In the digital age, information is a valuable business resource. As its value increases, so does the importance of data laws. This has led to the rise of compliance analysis.
Without proper compliance analysis, your company could face heavy fines. For example, if you’re operating in Europe and you break the GDPR, you could face a fine of up to 20 million Euros.
An IT compliance analyst ensures data integrity and legal adherence to ensure you follow the law. Ignoring these laws could hurt your organization.
So, how do you find the right person for this crucial role? What attributes should they have? This article covers everything you need to know.
Roles & Responsibilities in Ensuring Business IT Integrity
Before hiring, know what an IT compliance analyst does. Their main job is to ensure IT activities in your company follow internal policies and government regulations.
They may conduct regular audits, spot potential irregularities, and investigate them. They also identify vulnerabilities, like poor security practices that attract cyber criminals. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with ransomware.
Plus, they stay updated on the ever-changing landscape of IT law, and they are well-versed in the latest IT compliance solutions.
Qualification Criteria and IT Regulations
Qualification criteria can vary based on your company’s attributes. For instance, specific industries may need analysts with certain qualifications to stay compliant with IT regulations.
Different localities might also require a specialized analyst who understands local laws. For example, if operating in the European Union, you’ll need someone familiar with GDPR.
Check their educational background too. Look for degrees in computer science, cyber security, or a related field. Qualified pros often have certifications like CISA or CRISC.
Before posting a job, research the required certifications that are vital to your business. This will help you tailor the job posting and attract the right analysts for your company.
Experience Matters in Business Technology
Qualifications and certifications are crucial, but they can’t replace experience. Compliance analysis is a field with zero room for error. If your company isn’t compliant with regulations, massive fines could follow.
So, look for analysts with a proven track record in risk management and incorporating business technology into IT compliance. Don’t just search for someone with the most years in the industry. Find an analyst who’s skilled at navigating information compliance complexities.
For instance, seek analysts familiar with key compliance frameworks like ISR 27001 or HIPAA. If you’re not sure what kind of frameworks the candidate needs to have experience in, you’ll need to talk things over with your IT department.
Soft Skills and Cultural Fit
Soft skills and cultural fit also matter. Besides technical qualifications, find a compliance analyst with the right soft skills and company culture fit. IT compliance is complex, so seek an analyst who knows how to simplify it for a non-expert audience.
This helps them communicate effectively across your organization. Great technical skills won’t matter if you can’t understand them in meetings. No one wants to sit in a meeting while someone from the IT department talks in incomprehensible technical jargon.
Grasping Compliance Tools and Tech
IT compliance goes hand-in-hand with tech tools. So, top candidates should know the latest tools in the industry. They might be familiar with governance, risk management, and compliance platforms.
They need a sharp understanding of using technology to make compliance more efficient and improve data analysis. Plus, they should use tech to maintain secure and detailed records.
It’s crucial to ensure the candidate fits your company. If your company uses specific tools, mention it in the job listing and require candidates to have experience with that particular tool.
Craft a Good Job Posting
Of course, when looking for a compliance analyst, it’s crucial to craft the job description correctly. A poorly worded or formatted one could lead to the ideal candidate passing over the role.
With the variation in compliance analysis, make sure the job description outlines the role’s objectives and responsibilities clearly. Also, state necessary qualifications and unique requirements, like certifications.
For instance, if you want an analyst to be comfortable with GDPR, make it explicit in the job description. This will help get the most qualified candidate and prevent sifting through applications from unqualified analysts who don’t realize they lack the necessary skills or experience.
Recruit through the Right Channels
A top-notch job description won’t matter if you don’t use the right recruitment channels. To find the best analysts, you need to know where to look.
Industry-specific job boards are key so that you don’t throw out your recruitment net in the wrong industry pond. It’s extra effort for little gain and can take away from your overall productivity.
LinkedIn can be a goldmine as most compliance analysts have a presence there. Networking is another way to find top candidates. Try attending industry conferences to build a strong presence.
You may even find the perfect candidate before listing the job. Many compliance positions are filled through recommendations in professional networks. Lastly, consider using a reputable recruitment agency to place competent pros in your organization.
Continuous Education
First off, hiring a top-notch IT compliance analyst isn’t enough. With the tech world always evolving, they need to embrace lifelong learning. So, give your analysts chances for ongoing education and training.
Think about sponsoring certification courses. Or even offer a stipend for self-guided learning. Investing in their education means consistent compliance and a loyal analyst likely to stick around and teach others in your IT team.
