware Attacks

Hackers encrypt firm data and demand payment for its release, often paralyzing operations.

Insider Threats

Employees can inadvertently or intentionally compromise security through negligence or malicious actions.

Data Breaches

Cybercriminals target sensitive files, which can be sold or used for further attacks.

Emerging Threats

AI-driven attacks and supply chain vulnerabilities add new dimensions to the risks firms must address.

IT Solutions for Law Firms
and Improved Cybersecurity

Implementing robust IT solutions is crucial for law firms to respond to the growing cybersecurity challenges they face. This section outlines essential strategies and technologies to strengthen security defenses and protect sensitive data.

Building a Strong Cybersecurity Framework

Implementing robust security measures protects both the firm and its clients. Following these steps creates a foundation for long-term protection:

1

• Perform Regular Security Assessments: Evaluate systems to identify gaps and risks. This process helps prioritize updates and defenses.

2

• Create Clear Policies: Define rules for handling sensitive data, managing passwords, and using firm devices securely.

3

• Adopt Advanced Technology: Tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection guard against attacks.

4

• Schedule Routine Updates: Keeping software current prevents exploitation of known vulnerabilities.

5

• Develop Incident Response Plans: A structured plan minimizes downtime and ensures quick recovery after a breach.

Empowering Employees Through Training

Employees serve as the first line of defense. Equipping staff with cybersecurity knowledge significantly reduces risks. Training programs should cover recognizing phishing attempts, handling sensitive data safely, and using security protocols effectively.

Interactive sessions or phishing simulations keep training engaging and practical. Regular refreshers ensure employees stay aware of evolving threats, fostering a culture of security throughout the firm.

Best Practices for Ongoing Protection

Maintaining security requires consistent effort. These practices provide long-term benefits:

Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Requiring multiple verification methods strengthens account security.

Encrypt Sensitive Data

Encryption protects information both in storage and during transmission.

Limit Access

Requiring multiple verification methods strengthens account security.

Monitor Activity

Continuous tracking of network activity helps identify and respond to suspicious behavior.

Addressing Budget Constraints

Smaller firms often worry about cybersecurity costs, but solutions exist at various price points. Prioritize affordable, high-impact measures such as MFA, regular backups, and employee training. Many cybersecurity tools offer scalable options, allowing firms to adapt as they grow.

Some government programs provide grants or incentives for businesses investing in security. These resources help reduce financial strain while ensuring essential protections are in place.

Taking the Next Step

Improving cybersecurity begins with assessing your current defenses. Identifying weaknesses allows firms to build a tailored plan for improvement. Investing in modern technology and comprehensive policies protects sensitive data, preserves client trust, and ensures compliance with legal standards.

Global IT offers expertise in securing law firms against evolving cyber threats. We deliver solutions that safeguard your practice by combining advanced technology with industry knowledge. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can support your firm’s cybersecurity needs.

Schedule A FREE Consultation

Connect with us today! Do you have specific worries about introducing new technology at your facility? Please email us at info@globalit.com with your tips or concerns about technology implementation.

Schedule Consultation

The post The Importance of Cybersecurity in Law Firms appeared first on info.globalit.com.

• Tony Rare
• November 5, 2024
• Computer Security, Internet Security

Cybersecurity in the Financial Sector: Protecting Client Data

In today’s financial landscape, safeguarding client data has become a constant priority and challenge. With threats increasing in sophistication and volume, financial institutions must adapt to protect sensitive information from cybercriminals. Here, we’ll examine growing challenges in cybersecurity, outline essential strategies, and explain how Global IT can support financial institutions in securing client data through our IT Risk Management services.

The Growing Challenge of Cybersecurity in Finance

Cybersecurity threats have grown in both frequency and impact. Financial institutions, which hold vast amounts of personal and financial data, face unique risks. Cybercriminals frequently target this sector due to the high value of financial data, making it crucial to deploy robust, layered security measures. Global IT has observed that the need for proactive cybersecurity is clear; client data protection has become integral to maintaining trust and meeting industry regulations.

Common Cybersecurity Threats in Finance

Understanding prevalent threats helps create a strong defense. Some of the leading cybersecurity risks to financial institutions include:

Phishing Attacks

These attacks often trick employees into revealing login credentials or other sensitive data. Phishing remains one of the most effective methods for cybercriminals to gain access to protected systems.

