cybersecurity Archives | Flexisource IT

Flexisource IT Addresses the CrowdStrike Outage

Leave a Comment / Blog / Pamela Chelsea Ortiz

The recent CrowdStrike outage sent shockwaves through the tech industry, leaving many businesses vulnerable and scrambling for solutions. This critical failure sent affected machines into boot loops or the infamous “blue screen of death,” rendering them unusable. With this, many companies grappled with the unexpected disruption, and multiple essential operations came to a halt. As a leader in IT services, Flexisource IT responded swiftly and effectively to this issue. We are committed to providing our clients with reliable and comprehensive IT solutions and development. This article will detail our response to the outage. What is the CrowdStrike Outage? Crowdstrike is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions, specialising in endpoint protection, cyberattack response, and threat intelligence. Since its foundation in 2011, the company has grown rapidly for its innovative approach to cybersecurity. So, how can a prominent player in the cybersecurity market cause a massive outage worldwide? Well, it started on July 19, 2024, when they pushed a faulty software update to their Falcon Sensor Vulnerability scanner, a platform dedicated to detecting threats and managing vulnerabilities. This update triggered widespread issues, resulting in approximately 8.5 million users receiving the “blue screen of deaths. This incident affected many businesses, including grounding commercial flights, affecting emergency call centres, and halting broadcasting services. Flexisource IT’s Action and Response to the CrowdStrike Outage Flexisource IT recognises the urgency of this issue and its profound impact on businesses. Despite not being directly affected by the outage, we took immediate action and implemented measures to mitigate any possible effects of this disruption. Our approach focused on the following key areas: Incident Assessments In the wake of the global IT outage, we initiated an immediate assessment to evaluate the impact of the outage on our internal systems. We examined a few Flexisource IT machines to identify if any of our devices were affected by the faulty update. Thereafter, we look at the knowledge base on Windows updates for further instructions and guidance on the patches and updates. Fortunately, our initial assessment deemed that none of our systems and platforms were impacted. We discovered that only users on the client domain are affected by this issue. Employee Awareness and Advisory Flexisource IT issued immediate advisories to its employees, instructing them not to apply any updates or patches to their devices using Microsoft until further notice. This precautionary measure was issued to prevent devices from being affected by the faulty update. We also provided clear guidelines on handling the situation, ensuring all stakeholders were well-informed and equipped to mitigate the impact on their operations. Likewise, our internal IT support team was available 24/7 to assist our employees in case they faced any issues. If you are still affected by the CrowdStrike outage, visit their REMEDIATION AND GUIDANCE HUB for support. Client Assistance and Support Flexisource IT extends our sympathies to those impacted by the outage. Thus, we are open to assisting our affected clients with this issue. Our IT support teams are on high alert and ready to assist those affected around the clock. If you need additional support, our company offers hands-on, step-by-step assistance to clients to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution process. Our dedicated support will ensure that your business quickly recovers from the outage and resumes normal operations with minimal downtime. Conclusion In summary, the CrowdStrike incident highlighted the interconnectedness and vulnerabilities within the global IT systems. That said, businesses should always have a proactive response to such incidents to ensure business continuity. As we continue to learn and adapt from incidents like the CrowdStrike outage, Flexisource IT remains steadfast in our mission to provide secure, reliable, and innovative IT solutions. If your business seeks a dependable partner with uninterrupted operations, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your business needs.

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Generative AI and Smart Automation in Cybersecurity