Find the Right IT Compliance Analyst
Hiring an IT compliance specialist is crucial for modern businesses. You need to shield your business from legal risks and protect your company’s reputation by keeping sensitive data secure.
Doing your technical compliance in-house can be a big responsibility, so it doesn’t always make sense to do so. A well-managed IT services company like Facet can take on this responsibility on your behalf, allowing you to focus on the day-to-day operations of your company.
Contact us today to discuss how we’ll make your company compliant with the law.
Peoria is a business-centered region with 1.2 million small businesses, constituting a whopping 99.6% of all businesses in Illinois. These businesses form the backbone of the state’s economy.
In today’s digital age, protecting customer data is paramount for Peoria business owners. As we navigate through this guide, we’ll uncover seven compelling reasons why Peoria business owners must focus on cybersecurity solutions.
This will shed light on how data security services can safeguard not only data but also the very essence of businesses. Let’s get started!
1. Protecting Consumer Trust
In Peoria, keeping customer trust is paramount for your business. Cybersecurity solutions are like a fortress guarding your trust. Data breaches can shatter it, and that’s the last thing you want.
Consider this: your favorite local bakery had its customer data stolen. You would think twice about buying those mouth-watering pastries.
That’s why Peoria business owners need cybersecurity solutions. As a business owner, protecting your customers’ trust in this digital landscape is paramount.
First and foremost, invest in robust digital protection services to safeguard customer data. Use encryption, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and regular security audits.
They act as a shield, ensuring your customers can trust you with their personal information. However, it’s not just about trust; it’s about retaining your customers and attracting new ones.
2. Legal Compliance
In Peoria’s business world, adhering to the law is akin to following a treasure map. Imagine the regulations and legal frameworks as the map’s key. Missing pieces could lead to disaster. This is where data protection solutions step in.
There are rules and regulations when it comes to handling customer data, and they are non-negotiable. By not abiding by the laws, your business can land you in trouble-fines, penalties, and a damaged reputation. That’s what non-compliance brings.
Network security solutions act as your legal compass. They ensure your business aligns with data protection laws, safeguarding your operations and reputation. In Peoria, staying on the right side of the law and data security can act as your legal protection.
3. Financial Consequences
In business, data breaches lead to financial trouble. Imagine your business as a boat, and a data breach is a leak. The more data you lose, the more money you’re bailing out to stay afloat.
It’s not only about lost data but also the costs that follow. Data recovery, notifying affected customers, legal fees, and the hit to your reputation. These are the financial constraints that loom over Peoria business owners who neglect data security.
Consider the case of a local Peoria retail store that falls victim to a data breach. Hackers infiltrate their systems and make off with customer credit card information. As the breach became public knowledge, the once-thriving business started to sink.
Network security solutions serve as your life jacket amidst these financial challenges. They cut the damage by safeguarding your data against breaches.
4. Intellectual Property Protection
In the digital age, protecting your business’s ideas is crucial. Data breaches are like cunning pirates trying to steal your treasures. They want your ideas, your innovations, your competitive edge.
Peoria business owners can’t afford to let their intellectual property slip through the cracks. Online privacy protections act as vigilant guardians of your creative assets. They build a fortress around your ideas, ensuring that they remain yours and yours alone.
5. Competitive Edge
In the bustling realm of Peoria’s business arena, a competitive edge can be the difference between thriving and surviving. Your ability to outshine rivals, provide the best data protection services, and innovate ahead of the curve is a game-changer.
Yet this edge is under constant threat. Without robust privacy assurance solutions, your trade secrets, customer insights, and innovative ideas are at risk. The digital age has redefined competition. This means businesses in Peoria need more than just ambition to stay ahead.
Data security is the sentinel guarding your secrets, ensuring your competitors remain in the dark and cannot spy on you.
6. Operational Continuity
Operational continuity, the lifeblood of any business, hinges on a delicate thread in the digital age. With Peoria’s business landscape becoming reliant on technology, operational downtime can be catastrophic.
Consider this scenario: a sudden data breach, a crippling cyberattack, or a system failure paralyzing your operations. Without a safety net, the consequences can be dire. This is where data integrity services step into the spotlight.
For instance, you can consider using cyber security services such as vulnerability assessment. It can help identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems and networks.
Beyond safeguarding sensitive information, they ensure an uninterrupted flow of your daily operations. In an ever-evolving landscape where disruption is a click away, Peoria business owners need to secure not only their data but also their operational continuity.