Ransomware

Ransomware attacks can lock organizations out of their own systems, leading to significant financial and reputational damage if sensitive client information is compromised.

Insider Threats

Sometimes, threats emerge from within. Employees, either accidentally or with malicious intent, can put data at risk, requiring organizations to monitor and control data access.

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

APTs often target specific organizations and are designed to infiltrate a network over a prolonged period. These attacks are highly sophisticated, aiming to remain undetected while gathering sensitive information.

Each of these threats requires a tailored response to protect client data effectively.

Key Strategies for Protecting Client Data

Building a strong cybersecurity framework involves multiple layers of protection. Here are some strategies that Global IT recommends for maintaining data security in the financial sector:

Data Encryption

Encrypting data at rest and in transit ensures that sensitive information remains inaccessible to unauthorized users. Advanced encryption standards prevent data from being read if intercepted, adding a crucial layer of security.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA requires multiple forms of verification, making unauthorized access more difficult. By implementing MFA, institutions reduce the risk of unauthorized logins, even if credentials are compromised.

Regular Security Audits and Assessments

Conducting frequent security assessments helps identify vulnerabilities before cybercriminals can exploit them. Audits also ensure that institutions remain compliant with industry regulations.

Employee Training

Many cyber incidents stem from human error. Training staff to recognize phishing emails, suspicious activity, and best practices in data handling significantly reduces risk.

When properly implemented, these strategies can help financial institutions keep client data secure and meet regulatory standards.

Regulatory Compliance and Its Role in Cybersecurity

The financial sector must adhere to strict regulations to ensure client data protection. Regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) set stringent guidelines for handling personal and financial information. Adherence to these regulations is critical, as non-compliance can result in severe penalties and loss of client trust.

Global IT assists financial institutions in navigating these requirements, ensuring data security strategies meet all necessary compliance standards.

Protecting Reputation and Client Trust with Proactive Measures

In the financial world, reputation and client trust are paramount. A breach can significantly impact both, damaging client relationships and causing lasting reputational harm. Proactive measures such as regular vulnerability assessments, employee cybersecurity training, and incident response planning all contribute to building a solid defense. Regular assessments identify weaknesses before they become vulnerabilities, and training employees ensure they are aware of phishing tactics and other attack strategies. Global IT helps institutions adopt these proactive approaches, fostering security practices that clients can trust.

How Global IT Supports Cybersecurity in Finance

Global IT offers a range of cybersecurity services tailored to the financial sector. With a deep understanding of industry-specific threats, Global IT partners with institutions to identify vulnerabilities, secure client data, and maintain compliance with industry regulations. Our expertise includes:

Threat Monitoring and Response

Constant monitoring helps detect and respond to suspicious activities before they escalate.

Risk Assessment and Management

Regular risk assessments allow institutions to strengthen security protocols in weak areas, reducing the likelihood of data breaches.

Customized Cybersecurity Solutions

Global IT creates custom solutions to meet each financial institution's unique needs, ensuring a tailored, effective approach to security.

Client trust is built on the assurance that their sensitive data remains protected. Financial institutions can reduce the risk of data breaches by implementing proactive cybersecurity strategies, maintaining regulatory compliance, and securing client confidence. With Global IT’s guidance, the financial sector can achieve robust protection, safeguarding both client data and institutional reputation.

Partnering with Global IT to Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats

A secure financial environment starts with strong cybersecurity practices in today’s escalating threat landscape. Global IT stands ready to support financial institutions in building this defense with solutions that adapt to emerging threats and regulatory requirements.

Please email us at info@globalit.com for more information on how we can assist your organization in implementing effective cybersecurity strategies. Our team is always available to help you stay ahead of cyber threats and protect your client data. Let’s work together to safeguard the financial sector from cybercriminals and maintain trust among clients.

The post Cybersecurity in the Financial Sector: Protecting Client Data appeared first on info.globalit.com.

Romeo Power:

1. City: Cypress, CA
2. Employee count: 400
3. Approximate Size: 240,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: MSP, Managed Services, Contracted multi-term
6. Issue Reported: Post-installation heatmap analysis
7. Identified Issue: Weak coverage resulting in connections dropping
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report.
9. Global IT was contracted to implement the changes.
10. Summary: Following the system’s deployment, the client requested an additional heatmap to verify coverage, assess channel utilization, and address potential external interference. The result was 100% service coverage and a satisfied customer.

