In the fast-paced world of business, finding efficient and budget-friendly IT solutions has become crucial. Say goodbye to the headaches of managing your own clunky and pricey IT equipment. In this blog, we’ll delve into why leasing IT solutions, especially through cloud computing, has become a game-changer for businesses of all shapes and sizes in 2024. Let’s face it, dealing with in-house IT equipment comes with its fair share of challenges. Limited office space means that bulky hardware can quickly become a headache. Plus, the costs of setting up and maintaining your own IT infrastructure can add up to a hefty sum, not to mention the ongoing expenses of electricity bills and professional maintenance services. The Cloud A Game-Changer for Businesses: Enter cloud computing, the superhero of modern IT solutions. In 2024, businesses are finding relief in the cloud, which offers a more cost-effective and streamlined alternative to traditional setups. With the cloud, you can kiss goodbye to upfront costs, sky-high electricity bills, and the stress of managing complex IT systems. Budget-Friendly Payment Plans: One of the best perks of cloud solutions is the switch to flat-rate payment plans. Businesses can now access external servers remotely without breaking the bank. This not only frees up capital for other important projects but also makes budgeting a breeze, giving you peace of mind knowing exactly what you’ll be paying each month. Accessible and Scalable Across Industries: Cloud computing isn’t just for tech-savvy businesses—it’s for everyone. Whether you’re in healthcare, finance, manufacturing, or retail, the cloud offers accessibility and scalability tailored to your industry’s unique needs. This flexibility means you can easily expand your IT infrastructure as your business grows, without skipping a beat. Top-Notch Security and Compliance: In today’s digital world, keeping your data safe is paramount. Cloud service providers invest heavily in top-notch security measures, ensuring that your business data remains protected against ever-evolving threats. With built-in compliance standards, you can rest easy knowing that your business is meeting all regulatory requirements. As we navigate the challenges of modern business in 2024, the trend toward leasing IT solutions, especially through the cloud, is undeniable. The financial savings, scalability, and enhanced security offered by cloud computing make it a no-brainer for businesses looking to thrive in the digital age. Embrace the cloud, lighten the load of managing in-house IT, and pave the way for a more agile and cost-effective future. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
As tax season rolls around, it brings with it not only the stress of organizing finances but also the looming threat of cybercrime. With increasingly sophisticated tactics employed by cybercriminals, protecting your identity and sensitive financial information is paramount. Fortunately, there are several best practices you can implement to bolster your security and minimize the risk of falling victim to identity theft or fraud. Utilize an IP PIN (Identity Protection PIN): One of the most effective ways to safeguard your tax return is by opting for an IP PIN. This six-digit number adds an extra layer of security to your tax documents, helping prevent fraudulent filings in your name. The IRS issues IP PINs to eligible taxpayers, and it must be included on all tax forms submitted electronically or on paper. By using an IP PIN, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized individuals filing a return using your Social Security number. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA is a powerful security measure that adds an additional layer of protection to your online accounts. By requiring multiple forms of verification, such as a password and a code sent to your phone or email, MFA makes it significantly more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access your accounts, including those related to tax filing platforms or financial institutions. Be sure to enable MFA wherever possible, especially for accounts containing sensitive financial information. Stay Vigilant Against Phishing Attempts: Phishing remains one of the most common tactics employed by cybercriminals to steal personal information during tax season. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, text messages, or phone calls claiming to be from the IRS or other tax authorities. These communications often contain malicious links or attachments designed to trick recipients into divulging sensitive information. Remember that legitimate tax agencies will never request personal or financial information via email or phone, especially without prior correspondence. Secure Your Devices and Networks: Ensure that all devices you use to file taxes, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, are equipped with up-to-date security software and operating systems. Regularly install security updates and patches to address known vulnerabilities. Additionally, secure your home Wi-Fi network with a strong, unique password and consider using a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing sensitive financial information from public networks. Monitor Your Financial Accounts Regularly: Stay proactive in monitoring your bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial accounts for any suspicious activity. Set up alerts for account transactions and review statements regularly to identify any unauthorized charges or withdrawals. Early detection of fraudulent activity allows you to take swift action to mitigate potential damage and protect your financial assets. Safeguard Physical Documents and Records: In addition to securing your digital information, it’s essential to safeguard physical documents and records containing sensitive financial data. Store paper documents in a secure location, such as a locked filing cabinet or safe, and shred any outdated or unnecessary paperwork before disposing of it. When mailing tax documents or other sensitive information, use certified mail or a reputable courier service to ensure secure delivery. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and scams targeting taxpayers. Stay up-to-date with guidance from reputable sources, such as the IRS website or cybersecurity experts, to learn about emerging threats and best practices for protecting your identity and financial information. By staying informed, you can better recognize potential risks and take proactive steps to mitigate them effectively. Safeguarding your identity and financial information during tax season requires diligence, awareness, and proactive security measures. By following these best practices, including using an IP PIN, implementing MFA, staying vigilant against phishing attempts, securing your devices and networks, monitoring your financial accounts, safeguarding physical documents, and staying informed about cybersecurity threats, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft or fraud. Protecting your identity is not just a matter of financial security but also peace of mind during tax season and beyond. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
In the heart of every learning center beats the desire to ignite the spark of knowledge and curiosity in every student who walks through its doors. It’s a place where learning isn’t just about textbooks and lectures; it’s about fostering connections, nurturing growth, and celebrating each student’s unique journey. But in today’s digital age, this noble mission is bolstered by a powerful ally: Information Technology (IT) services that breathe life into the educational experience, making it more personalized, accessible, and enriching than ever before. Customized Learning Management Systems (LMS): Imagine walking into a learning center and being greeted not just by friendly faces but also by a seamlessly integrated online platform that feels like an extension of the warm, welcoming environment. This is the magic of a customized Learning Management System (LMS) that serves as the beating heart of the center’s operations. It’s where instructors share resources, students collaborate on projects, and administrators keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. With the right IT solutions in place, the learning center becomes more than just a physical space; it becomes a hub of connectivity and community. Virtual Classroom Solutions: But the true beauty of IT services lies in their ability to transcend physical boundaries and bring education to anyone, anywhere. Virtual classroom solutions transform the traditional notion of learning, allowing students to participate in live classes, engage in interactive discussions, and receive personalized feedback—all from the comfort of their own homes. Whether a student lives down the street or across the globe, technology bridges the gap, ensuring that no one is left behind on their educational journey. Interactive Learning Tools: And let’s not forget the power of interactive learning tools to captivate imaginations and inspire a love of learning. From educational apps that turn math practice into a game to multimedia resources that bring history to life, these tools inject a sense of excitement and discovery into every lesson. It’s not just about memorizing facts; it’s about exploring, experimenting, and experiencing the joy of learning in all its forms. Cybersecurity Measures: Of course, with great power comes great responsibility, and that’s where cybersecurity measures step in to protect the sanctity of the learning environment. Just as a caring teacher watches over their students, cybersecurity measures safeguard sensitive data and ensure that every interaction remains safe and secure. It’s a digital guardian angel, standing watch to ensure that the focus stays where it belongs: on learning, growth, and exploration. But perhaps the most beautiful thing about IT services in learning centers is the way they empower educators to connect with students on a deeper level. By harnessing the power of data analytics, instructors gain invaluable insights into each student’s unique learning journey, allowing them to tailor their approach and provide the support and guidance needed to succeed. It’s not about one-size-fits-all solutions; it’s about recognizing the individuality of each student and celebrating their strengths while supporting their areas for growth. In the end, IT services aren’t just about technology; they’re about people. They’re about creating a nurturing, supportive environment where students can thrive, instructors can innovate, and everyone can come together to celebrate the joy of learning. So the next time you step into a learning center, take a moment to appreciate the magic happening behind the scenes—the magic of IT services transforming education into something truly extraordinary. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