7. Safeguarding Employee Data
In an era where information is power, safeguarding employee data becomes an ethical responsibility. Peoria business owners understand the size of this responsibility. When you collect and manage your employees’ sensitive information, their trust is in your hands.
It’s not just about data; it forms the foundation of a loyal and productive workforce. Secure data management is the sentinel that stands guard over this trust. They ensure that personal details, financial records, and confidential communications remain shielded from prying eyes and potential threats.
Not only is this a legal obligation, but it’s also what sets you apart as an employer of choice in Peoria. When your team understands data security, they work with peace of mind, and that’s the key to a thriving business.
Locking Up Your Business: Data Security Services for the Win!
Protecting business data goes beyond mere compliance. This is a clear demonstration of your dedication to both your customers and employees. When handling sensitive information from clients and staff, you’re entrusted with a significant responsibility.
Relying on expert data security services strengthens this trust. In essence, this commitment to security paves the way for a prosperous future for your business.
Secure your business and workforce today with Facet Technologies. Feel free to get in touch with our experts today to secure your business and future.
The average data breach costs over $4 million. This is impossible for many companies to overcome, especially those new to their industry. Data breaches can also cause permanent damage to your company’s reputation.
Understanding cyber risks can protect your company from cyber attacks in the future, but not everyone knows common cybersecurity threats to watch out for.
We’ve put together a brief guide on the most important threats to consider. Let’s dive in.
Ransomware
This is one of the most important to keep in mind. As the name implies, ransomware is a type of malicious application that holds sensitive data for “ransom.” It functions by encrypting important information and demanding payment.
Hackers ask for payment in the form of cryptocurrency. These transactions are anonymous and can’t be traced. This means the hacker can get away undetected.
The main issue with ransomware is there’s no guarantee the hacker will decrypt your data. There’s a good chance they’ll take your money and run. Even the FBI recommends against paying ransoms during these attacks.
Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks
These are malicious operations that aim to flood networks with false requests. When they succeed, entire websites become inaccessible. Left unchecked, DDoS attacks can make it impossible for customers to use your website for days or even weeks.
These strategies are particularly effective since they use multiple systems at once. It’s worth noting that DDoS attacks don’t result in lost data. Responding to them quickly or preventing them can help you avoid complications.
Malware
This refers to any code or program that’s designed to harm a network, computer, or server. Since this term applies to so many different scenarios, it’s the most common type of cyberattack.
Hackers frequently use keyloggers, worms, trojans, and spyware. Let’s look at these closer below.
Keyloggers
These are tools that record everything someone types on a device. When hackers install them undetected, they gain access to every keyboard input a user makes.
This includes email content, usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information. Hackers can then use this data to compromise accounts.
Trojans
Trojans appear to be legitimate software but are malware in disguise. Hackers often include them in compromised installation files. For instance, a criminal might modify a download on a website to include a trojan.
When people download and run this application, the trojan gets access to data on the device. Some trojans are advanced and difficult to detect through conventional means. It’s imperative to remain vigilant when opening files from third-party sources.
Spyware
When spyware infects a device, it gives the hacker detailed information about the device’s usage. They can see your web history, which applications you run, and details about similar activities. Not only can spyware be difficult to detect, but it can also be difficult to remove.
Worms
Worms are some of the most dangerous malware available due to their self-replication. Worms duplicate and infect other devices on the same network.
They can delete/modify files and run malicious software. This malware can also make copies of itself to take up device resources until the computer can’t handle its presence.
Phishing
This attack uses text messages, emails, and social media messages to get victims to share sensitive information.
Someone might pose as an official source and send an email, for example. A common scenario involves a hacker pretending to be a representative from a financial institution.
They often instill a sense of urgency by telling the victim to take immediate action. The end goal is to get them to enter their login credentials on a false version of a trusted website.
Insider Threats
Insider threats are a bit different from the other attacks on this list. They involve current or former employees acting maliciously. For instance, a worker who was recently fired may still have access to a company’s systems.
They might procure valuable information and sell it to competitors. They might also try to cause as much disruption as possible by deleting key files. Some insider threats aren’t malicious, though.
Negligence can sometimes lead to data compromise. This includes actions like storing passwords inappropriately or making them easy to guess. Using the same password for multiple accounts can lead to the same outcome.
Identity-Based Attacks
When a hacker gains access to login credentials, they can commit an identity-based attack. On the surface, it appears as though authenticated users accessed the data.
This makes them particularly difficult to deal with. Imagine for a moment what would happen if someone compromised a CEO’s login credentials. The hacker could do almost anything they want with highly valuable information.
