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What Are Edge Devices & Why Are They A Cybersecurity Risk?

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An international alliance of cybersecurity agencies, including the UK’s NCSC, has issued a new set of guidelines to counter the growing risk of cyber attacks that target edge devices. Some of the guidance is aimed at manufacturers of edge devices, but there are also sections aimed at leaders of businesses and critical infrastructure organisations. 

Here’s a look at what edge devices are, why they pose a cybersecurity risk for businesses, and how the threats can be mitigated. If you are looking for more in-depth IT support in Wakefield or the surrounding areas, please get in touch today and we’ll be happy to discuss your options. 

What are edge devices?

The NCSC explains that edge devices are internet-connected hardware that sits at the “edge” of a network. They act as entry points for data between local networks and the wider internet. Examples of edge devices include:

  • Routers and modems
  • Smart appliances such as printers and wearables such as watches and fitness trackers
  • IoT devices, such as smart lightbulbs or thermostats
  • Industrial sensors for monitoring equipment
  • Cameras for surveillance and video conferencing

These devices constantly transmit and process data to cloud based services or centralised IT systems. They can be found almost anywhere, from vehicle dashboards to medical implants, and are widely used in domestic, healthcare and business settings. In fact, they are fast becoming essential to the functioning of modern life. 

Why do edge devices pose a heightened cybersecurity risk?

Edge devices often handle high volumes of important data in real time, and they connect directly to external networks. This makes them a particularly attractive target for cybercriminals who are looking to fraudulently obtain access to sensitive information. When a hacker infiltrates an edge device, they can gain access to the wider IT infrastructure.

Eric Chudow, an NSA cybersecurity vulnerability analysis subject matter expert, explains: “As organisations scale their enterprises, even though securing all devices is important, prioritizing edge device security is vital to defend the many endpoints, critical services and sensitive data they protect.”

“Edge devices act as boundaries between organizations’ internal enterprise networks and the Internet; if left unsecured, even unskilled malicious cyber actors have an easier time finding and exploiting vulnerabilities in their software or configurations.” 

Common vulnerabilities of edge devices 

Weak security protocols

Edge devices can be easily compromised by weak passwords and encryption. Manufacturers often issue devices with default passwords that are never changed by the end user, making them easy targets for hackers. 

Encryption may not be robust enough on some devices, as manufacturers prioritise the user-friendliness of the device over security concerns. 

Insufficient security updates

Edge devices often do not receive automatic security updates and patches, and may be running with outdated software. This can make them more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Overly complex structures

Edge devices tend to proliferate, and many have unused or unnecessary ports and features. This makes them more difficult to manage and keep secure. 

How businesses can strengthen edge device security

There are some basic steps that businesses can take to protect themselves from the risks posed by edge devices, including the following:

Implement multi-factor authentication

Ensure that all default passwords are changed and replaced with strong and unique passwords, and change them on a regular basis, or when any key members of staff leave or transfer to a different department. Reinforce access control with multi-factor authentication wherever possible. 

Adopt a ‘zero trust’ policy, where all devices and users must be verified each time they require network access. It may be possible to isolate some edge devices from the most critical aspects of your IT infrastructure with network segmentation.

Regular security updates

All edge devices should be regularly updated with the latest security patches and firmware updates. Check out reviews and recommendations for products with the highest standards of in-built cyber security. A managed IT service provider can assist with this. 

Seek professional advice

If you are a small to medium business without a dedicated IT team, managing edge device security can be particularly challenging. It may be beneficial to partner with a trusted local IT support service provider, who will be able to carry out a security review of your current IT infrastructure, make recommendations and implement upgrades.

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How IT Services Can Solve Top Tech Challenges for Businesses

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According to research carried out by Warwick Business School, business leaders view their biggest current challenge as shifts in technology, rating it ahead of political disruption, rising inflation, or fluctuating customer preferences. This is perhaps not surprising, and technology is now the driving engine behind most businesses. 

However, there’s no denying that the shifts in technology have been gathering pace over the past few years, as AI tools burst onto the scene while the threat of cyberattacks grows more acute. Even the most tech-savvy companies need to act quickly to keep up with the pace of change and ensure that their systems are up to date.

For businesses with other priorities, managing technology effectively can be a huge challenge. However, ignoring the issue until a smaller problem grows into a crisis is obviously not the answer. Malfunctioning or outdated IT systems can slow down growth and productivity, leading to increased costs and weaker competitiveness. 