California Healthcare Alliance of Pasadena:

1. City: Pasadena, CA
2. Employee count: 500, 8 x locations
3. Approximate Size: Multiple buildings
4. Building Type: Office, Medical
5. Customer type: MSP, Managed Services, Contracted multi-term
6. Issue Reported: Heatmap requested to verify coverage and identify any weak areas or interference
7. Identified Issue: Weak signals were detected in some of the clinics
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. Global IT was contracted to implement the changes.
10. Summary: Additional access points were installed in the clinics with weak signals, addressing the issues identified in the heatmap and improving overall coverage.

Fender:

1. City: Corona, CA
2. Employee count: 300
3. Approximate Size: 176,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract, ongoing, multi-location
6. Issue Reported: Weak signal and random disconnections
7. Identified Issue: External interference resulting in connections dropping
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report.
9. The client implemented the changes
10. Summary: After implementing the recommended adjustments, the client reported substantial improvements in performance and connectivity. The result was 100% service coverage and a satisfied customer.

Future Foam:

1. City: Fullerton, CA
2. Employee count: 150
3. Approximate Size: 125,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract
6. Issue Reported: Heatmap requested to identify weak signal areas
7. Identified Issue: Weak signals were found in areas where products were stacked above the line of sight to the access points (APs)
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. The client implemented the changes
10. Summary: GIT engineers reviewed the report with the client, and the client took the report and applied changes, improving coverage as expected.

Mr. Movember:

1. City: Los Angeles, CA
2. Employee count: 100
3. Approximate Size: 75,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract
6. Issue Reported: Disconnections and weak signals in certain building areas
7. Identified Issue: External interference from the outer area was causing disconnections in areas
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. The client implemented some but not all recommendations and changes
10. Summary: A follow-up heatmap confirmed improved signal strength in previously weak areas and highlighted the need to follow GIT wireless engineering recommendations

The post Wi-Fi Projects appeared first on info.globalit.com.

The False Narrative About Ransomware

This article’s readers will fall into two categories: those who have been recently affected by a ransomware attack and those who haven’t. The former group will have no illusions about the perniciousness of modern ransomware. However, the latter group may be under the misconception that ransomware is becoming extinct. After all, there are many headlines on the web touting the decline of ransomware.

Ransomware Is so 2017

Why Cryptomining Is the New Ransomware

Cybercriminals Move from Ransomware Attacks to Crypto Mining

The Decline of Ransomware and the Rise of Cryptocurrency Mining

Nevertheless, the statistics gainsay the decline of ransomware. The headlines don’t tell the whole story. Ransomware is still alive and thriving. Look at the following statistics.

• 48% of IT consultants noted an increase in ransomware related consolation and inquires. (Intermedia, 2017)
• From 2016 to 2017 Ransomware attacks spiked 350%. (Dimension Data, 2018)
• In 2017, 25% of cyber insurance claims were because of ransomware. (AIG, 2018)
• WannaCry ransomware could cost businesses $4 billion (Cyence, 2017)

Organizations of all sizes are impacted by ransomware attacks, even as rumors of ransomware’s decline float around the internet. These attacks are inconvenient and expensive. For instance, the town of Matanuska-Susitna, Alaska had its phones, servers, computers, and email exchange crippled by ransomware, forcing the town’s employees to use typewriters. Likewise, the city of Atlanta had to pay 17 million to clean up the devastating SamSam ransomware attack.

In summary, ransomware is still active and pernicious.

No Industry Is Safe From Ransomware

You may have noticed the examples above (Atlanta and Matanuska-Susitna) involve public sector organizations. It’s true that many high-profile ransomware salvos are against municipalities. At the same time, there is a myriad of ransomware attacks against the private sector. Here are some headlines that show the private sector is not immune to ransomware assaults.

• Ransomware Attack Targets Adams Memorial Hospital
• Allscripts sued over ransomware attack, accused of ‘wanton’ disregard
• Hospital pays $55,000 ransom; no patient data stolen, Greenfield, IN
• LabCorp 90% recovered from SamSam ransomware attack, Burlington, NC

You can find a myriad of examples of private sector companies that have fallen victim to ransomware. Here’s another point to consider: some ransomware attacks are never reported. Municipalities and hospitals typically have government regulations that demand disclosure. Conversely, many private sector businesses are bound by no such regulations and wish to stay out of the press. Therefore, the rate of ransomware attacks against private organizations is likely much higher than we know.