One of the most common types of identity-based attacks is a brute force attack. Hackers use specialized software to systematically guess username and password combinations.
Protecting Yourself
Dealing with cyber threats can be overwhelming. The steps to protect your company are straightforward and should be taken as soon as possible.
Keep all of your software properly updated. If developers discontinue support for certain applications, find alternatives. Hackers are always developing ways to gain access to sensitive data.
Implement policies at your organization regarding password sharing and storage. These can drastically reduce data breaches that stem from human errors.
Periodically conduct a cyber security risk assessment to identify areas of concern.
Hiring a professional who offers cybersecurity solutions is a reliable way to take your security to the next level. Look for a cyber security services provider that has extensive experience in the industry. Their cyber solutions should be reasonably priced and have plenty of stellar feedback from their previous clients.
They should also be easy to get in touch with. Communication goes a long way when it comes to keeping your data safe.
Don’t Overlook These Cybersecurity Threats
Even a single security breach can be catastrophic. That’s why it’s so important to keep these cybersecurity threats in mind and protect yourself in the future.
Facet Technologies has been proudly meeting our clients’ security needs since 1989 and have many years of combined IT experience across our professional staff.
Reach out to us today to see how we can help. Our team is ready to take your company’s defenses to the next level.
No modern business operates without information technology. Through IT, businesses are able to increase streamline tasks and enhance efficiency. However, it’s far from the perfect system.
Doing business in the digital world exposes your operations to security risks. Without proper measures, threats can jeopardize your position in a competitive, technology-driven market. Your system can get abused, damaging your business reputation.
Ensure business safety by developing and incorporating an IT compliance policy within your organization. Read on to learn how to create an effective system that protects your employees and customers.
IT Compliance Policy
Before anything else, what is an IT compliance policy, and how do you create one that works? An IT compliance policy is a set of guidelines ensuring you operate within security and data requirements. It defines expectations that allow a business to meet legal requirements.
Many organizations incorporate practices into their systems, procedures, and tools. With their implementation, businesses reduce the risk of exposing their operations to cybercrimes. IT compliance prevents data breaches, data loss, and other technological issues from happening.
IT compliance does not revolve around avoiding penalties. Instead, it strives to protect the organization and its customers.
How to Create IT Compliance Policy
Despite IT solutions, businesses continue to face risks in their operations. Crafting a policy based on compliance can help reduce operational risks and safeguard company and customer data.
Consider the People, Process, and Technology
When people hear IT compliance, the first thing that comes to mind is technology. Many assume it only focuses on this aspect of the business. However, that is not the case.
Implementing IT compliance for technology can result in a downturn. Organizations that focused only on this aspect failed their final audits. This method can result in vulnerabilities and gaps that malicious actors can abuse.
Apart from technology, consider the people and processes involved.
In IT compliance, people refer to the stakeholders involved in maintaining information security. Practices refer to the processes observed. Technology pertains to the tools and solutions used.
Failure to recognize other aspects can result in complex compliance policies. Use the correct approach to automate controls and monitoring.
Adhere to Relevant Laws and Regulations
To guarantee the effectiveness of the policies, follow necessary laws and regulations. They direct IT compliance requirements in business policies. These regulations create uniformity that encourages businesses to compete on equal footing.
There are several laws and regulations observed in IT compliance, and they may differ depending on your industry. You must understand them first before you can begin your compliance process. Talk with your compliance team to verify if your new controls apply to the necessary laws and regulations.
Raise Awareness Among Employees
Allowing untrained employees to navigate your operations can damage your operations. 95% of data breaches result from human error.
Sometimes, these threats are not a result of mere ignorance. Some employees go for insecure data transfer methods for convenience. They use personal emails, instant messaging, and consumer-grade collaboration apps, which are ideal targets for cyber threat actors.
What do you do to keep your business safe from cyber-attacks? Creating and implementing a policy is useless if your staff is unaware. Raising awareness helps ensure your business does not fall victim to cybercrime.
Teach your staff about cyber threats. Help them understand the actions posing vulnerabilities to security. Providing proper education to employees shows the significance of IT compliance.
Align Your Policy With Your Values
Before raising awareness, ensure IT compliance aligns with your operations. You must understand your business’s culture to create appropriate policies. Does your business observe process-driven or ad-hoc methods to complete tasks?
If your business follows a process-driven method, use in-depth policies. If you use the ad-hoc method, incorporate detective and preventive controls. Regardless of the technique, they strive to address risks linked to your policy.