Here’s a look at how our IT Solutions can help businesses in West Yorkshire to meet some of the most common tech challenges.

Upgrading out of date software

Keeping up to date with rapidly evolving technology can be a challenge, particularly if you do not have an in-house IT team, or staff members divide IT management with other job roles. However, you could be missing out on the most appropriate and effective tools, as well as running a security risk and experiencing frequent downtime if your software is outdated. 

Our managed IT service can provide you with expert advice on selecting and implementing the most up to date and suitable software for your business and sector. This can enhance productivity and possibly automate processes that currently have to be carried out by staff, saving time and reducing the margin of human error. 

Our technicians can oversee the installation of new software to ensure that it integrates seamlessly with your existing systems, and will also offer training and ongoing support to help your team understand all the features and capabilities of the new technology. 

Supporting remote workers

Since the Covid pandemic, there has been a marked increase in the number of staff working remotely or with a hybrid arrangement. This trend looks set to continue, as research consistently shows that the majority of employees are in favour of the arrangement. 

While it can offer many benefits for businesses, such as opening up the talent pool and saving on renting physical office space, it can also create fresh IT challenges, particularly around security, access and communication. 

Our managed IT service can help your business to set up secure remote access solutions, such as cloud-based systems and virtual private networks. We can also implement fully integrated communications platforms that allow staff to easily message, videocall, and share files in one user-friendly interface. 

Our technicians can also ensure that appropriate endpoint security measures are in place, such as equipping all remote devices with automation security updates, two factor authentication, and other cybersecurity strategies. 

Updating communication systems

The government intends to fully transition the landline telecommunications network to a digital service by 2027, so businesses need to make sure that they are ready and prepared for the migration. Our team can help businesses ensure a smooth transition to VoIP systems, which if well managed, can perform better and be more cost effective. 

For example, with a fully digital system, it’s possible to unify your communication tools into one platform, so that your business can have an integrated voice video and messaging system. 

This can help to streamline your work processes, and equip your staff with modern communication tools. This can increase collaboration between teams, and create more effective customer service and client connections. 

Implementing the latest cybersecurity solutions

Cyber attacks are increasing in frequency and severity each day, and the results can be devastating for your business, causing significant damages to finances, productivity and reputation. 

Our technicians will carry out a review of your current IT infrastructure and security measures, identify any areas of weakness and make recommendations for any upgrades and improvements. We can oversee the installation of new security software, and train your staff in cybersecurity best practices. 

We can also help your business to be compliant with data protection regulations, and work to achieve CyberEssentials accreditation, which is necessary if you want to work with government departments or contractors.

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How Businesses Are Fighting The Threat Of Ransomware Attacks

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Ransomware attacks are increasing in frequency and severity, and represent the biggest cybersecurity threat to businesses and organisations today. They involve a malicious actor encrypting sensitive or critical data and demanding payment for its release. Such attacks damage businesses financially, disrupt operations and compromise public trust.

Here’s a look at the latest measures the government is taking to counter the growing threat of ransomware attacks, and how our cyber security services in Leeds and the surrounding areas can help. 

New public consultation to seek views on ransomware strategy

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) reports that the Home Office has launched a public consultation to seek views on three new proposals. The robust measures are designed to tackle ransomware criminals who target businesses and organisations. 

Cybercriminals can act from anywhere in the world, with the choice of locations expanding as digital globalisation increases every day. They are also constantly adapting and evolving their strategies to cause maximum impact and increase their financial gains. 

Therefore it is essential that governments take proactive steps to monitor and counter international cyber threats and ensure that the UK is not seen as an easy target. 

Three proposals will be considered

The consultation will consider three proposals, including the following: a ban on ransomware payments for all public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure; enhanced advice and guidance services for ransomware victims, prioritising payment prevention and powers for the National Crime Agency to block payments to known criminals. 

Furthermore, the consultation will seek views on a mandatory reporting regime for ransomware incidents, and increased use of intelligence to warn businesses about emerging ransomware threats and the most prominent and injurious organised ransomware groups. 

NCSC head: “Vital step”

Commenting on the consultation’s launch, NCSC CEO Richard Horne said: “This consultation marks a vital step in our efforts to protect the UK from the crippling effects of ransomware attacks and the associated economic and societal costs.”

