In our tech-driven world, electronic devices have become indispensable. But what happens to the old gadgets with all the constant upgrades? They tend to pile up and eat up storage space. You can’t just throw them in the trash. E-waste poses a significant environmental threat if not disposed of responsibly.
E-waste is a term that refers to electronic devices that are no longer useful or wanted. These include things like:
- Computers
- Laptops
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Printers
- Cameras
- TVs
E-waste can contain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury, cadmium and brominated flame retardants. These can harm the environment and human health if they are not disposed of properly.
E-waste comprises about 70% of toxic waste. People only recycle 12.5% of it.
What can you do to responsibly get rid of e-waste at your home or office? Here are some tips.
1. Understand What Makes Up E-Waste
E-waste includes old computers, smartphones, printers and other electronic devices. It also comprises batteries, chargers and even cables. Understanding what makes up e-waste is the first step towards responsible disposal.
Most people simply aren’t aware of what e-waste includes. This is a big reason that most of it ends up in landfills. That is not good for us or for the environment.
2. Reduce Your E-Waste
The next step is to reduce the amount of e-waste you generate in the first place. This means buying only what you need. You should also choose durable and energy-efficient products as well as extend the lifespan of your devices by repairing them when possible.
Before buying a new electronic device, ask if it is necessary. Can more than one person share a company tablet? In some cases, everyone in a family or office might not need a duplicate device.
3. Explore Recycling Programs
Many electronics retailers and manufacturers have recycling programs. Research local options. Retailers often collect old gadgets which ensures that they are recycled or disposed of properly. These programs are convenient and eco-friendly.
Here are a couple you can check out:
4. Use E-Waste Recycling Centers
E-waste recycling centers specialize in disposing of electronic devices safely. They dismantle gadgets, recycle valuable components and dispose of hazardous materials responsibly. Locate a certified e-waste recycling center near you for proper disposal.
Here are a few sites where you can find recycling centers:
5. Consider Donating or Selling Functioning Devices
If your old devices are still functional, consider donating them. Many charities and schools accept functional electronics or you can sell them online through reputable platforms. This gives gadgets a new life and reduces e-waste.
Make sure you properly clean data from old devices first. You don’t want someone having access to your online banking app or all of your family photos. Keep reading for tips on doing this properly.
6. Dispose of Batteries Separately
Batteries (especially rechargeable ones) contain hazardous materials. Many retailers and recycling centers have dedicated bins for battery disposal. Always separate batteries from other e-waste for proper handling.
7. Try Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Several electronic manufacturers offer take-back programs. When you buy a new device, inquire about their disposal programs. Some manufacturers take back old gadgets to ensure responsible recycling or refurbishment.
8. Opt for Certified E-Waste Recyclers
When using e-waste recycling services, choose certified recyclers. Look for certifications like R2 or e-Stewards. These certifications ensure that the recycling process meets high environmental standards as well as data security protocols.
9. Educate Your Office or Household
Awareness is key. Educate your office or household about the importance of responsible e-waste disposal. Encourage everyone to take part and follow proper disposal methods.
10. Repurpose or Upcycle
Get creative. You can often repurpose or upcycle old electronics. Turn an old computer monitor into a digital photo frame. Use smartphone parts for DIY projects. Upcycling reduces waste and adds a touch of innovation.
11. Encourage Manufacturer Responsibility
Support companies that take environmental responsibility seriously. Choose products from manufacturers committed to sustainable practices and responsible e-waste management.
Make Sure to Secure Data Before Disposal, Sale or Donation
Before parting with your devices, wipe all data. Otherwise, you could become the victim of cybercrime. It is not unusual for criminals to troll dumps for old electronics. Remove all traces of your data to keep yourself protected.
Use reliable data erasure software or consult with an IT professional to securely wipe information from old gadgets. Data security is crucial even in disposal.
Get Help Backing Up & Cleaning Devices
It is important to both back up and remove all data from devices before you get rid of them. We can help with expert data migration from the old device to the new one as well as thorough data cleaning to ensure all information is removed.
Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
In the realm of our digitally dominated world where personal information has become a valuable currency, Data Privacy Week stands as an annual reminder of the paramount importance of safeguarding such data.