Practical Ways to Protect Your Company From Ransomware

Inventory Your Internet-Facing Assets- When your network is connected to the internet, your security is tested. Your internet-facing assets are open to being probed by hackers. The first step to securing these ports is to catalog them. Once they’re totally archived, you can ensure they’re protected by your security measures.

Filter All Email for Spam Messages- Email attachments with ransomware infect millions of computers. You can protect yourself by not opening up unsolicited attachments in unverified emails.

Macros- Disallow macros unless they’ve been verified by your IT admin or your managed IT team.

Limit RDP Access- Require all RDP access to be routed over a VPN secured by 2-factor authentication.

Comprehensive Backup System- Disaster recovery as a service and a potent cloud backup will help remove the sting of ransomware.

Ransomware Protocol for Employees- Don’t allow bad company policy to compound the negative effects of ransomware. Employees must know who to alert in case of a ransomware attack. Also, employees often fear retribution when coming forth about a cyber-attack. Time is critical in these instances, so it’s imperative you alleviate these concerns so employees feel comfortable coming forward. Lastly, employees should have a clear directive about what can be discussed with the outside world.

Should You Pay a Ransom

IT professionals are of two minds about paying a ransom. First off, you have a couple of alternatives. David Harley, the Senior Research Fellow at ESET, suggests contacting your security software vendor because recovery may be possible without paying the ransom. Second, Harley opines you may be able to restore your data from backups.

Recovering from backups can be more expensive than paying a ransom. That’s why businesses decide to pay. This is often a bad idea. Even if you pay, there’s no guarantee the hackers will keep their word and decrypt your data. There are many accounts of hackers asking for second payments or never decrypting data. On a macro scale, you’re also validating the business model behind the crime.

If you decide to implement a policy of paying ransoms, then make sure you designate someone in the company to be the negotiator. Having the proper policy and procedure is key.

Conclusion

More and more companies are depending on data and technology. As that trend continues, ransomware will likely continue to grow. To deal with the growing ransomware threats it’s critical that your organization addresses risk management tactics. This can be done internally or by consulting endpoint security experts like your managed IT company. Contact us today for more info.

The post The Essential Guide to Understanding Ransomware appeared first on info.globalit.com.

How Do Cloud Services Work?

A standard computer network consists of workstations attached to a server. Companies prefer all data storage to be done on the server for security reasons, and because the server gets its data backed up while the workstations do not. Some companies will force employees to access all application software (Microsoft Office, Salesforce, etc.) from the server to make it easier to update applications and maintain them. But in most networks, there is an unhealthy combination of application software and storage on both the company server and all of the workstations.

The cloud eliminates the need for a server, solves all of your storage problems, and hosts your applications. To get started, you set up your cloud computing service through a third-party provider and create parts of your cloud where all employees can go to get applications and store data, and only certain employees can go to protected, sensitive and confidential information. You only pay for what you need, and you never have to worry about the network going down.

Then you get workstations that connect to the Internet (usually through wireless routers) and everyone accesses the company cloud computing system through a secure Internet connection. You no longer need expensive networking equipment, servers, or additional support personnel. Aside from the cost savings, there are several other good reasons why you should move your company to the cloud. Here are the top 10:

1. The Cloud is Really Flexible

With the cloud, you can start setting up satellite offices anywhere in the world and they can all connect to your company’s cloud service. You can also work with your cloud backup provider to add more services if you need them as you expand, or reduce the number of services you pay for based on changes in your business. The cloud grows with your business, and you don’t have to invest in any extra equipment to add to your network.

2. The Cloud is Secure

Since all of your data and applications are on your cloud service, you know that you will always have access to your data no matter what. If one of your field personnel gets a laptop stolen, not only can you access the data, but you can wipe out any sensitive data so it doesn’t get into the wrong hands.

3. The Cloud is Green

If you are a business with a few hundred employees and a standard computer network, then you are using a lot more energy than you need to. Your air-conditioned server room and all of the energy you use to run your network are causing all kinds of problems for the environment.

With the cloud, you get rid of all of that energy-guzzling equipment and significantly reduce your carbon footprint. This is just one way that the cloud saves you money and helps your company to do something good for the planet.