He added: “Organisations of all sizes need to build their defences against cyber attacks such as ransomware, and our website contains a wealth of advice tailored to different organisations.  In addition, using proven frameworks like Cyber Essentials, and free services like NCSC’s Early Warning, will help to strengthen their overall security posture.”

“Organisations across the country need to strengthen their ability to continue operations in the face of the disruption caused by successful ransomware attacks.”

“This isn’t just about having backups in place: organisations need to make sure they have tested plans to continue their operations in the extended absence of IT should an attack be successful, and have a tested plan to rebuild their systems from backups.”

How managed IT services can assist ransomware prevention

A managed IT service can provide tailored cybersecurity strategies, alongside professionals who have knowledge and expertise across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, insurance, education, manufacturing, and many more. This gives you peace of mind that your business is well protected, allowing you to focus on other goals. 

Here are some of the measures we can take to manage cyberthreats.

Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment

Our team will assess your current IT infrastructure and cyber security measures to identify any weaknesses and vulnerabilities. We will address any issues, and make recommendations for more effective and advanced cyber security measures. 

 

For example, advanced anti-malware and antivirus tools can be installed on all endpoints such as mobile phones, laptops, desktops and other devices. These tools will also automatically keep all devices updated with the latest security patches.

For an extra level of protection, we can also carry out simulated attacks to test the strength of the security measures and identify any areas that require further action. 

Proactive monitoring of threats

Once our team is confident that your IT security is as strong as it can be, we will use the most up to date and advanced tools to proactively monitor the system 24/7 for cyber threats. As soon as any unusual activity is detected, prompt action will be taken to isolate the affected area to stop or contain any malicious software. 

Data backup and recovery

It is crucial to regularly back up all critical information and sensitive data to mitigate the threat of a ransomware attack. The more effective your data back up and recovery solution, the less power that ransomware criminals can yield. 

We have our own data recovery centre that is protected by robust physical and cyber security measures, so all your critical data can be safely stored off site and recovered quickly in the event of an attack. 

Simple steps that all businesses can take now

There are some basic steps you can take today to reduce your risk of falling victim to a cyberattack, including the following:

Educating staff

Many cyber attacks are enabled unwittingly by staff members who are unaware of, or do not follow safety protocols. Hold regular training sessions for employees, particularly those who work with sensitive information and all new starters. 

The training should include instructions on how to recognise phishing emails, and the steps to take if any malicious activity is suspected. 

Implementing basic security measures 

All software should be regularly updated with patches and security updates issued by the provider. Passwords should be strong, and also be regularly changed, particularly after a member of staff has left or transferred to a different department. Use multi-factor authentication for all accounts, devices and IT systems.

Don’t wait until after an attack to protect your business

As we have seen, the threat of ransomware attacks is becoming greater every day. It is impossible to completely prevent your business from becoming a target, but there are plenty of steps you can take to manage the risk. 

A proactive approach to cybersecurity is the best way to safeguard your business, and also contribute to the government’s aim to make the UK an unattractive target for ransomware criminals.

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Why Is The Healthcare Sector A Top Target For Cyberattacks?

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The healthcare sector has seen an alarming rise in the number of cyber attacks over the past few years, causing serious disruption to patient services, financial losses and an erosion of public trust. Here’s a look at why the sector is a growing target for cybercriminals, and how IT support for healthcare is part of the solution. 

Access to sensitive personal data

Healthcare organisations have to store high volumes of sensitive data, including medical records and other documents with personal details. Criminals target these records in order to sell them on the black market or carry out identity theft. This can enable fraudulent financial transactions with a low risk of early detection. 

Outdated IT systems

One of the biggest contributory factors to last summer’s large-scale cyberattack on NHS services was identified as outdated IT systems, which may not be compatible with the provider’s latest security updates. This means that there may be easily identifiable weaknesses that can be exploited by cybercriminals. 

On 3 June 2024, a Russian-based hacking group named Qilin launched a ransomware attack on Synnovis, a pathology service for several major London NHS hospitals. According to BBC News, this led to the postponement of almost 5,000 acute outpatient appointments and 1,391 operations. 

Qilin demanded a ransom of £40m, which was not paid, leading to the publication of sensitive patient data on the dark web. The group has targeted other healthcare systems around the world. 

Prof Ciaran Martin, the founding CEO of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), told the BBC: “I was horrified, but not completely surprised. Ransomware attacks on healthcare are a major global problem.”