The evolving landscape of cyber threats (ranging from commonplace phishing attacks to sophisticated malware) underscores the need for both individuals and businesses to conduct thorough security checkups. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for fortifying your digital defenses during Data Privacy Week and beyond.
Why Data Privacy Matters
The Growing Threat Landscape
In this era, technology has facilitated the exponential growth of data which transformed it into a commodity of immense value. However, this very value has attracted an alarming surge in cyber threats.
These threats encompass a spectrum from the relatively simple but pervasive phishing attacks to the highly sophisticated and targeted forms of malware. To fully grasp the significance of data privacy, it is crucial to understand the gravity and diversity of these threats.
Legal Implications
Beyond the realm of cybersecurity, governments globally are recognizing the imperative need for robust data protection laws. Compliance is no longer a choice. It is a legal requirement.
The consequences of non-compliance are severe and range from substantial financial penalties to irreparable damage to a company’s reputation. Prioritizing data privacy is not just about bolstering security. It is also about adhering to an evolving legal landscape.
Conducting a Comprehensive Security Checkup
Reviewing Passwords and Access Control
When initiating a thorough security checkup, the first critical aspect is reviewing passwords and access control measures. Passwords are the first line of defense and must be fortified. Ensure that they adhere to stringent criteria and incorporate a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Additionally, the implementation of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever feasible adds an extra layer of security and significantly enhances the robustness of access controls.
Updating Software and Systems
A fundamental pillar of any security checkup involves keeping software and operating systems up-to-date. Regular updates often include crucial security patches that serve as a shield against known vulnerabilities.
Equally important is identifying and phasing out any legacy systems that may pose security risks. The elimination of outdated systems ensures a streamlined and secure digital environment.
Data Encryption and Storage Practices
In the realm of data privacy, encryption plays a pivotal role. Implementing encryption protocols safeguards sensitive information during both transmission and storage. This ensures that even if unauthorized access occurs, the data remains unintelligible. Equally important is the secure storage of data which ensures that access is restricted and minimizes the risk of unauthorized breaches.
Employee Training and Awareness
Employees are an integral part of the security ecosystem which necessitates focused attention. Regular training sessions should be conducted to educate employees about the latest security threats and best practices.
Furthermore, simulated phishing exercises serve as an invaluable tool to gauge and enhance employee resilience against phishing attacks. A well-informed and vigilant workforce is a potent defense against potential security breaches.
Auditing and Monitoring
The proactive identification of potential security threats is a crucial component of any robust security strategy. Regular audits of systems, networks and access logs help to uncover and address vulnerabilities. Implementing real-time monitoring solutions provides the ability to detect and respond to security incidents promptly. This not only minimizes the impact of potential breaches but also serves as a deterrent against future threats.
Incident Response Plan
Preparedness is key when it comes to cybersecurity. Developing a comprehensive incident response plan ensures a swift and efficient response in the event of a security breach. Regular drills should be conducted to test the efficiency of the plan and allow for necessary adjustments and improvements. An effective incident response plan serves as a safety net and mitigates the potential damage caused by security incidents.
Third-Party Security Assessment
For organizations engaging with third-party vendors, assessing their security practices is paramount. Ensuring that third-party vendors meet established security standards is essential for safeguarding your organization’s data. Additionally, contractual agreements should include stringent security clauses that establish a framework for adherence to data protection standards.
Embracing a Culture of Privacy
Employee Privacy
Moving beyond technical measures, fostering a culture of privacy within an organization involves considerations for employee privacy. The principle of data minimization should guide data collection practices to ensure that only necessary information is collected and processed. Obtaining clear and informed consent from employees before collecting and processing their personal information is not only ethically sound but also aligns with data protection principles.
Customer Privacy
Extending the commitment to privacy to customers involves transparent communication. Clearly articulating privacy policies and detailing how customer data will be used and protected establishes trust. Implementing opt-in mechanisms for data collection empowers customers and gives them control over their information. This not only complies with ethical standards but also contributes to a positive relationship between the organization and its customers.