Leave a Comment / Blog, Information Technology / Pamela Chelsea Ortiz

In the ever-evolving landscape of the IT industry, few advancements have gained as much attention and intrigue as generative artificial intelligence (AI). With its emergence onto the scene in 2023, generative AI swiftly captivated industries, revolutionising almost everything—from content creation to healthcare diagnostics. However, one area that stands to benefit profoundly from this groundbreaking technology is cybersecurity: The combination of AI and smart automation. We interviewed Flexisource IT’s Compliance Officer, Earvin Camanian, to talk about AI, smart automation, and some of its threats that we should know about. What can AI and smart automation mean for cybersecurity in 2024? AI and smart automation had a huge impact on operational processes and cost initiatives for organisations. These revolutionary solutions enable organisations to work efficiently and swiftly, producing good-quality products and services minimising defects and delays. Likewise, AI and smart automation can help organisations and even people make their lives more convenient. However, “convenience leads to complacency and negligence” because we tend to be dependent on AI and smart automation. The growing number of AI tools especially “generative AI,” is growing rapidly and cybercriminals use that opportunity to victimise users. Hence, cybersecurity professionals will come into play to ensure a product or solution has the required security controls following industry standards to mitigate risk and reduce harm to users, particularly on AI. This is overwhelming work for cybersecurity professionals these days, knowing there is a limited number of cybersecurity professionals globally. It adds more problems because not all AI providers are investing in security, for they focus more on profit. Some are even used for illegal activities, portraying as a legitimate AI provider to steal data from users. What are the critical threats from the growing use of AI tools? The critical threats from the growing use of AI tools are: Data Breach As AI tools become more prevalent, the risk of data breaches increases. These tools often handle vast amounts of sensitive information, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorised access to data. Identity Theft With the growing sophistication of AI algorithms, cybercriminals can use AI-powered techniques to steal personal information and perpetrate identity theft at scale. This can lead to financial losses, reputational damage, and emotional distress for affected individuals. Deep Fakes AI-powered deep fake technology enables the creation of highly convincing fake videos and audio recordings. Misuse of this technology can lead to the spread of disinformation, manipulation of public opinion, and damage to the credibility of individuals and institutions. Automated Weapon Systems The development and deployment of AI-driven automated weapon systems raise ethical concerns and risks of unintended consequences. These systems have the potential to autonomously identify and engage targets, leading to civilian casualties, escalation of conflicts, and challenges in maintaining accountability and compliance with international laws. Privacy Violations AI tools often rely on large datasets containing personal information, raising concerns about privacy violations. Unauthorised access to or misuse of these datasets can result in the exposure of sensitive personal information, erosion of privacy rights, and loss of trust in institutions that handle such data. Loss of Control The increasing reliance on AI tools in critical systems and decision-making processes raises concerns about the loss of human control. Errors or biases in AI algorithms can have significant consequences, leading to unintended outcomes, lack of accountability, and challenges in understanding or rectifying algorithmic decisions. Social Manipulation AI algorithms can be used to manipulate social media platforms, online discourse, and public opinion. This manipulation can take various forms, including the spread of misinformation, polarization of communities, and amplification of extremist ideologies, leading to social unrest and erosion of democratic principles. Techno-dependent Humans Over-reliance on AI tools can lead to techno-dependence, where humans become increasingly reliant on technology for decision-making, problem-solving, and daily tasks. This dependence can diminish critical thinking skills, creativity, and human autonomy, posing risks to individual well-being and societal resilience. What other developments will continue to trend in cybersecurity in 2024? Industry standards such as NIST, ISO27001, etc. are painstakingly working to address the growing concern and issues related to AI. They recently released a new version (NIST Cybersecurity Framework v 2.0 and ISO27001: 2022 version) so that organisations can assess their security posture for any gaps within their network. This is to make sure that the level of security has reached an acceptable level. Another thing is new robust security solutions or products are going to be released by some security providers in response to AI such as data loss prevention and other related defensive measures to protect the identity of users. There is also an ongoing project where AI is also going to be used for Cybersecurity. This is something that we are anticipating to see how this new solution will work in our profession. How should organisations address the cybersecurity challenges in 2024? Step 1: For organisations, conduct a Risk Assessment of their IT infrastructure, Assets, Physical Security, and People. They need to identify the risks that could damage the organisation’s reputation and business operation. Once they identify a risk, create a treatment plan to mitigate and avoid transferring the risk. Senior management must consider their risk tolerance to make sure each identified risk does not hamper their business functions. Step 2: The second step is to develop information security, data privacy, and cybersecurity policies and procedures to enforce and execute security measures based on management objectives, industry standards, and legal and regulatory requirements. Step 3: Invest in information security training for employees to develop awareness of how they will act or respond to a security incident. A good example is “Phished Academy,” which will train employees on how to identify a phishing email. Step 4: Invest in IT security solutions such as Identity Access Management, Data Loss Prevention, Web filtering, SIEM, FIM, Vulnerability Assessment/ Penetrations Testing, and Security Operations Centre (SOC) apart from AV, firewall, and other related security solutions to protect the organisation’s internal network. Step 5: Lastly, hire a cybersecurity professional to provide you with

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7 Steps to Protect Your Business from Phishing Attacks