In an era where technology continues to revolutionize the healthcare landscape, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. As healthcare organizations embrace digital transformation, they become more susceptible to cyber threats, making it imperative to fortify their defenses. The healthcare sector has become a prime target for cyberattacks due to the vast amount of valuable patient information stored in electronic health records (EHRs). With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, healthcare organizations must adopt comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to safeguard against data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other malicious activities. Patients entrust healthcare providers with their most sensitive and personal information. A breach of this trust due to a cybersecurity incident can have severe consequences. Robust cybersecurity measures not only protect patient data but also contribute to maintaining the trust and confidence of individuals in the healthcare system. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements: Healthcare organizations must adhere to strict regulatory frameworks such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to ensure the privacy and security of patient information. A cybersecurity breach can result in non-compliance, leading to legal consequences and financial penalties. Insurance can act as a safety net, providing financial support in the event of regulatory fines. The Role of Insurance in Cyber Risk Management: Cyber insurance has emerged as a vital component of an organization’s risk management strategy. It provides financial protection against the costs associated with a cybersecurity incident, including legal expenses, notification costs, and expenses related to reputational damage. The partnership between healthcare cybersecurity and insurance allows organizations to transfer some of the financial risks associated with cyber threats. Tailoring Cyber Insurance Policies for Healthcare: Given the unique challenges and risks faced by the healthcare sector, it’s essential for organizations to work with insurers to tailor cyber insurance policies that align with their specific needs. This customization ensures that coverage is comprehensive and addresses the evolving nature of cyber threats in the healthcare industry. Proactive Measures and Collaborative Partnerships: To strengthen the symbiotic relationship between cybersecurity and insurance, healthcare organizations should adopt a proactive approach. This involves regular cybersecurity assessments, employee training, and collaboration with insurance providers to stay abreast of emerging threats and continuously improve risk management strategies. As healthcare adapts to the digital world, it’s crucial for hospitals and clinics to team up with cybersecurity experts and insurance companies. This partnership is essential to build strong defenses, keep patient information safe, and stay financially secure in the ever-changing landscape of online threats. Working together in this way isn’t just a smart move; it’s a promise to protect healthcare systems and, most importantly, the health of the patients. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
Data holds paramount importance for businesses of all sizes. Small business owners may assume that in-depth analytics are exclusive to large corporations. However, it’s essential to recognize that small businesses can not only obtain but also safeguard big data, especially in the realm of cybersecurity. SMB owners can benefit significantly from data-driven insights to facilitate growth and enhance overall business performance. The Importance of Big Data Analytics in Small Business and Cybersecurity: Big data is a valuable asset encompassing various types and sources of information. This includes customer data from transactions, making it pivotal for informed decision-making. While small businesses may initially feel overwhelmed, the integration of big data becomes even more critical when considering cybersecurity measures. Benefits of Big Data for Small Businesses and Cybersecurity: Strengthened Cybersecurity: Utilizing big data analytics allows small businesses to enhance their cybersecurity measures. Analyzing data can reveal potential vulnerabilities, enabling proactive measures to fortify the digital infrastructure against cyber threats. Improved Threat Detection: Small businesses can leverage big data to gain insights into emerging cyber threats. This proactive approach aids in identifying and addressing potential security issues before they escalate. Enhanced Compliance: For small businesses dealing with regulatory requirements, big data plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance. By analyzing data, businesses can align their cybersecurity practices with industry standards and regulations. Informed Decision-Making for Cybersecurity Investments: Big data enables small business owners to make strategic decisions regarding cybersecurity investments. Analyzing data helps prioritize areas that require additional security measures, optimizing the allocation of resources. How to Leverage Meaningful Insights for Small Business Cybersecurity: Proactive Threat Mitigation: Utilize big data to proactively identify and mitigate potential cybersecurity threats. This ensures a robust defense against evolving cyber risks. Compliance Alignment: Analyze data to ensure that cybersecurity practices align with industry regulations, providing small businesses with the tools needed to meet compliance requirements. Resource Optimization: Make informed decisions on cybersecurity investments by analyzing data to identify areas that require additional resources. This optimization ensures efficient use of resources for maximum security. Empower your small business by embracing big data for informed decision-making and reinforcing cybersecurity. By understanding the synergy between big data and cybersecurity, small businesses can navigate the digital landscape confidently, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring sustainable growth. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