The Continuous Journey of Data Privacy
Data privacy is not a one-time event but a continuous commitment. Regularly revisiting and reassessing security measures is essential to staying ahead of emerging threats. Fostering a culture of privacy within an organization is an ongoing effort that requires commitment and vigilance. By doing so, organizations contribute to a safer digital environment for both their teams and customers.
As we collectively celebrate Data Privacy Week, let us remember that safeguarding our digital lives is a shared responsibility. By adhering to the principles outlined in this guide, we contribute to a more secure and privacy-centric digital landscape. As you embark on your journey to fortify your digital defenses, keep in mind that Data Privacy Week is not just a week. It is a mindset and a commitment to protect what matters most – your data.
Contact us at Sound Computers to learn more about how we can help you in your journey toward a more secure digital future.
Breached or stolen passwords are the bane of any organization’s cybersecurity. Passwords cause over 80% of data breaches. Hackers get in using stolen, weak or reused (and easily breached) passwords. So how do you share passwords safely with employees?
Passwords are a part of life. Technologies like biometrics or passkeys haven’t yet replaced them. We use them for websites, apps and more. Companies need a secure way to share passwords with employees as well as help them manage those passwords more effectively.
Cybersecurity threats are rampant and safeguarding sensitive information has never been more critical. Properly managing passwords securely is a top priority. At the same time, employees deal with more passwords than ever. LastPass estimates that people have an average of 191 work passwords.
Since you can’t get around passwords, how do you share them with employees safely? One solution that has gained popularity in recent years is using password managers.
Let’s explore the benefits of password managers next. We will also delve into why it is one of the most secure ways to share passwords with employees.
Why Use a Business Password Management App?
Password managers give you a secure digital vault for safeguarding passwords. The business versions have setups for separating work and personal passwords. They also have special administrative functions so companies never lose a critical password.
Here are some of the reasons to consider getting a password manager for better data security.
Centralized Password Management
A primary advantage of password managers is their ability to centralize password management. They keep employees from using weak or repetitive passwords and from storing them in vulnerable places. Instead, a password manager stores all passwords in an encrypted vault. This enhances security. It also streamlines the process of sharing passwords securely within a team.
End-to-End Encryption
Leading password managers use robust encryption techniques to protect sensitive data. End-to-end encryption scrambles passwords. It turns them into unreadable text when stored and transmitted. This makes it nearly impossible for unauthorized users to access the information.
When sharing passwords with employees, encryption provides an extra layer of security. It helps ensure that the data remains confidential even during transmission.
Secure Password Sharing Features
Password managers often come with secure password-sharing features. They allow administrators to share passwords with team members and to do this without revealing the actual password.
Instead, employees can access the required credentials without seeing the characters. This ensures that employees do not have direct access to sensitive information. This feature is particularly useful when onboarding new team members as well as when collaborating on projects that require access to specific accounts.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Many password managers support multi-factor authentication. This adds an extra and important layer of security. MFA requires two or more forms of verification before accessing an account.
MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. According to Microsoft, it lowers the risk by 99.9%. This makes it an essential feature for businesses looking to enhance password security and especially when sharing sensitive information with employees.
Password Generation and Complexity
Password managers often come with built-in password generators. They create strong and complex passwords that are difficult to crack. When sharing passwords with employees, employers can use these generated passwords. They ensure that employees are using strong and unique passwords for each account.
This eliminates the common practice of using weak passwords as well as reusing passwords across many accounts. This feature mitigates the risk of security breaches.
Audit Trails and Activity Monitoring
Monitoring is a valuable feature offered by many password managers. It provides the ability to track user activity and access history. Admins can track who accessed which passwords and when. This provides transparency and accountability within the organization.
This audit trail helps in identifying any suspicious activities. It also allows companies to take prompt action. This ensures the security of the shared passwords.
Secure Sharing with Third Parties
Password managers offer secure methods for sharing credentials with third-party collaborators or contractors. Companies can grant these external parties limited access to specific passwords. They can do this without compromising security.
This functionality is particularly useful for businesses and especially those working with external agencies or freelancers on various projects. It keeps control of the passwords within the organization.
You also never have to worry about losing a password when the only employee who knows it leaves.