4. The Cloud is Portable

Because your cloud service is available through a secure network connection, you and your staff can access your data anywhere you can access the Internet. You simply log into your computer and your entire network is available to you. You can even get some work done while you are on vacation, but you should probably clear that with your spouse first.

5. The Cloud Protects Your Data

Does your business have a disaster recovery plan for your data? Do you back-up your data on a regular basis to an offsite and secure location? The cloud is a great way for small businesses to get the kind of data disaster recovery plan that used to only be available to large corporations, but at a fraction of the cost.

With the cloud, your data is stored in a secure facility that backs up your data on a regular basis. Your cloud provider also has offsite storage that makes sure that your data is protected from any kind of potential disaster.

6. The Cloud Unifies Your Data

When you have a standard network, there could be important documents saved on the server and workstations. There may even be versions of those documents on the laptops of field personnel. In the end, your sensitive data is not safe and different parts of your company are getting different versions of the same information.

Cloud storage is done using a centralized system where everyone can access the same document at the same time. You no longer have to worry about people making changes to the information that no one else will see because all of your data is centralized. You can also set up secured parts of your cloud storage that prevent your confidential and sensitive information from getting into the wrong hands.

7. The Cloud Updates Itself

If you use a standard network, then you know the headaches that come with updating software. If you update your network software, then every workstation has to be updated individually. Some applications are on the server, and some are local on the workstations. Updating software becomes an expensive and time-consuming job.

A cloud service updates all of your applications from one central spot, and you don’t need networking software to connect to the cloud. Your cloud provider makes sure your applications are updated and maintained, and you just keep on working.

8. The Cloud Gives You a Competitive Advantage

Simply put, the cloud gives any small business the same kind of comprehensive enterprise software solutions that only large corporations could afford in the past. If you want your business to have a competitive advantage through the use of the latest enterprise application, then move your business to the cloud.

9. The Cloud Improves Your Cash Flow

When you move to the cloud, you no longer need to spend money on expensive equipment. You can put that money back into your cash flow and grow your business. The cloud also prevents you from having to take out loans or take on debt just to keep your computer network running.

10. The Cloud Connects Your Entire Company

Teams do not have to be in the same place at the same time to work on a project. Your teams will be able to do more together and do it better with the ability to access, edit and share documents any time of the day. With the cloud, everyone can talk freely to everyone else and your company can enjoy complete collaboration.

Now is the Time

Cloud technology is constantly being improved and expanded to accommodate more business needs. If your company is not on the cloud, then you are wasting money, preventing innovation, and slowing growth. Instead of sticking with the standard networking tools you know, it is time to talk to evaluate your options and find out just how much more your company could be doing if it was using a cloud solution.

To discuss moving to managed cloud service, please visit https://globalit.com/services/cloud-services/cloud-managed-data-center/ or contact us at (877) 822-5565.

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It sounds like the distant future, but it is all happening right now. It is called the Internet of Things (IoT), and it could change the way you live and work. Smart cities are already in the planning stages that reduce vehicle emissions, are much more energy efficient, and handle traffic in such a way as to reduce traffic jams and pedestrian injuries. It all sounds like a dream, but there are problems to overcome as we head into the future of IoT.

What Is IoT?

In a perfect world, IoT means that every device that runs on some sort of power is connected to the Internet, or connected directly to each other. As you can imagine, there are issues with getting some items connected to the Internet, and there is also problems justifying connecting electric toothbrushes to a central server.

As these devices go through their daily activities, they collect information that can be used in a variety of ways. As our example in the opening paragraph suggested, devices and wearable technology would be able to anticipate a person’s needs and transmit critical information on its own. The data stored can be used to make a taxi cab fleet more fuel efficient, and it can be used as evidence in a personal injury lawsuit involving a car accident.

Commercial Adaptation Of IoT

Small and large businesses have started to create IoT strategies designed to connect all of their devices to a central storage and analysis point. There are two ways businesses can implement an IoT strategy; either buy all new equipment that is already IoT enabled, or start enabling equipment one piece at a time. Obviously, the more cost effective route is to enable devices one piece at a time, but that does not make it the easiest approach.

One of the most significant problems companies have with an IoT implementation is connecting legacy devices to the Internet. Large mainframes can be connected to the Internet, but what about the company trucks? It takes a significant amount of planning to outfit any size organization with an IoT network.

