5 Ways to Keep Data Secure

5 Ways to Keep Data Secure

One of the most famous tech companies was hacked not too long ago, leaving people asking, “if a tech company cannot stay safe, how can we?”

SolarWinds is a company that develops software for businesses to help manage their networks and IT infrastructure. They’re very popular and are used even in government departments around the world.

Recently, attackers compromised SolarWinds’ Network Monitoring Software and used it to push out malware as a software update, which gave them unrestricted access to all companies who installed that update.

Chances are, individuals are not running software like this on their home networks. However, what happened to SolarWinds should still serve a valuable lesson and encourage people to secure their personal data. Here are the most effective ways to lock down one’s network and personal information:

1. Enable multi-factor authentication on email and other perimeter accounts
2. Purchase software, like Malwarebytes (premium) to scan computers and web browsing activity
3. Implement a password policy whereby individuals change their password every 6 months
4. Change all default credentials for network devices on the home network
5. Perform routine backups of data in the event of disaster recovery
6. Run emails through a website like haveibeenpwned.com to check for compromised accounts on the dark web

Following those 5 tips will help people secure what’s important to them and aid in mitigating the risk of today’s growing cyber attacks.

Anthony Buonaspina, BSEE, BSCS,CPACC

Anthony has been in the MSP business since before the acronym existed. Managed IT once started as break-fix solutions and some light phone support.

Since then, he has seen the industry flourish into a landscape of platforms, cloud servers, software tools and AI . Tailoring network configurations and software stacks to the specific needs of each business.

In his current role, he focuses on proactive planning, ensuring clients can avoid potential issues altogether. This involves meticulous planning for enhanced business continuity, allowing swift resolution of any unforeseen challenges. What initially began as addressing "fires" through break-fix solutions has evolved into a proactive approach, ensuring that such issues are prevented from arising in the first place.