Ready to Try a Password Manager at Your Office?
Password managers offer a secure and convenient way to share passwords with employees. They are an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to enhance their cybersecurity posture.
By adopting password managers, businesses can protect their sensitive information. They also promote a culture of security awareness among employees. Investing in password management solutions is a proactive step toward safeguarding valuable data.
Need help securing a password manager? Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
In our increasingly digital world, the turnover of electronic devices has become a regular occurrence. We upgrade our smartphones, replace our laptops and discard outdated desktop computers. While this constant advancement in technology is bringing us invaluable new devices, it brings with it a significant environmental concern - electronic waste or e-waste. Read more
Two monitors are often better than one when it comes to getting things done efficiently. A dual-monitor setup can significantly enhance your productivity. This is true whether you are a gamer, a creative professional or an office wiz who loves to multitask.
A study by Jon Peddie Research found that dual displays can increase productivity by 42%. However, it is not as simple as just setting up an extra screen.
It is common for people to feel “off kilter” when trying to work from two monitors. They may even find it harder despite having more screen real estate. The cause is usually the setup. They either have the screens positioned wrong or aren’t optimizing the settings.
We will dive into some dual-monitor setup best practices. These should help you improve your two-screen experience and take it to the next level.
Best Practices for a Great Two-Screen Setup
1. Match Size and Resolution
Before you jump into the excitement of a dual-monitor setup, do some matching. Make sure your monitors are well-matched with each other. Try to use monitors of the same size and resolution. This helps to avoid any jarring differences in image quality or screen real estate. Your eyes will thank you for the consistency!
2. Get the Right Cables
Picture this: You have set up your dual monitors and you are all excited to fire them up. However, your cables don't fit the ports! To avoid this headache, check your device outputs and inputs to ensure that you have the right cables on hand. HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI are common options. Make sure to verify which ones you need for optimal performance.
3. Positioning is Everything
Now that you have your monitors ready to go, let's talk positioning. Placing your monitors correctly can make a world of difference. This is true for both your comfort and productivity.
Arrange them side by side and keep the top edges aligned. Adjust the angle to reduce neck strain and make sure the distance is comfortable for your eyes since you will be spending a lot of time in front of these screens.
4. Embrace the Extended Desktop
It is tempting to mirror your displays and have the same content on both screens. However, that is not the full potential of a dual-monitor setup. Embrace the extended desktop feature. It allows you to have separate content on each screen.
This means you can work on a document on one screen and browse the web or handle email on the other. Double the productivity!
5. Focus on Taskbar Tweaks
A cluttered taskbar can quickly turn your dual-monitor setup into chaos. Keep things organized. Set the taskbar to display only the active applications on the screen that they are open in.
Steps:
- Right-click on the taskbar and go to "Taskbar settings”.
- Open “Taskbar behaviors”.
- Adjust the setting, “When using multiple displays, show my taskbar apps on". Set it to the taskbar where the window is open.
No more hunting for the right window across two taskbars.
6. Leverage Shortcuts
Did you know that Windows has some nifty window-snapping shortcuts? Use the Windows key plus the left or right arrow to snap an application to one side of the screen. It will fill exactly half of it.
This is perfect for comparing documents as well as writing while researching or watching a video while working. It is a productivity boost that you won't be able to live without once you have tried it!
7. Gaming in Style
If you're a gamer, a dual-monitor setup can bring your gaming experience to a whole new level. Many modern games support dual monitors which allow you to have an extended field of view. This is especially true in racing and flight simulation games. Just remember to adjust your graphics settings accordingly for the best performance.
8. Mastering Multitasking
Multitasking is where dual monitors truly shine. For example, you can have your design software open on one screen and your reference images on the other.
Writers can have research materials on one screen with their writing software on the other. The possibilities are endless. It is like having a productivity superhero at your disposal! Explore workflows that make the most of both screens.
9. Tame the Cable Chaos
Dual monitors mean double the cables. If you're not careful, it can quickly turn into a cable jungle. To keep things tidy, invest in some cable management solutions such as adhesive cable clips or cable sleeves. Your setup will look cleaner. It will also be easier to make changes or upgrades in the future.