The payoff for installing an IoT system is significant. Companies can monitor the condition and activities of their vehicles in detail and develop a number of fuel-saving measures. Employee productivity can be easily monitored, and that opens up the door for developing more productive methods. Companies would be able to put worker’s compensation fraud to an end, and corporate attorneys would have much more information to use in defense of the company in any kind of lawsuit.

Many industries will show a massive growth toward IoT within the next several years.

Is IoT Vulnerable?

The vulnerabilities in an IoT system come from the significant number of Internet connections they create. When a car sends back information about its fuel usage, it is also opens up a connection on the Internet that hackers can use to access the company network. Even your personal information is not safe when your toaster retrieves your favorite toast settings from a central server and uses that information to make your morning a little better.

Compliance Issues

Implementation of IoT networks has been going on in the corporate world long enough for government agencies to start developing laws and guidelines regarding the creation and maintenance of an IoT system. But with so much information being transmitted from so many devices, there have been plenty of concerns raised about compliance with security standards.

The protection of data has been critical, and standards such as HIPAA for storing health care data and PCI for protecting credit card information have been created to make sure that the private data of customers and patients stays safe. But with the IoT, maintaining compliance with these laws is not easy. Most of these government agencies have issued detailed ways to make sure that data is transmitted over an IoT system safely, but the laws keep changing as more and more devices are placed online.

Protecting Your Data

Some of the factors that make the IoT possible is the massive expansion of WiFi service, the dramatic drop in technology costs, and the rapid rate at which technology is being adopted around the world. But at the heart of any IoT system is a reliable and secure cloud storage solution.

Global IT has dedicated servers placed in a secure location that you can use to safely store all of your IoT data. The amount of data you will collect with a IoT system is well beyond what your company is used to handling. Instead of taking chances, it is best to rely on the experts and state-of-the-art equipment used by Global IT to protect your critical data.

Resources:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobmorgan/2014/05/13/simple-explanation-internet-things-that-anyone-can-understand/#5a9a68386828

http://www.forbes.com/sites/janakirammsv/2016/08/22/10-steps-to-implementing-a-successful-enterprise-iot-strategy/2/#7b413f221fcd

https://www.thingworx.com/blog/iot-helps-business-regulatory-compliance/

http://www.business.com/technology/internet-of-things-security-compliance-risks-and-opportunities/

http://www.businessinsider.com/the-enterprise-internet-of-things-market-2015-7

Image Sources: aquaticinformatics.com and businessinsider.com

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Our nation’s critical infrastructure, including both private and public sector networks, are targeted by adversaries. American companies are targeted for trade secrets and other sensitive corporate data, and universities for their cutting-edge research and development. Citizens are targeted by fraudsters and identity thieves, and children are targeted by online predators. –FBI

What Is Ransomware?
The simple answer to defining ransomware is that it is a virus that takes hold of your computer and demands payment to a criminal organization to get the password that will release the virus. This affects personal and corporate computers, and it has become a big business for the criminal world. It is estimated that cyber-ransoms will become a billion dollar industry in 2016, and that only includes the paid ransoms. That figure does not include the costs for repairing the computers or recovering the information.
Once ransomware is downloaded, you will get a message telling you that your computer has been locked and you will be told that you need to take some kind of action to pay the ransom. The consequences of not paying include having all of your data erased, or permanently locking up your computer.
The more complicated description of ransomware is that it preys on your more vulnerable software applications and encrypts your computer. Normally, encryption is used to protect your data. But in this case, it locks you out of your computer and requires a password that only the criminal knows. When you pay the ransom, you hope to get the password that will open up your system. In some cases, the password is not provided after the ransom has been paid.

The FBI doesn’t support paying a ransom in response to a ransomware attack. Paying a ransom doesn’t guarantee an organization that it will get its data back—there have been cases where organizations never got a decryption key after having paid the ransom. Paying a ransom not only emboldens current cyber criminals to target more organizations, it also offers an incentive for other criminals to get involved in this type of illegal activity. And by paying a ransom, an organization might inadvertently be funding other illicit activity associated with criminals.-FBIHow do you get Ransomware?
In corporate settings, ransomware usually arrives in an employee’s email account as what looks like a safe and secure attachment. But when the attachment is open, the ransomware is loaded and it may start to move its way through the rest of the network.
In any setting, email is the most common way that ransomware gets loaded onto a computer. The second most common way is clicking on an infected website and having it loaded directly onto your computer. As frustrating as these can be, these delivery methods give us clues on how to combat these attacks.