Leave a Comment / Blog, Information Technology / Pamela Chelsea Ortiz

Phishing attacks have become a prevalent threat in today’s digital landscape, posing serious risks to businesses of all sizes. These deceptive tactics, often disguised as legitimate communication, aim to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as passwords, financial details, or confidential company data. As small and medium-sized businesses increasingly rely on digital platforms for their operations, the need to fortify defences against phishing attacks has never been more critical. So, in this article, we will discuss various phishing attack prevention What are phishing attacks? Phishing attacks are one of the most common cybersecurity threats worldwide. It involve fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, such as login credentials, financial data, or personal details, by masquerading as trustworthy entities. These attacks commonly occur via email, where cybercriminals send deceptive messages designed to lure recipients into clicking malicious links, downloading malware-infected attachments, or providing confidential information. Importance of protecting businesses from phishing Protecting businesses from phishing attacks is of paramount importance for several reasons: Financial Loss Prevention. Phishing attacks can result in significant financial losses for businesses. Cybercriminals often target businesses to gain access to sensitive financial information such as bank account details, credit card numbers, or login credentials. With the right cyber protection, businesses can avoid the financial repercussions associated with such breaches. Data Security. Phishing attacks can lead to the compromise of sensitive business data. This could include customer information, intellectual property, or proprietary business secrets. Protecting against phishing helps safeguard this critical data from falling into the wrong hands, thereby maintaining the confidentiality of business operations. Reputation Management. A successful phishing attack can damage a business’s reputation. If customers or clients perceive a business as insecure or untrustworthy due to a breach, it can lead to a loss of trust and credibility. Operational Continuity. Phishing attacks can disrupt normal business operations, causing downtime and productivity losses. Protecting against phishing ensures the continuity of business operations without interruptions caused by cyber threats. Compliance Requirements. Many industries have regulatory requirements regarding data protection and cybersecurity. Failure to protect against phishing attacks can lead to non-compliance with these regulations, potentially resulting in legal consequences and financial penalties. 7 Phishing Attack Prevention Steps With the information above, it is indisputable that phishing attack prevention is a must. However, not everyone is well aware of this cyber security issue. To help you protect your business, here are some steps to mitigate phishing attacks: Step 1: Email Security First things first – fortify your email defences like a pro. Email remains the primary vector for phishing attacks. A survey conducted by eGress with 500 cybersecurity professionals found that 79% of cyber-attacks started through phishing emails. With that said, it is undeniable that businesses need to strengthen their email security protocols. To do so, you should try these phishing best practices. First, set up top-notch spam filters, beefy phishing detectors, and email authentication tools to weed out those shady messages before they even land in your inbox. Additionally, deploying email authentication mechanisms such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC can prevent email spoofing and domain impersonation, reducing the likelihood of successful phishing attempts. Step 2: Employee Training The next step in phishing attack prevention is employee training. Human error remains one of the weakest links in cybersecurity defences. In a study conducted by Stanford University, they found that human errors cause 88% of data breaches. Likewise, companies must create comprehensive employee training in phishing prevention efforts. You should educate staff members about the various phishing attacks, including email, phone, and text-based scams, which can empower them to recognise and report suspicious activity promptly. Furthermore, Regular training sessions, simulated phishing exercises, and awareness campaigns can cultivate a culture of vigilance and resilience within the organisation. Step 3: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) MFA, short for multi-factor authentication, is a security measure that adds protection to your online accounts. Instead of relying on a password, MFA requires you to provide additional verification, such as a code sent to your phone or a fingerprint scan. Think of MFA as your cybersecurity guard. You not only need the key (your password) to get in, but you also must provide something else, like a fingerprint or a one-time code sent to your phone. It’s like adding an extra layer of security to keep the bad guys out, even if they manage to get your password through sneaky phishing tricks. With that knowledge in mind, businesses should prioritise the adoption of MFA across all relevant systems. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) not only adds an extra layer of security to sensitive accounts and applications but also reduces the risk of unauthorised access in the event of stolen credentials. Step 4: Regular Software Updates Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software and operating systems to gain unauthorised access to systems and networks. According to OWASP, vulnerable and obsolete components are among the top 10 web application security risks 2021. To mitigate this risk, businesses should prioritise regular software updates and patches to address known vulnerabilities promptly. Automated patch management tools can streamline this phishing attack prevention, ensuring all devices and applications are up to date with the latest security fixes and enhancements. Step 5: Endpoint Security The next step to prevent phishing in business is establishing endpoint security. Endpoint devices such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices represent prime targets for phishing attacks, particularly in remote or hybrid work environments. A Ponemon Institute study revealed that endpoint attacks, which can breach data and IT systems, affected 68% of organisations. Additionally, 68% of IT professionals reported a rise in endpoint attack frequency from the previous year. As such, deploying robust endpoint security solutions, including antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, and mobile device management (MDM) systems, can help detect and mitigate phishing threats at the device level. Additionally, enforcing device encryption, access controls, and remote wipe capabilities can safeguard sensitive data in the event of a security incident. Step 6: Incident Response Plan Despite best efforts to prevent phishing attacks, businesses must be prepared to respond effectively

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10 Cybersecurity Best Practices for Protecting Your IT Environment