10. Don't Forget the Ergonomics
As you immerse yourself in your dual-monitor world, remember to consider ergonomics. Ensure that your monitors are at eye level and your keyboard and mouse are at a comfortable height and angle.
Good ergonomics can prevent strain and discomfort. This allows you to enjoy your setup for longer without any aches or pains.
Need Help with Hardware or Software Setup?
Why struggle with hardware or software setup? Come to the pros to save time and avoid frustration.
Give us a call today to schedule a chat about your technology needs.
LinkedIn has become an invaluable platform for professionals. People use it to connect, network and explore business opportunities. However, the growing popularity comes with some red flags. There has been an increase in the presence of fake LinkedIn sales bots.
These bots impersonate real users and attempt to scam unsuspecting individuals. This is one of the many scams on LinkedIn. According to the FBI, fraud on LinkedIn poses a “significant threat” to platform users.
In this blog post, we will delve into the world of fake LinkedIn sales bots. We will explore their tactics and provide you with valuable tips. You will learn how to spot and protect yourself from these scams. By staying informed and vigilant, you can foster a safer LinkedIn experience.
Identifying Fake LinkedIn Sales Connections
Social media scams often play on emotions. Who doesn’t want to be thought of as special or interesting? Scammers will reach out to connect. That connection request alone can make someone feel wanted. People often accept before researching the person’s profile.
Put a business proposition on top of that and it is easy to fool people. People that are looking for a job or business opportunity may have their guard down. There is also an inherent trust people give other business professionals. Many often trust LinkedIn connections more than Facebook requests.
How can you tell the real requests from the fake ones? Here are some tips on spotting the scammers and bots.
Incomplete Profiles and Generic Photos
Fake LinkedIn sales bots often have incomplete profiles. They will have very limited or generic information. They may lack a comprehensive work history or educational background. Additionally, these bots tend to use generic profile pictures such as stock photos or images of models.
If a profile looks too perfect or lacks specific details, it could be a red flag. Genuine LinkedIn users usually provide comprehensive information. They do this to establish credibility and foster trust among their connections.
Impersonal and Generic Messages
One of the key characteristics of fake sales bots is their messaging approach. It is often impersonal and generic. These bots often send mass messages that lack personalization. There may be no specific references to your profile or industry. They often use generic templates or scripts to engage with potential targets.
Legitimate LinkedIn users typically tailor their messages to specific individuals. They might mention shared connections, recent posts or industry-specific topics. Exercise caution if you receive a message that feels overly generic or one that lacks personalization. Be sure to scrutinize the sender's profile before proceeding further.
Excessive Promotional Content and Unrealistic Claims
Fake LinkedIn sales bots are notorious for bombarding users. You will often get DMs with excessive promotional content and making unrealistic claims. These bots often promote products or services aggressively and it is usually without offering much information or value.
They may promise overnight success, incredible profits or instant solutions to complex problems. Genuine professionals on LinkedIn focus on building relationships. They try to provide valuable insights and engage in meaningful discussions instead of resorting to constant self-promotion.
Be wary of connections that focus solely on selling and that don’t offer any meaningful content or engagement.
Inconsistent or Poor Grammar and Spelling
When communicating on LinkedIn, pay attention to the grammar and spelling of messages. You may dismiss an error from an international-sounding connection but it could be a bot.
Fake LinkedIn sales bots often display inconsistent or poor grammar and spelling mistakes. These errors can serve as a clear sign that the sender is not genuine. Legitimate LinkedIn users typically take pride in their communication skills. They try to maintain a high standard of professionalism.
If you encounter messages with several grammatical errors or spelling mistakes, exercise caution. Investigate further before engaging with the sender.
Unusual Connection Requests and Unfamiliar Profiles
Fake LinkedIn sales bots often send connection requests to individuals indiscriminately. They may target users with little regard for relevance or shared professional interests.
Be cautious when accepting connection requests from unfamiliar profiles. Especially if the connection seems unrelated to your industry or expertise.
Take the time to review the requesting profile. Check their mutual connections and assess the relevance of their content. Legitimate LinkedIn users are more likely to have a connection. They typically send connection requests to others with shared interests or professional networks.