In our digitally-driven era, where our personal and professional lives are intricately entwined with technology, the significance of safeguarding our data cannot be overstated. Enter the realm of data backups—a crucial practice that, while offering a plethora of advantages, is not without its challenges and potential pitfalls. The Positive: A Fortress of Digital Security Reliable Protection: The beauty of data backups lies in the reliable protection they provide. Picture a fortress where your cherished memories, critical documents, and vital information find sanctuary. Whether facing the wrath of hardware failures, accidental deletions, or the sinister clutches of cyber threats, a well-executed backup strategy acts as a stalwart guardian, ready to restore what was lost. Business Continuity: For businesses, data backups are the backbone of resilience. They ensure that operations can withstand unforeseen challenges such as natural disasters or cyber attacks. A robust backup strategy not only preserves essential information but also facilitates seamless continuity, allowing businesses to navigate disruptions without compromising on service delivery. Version Control and Recovery: Data backups also offer the advantage of version control, allowing users to turn back the clock on their files. This functionality becomes a valuable asset when errors occur, providing a means to undo changes and recover swiftly from mishaps. The Pitfalls: Navigating the Challenges Incomplete Backups: However, the path to secure data management is not without its challenges. Incomplete or irregular backups can create a deceptive sense of security. It’s crucial for users to ensure that all critical data, including application settings and configurations, is included in the backup process to avoid complications during the recovery phase. Failure to Test Backups: Having a backup system in place is only half the battle won. Neglecting to regularly test backups can result in unpleasant surprises when recovery is needed the most. Routine testing ensures that the backup system functions correctly and that the restoration process is efficient and reliable. Security Concerns: Moreover, the security of backups cannot be taken for granted. Storing backups in insecure or easily accessible locations poses a potential threat, inviting unauthorized access that may compromise sensitive information. Robust encryption and access controls are imperative to mitigate this risk. The Perils: Facing the Evolving Threat Landscape Ransomware Attacks: In recent times, the emergence of ransomware attacks has added a sinister layer to data backup considerations. Malicious actors often target backups to thwart recovery efforts, underscoring the importance of secure and isolated backup solutions. A comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, inclusive of backup measures, is vital to combat these evolving threats. Human Error and Negligence: Sometimes, the ugliest scenarios arise from the simplest of mistakes. Accidental deletions, misconfigurations, or negligent actions can result in data loss, even with backup systems in place. Educating users about best practices and implementing safeguards against human error is paramount in maintaining the integrity of backups. Transitioning to the cloud may come with an initial cost, but it acts as a crucial investment against the potential nightmare of losing not just valuable work hours but also thousands of dollars worth of data—a stark reality that looms large when relying solely on physical drives. Have you ever experienced the gut-wrenching feeling of losing critical data due to a physical drive failure? The upfront expense of shifting to the cloud might seem daunting, but it serves as a protective shield against the looming threat of devastating data loss. Unlike physical drives, cloud storage offers a robust and secure environment, shielding your digital assets from the unpredictable whims of hardware failures and unexpected mishaps. The shift to cloud storage is not merely a matter of convenience; it is a strategic move to fortify against the very real threat of data loss. Whether you’re an individual, a small business, or a large enterprise, the peace of mind and security offered by the cloud outweigh the upfront costs, ensuring that your data remains intact, accessible, and protected in the dynamic landscape of digital storage. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
In an ever-evolving regulatory landscape, businesses must prioritize compliance to mitigate risks, build trust, and ensure long-term success. Strengthening compliance involves adopting a proactive approach, integrating compliance into the organizational culture, and staying abreast of regulatory changes. Explore key steps that businesses can take to fortify their compliance efforts and navigate the complex regulatory environment. Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Before developing or enhancing a compliance program, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough risk assessment. Identify and evaluate potential risks associated with your industry, operations, and geographic locations. This assessment provides a foundation for designing targeted compliance measures and allocating resources effectively. Establish a Robust Compliance Framework: A well-defined compliance framework serves as the backbone of your compliance program. It should include policies, procedures, and controls that align with applicable laws and regulations. Ensure that the framework is tailored to your organization’s size, industry, and specific risk profile. Implement Regular Training and Awareness Programs: Employees are the first line of defense against compliance risks. Regular training programs on relevant laws, industry regulations, and internal policies are essential. Promote a culture of compliance by fostering awareness and ensuring that employees understand their roles in maintaining regulatory adherence. Utilize Technology for Compliance