Understand the IT Environment
Are you aware that your IT environment can affect the design of your IT compliance policy? Learning about the environment your business belongs to is crucial. In the digital world, the common environment is homogenous and heterogeneous.
The homogenous environment focuses on IT deployments with standardized configurations, models, and vendors. The heterogeneous environment uses a broad range of technologies. It even uses different compliance and security apps.
Establish Accountability
No compliance policy will be effective if your business doesn’t practice accountability.
Accountability defines the roles and responsibilities determining the assets to protect. It identifies who holds the power to make decisions. In the business world, it begins from the top going to the frontline.
The best way to ensure involvement is by casting compliance programs. Doing so guarantees that you adhere to significant laws and regulations. Your IT providers can also fulfill various roles, including data and system owners and custodians.
The owner is part of the management team focusing on data usage and care. Your custodians carry out several duties. Some are system administration, legal counseling, and security analysis.
These responsibilities are crucial in IT compliance policy as it directs implementation.
Automate Audits
Technology will only continue to grow and evolve in the coming years. There is no difference between cyber threats because malicious actors will always make ways to attack your digital assets. To secure data today and in the future, automate your audits to catch holes in the policy.
With your IT system evolving, internal auditors can only assess a small amount of data. They can only review a few of the system configurations and user accounts. By automating the process, you can evaluate your IT policy more often.
IT Compliance Policy: Everything You Need to Know
With the progressing technology, businesses face new technological challenges. One common problem faced by organizations is data breaches. Creating and implementing an IT compliance policy can protect your business.
Facet Tech offers IT compliance solutions to help you step up your operations. We provide server and network support, cybersecurity, data backups, and more! If you want to create a policy that aligns with your business’s needs and values, contact our team here!
As we get into the summer, many business owners and employees look forward to a well-deserved break. However, high achievers are known to do a little work on vacation. Unfortunately, studies show that working outside the office, whether on vacation, from a local coffee shop, or even business travelers out on work trips, can lead to significant cyber security issues. If you or your employees plan on answering urgent emails or checking in on projects while on vacation this summer, it’s essential to maintain strong cyber security best practices to avoid exposing the company network to hackers preying nearby. In this blog post, we’ll cover what cyber security best practices for remote workers must be implemented so that you and your team can get your work done and enjoy your vacation without worrying about a data breach.
Why Cyber Security Matters While Traveling
For business travelers, the need to stay connected to the office is a reality of the digital age, and our handheld devices make it easy. But with this constant connectivity comes an increased risk of cyber threats. Whether you’re using a public Wi-Fi network in the lobby or accessing sensitive files from your hotel room, you can expose your company to hackers, malware, and other cyber risks.
Cybercriminals know how this works! They understand that people are more likely to let their guard down while on vacation. They know you’re more focused on enjoying your time off than ensuring your devices are secure. This situation makes travelers an attractive target for cybercriminals, who can use a variety of tactics to compromise your data, such as phishing emails, fake websites, and man-in-the-middle attacks.
To minimize the risk of a cyberattack while traveling, here are a few best practices to cover with your team:
Use A Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet connection, ensuring your data is secure even when using public Wi-Fi networks. Before you leave, set up a VPN on your devices and use it whenever you’re online.
Keep Your Devices Updated: Before leaving for vacation, update your devices to the latest software and security patches. Outdated software can leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks, so staying current is essential.
Be Wary Of Public Wi-Fi: Although convenient, public Wi-Fi networks can be a hotbed for cybercriminal activity. Avoid using these networks whenever possible. Yes, that means no checking your email poolside unless you have a VPN.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Using 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message code or fingerprint scan. Make sure to enable 2FA for all of your critical accounts before you depart.
Beware Of Phishing Attempts: Cybercriminals often target travelers with phishing emails, which are designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Be cautious of any emails you receive while on vacation, and never click on suspicious links or download unfamiliar attachments.
Secure Your Devices: Physically secure your devices by always keeping them with you and never leaving them unattended in public places. Additionally, enable password protection, biometric authentication when applicable, and remote wiping capabilities in case your device is lost or stolen.
Traveling for business or pleasure doesn’t mean you should compromise on cyber security. Following these best practices can reduce the risk of a data breach or other cyber security issue while away from the office. However, it’s important to know that these steps aren’t infallible. To truly ensure that your company’s cyber security measures are up to par, you need to work with a qualified IT team that can monitor your network 24/7, patch any vulnerabilities that pop up (which happen regularly), and can alert you if something goes wrong.