He added: “In parts of the NHS estate, it’s quite clear that some of the IT is out of date.” He also emphasised the importance of basic security practices, stating: “Those little things make the point of entry quite a lot harder for the thugs to get in.” These include implementing security patches, being vigilant for phishing emails and regularly changing passwords.

The high price of not paying ransoms

Cybercriminals also exploit the critical nature of healthcare services, where disruption to services not only leads to financial losses, but also potential harm to patients and even the loss of life. This means the organisation may be more likely to give in to demands for ransoms. 

How IT support services can help to mitigate the threat

The threat of cyberattacks is only going to grow more severe in the future, and the government has now announced a funding package to upgrade the NHS’s outdated IT infrastructure. Here’s how a managed service can help.

Proactive cybersecurity measures

An IT support service will be able to implement tailored cybersecurity solutions, including advanced threat detection tools and endpoint protection. Other measures may include introducing automated patches and updates, alongside proactive monitoring to detect potential threats and vulnerabilities before they escalate. 

Zero trust framework

The IT experts will adopt a ‘zero trust’ approach for robust cyber security. This means implementing stronger identity verification, such as two-factor authentication for access to all devices. They may also place strict controls on who can access the most sensitive data to reduce the risk of malicious inside actors.

Educating staff

Sometimes, cybercriminals exploit basic flaws such as weak passwords or a lack of awareness about email protocol. An IT service provider can help to educate staff on basic security measures.

Developing an incident response plan

Should the worst happen, the IT support team will have an effective plan that can be swiftly rolled out to mitigate the damage. This may include off-site back up data storage, a clear chain of command, and a dedicated response unit who will carry out simulated attacks to test the effectiveness of the plan. 

Specialist knowledge

One of the consequences of the NHS running on legacy systems, sometimes decades old, is that there is no centralised IT infrastructure. The systems are very fragmented, which leads to further security vulnerabilities and also makes implementing new technologies very complex and challenging.

Specialist IT providers have years of experience of dealing with complex IT projects, and can bring their knowledge and expertise to the upgrades to assist in-house teams or take over certain areas of the project. 

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New £100m Funding Boost To Help Hospices Overhaul IT Systems

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The government has announced a funding injection of £100m to boost adult and children’s hospices. The funds will support the upgrading of patient and visitor facilities, and also the overhaul of IT systems. This will ensure that clinicians are able to deliver the best possible quality of end of life care to patients, and improve the experience of families and loved ones.

In a press release from the Department of Health & Social Care, it is explained that a further £26m revenue funding will be made available for hospices for children and young people, which was formerly known as the Children’s Hospice Grant. 

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Hospices provide the care and support for patients and families at the most difficult time so it is only right they are given the financial support to provide these services.”

“This package will ensure they will be able to continue to deliver the compassionate care everyone deserves as they come to the end of their life in the best possible environment.”

How can hospices benefit from cutting-edge IT systems?

The correct IT support for healthcare facilities such as hospices is crucial to ensure that they maintain a high standard of patient care. Hospices not only need to provide reliable and compassionate care for end of life patients and their families, but they also need to manage sensitive patient data, comply with stringent regulations, and manage limited resources.

Therefore, up to date and reliable IT systems are crucial to ensure safe and efficient day to day operations. Here’s how a managed service provider can help. 

Effective information management

The NHS and private healthcare organisations are transitioning towards the full implementation of electronic health records (EHR). This means that medical and care staff can access critical patient data such as medical history, care plans, and current medication in a centralised system. 

This reduces the risk of errors and misunderstandings, and makes handovers between care teams easier. The patient will always have accurate and up to date records, and staff will save a considerable amount of time and labour in manual record keeping. 

However, it’s essential that the IT support systems are properly maintained, because glitches or unplanned downtime could have very serious consequences for patient care. A managed IT support service will ensure that the systems are running smoothly, and any issues are picked up in the earliest possible stages before they escalate. 

Enhanced cybersecurity measures

Cybersecurity is a major issue for hospices, who hold a significant amount of sensitive patient data. As cyber criminals grow more sophisticated in their methods and the threat of attacks increases daily, it’s more important than ever to have robust cyber security measures in place.

By working with a managed IT service provider, the hospice can take a proactive approach to cyber threat monitoring, and work towards achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation, the best practice for government bodies for data protection and compliance. 