Monitoring: Leverage technology solutions to streamline compliance monitoring and reporting processes. Automated systems can help in tracking regulatory changes, monitoring internal controls, and generating real-time compliance reports. This not only enhances efficiency but also provides a more accurate and timely assessment of compliance status. Establish Clear Communication Channels: Open and transparent communication channels are crucial for addressing compliance concerns. Establish a mechanism for employees to report potential violations without fear of retaliation. Encourage a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking guidance on compliance-related matters. Regularly Update Policies and Procedures: Laws and regulations are dynamic, and compliance frameworks must adapt accordingly. Regularly review and update policies and procedures to reflect changes in the regulatory environment. This ensures that your organization remains agile and compliant in the face of evolving legal requirements. Conduct Internal Audits and Monitoring: Internal audits are instrumental in evaluating the effectiveness of your compliance program. Conduct regular assessments to identify areas for improvement and address any compliance gaps promptly. Monitoring internal controls is an ongoing process that helps prevent and detect potential compliance issues. Collaborate with Legal Experts: Establish strong collaborations with legal experts who specialize in your industry. This partnership can provide valuable insights into emerging regulatory trends, legal interpretations, and best practices. Legal counsel can guide your organization in navigating complex compliance challenges. Stay Informed about Regulatory Changes: Regulatory landscapes are constantly evolving. Regularly monitor changes in laws and regulations relevant to your industry. Subscribe to regulatory updates, participate in industry forums, and engage with regulatory bodies to stay informed about impending changes that may impact your business. Foster a Culture of Ethics and Integrity: Beyond mere compliance, fostering a culture of ethics and integrity is paramount. Emphasize the importance of ethical behavior at all levels of the organization. This not only strengthens your compliance posture but also contributes to building a positive corporate reputation. Strengthening compliance is an ongoing process that requires commitment, adaptability, and a proactive mindset. By following these key steps, businesses can create a resilient compliance framework that not only meets regulatory requirements but also contributes to long-term success and sustainability. Remember, compliance is not just a checkbox—it’s a fundamental aspect of responsible and ethical business practices. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
Data breaches and security vulnerabilities are rising, and not everyone is safe from emerging threats. The NSA and CISA report that many businesses need to follow the best practices. Discover some of the most common business security mistakes and how to stay safe in this helpful guide. Default Login Credentials Pose the Biggest Threat Nearly every application or business program executives use has standard default login credentials. Experts recommend only using these factory settings when you first set everything up. As soon as the programs are ready for use, it’s best to change the account’s credentials. This way, hackers have a lower chance of infiltrating your account. Creating strong passwords for all your accounts is essential to boosting network security, yet reports find that many IT professionals continue to use factory settings. Harmful Business Security Mistakes While using default credentials on applications and software is the most prevalent issue, CISA and the NSA note a few other security mistakes businesses regularly make. Experts recommend business owners make correcting these issues a top priority. Separating User and Admin Privileges Does your IT department grant anyone access to programs as an admin? Doing so can create big problems if they uncover malicious activity. It’s hard to pinpoint where the problem originates if every user has advanced privileges. Hackers can infiltrate the account and have unauthorized access to important data and information. Therefore, it’s critical to only give admin privileges when necessary and give all other users limited access to accounts. Poor Network Monitoring Experts point to a few ways companies need to monitor their networks sufficiently. These include failing to properly set up sensors to collect traffic and end-host logs. Stepping up in this area is essential to improve your business infrastructure and keep your network secure from threats. Importance of Cybersecurity Measures Some business leaders don’t realize they’re dropping the ball on security measures until too late. Falling victim to any cyber attack comes with significant problems, including: Loss of integrity and customer trust Data breaches Financial loss Business interruptions To avoid these costly consequences, technology professionals urge every business owner to emphasize the importance of cybersecurity in their workplace. Making IT staff regularly educate employees on the best practices sets up the entire organization for success. In addition, it’s vital to keep an eye out for emerging threats and take proactive measures. This may include downloading software updates after vulnerability exposure or adjusting security practices at the recommendation of agencies like CISA and the NSA. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