Need Training in Online Security?
Spotting fake LinkedIn sales bots is crucial for maintaining a safe online experience. By being vigilant, you can protect yourself from potential scams.
AI is causing an increase in the sophistication of scams. You may need some help navigating what is real and fake. Employees can also benefit by learning social media security.
Need help with personal or team cybersecurity training? We have a team of friendly experts that can improve your scam detection skills.
Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
In an increasingly digitized world, cybersecurity has become a paramount concern for individuals and businesses alike. The threat landscape is always evolving with new vulnerabilities and attack vectors. Read more
Moving can be a chaotic and stressful time when it comes to handling your valuable technology. Whether you are performing a home or office move, it is essential to take extra care both with fragile items and when packing and moving your devices and other tech items.
To help you navigate this process smoothly, we have put together a handy checklist. Use this to help ensure your technology remains safe and sound during the move.
Back Up Everything Before the Move
Before you start disassembling your technology, make sure to back up all your data. Create copies of important files, documents, photos and any other irreplaceable information. You can either use an external hard drive, cloud storage or both. By doing this, you will have peace of mind knowing that you have protected your data in case something unfortunate happens during the move and your files will be intact.
Organize and Label Cables
We all know the struggle of untangling a mess of cables. This is true especially when you are eager to set up your devices in the new place. To avoid this headache, take the time to organize and label your cables before packing.
Use cable ties or twist ties to keep them neatly bundled. Attach labels to identify which cable belongs to which device. This simple step will save you a lot of time and frustration later on.
Pack Devices Carefully
When packing your devices, opt for their original boxes whenever possible. If you have the storage space, this is why you don’t want to toss those out. The original packaging is designed to provide the best protection during shipping. There are usually specific compartments to secure each component.
If you don't have the original boxes, use sturdy cardboard boxes. Wrap each device in bubble wrap or anti-static foam to prevent any damage. Fill any empty spaces in the boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to ensure a snug fit.
Remove Ink Cartridges and Batteries
It might seem easier to just load up your printers “as is” to move them. That is not a good idea. For printers and devices that use ink, it is crucial to remove those cartridges. Do this before packing the devices. Ink cartridges can leak or dry out during transit. This can cause a mess or render them useless.
Remove batteries from devices such as laptops, cameras or remote controls. This precaution prevents accidental power-on and potential damage during the move. Pack the cartridges and batteries separately in sealed bags and label them.
Take Photos of Cable Connections
Before unplugging cables from your devices, snap a quick photo of the connections. This visual reference will be very helpful when it is time to set up everything at your new location. You won't need to worry about remembering which cable goes where and won’t need to spend hours trying to figure it out. Simply refer to the photos and you will be back up and running in no time!
Pack Your Wi-Fi Equipment Separately
Reconnecting to the internet is usually one of the first things done for both home and office moves. To make it easier, pack all your Wi-Fi network equipment separately from other items.
This includes your modem, router, ethernet cables and other network connectors. Clearly label the box “Wi-Fi Equipment” so you will know right where to go first to get online.
Secure Fragile Screens
Are you moving devices with delicate screens such as TVs or monitors? Take extra precautions to protect them from scratches and cracks.
Place a soft cloth or microfiber cloth over the screen. Secure it with elastic bands or tape. This barrier will shield the screen from any accidental contact during transit. Additionally, make sure to pack these items in a vertical position to reduce the risk of damage.
Inform the Movers about Fragile Items
When enlisting professional movers, be sure to be clear about your technology. Inform them about the fragile nature of your devices and other tech items. Clearly label the boxes containing your valuable devices as "fragile." Provide any necessary instructions to handle them with care. By communicating your concerns up front, you reduce the chances of accidents while moving.
Test Everything After the Move
If you have moved offices, you don’t want to find out about problems on a busy Monday morning. Once you have moved your technology and reconnected cables, turn your devices on. Test them to ensure they work as usual and are not damaged.
Something may not look damaged on the outside. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t internal damage. You want to know this up front so you can file a claim and call in an IT service professional to help.
Need Help with a Safe Technology Move?