Assistance in procuring IT infrastructure

Hospices may not be able to run dedicated on-site IT departments, and this can make it difficult to know exactly which hardware and software would optimise the effectiveness of the hospice and be compatible with existing infrastructure. 

A managed IT provider can assist with procuring the most appropriate and up to date software, helping the staff to do their jobs more efficiently and improving the overall quality of patient care. 

 

Meeting compliance requirements

Hospices in England are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which makes regulation inspections and reports, delivering a rating that ranges from Outstanding to Requires Improvement. They must also comply with strict data protection regulations, and can face legal penalties if they fail to do so.

Professional IT support that includes regular audits, simulated security testing, and regular system updates will help the hospice to meet compliance requirements and move proactively to be ahead of any changes in the regulations. 

Reducing costs

Hiring in-house IT professionals can be costly, and hospices are often operating under tight budget constraints. Therefore, outsourcing IT management to a third party can be very cost-effective, helping to put in place proactive management strategies that can help to detect issues before they become bigger and much more expensive problems.

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Why Was The First Highly Marketed Office Suite A Failure?

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The office suite is often the central choice an IT support team will provide to ensure that a business sector has the solution to suit their needs.

In most cases, this would be Microsoft Office, also known as 365. It is the most common office suite, with the most common applications required for most business purposes outside of bespoke sector needs.

However, it was not always the common choice for businesses, nor was it even the first application suites.

In fact, Microsoft’s arch-rival in the field, Lotus, sold a very notable all-in-one office suite intended to stop businesses from shopping between their own Lotus 1-2-3, WordStar and dBASE to create a makeshift suite of programmes.

Unfortunately, the resulting Lotus Jazz turned out to be one of the most notable failures in the history of productivity software.

Cacophony

At one point, Lotus was the king of the spreadsheets and it is extremely difficult to quantify the effect Lotus 1-2-3 had on the office world as we know it today. 

It was part of the business canon in the 1980s, and that only changed when office suites such as Microsoft Office made it more convenient and cheaper to buy a single application suite that would be upgraded at the same time.

Lotus understood that this was the way the business world was going, and developed Lotus Jazz with that in mind.

It was an integrated suite of not only a spreadsheet but also a word processor, a database, a graphics suite and communications software that all talked into each other in the same way Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and Teams do today.

In many respects, Lotus Jazz was ahead of its time and was designed specifically to take advantage of both the capabilities and weaknesses of the Apple MacIntosh, using four single-density floppy disks within a rather substantial box to cover the entire application set.

Rather unusually for the time, Lotus spent a lot of money on an extensive advertising campaign, using smooth jazz (appropriately) to emphasise how easy it was to use and how integrated the application suite was.

It went as far as to describe itself as the software suite that Apple’s famous MacIntosh was invented for, although this turned out to be a laughable claim once it was finally released.

Lotus Jazz ultimately sold a mere 20,000 copies of Jazz whilst Microsoft Excel sold ten times that for Excel for MacIntosh alone.

What went wrong? It turned out to be a wide variety of issues, caused in no small part due to an underestimation of the system they were designed for.

There was no support for a hard drive option, so users had to not only keep hold of four floppy disks but ensure that they worked at all times, otherwise significant fundamental parts of the entire suite would just break immediately.

Despite this, it also required a lot more resources than were typically available from a computer of the era, with one infamous Macworld interview claiming that it was designed for a computer with at least twice if not four times the memory capabilities of a typical Mac of the era.

The best reviews said that it could be fixed, but also noted that not a lot of the package was truly correct given the price tag of $600 (£476) that the software suite cost at the time, far more than the £217.20 per user per year the biggest Microsoft 365 deal cost.

As well as this, Lotus used a copy protection scheme that was actually too effective, which limited the ability for businesses to create the backup disks they typically needed, which was an unusual flaw for a piece of software to have at the time but regardless put some business users off.

Also, Jazz was not a well-known name amongst business users, given that Lotus 1-2-3 was still being sold as a standalone piece of software, and implied that Jazz was a piece of standalone software that it evidently was not.

It was also appallingly advertised, not focusing their marketing approach on the Apple users they were looking for.

They did plan to fix this with an updated version known as Modern Jazz but ultimately a change in upper management at Lotus changed the focus to Lotus 1-2-3 and later the Lotus SmartSuite package that had a much greater chance of succeeding compared to the integrated suite.

Lotus Jazz was not without its value, but most of its benefits were in small aspects of the software and were not worth the total value of the software.