Modern technology makes it much easier to operate a business. However, it can also cause major issues if you somehow lose access to critical data within your network. That’s why having a backup solution is important so all your data remains safe and readily accessible. Discover the crucial role of data backup and recovery in this helpful guide. Why Data Backup and Recovery Is Important Say a major storm passes through the area and your company’s building floods. The flood ruins all of your computer hardware, and you cannot access necessary data from another location. You can do nothing to stop natural disasters, but you can minimize the business impacts. Backing up all your data securely means you can resume business operations even if you suddenly need to work remotely. Data backup and recovery are also necessary to protect your business from human error. Say you accidentally delete an important file that is a key part of your latest project—having no backup copy available forces you to delay your project and hurts productivity. Performing frequent backups makes recovery times much faster so you can continue routine business operations. Your productivity won’t suffer if you can easily access an external drive or cloud server that contains your files and data. How Often Should You Perform Data Backups? Now that you understand the essential role of data backup and recovery, let’s discuss how often you need to back up your data. Technology experts urge every business leader to perform backups frequently. The longer you go without backing up your data, the longer your recovery time will be if the unexpected happens. Overcoming a natural disaster, accidental deletion, or system failure will be much simpler when you know you can easily access your data. For this reason, professionals recommend performing backups either daily or weekly. You can customize your schedule depending on how frequently your critical data changes. Data Backups Safeguard Your Business From Cyber Attacks One of the most important reasons you need to back up all sensitive data is to protect your business from malicious activity. Cybercriminals can perform data breaches that significantly affect companies and their clients. It’s much easier to mitigate the damage when you have a backup copy of files to deploy. Business leaders and their employees should habitually back up important data if a cyberattack occurs. Other measures that experts recommend include: Using strong encryption methods Regularly updating software programs Using multi-factor authentication to prevent hackers from gaining unauthorized access Teaching employees the best cybersecurity practices By protecting your data, you can avoid the dangers of cyberattacks. Protect Your Business Knowing the role of data backup and recovery can help you safeguard your business from physical and virtual threats. Counting on backup services can give you peace of mind regarding involuntary data loss. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter
Social media is used by everyone these days, even hackers. Hackers often try to steal your information from social media sites. Even though social media is a useful tool for businesses, it’s important to know what security risks it poses. We’ll show you how to keep your business safe and use social media in a way that doesn’t hurt your business. Why Hackers Target Social Media Accounts Cybercriminals still use phishing emails with malware to attack users. But comments on social media are much more appealing for several reasons. Think about how many people follow a well-known brand. Hackers want to take over the account because they think they can use it to trick many people. The more people who follow a company, the more likely a hacker will steal information from innocent users. Other malicious reasons hackers target social media accounts include: Attempting to tarnish a brand’s reputation Taking advantage of users who lack security awareness Making money from selling personal information How Cybercriminals Attack Social Media Accounts What do these hackers do when they access a business’s social media account? Account takeover is one of the most common threats. The hacker gets your login information and then uses your account to pretend to be you or spread dangerous content. Social media users who are easy to trick are at risk of phishing scams, malware like NodeStealer that targets social networks, and clickbait posts that lead to dangerous websites. Best Ways To Protect Your Business and Make Social Media Safe for Your Company If you’re careful, you don’t have to worry about hackers getting into the social media accounts of your business. These tips can help you protect your business without giving up your use of social media: Be careful when posting pictures: Hackers don’t care about your privacy online, so be careful when posting to a photo-sharing app. It’s best not to let the photo show where you are and to use filters that hide any private information that might be in the photo. Use multi-factor authentication: Experts recommend turning on multi-factor authentication to stop hackers from getting into your account. This is a great way to verify the account owner’s identity by asking you to answer security questions or enter a one-time verification password. Be aware of strange phone calls: Businesses often post their phone number on social media. If someone calls you and says they are from your bank, tell them you need to check the information and will call them back. To avoid a scam, check to see if the caller’s number is the same as the bank’s. It is important to take steps to make sure your business’s social media accounts are safe from hackers to prevent cyber-attacks. Explore a wealth of information on our website https://www.hammett-tech.com/our-blog/ Visit our Socials! https://www.facebook.com/HammettTech http://www.linkedin.com/companies/hammett-technologies Hammett Technologies (@HammettTech) / Twitter