Moving can be a hectic and challenging process when moving office tech. With the right approach, you can ensure the safety of your devices from point A to point B.
Need help from the pros to move your technology securely? Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
As cyber threats continue to increase, businesses must take proactive steps (like threat modeling). They need to protect their sensitive data and assets from cybercriminals. Threats to data security are persistent and they come from many different places.
Today’s offices are digitally sophisticated. Just about every activity relies on some type of technology and data sharing. Hackers can breach these systems from several entry points. This includes computers, smartphones, cloud applications and network infrastructure.
It is estimated that cybercriminals can penetrate 93% of company networks.
One approach that can help organizations fight these intrusions is threat modeling. Threat modeling is a process used in cybersecurity. It involves identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities to an organization's assets and systems.
Threat modeling helps businesses prioritize their risk management and mitigation strategies. The goal is to mitigate the risk of falling victim to a costly cyber incident.
Here are the steps businesses can follow to conduct a threat model.
Identify Assets That Need Protection
The first step is to identify assets that are most critical to the business. This includes sensitive data, intellectual property or financial information. What is it that cybercriminals will be going after?
Don’t forget to include phishing-related assets such as company email accounts. Business email compromise is a fast-growing attack. It capitalizes on breached company email logins.
Identify Potential Threats
The next step is to identify potential threats to these assets. Some common threats could be cyberattacks such as phishing. Others would be ransomware, malware or social engineering.
Another category of threats could be physical breaches or insider threats. This is where employees or vendors have access to sensitive information.
Remember that threats aren’t always malicious. Human error causes approximately 88% of data breaches. So, ensure that you are aware of mistake-related threats such as:
- The use of weak passwords
- Unclear cloud use policies
- Lack of employee training
- Poor or non-existent BYOD policies
Assess Likelihood and Impact
Once you have identified potential threats, take the next step. This is to assess the likelihood and impact of these threats. Businesses must understand how likely each threat is to occur as well as the potential impact on their operations, reputation and financial stability. This will help rank the risk management and mitigation strategies.
Base the threat likelihood on current cybersecurity statistics as well as a thorough vulnerability assessment. It is best this assessment is performed by a trusted 3rd party IT service provider. If you are doing your assessment with only internal input, you are bound to miss something.
Prioritize Risk Management Strategies
Prioritize risk management strategies next. Base this on the likelihood and impact of each potential threat. Most businesses can’t tackle everything at once due to time and cost constraints. So, it is important to rank solutions based on the biggest impact on cybersecurity.
Some common strategies to consider include implementing:
- Access controls
- Firewalls
- Intrusion detection systems
- Employee training and awareness programs
- Endpoint device management
Businesses must also determine which strategies are most cost-effective. They should also align with their business goals.
Continuously Review and Update the Model
Threat modeling is not a one-time process. Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Businesses must continuously review and update their threat models. This will help ensure that their security measures are effective as well as aligned with their business objectives.
Benefits for Businesses
Threat modeling is an essential process for businesses to reduce their cybersecurity risk. Identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities to their assets and systems is important. It helps them rank risk management strategies as well as reduce the likelihood and impact of cyber incidents.
Here are just a few of the benefits of adding threat modeling to a cybersecurity strategy.
Improved Understanding of Threats and Vulnerabilities
Threat modeling can help businesses gain a better understanding of specific threats. It also uncovers vulnerabilities that could impact their assets. It identifies gaps in their security measures and helps uncover risk management strategies.
Ongoing threat modeling can also help companies stay out in front of new threats. Artificial intelligence is birthing new types of cyber threats every day. Companies that are complacent can fall victim to new attacks.
Cost-effective Risk Management
Addressing risk management based on the likelihood and impact of threats reduces costs. It can optimize company security investments. This will help ensure that businesses divide resources effectively and efficiently.
Business Alignment
Threat modeling can help ensure that security measures align with the business objectives. This can reduce the potential impact of security measures on business operations. It also helps coordinate security, goals and operations.
Reduced Risk of Cyber Incidents
By implementing targeted risk management strategies, businesses can reduce risk. This includes the likelihood and impact of cybersecurity incidents. This will help to protect their assets. It also reduces the negative consequences of a security breach.