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Tips For Setting Your Business Up For Secure Remote Working

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Since the onset of the Covid pandemic in 2020, many businesses adopted remote working for the first time, enabling employees to work from home. Since then, remote work has become the norm, most often in a hybrid format where employees split their time between home and the office. 

The advantages of remote work

This set up has advantages for both staff and business owners: staff appreciate the flexibility and savings on commute time and transport costs, and business owners can reduce office space and overhead costs. Many businesses also found that productivity rose when then shifted to a remote or hybrid model, contrary to conventional opinion.

Today’s workforce now expects to be able to work from anywhere, and companies who do not offer this flexibility may miss out on the best talent. It is not just for those who wish to work from home: it’s also a necessity in many fields where the work is not office based 100 per cent of the time, such as civil engineering, architecture, and scientific research. 

The challenges of remote work

The remote working model also brings some challenges, including the following:

Maintaining effective communication between in-house and remote teams; increased data security risks; and managing the on-site and remote IT infrastructure. 

If you are in the process of transferring to a remote or hybrid working model, or you have concerns about the security or efficiency of your current model, contact us to find out how our Wakefield IT support team can help. 

While the exact needs will be unique to the priorities of your organisation, here is some general information about the most important considerations for a successful remote set up.

Cloud based collaboration tools

Cloud integration creates a much faster and more secure way to work remotely. Tools such as Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 allow teams to collaborate online, share documents, manage tasks, and maintain visibility wherever they may be. This allows the team to work cohesively, solve problems, exchange ideas and so on.

There is no one-size-fits all solution, as every workplace has a unique set up, working practices, ethos and culture. 

Some may prioritise video conferencing platforms for regular face to face meetings and catch ups, while others may prefer more informal messaging apps where team members can chat and check in with each other without the need for fixed meeting times or more in-depth and time consuming phone calls or emails. 

Whichever type of tools you decide to use, set clear protocols on how they should be used and ensure that all staff are aware of them. Make sure that all staff are familiar with the features of each tool, as this can help to streamline working practices and ensure that everyone is on the same page. 

Integrating cloud solutions with existing technology

It may well be the case that your business has an existing IT infrastructure that requires integrating with cloud-based solutions. For example, certain sectors may have specific project management tools and third party applications that remote workers require access to. 

It may be beneficial to work with a professional IT service provider to ensure the seamless integration of your tech stack, and avoid any frustrating glitches that can eat into productivity, heighten the risk of mistakes, and damage staff morale. Produce clear guidelines for all remote staff on how to use applications if this is different from office based operations. 

Securing remote infrastructure

Security is the utmost concern for remote working environments; and indeed all business as the threat of cyberattacks increases each day. Take a proactive stance, with endpoint security, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for an encrypted network connection. Staff should set up strong passwords for all their accounts and implement 2-step verification. 

All software must be regularly updated with the latest fixes and patches, and firewalls should be installed. 

Hybrid and remote working increases the risk of cyber attacks, no matter how careful you are with security. Therefore it’s prudent to invest in a comprehensive data backup and recovery plan to safeguard your critical data and allow for a rapid recovery from an adverse incident. 

Hardware and connectivity

Staff should have up to date devices such as laptops to carry out remote work, and VoIP compatible phones to ensure seamless connectivity and communication. 

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Signs Your Business Could Benefit From A Managed IT Service

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A reliable and effective IT system is now essential for all businesses to stay competitive and profitable. However, as the world of digital and cyber technology evolves at a rapid pace, it can be difficult for small and medium-sized businesses to manage their IT systems in-house. 

Outdated or inefficient IT can disrupt productivity, impact customer satisfaction, and leave the business vulnerable to cyber attacks. Here are some of the key signs that your business in Leeds is in need of IT support.

You have frequent IT downtime

If your day to day operations are frequently disrupted by unplanned downtime, then this is a red flag that your IT infrastructure needs to be assessed by experts. Downtime can be caused by a range of factors, from issues with the software, server crashes, configuration errors, or connectivity issues. 

If left unaddressed, the constant disruption will eat into productivity and profitability, affect staff morale and lead to more frequent errors, damage the business reputation and increase the risk of security breaches. 

A managed IT service provider will carry out a thorough assessment of your existing infrastructure, identify any issues and make recommendations to address them. They will also provide a continuous ongoing monitoring and support service, so any issues will be proactively dealt with before they have a chance to escalate. 