Avoiding Ransomware
Always use a reputable  antivirus software vendor and can scan your received emails and warn you against websites that are infected. Never use a free AV. You should always have good antivirus operating on your computer, and you should keep your antivirus updated constantly. Corporate IT directors should keep their firewall software up to date, and have a policy in place that prohibits employees from opening email attachments.
Never open an email attachment from a sender you do not recognize. Many of these criminals try to disguise their emails as being from legitimate banks or communications providers, but you should never fall for it. One way to tell if an email is from your bank is to hover your mouse pointer over any link in the email and read the associated link at the bottom of the browser. If the link does not come from your bank, then the email is a phishing email that is looking for victims.

Make sure you look over the data in the email carefully. If you are not familiar with the vendor or the prospective client, call the phone number listed in the email. Here is an example of a fraudulent company that looks legitimate. If you look closely, you can see that there are (3) s’ in the email address dave@bluegrassscontracting.com. This is easy to miss.

Corporate and personal users should always have their computers backed-up to a resource that is not online. For example, personal users can get a large capacity USB drive and back their computers up to that drive every Friday. Corporate users can utilize offline back-up systems that are constantly updated with any changes to the network in case of an attack.

What To Do If You Have Been Attacked

If you open an attachment in your corporate email account and you get the ransomware warning page, then contact your manager immediately. If your manager is not available, then contact the IT manager directly and alert the trusted IT group to the problem.
If you get ransomware on your personal computer, then you should call a computer support professional immediately. Do not try to take care of the problem yourself because it could become worse.

Ransomware is just one of the growing threats that honest Internet users face every day. By practicing safe computer use habits, you can reduce your chances of getting attacked and have yourself covered in case you need to have your hard drive reloaded.

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But there appears to be more to the information security issue than meets the eye. According to Vox.com, two Danish researchers just released a study that involved 70,000 users of the dating website OKCupid. The problem is that the users had no idea their information was being used, and neither did the website.

Theft or Science?

Danish researcher Emil Kirkegaard says he used a “scraping” software to gather all of the information from the OKCupid 70,000 member database and used it in his study. While the software gathered every piece of information from every account, Kirkegaard defends his actions by saying that the information was already public. OKCupid countered that the information is only public on their forum, and that Kirkegaard had no right to use the information without consent.

The accounts have screen names that keep them anonymous, but that does not stop OKCupid from crying foul. The website is demanding that all of the report information be removed from the website it is published on, and it is also considering a lawsuit.

How Easy Is It To Steal Data?

Anand Prakash is a software engineer who found a way past Facebook’s security system that was actually easier than he expected. He found a way to use hacking software to get the password of any account he wanted, and then he went and told Facebook. He was rewarded with a prize of $15,000 for his findings, but his ability to crack into one of the largest social media platforms in the world raises concerns.

What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?

In the cases of OKCupid and Facebook, users were powerless to protect their profiles. In both cases, users expected the websites to protect sensitive data, and the websites failed to do so. One can only imagine what would have happened if Anand Prakash had decided to either use his Facebook hack for himself, or sell it to more devious individuals.

There are two areas to consider when talking about preventing your information from being hacked: legal and illegal means. To prevent your information from getting into the wrong hands legally, you need to read the user agreements on websites before you accept them. All user agreements must indicate whether or not the site sells data to third-parties, and you can opt to not be part of a website that will sell your data.

Having your information hacked by an outside entity is a different story. In order to use the websites that are getting hacked, you need to provide personal information that could get stolen.

Here is a list of tips you can follow that could help protect your data if a website you are on gets hacked.

• Only use secure websites that have the “https://” address marker at the beginning of their address.
• Always provide contact information that you can use to change your password if your account gets hacked.
• Change your password often to prevent a hacker from being able to steal your account.
• Create a username that is not easy to figure out.
• Never log into your account from a public computer such as one at a library, and never log into your account using a public WiFi connection.
• If you start to see suspicious activity on your account, report it to the site administrator immediately. If you get no answer from the administrator, the shut down your account.

Once you put your personal information on a website, you are taking the chance that your data will get stolen. By taking necessary precautions, you can help to protect your data from being stolen, or being used legally against your will.

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