To help you prepare for your vacation and have peace of mind knowing your business is secure while you or your employees are working remotely, fill out our form below or call (309) 689-3900 to schedule a free IT assessment with our experts today. We’ll evaluate your current cybersecurity measures, identify potential vulnerabilities, and help you implement a strategic security plan to keep your company safe.
A reliable wireless internet connection and network is essential for any business. A router is one of the first pieces of hardware most businesses install at a startup or new business location. In the rush to get your network configured and running, it can be tempting to run to the store and purchase a router off the shelf, or use a rented option from your internet service provider, but this choice can leave you vulnerable to a whole list of cyber threats.
When you go to a big box store to purchase a router, you will see consumer-grade router options. While these products are fine for use in a home, they are not designed for use in a business. They are designed to be fast and simple to set up, not to have the capabilities a business needs. These types of routers offer limited configuration options, weaker security, and, often, slower speeds.
Why can’t a business use a device like this one?
Device Overload
Businesses will often need to connect multiple devices to their wireless network. This alone can overwhelm a consumer-grade router and cause slow speeds—frustrating and potentially costly! Consumer routers are designed to have a few smartphones, TVs, and laptops or other devices on them—not as many devices as a normal office requires.
We design business networks for higher capacities so your networking hardware is not a bottleneck in your productivity.
Security
Due to sensitive customer data and other information you likely require for your business, enhanced security is a necessary part of your operations. A consumer-grade router offers very little protection if you were targeted by a hack—and studies all show that small businesses are nearly as likely to be targeted as large firms by cyber criminals.
For every business, a business-grade router and firewall provide protections that stop attacks.
Multiple Networks
Do your customers or guests ever need to use your WiFi? If so, it’s imperative that you have a guest network separate from your WiFi that you use internally. Why? We always recommend separating these networks because while you can control your own devices, you can never know what exactly is on a guest’s device. This is one small step that helps keep your data safe. A business grade WiFi setup allows your IT provider to quickly setup a network for your guests that is completely separated from your internal network.
Are you using a home router in your business? We can help. With an assessment from Facet, you will get a roadmap that shows you the steps you should take to strengthen your network and find True Tech Peace of Mind!
Contact us today by calling us at (309) 689-3900, or fill out the contact form below.
Finding a managed service provider can be challenging. Along with all the technical considerations, you need to be sure that the company you choose will be a good fit for you in customer service and more.
All managed service providers offer IT helpdesk services, but not all helpdesks are the same. There are some key questions you need to ask as a business leader that will help you determine how they do things.
Is your helpdesk in-house or outsourced?
Some MSPs will use outsourced “mega helpdesks” as a first line response to customers’ needs. This does cut their costs down as they don’t have to keep level 1 technicians on their payroll or provide office space for them. It’s important to know this, however, because it can affect the quality of service you receive.
Have you ever called a cable company or other large technical helpline and found yourself frustrated trying to get an answer? This can be the case if a managed service provider uses an outsourced helpdesk. You will spend more valuable time chasing down an answer and trying to get issues elevated if they take this approach.
We keep things easier with a 100% in-house IT helpdesk. Our technicians have great documentation and knowledge on your system, and will work together or elevate your work ticket quickly when necessary. Our goal is to maximize your uptime and minimize your time spent waiting for answers.
Can I get 24/7 support?
On the flipside, some small managed service providers who DO have an in-house helpdesk don’t offer 24-hour service due to staffing limitations. Even worse, if it’s a one- or two-person operation, you may be left to to hope that the owner or tech has their cell phone on them at the moment.
As a business leader, you don’t work a 9-5. We have on-call technicians available 24/7/365 to ensure that you’re never left waiting until Monday morning for an issue and can get help fast when you need it.
Will you do on-site visits for repairs? If so, how long do I have to wait?
Another important consideration to note is how the company handles on-site visits. Are on-site visits included in your contract? Some managed service providers will include them, while others may charge a trip fee. Even worse, some may ask for time and materials payment in order to go on-site for hardware issues.
You will also want to ask if they have technicians in your area or if they have a plan in place to contract a local tech if the need arises. With proper planning and procedures, this can be done quickly so you won’t be stuck waiting for days to get a technician onsite.
While the need for on-site visits has diminished in recent years, it’s sometimes still necessary to make a trip to a customer in order to repair hardware or configure physical equipment. It can help your business get back up faster in times of emergency as well! We offer on-site appointments for our managed services clients as well as to local businesses in the form of as-needed help. Because we have many technicians local to Peoria, our wait times are lower than most. We also have robust networks and systems in place across the country to send a qualified tech to any location across the U.S. Our technicians are prepared, professional, and ready to help however you need.