Get Started with Comprehensive Threat Identification
Wondering how to get started with a threat assessment? Our experts can help you put in place a comprehensive threat modeling program. Give us a call today to schedule a discussion.
Cloud account takeover has become a major problem for organizations. Think about how much work your company does that requires a username and password. Employees end up needing to log into many different systems or cloud apps.
Hackers use various methods to get those login credentials. The goal is to gain access to business data as a user as well as launch sophisticated attacks and send insider phishing emails.
How bad has the problem of account breaches become? Between 2019 and 2021, account takeover (ATO) rose by 307%.
Doesn’t Multi-Factor Authentication Stop Credential Breaches?
Many organizations and individuals use multi-factor authentication (MFA). It is a way to stop attackers that have gained access to their usernames and passwords. MFA is very effective at protecting cloud accounts and has been for many years.
It is that effectiveness that has spurred workarounds by hackers. One of these nefarious ways to get around MFA is push-bombing.
How Does Push-Bombing Work?
When a user enables MFA on an account, they typically receive a code or authorization prompt of some type. The user enters their login credentials. Then the system sends an authorization request to the user to complete their login.
The MFA code or approval request will usually come through some type of “push” message. Users can receive it in a few ways:
- SMS/text
- A device popup
- An app notification
Receiving that notification is a normal part of the multi-factor authentication login. It is something the user would be familiar with.
With push-bombing, hackers start with the user’s credentials. They may get them through phishing or from a large data breach password dump.
They take advantage of that push notification process. Hackers attempt to log in many times. This sends the legitimate user several push notifications (one after the other).
Many people question the receipt of an unexpected code that they didn’t request. However, when someone is bombarded with these, it can be easy to mistakenly click to approve access.
Push-bombing is a form of social engineering attack designed to:
- Confuse the user
- Wear the user down
- Trick the user into approving the MFA request to give the hacker access
Ways to Combat Push-Bombing at Your Organization
Educate Employees
Knowledge is power. When a user experiences a push-bombing attack it can be disruptive and confusing. If employees have education beforehand, they will be better prepared to defend themselves.
Let employees know what push-bombing is and how it works. Provide them with training on what to do if they receive MFA notifications that they didn’t request.
You should also give your staff a way to report these attacks. This enables your IT security team to alert other users. They can then also take steps to secure everyone’s login credentials.
Reduce Business App “Sprawl”
On average, employees use 36 different cloud-based services per day. That is a lot of logins to keep up with. The more logins someone needs to use means the greater the risk of a stolen password.
Take a look at how many applications your company uses. Look for ways to reduce app “sprawl” by consolidating. Platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace offer many tools behind one login. Streamlining your cloud environment improves security and productivity.
Adopt Phishing-Resistant MFA Solutions
You can thwart push-bombing attacks altogether by moving to a different form of MFA. Phishing-resistant MFA uses a device passkey or physical security key for authentication.
There is no push notification to approve with this type of authentication. This solution is more complex to set up but it is also more secure than text or app-based MFA.
Enforce Strong Password Policies
For hackers to send several push-notifications, they need to have the user’s login. Enforcing strong password policies reduces the chance that a password will get breached.
Standard practices for strong password policies include:
- Using at least one upper and one lower-case letter
- Using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols
- Not using personal information to create a password
- Storing passwords securely
- Not reusing passwords across several accounts
Put in Place an Advanced Identity Management Solution
Advanced identity management solutions can also help you prevent push-bombing attacks. They will typically combine all logins through a single sign-on solution. Users then have just one login and MFA prompt to manage instead of several.
Additionally, businesses can use identity management solutions to install contextual login policies. These enable a higher level of security by adding access enforcement flexibility. The system could automatically block login attempts outside a desired geographic area. It could also block logins during certain times or when other contextual factors aren’t met.
Do You Need Help Improving Your Identity & Access Security?
Multi-factor authentication alone isn’t enough. Companies need several layers of protection to reduce their risk of a cloud breach.
Are you looking for some help to reinforce your access security? Give us a call today to schedule a chat.