Leave a Comment / Blog, Information Technology / Pamela Chelsea Ortiz

In today’s interconnected world, where businesses rely heavily on digital tools and networks, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. As technology advances, so do the threats that can compromise your IT environment. From data breaches to cyberattacks, the risks are real and ever evolving. You need to implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard your organisation’s digital assets effectively. This comprehensive guide will delve into ten cybersecurity best practices to fortify your IT environment and protect it from potential threats and breaches. Whether you’re an IT professional, business owner, or IT manager, these best practices are essential for ensuring the security of your organisation’s digital assets. What is the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape? Before diving into cybersecurity best practices, let’s understand why cybersecurity is vital in the digital landscape. In today’s digital landscape, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With the increasing reliance on technology and the vast amount of data being generated and shared online, protecting sensitive information has become paramount. As such, cybersecurity is crucial in a business. It safeguards our personal and financial data from unauthorised access and malicious attacks. Moreover, cybersecurity encompasses various measures and practices to prevent threats and issues in our business, such as the following: Protection from Cyber Threats. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, the number and sophistication of cyber threats have also escalated. Cybercriminals continuously seek vulnerabilities to exploit, making it crucial to stay one step ahead in safeguarding your IT environment. Data Protection. Your organisation’s data is a valuable asset. Whether it’s sensitive customer information or proprietary business data, ensuring its protection is non-negotiable. Cybersecurity measures are designed to prevent unauthorised access to and data breaches. Reputation Management. A security breach can have severe repercussions on your organisation’s reputation. In today’s information age, news of a security breach spreads quickly. A tarnished reputation can result in financial losses and loss of trust from clients and partners. Legal Compliance. Many industries are subject to regulatory requirements regarding data protection. Non-compliance can lead to fines and legal consequences. Implementing cybersecurity best practices helps ensure that your organisation complies with these regulations. Business Continuity. Cyberattacks can disrupt your business operations, leading to downtime and financial losses. Having robust cybersecurity measures can help maintain business continuity by preventing and mitigating potential threats. 10 Cybersecurity Best Practices Cybersecurity tips are abundant on the internet. To help you navigate this complex landscape, here are ten essential cybersecurity best practices that are the foundation for protecting your digital assets and ensuring a safer online experience. 1. Access Control In today’s digital age, where data breaches and unauthorised access are constant concerns, implementing effective access control measures is essential for businesses of all sizes. Access control involves managing and regulating who can access specific resources, systems, or areas. To implement these cybersecurity best practices, enact strict access control, using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, to ensure that only authorised personnel can access sensitive information. Regularly review and update access permissions as needed. 2. Employee Training Your employees can be your greatest asset or vulnerability in terms of cybersecurity. According to the World Economic Forum, human error accounts for 95% of cybersecurity breaches. In this case, employee training is crucial to instil a security-conscious culture within your organisation. To implement these IT security strategies, provide ongoing training to educate your staff about the latest threats, best practices, and how to recognise and respond to potential security issues. 3. Regular Updates and Patch Management With new threats and vulnerabilities constantly emerging, staying up to date is more important than ever. This is where regular updates play a crucial role in cybersecurity best practices, safeguarding sensitive information, and maintaining the integrity of systems. Updates are essential for addressing security vulnerabilities in software and operating systems. As technology advances, so do cybercriminals’ techniques to exploit weaknesses in these systems. Companies can protect themselves against known vulnerabilities and prevent potential breaches by regularly updating software and applying patches. Likewise, regularly update and patch all software and hardware in your IT environment to eliminate vulnerabilities. Automated patch management systems can streamline this process and ensure that updates are promptly applied. 4. Data Encryption Data encryption is the process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorised access. Implement encryption for sensitive data, both in transit and at rest. This ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains indecipherable to unauthorised parties. To successfully implement data encryption, there are several vital steps to follow. Firstly, it is essential to identify the specific data that requires encryption. This can include personally identifiable information (PII), financial records, intellectual property, or any other sensitive information that needs safeguarding. Next, select an appropriate encryption algorithm and key management system. Encryption algorithms such as Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) or RSA are widely used and offer robust security measures. Likewise, implement a key management system to help generate and securely store encryption keys, essential for encrypting and decrypting the data. Once the algorithm and key management system are chosen, it’s time to integrate them into the existing infrastructure. This involves implementing the necessary software or hardware components required for encryption processes. After implementation, it is crucial to establish proper access controls and user authentication mechanisms. This ensures that only authorised personnel can access encrypted data using their unique credentials or digital certificates. 5. Intrusion Detection and Prevention Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) are essential cybersecurity best practices for real-time monitoring of your IT environment. It involves monitoring and analysing network traffic to identify any unauthorised or malicious activities that could compromise the system. DP systems utilise various techniques to detect and prevent intrusions, such as signature-based detection, anomaly detection, and behaviour analysis. This will alert you to potential threats, while IPS can actively block or contain them. As such, try to deploy these systems to respond to any unusual or suspicious activity promptly. 6. Incident Response Plan No system is entirely immune to threats. As such, a well-defined incident

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