How well will your technicians know my system?
When you work with a helpdesk without proper documentation in place, it means you wait longer for your issue to be resolved. Companies that outsource level 1 or 2 helpdesk calls often struggle to know your system and keep all their documentation in place.
Because we have entirely in-house helpdesk, when you call Facet you will talk to a qualified technician with access to information about your network and needs, which makes the process much less headache-inducing for you. We include documentation services for all our managed services customers, for this reason as well as for your benefit. We are able to troubleshoot much more effectively because of this.
Is it easy to ask for help or submit a ticket?
Ask any potential helpdesk provider about their process to ask for help or submit a ticket. Do you have to submit a request online? Can you send an email? Can you call if you are on-the-go? Do they have a dedicated customer line that will streamline your process?
We strive to make asking for help very easy. Whether you prefer to call our dedicated customer dispatch line, our main number, send an email, or submit a request online, we have a method that will be quick and easy and tailored to your preferences.
Want to learn more about our helpdesk services?
We offer managed services, cybersecurity, and helpdesk services to companies across the U.S. Regardless of your size, we have a plan that can meet your needs. Call us today at (309) 689-3900 (8AM-5PM, Monday-Friday), or fill out the below form to request more information on managed services and helpdesk. We are ready to help you solve your recurring tech headaches and find True Tech Peace of Mind!
Did you know that cyber fatigue is a real issue? One of the best ways to battle cyber fatigue is by choosing helpdesk services.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “you can’t manage what you don’t measure.” The same is true for helpdesk services. If you’re not sure what to look for when choosing a helpdesk service, how can you be sure that you’re making the best decision for your business?
In this post, we will discuss some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a helpdesk. We’ll also provide tips on how to find a helpdesk that meets your specific needs.
US-Based Techs
When choosing a cybersecurity helpdesk provider, there are several important factors to consider, such as:
Cost
Availability
Quality of service
Perhaps the most important factor, however, is whether the provider offers support for US-based businesses. Given the increasingly global nature of business, it is important to choose a helpdesk service that can provide timely and effective support for businesses based in the United States.
Friendly and Helpful
When you are running a business, it is important to have a helpdesk that is friendly and helpful. This is because the helpdesk is the first point of contact for your customers. If they have a problem, they will call the helpdesk.
If the helpdesk fails to provide satisfactory service, it will lead to a bad reputation for your company.
Fast Response
When choosing a technology helpdesk service provider, it is important to consider several factors, including response time. After all, when technical problems arise, every minute counts.
A good helpdesk service should be able to provide fast, efficient support when you need it most.
Knowledge of Your Company
Choosing the right helpdesk services for your business can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, from price to features to customer service.
One of the most important factors, however, is the knowledge that the helpdesk services provider has of your company. After all, you want someone who understands your business and can provide tailored support. Here are a few things to look for in a provider:
Industry experience
Size of the company
Reputation
By taking the time to find a helpdesk services provider with knowledge of your company, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible service for your business.
Multiple Levels of Experience
The more experience they have, the better they will be at helping your customers. When you are looking for helpdesk services, you should look for a provider that has multiple levels of experience. This way, if your customer has a problem that is beyond the scope of the helpdesk, they will be able to escalate the issue to someone who can help.
In addition to experience, it is also important to consider the size of the helpdesk. If you have a large number of employees, you will need a helpdesk that is large enough to handle the volume of calls.
Choose the Right Helpdesk Services Today
When it comes to picking helpdesk services that suit your company, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. With our years of experience in the industry, we can provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.
Take a look at our managed services today and see how we can help you take your business to the next level.
You aren’t the only one staying busy during the holiday season. Cyber criminals are, too, even more than usual! A UK-based cybersecurity firm Darktrace found that there is a 30% increase in the number of ransomware attacks every year during November and December across the globe.
Here’s Why Cyber Attacks Surge in November and December:
There are a few reasons why cyber criminals are working a little harder while the rest of us are doing our best to try and enjoy ourselves.
1. Decreased Awareness
Let’s be honest: there’s SO much going on for most of us during this time of year that we may not be QUITE as good about general security awareness as we usually are. That stray link, that high-alert email that got you up in a tizzy—those are going to hit home a little easier because we are frazzled and stressed.
When you’re feeling stressed and burnt out, that’s when cyber fatigue is going to set in. You and your employees may be quicker to click on a phishing email than usual, and criminals are banking on that.