You are concerned about cyber security

The threat of cyberattacks grows daily, as global digitalisation gathers pace and it is increasingly difficult to keep up with the latest defences. Cybercriminals are able to develop viruses and malware so fast that they can exploit weaknesses in IT systems before the developers or vendors are aware of them or have had time to issue a patch or fix.

This can be a daunting task for in-house IT technicians to manage, particularly in small to medium sized businesses where they may have multiple job roles. It is no longer enough to rely on automated software security updates as the scale and complexity of cyberattacks intensifies.

A managed IT service provider will be able to review your current system for any vulnerabilities, including carrying out simulated cyber attacks. They will implement the latest and most advanced security measures including firewalls and endpoint protection, and continuously monitor your systems to detect and deal with any potential issues promptly.

Your In-house team is lacking specialist knowledge or stretched too thin

As a small to medium sized business, you will know that every staff member counts and often IT management is a secondary job role alongside other duties. Even if you do have a dedicated IT team, the increasing complexity of digital technology means that they may lack expertise in certain areas, such as the cloud or network security.

A managed IT service provider will have a team of experienced professionals on hand who pride themselves on keeping up to date with the latest technologies, and will have a more diverse skillset. They can provide the expertise to take on a big project, or oversee the daily management of the systems, freeing up your staff for other duties.

Your hardware and software is outdated

Outdated hardware can cause a range of problems, from sluggish performance to frequent crashes, incompatibility with newer technology, and heightened security risks. Out of date software can also leave your system vulnerable to cyber attacks and slow down productivity. 

A managed service provider will carry out an audit of your current hardware and software and make recommendations for any maintenance or upgrades that may be required. If necessary, they will oversee the integration of the newer technology with the rest of the system and suggest any specialist software that might be appropriate for your sector.

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Zero-Day Vulnerabilities: What They Are & How To Reduce Risk

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The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a fresh warning about the risks of zero-day vulnerabilities for businesses. This has been prompted by the rise of cyberattacks in this category: in 2022, fewer than half of the 15 most commonly exploited vulnerabilities fell into this category, but now they make up the majority of the list.

Here’s a look at what they are and how you can safeguard your business against them. For more targeted advice, you may wish to consider our expert IT support services in Leeds.

What are zero-day vulnerabilities?

A zero-days vulnerability is a flaw in an IT system that has recently been discovered and the vendor is unaware or has not had enough time to issue a fix or a patch. Cybercriminals who discover these weaknesses exploit them to  launch an attack before the developer has had a chance to make a response, hence the term ‘zero-days vulnerabilities.’

When an unpatched security flaw is discovered, cybercriminals may launch stealth attacks that can go unnoticed for long enough to allow them to access sensitive data or deploy malware that can be used to hold businesses to ransom, make unauthorised transactions, send phishing emails, or otherwise compromise operations.  

The NCSC warning

The NCSC has urged all network enterprises to review their cybersecurity measures in the wake of an increase in attacks.The organisation has issued a list of the 15 most commonly exploited vulnerabilities, plus a further 32 that were routinely exploited in 2023, that currently have fixes or patches available. 

They urge business to be vigilant about keeping their IT systems up to date, and call for developers and vendors to adhere to secure-by-design principles to mitigate the risk of exploitable weaknesses in their products. 

Ollie Whitehouse, NCSC Chief Technology Officer, said: “More routine initial exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities represents the new normal which should concern end-user organisations and vendors alike as malicious actors seek to infiltrate networks.”

“To reduce the risk of compromise, it is vital all organisations stay on the front foot by applying patches promptly and insisting upon secure-by-design products in the technology marketplace.”

“We urge network defenders to be vigilant with vulnerability management, have situational awareness in operations and call on product developers to make security a core component of product design and life-cycle to help stamp out this insidious game of whack-a-mole at source”. 

Further action to reduce the risk of zero-days vulnerabilities

Regularly update software

Businesses are strongly urged to put a system in place to ensure that all vendor updates are installed as soon as they are issued. The best way to achieve this is usually by setting automatic default updates. They should also follow any further advice from the vendor if there has been a risk of business compromise. 

The IT operator should check that the updates have been issued from a legitimate source, which will be the vendor website in most circumstances. The update should be live tested to confirm its effectiveness. Wherever possible, automate the updating and testing process for maximum time efficiency.

If there is a known vulnerability that is being actively exploited by attackers, then the IT systems should be checked for any signs of compromise before the update is applied. 

Educate employees on cyber security

Train all staff on the correct procedures for creating passwords and using two-factor authentication. Human error often escalates or provides an entry point for hackers, so ensure that all staff are able to identify phishing emails and suspicious links, and establish a set procedure so that they can easily report any suspicions. 

Train all staff to be aware of the most common vulnerabilities and be vigilant about changing passwords when staff leave the organisation or move to another department. 

Consider managed IT security services

A managed IT cyber security service will provide a comprehensive security package, including proactive monitoring of your network to detect any issues in the earliest stages; the latest firewall technologies; and off-site storage for critical data backups to enable business continuity in the event of a cyberattack and to protect highly sensitive data.

The service can additionally include a system build review to determine if there are any vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure, routine vulnerability scanning, and cyberattack simulation and penetration testing for an extra depth of cybersecurity investigation. 

Wakefield services -Social Media Securely & Safely

Steps For Businesses To Use Social Media Securely & Safely

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When it comes to cybersecurity issues for businesses, social media can be an overlooked risk. Many businesses assume that social media platforms have built-in security measures that will provide them with adequate protection, but this is far from the case. 

Whether you run a small business through social media, or use it as a digital marketing tool to build up a loyal customer base, there is no room for complacency against cyberattacks. Here’s a look at some of the most common social media business risks to be aware of, and how to mitigate them. 

It may be beneficial to work with a specialist IT provider such as our Wakefield services for more tailored advice on your social media security strategy. They will be able to carry out independent vulnerability assessments and make recommendations for advanced security measures to implement. 

 

Using unsecured devices

Social media accounts may be accessed by staff members from their personal phones, which may be necessary for convenience and to check that the content is displayed correctly. However, ideally the social media accounts should only be accessed from secure company devices that are fully up to date with the latest antivirus software. 

If it is not possible to avoid employees from accessing the social media accounts from personal devices, put a clear security policy in place to minimise exposure to risk.

 

Incorrect use by staff

Social media for businesses has many advantages, allowing for a fast, informal and organic way to reach new customers. However, this flexibility also has the potential to be misused, either deliberately or down to lack of awareness. 

Ensure that your business has clear guidelines in place around social media content, and that all staff understand the importance of never posting personal views or poorly judged remarks that could damage the reputation of the business. Remember that any deliberately malicious or inappropriate remarks could be shared and seen by millions of people.

Specify any topics that should be avoided, and give examples of what is acceptable content and the correct tone of voice to use. The staff should also be trained in how to interact with customer comments and how to deal with any negative, damaging or aggressive comments. 

Inadequately trained staff may also unintentionally share fake news or misinformation online, or click on phishing emails or malicious links, potentially allowing hackers to access sensitive data. 

Staff should also be aware of catfishing, which is when an attacker uses another person’s identity to gain access to sensitive information. Always direct customers to another channel of contact if there is room for doubt. 

 

Limit staff access to social media accounts

To mitigate the risk of misuse, limit the number of staff who have access to your social media accounts. All staff authorised to access them should be fully trained in the risks, and understand the importance of maintaining the official company line at all times. 

The posts should pass through an authorisation channel via a senior staff member before going live. Any staff member who leaves or moves to another job role should have their access immediately revoked, and any shared passwords should be changed.            

 

Use two-factor authentication 

Social media accounts should be protected by two-factor authentication (2FA) to safeguard them from unauthorised access. Even if a hacker is not able to access sensitive information, they can still cause immense damage to the business, from posting malicious content to holding the account to ransom at the risk of losing thousands of valuable followers. 

By implementing 2FA, the attacker will not be able to access the account without a secondary authentication mechanism, such as using a unique code sent to a verified device. Furthermore, all social media account passwords should be regularly updated and sufficiently complex to make them secure. 

 

Shut down unused accounts correctly

It can be easy to set up a social media account in the business name and forget about it or only post inconsistently. This can leave them unattended for long periods, making them more vulnerable to hackers. Use automated social media manager tools to monitor and detect suspicious content and alert you to any accounts that need to be closed.

 

Put a response and recovery plan in place

Even with stringent security measures in place, it’s still possible for social media accounts to be compromised. This should focus first on regaining control of the accounts, and taking steps to address any unauthorised posts. 

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