2. Holiday Greetings
A lot of phishing attempts this time of year come disguised as holiday greetings. That Christmas postcard attachment you’re opening may not be a Christmas card at all! Be sure to stay vigilant and check to see if there’s any obvious signs of spoofing before opening attachments—is the “from” address correct? Often only a letter or two will be changed in the domain. Or the address could even be fully “spoofed” and match a client or vendor’s email address perfectly.
If something seems “off” about the message, never hesitate to contact your IT provider or internal IT team to ask them to check the email out and make sure it’s legit.
3. Out of Office?
Attacks are more likely to go unnoticed when half the office is out for the day. This makes the holidays, particularly the days between Christmas and New Year’s Day, prime time for cyber attacks. For some slow-moving attacks, time can be of the essence as the longer the malware stays in your network, the more endpoints it can compromise.
Cyber criminals know that their attempts are more likely to be ignored if the IT team is OOO. That’s why it’s so important to have a team like Facet behind you. We offer 24/7 monitoring, so even if your internal IT team is off, we are here watching your network and protecting you from threats.
Quick tips for a safer holiday season:
Take a little time this holiday season to talk to your employees about cyber awareness. Even quick reminders and training have been proven to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of ransomware.
Practice checking emails to make sure they look legitimate. Avoid clicking links in emails if possible, because many phishing scams come disguised as benign order reminders and credit card alerts. For example, if you receive an email from Amazon, make a habit of typing “amazon.com” into your search bar instead of clicking the link in the email.
Most importantly, partner with an IT and cybersecurity expert like Facet to ensure that your security is up to the task of fighting increased cyber attacks. We use a layered approach to cybersecurity that keeps you safer throughout the year. If you have an internal IT team, we can help them with extra eyes on your network while they’re out for the holidays, preventing breaches during this vulnerable time.
Contact us now to learn more about how we can help, or request a complementary audit with a roadmap to better cybersecurity for 2023.
Are you looking for the right way to protect your company from cyber threats? Read here for a guide to cybersecurity software solutions for businesses.
Did you know that there were 50% more cybersecurity attacks in 2021 compared to the year before?
As a business owner, you know that cybersecurity is important. But are you doing everything you can to protect your business from cyberattacks?
In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of a cybersecurity stack and introduce you to some of the best cybersecurity software solutions out there.
What Is a Security Stack and Why Is It Important?
A security stack is a collection of cybersecurity options that work together to protect an organization from attacks. It typically includes a combination of
Hardware
Software
Services
While the exact components of a security stack will vary depending on the needs of the organization, it is typically built around three core areas:
Network security
Endpoint security
Data security
Network security refers to the measures taken to protect an organization’s network infrastructure from attack. This can include things like firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
Endpoint security, on the other hand, refers to the protections put in place on individual devices, such as laptops and smartphones. This can include things like antivirus software and mobile device management solutions.
Finally, data security encompasses the procedures and technologies used to safeguard an organization’s data, both at rest and in transit. This can include things like encryption and access control measures.
While cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, a well-designed security stack can help to provide a high level of protection against a wide range of attacks. For this reason, it is an essential part of any organization’s cybersecurity strategy.
What to Include in Security Stack Software Options
One of the most important factors to consider is the type of data that your business holds. If you have sensitive customer data or financial information, you will need to ensure that your security stack includes software that is specifically designed to protect this type of data.
You should also consider the size of your business and the number of devices that you need to protect. Businesses with a large number of employees or devices will need a more comprehensive security solution than those with fewer employees or devices.
Cybersecurity Software Solutions for Your Business
Firewalls are a basic but essential cybersecurity measure. They act as a barrier between your network and the Internet, blocking incoming traffic that could potentially be malicious. Anti-virus software is another important layer of protection.
It helps to detect and remove malware, including
Viruses
Spyware
Adware
These programs can be run on individual computers or on a network level.
Finally, MDR, or Managed Detection and Response, is a cybersecurity solution that provides 24/7 monitoring and incident response. This can be a valuable addition to any security stack, as it can help to quickly identify and respond to potential threats.
When it comes to cybersecurity, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best way to protect your business is to implement a comprehensive security stack that includes a combination of different software solutions.
Cybersecurity Solutions Tailored for Your Business
As a business in the 21st century, cybersecurity software should be at the top of your list of priorities. The cost of a data breach can be crippling, and the reputational damage can be irreparable. But with the right team in your corner, you can rest assured that your business is safe from hackers and other cyber threats.
At Facet Tech, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of your business. If you are looking for peace of mind when it comes to cybersecurity, take a look at our services today.
