Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. While large corporations often dominate the news when it comes to data breaches, SMEs face equally significant risks—often more so, due to limited resources and expertise. A single cyber-attack can lead to severe consequences, including data loss, financial damage, and a tarnished reputation that can take years to recover from.
This is why partnering with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) is a smart solution for SMEs. An MSP offers access to advanced cybersecurity expertise, proactive monitoring, and state-of-the-art technology without the need for an expensive, in-house IT team. From defending against malware and phishing attacks to ensuring compliance with industry regulations, MSPs deliver tailored security solutions that protect your business from the ever-evolving threat landscape.
Here’s how partnering with Conformedia as your MSP can fortify your business against cyber-attacks:
Comprehensive Cybersecurity Management and Monitoring
MSPs like Conformedia provide complete management and real-time monitoring of your cybersecurity systems. This includes ensuring that your business is always protected by the latest security patches and threat updates. Regular scans, combined with continuous monitoring, allow us to detect and neutralise threats before they cause harm.
Proactive Cybersecurity Strategy
Working with an MSP means having a team of cybersecurity experts who ensure your defences are always up to date and optimised for maximum effectiveness. This proactive approach not only strengthens your overall security but also frees up your internal IT teams to focus on strategic projects rather than routine security tasks.
Key Benefits:
Active threat and vulnerability monitoring
Real-time protection and incident response
Regular security scans and audits
Continuous client and service monitoring
Automatic security updates and patch management
Conformedia’s proactive IT management enhances your cybersecurity posture, streamlines operations, and ensures your business stays protected.
Reach out to Richard Twigger today to learn how we can safeguard your business against cyber threats and meet your security needs. T: 0113 234 1548
Updated: Oct 28, 2024
We have recently a step up in the sophistication of phishing attacks, aimed at harvesting M365 login credentials.
The video was recorded following a phishing attempt. The user was sent a link, which they clicked and were then presented with the M365 sign-in page. It looked genuine to the user, and it even validates MFA by sending a code to the user's phone.
The attacker is using a man-in-the-middle attack, where the user is tricked into entering their email address and password. This is then harvested, and the attacker uses the credentials to sign into M365 in the background. This stimulates the sending of the MFA code, which the user then believes is the legitimate request from their login attempt. They enter the MFA code, again used by the attacker in the background. This results in the attacker having full access to the users' M365 account to do as they wish.
There are several giveaways in the presentation, but ultimately the obvious giveaway is the URL in the browser address bar. This should point to login.microsoftonline .com and show the secure padlock.
This is a worrying but not unexpected escalation in phishing attacks, which are now designed to circumvent MFA.
There are several options available for user phishing training, such as Sophos Phish Threat and M365 Defender Plan 2. But ultimately, these attacks attempt to exploit users’ complacency. As long as they remain vigilant, they need never succeed.
Updated: Oct 11, 2024
How to Secure Your Email: Essential Tips for Protecting Your Inbox
Email is a crucial part of daily life, whether for work, personal communication, or shopping. Unfortunately, it’s also a common target for cybercriminals who use phishing, malware, and hacking techniques to exploit vulnerabilities. Securing your email account is more important than ever, as a breach can lead to compromised sensitive data, identity theft, and financial loss.
Here’s a guide to securing your email and protecting yourself from cyber threats.
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Your password is the first line of defence against unauthorised access.
Avoid common passwords like “123456” or “password.”
Use a mix of characters, include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Make it long and unique. Aim for at least 12 characters and avoid reusing passwords across multiple sites.
Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of identification, usually your password and a one-time code sent to your phone or email.
Set up 2FA on your email account by going to the security settings.
Choose an authentication method like a mobile app (e.g., Google Authenticator) or SMS.
Even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to access your account without the second verification step.
3. Beware of Phishing Attacks
Phishing is one of the most common ways hackers gain access to email accounts. Be cautious:
Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments in unsolicited emails.
Check the sender’s email address closely,phishers often mimic legitimate companies.
Look for spelling and grammar mistakes, which are common in phishing emails.
Verify any urgent requests for personal information by contacting the sender directly.
4. Keep Your Devices and Software Up to Date
Outdated software can be a gateway for hackers. To stay protected:
Regularly update your operating system, browser, and email apps to patch any security vulnerabilities.
Enable automatic updates where possible, so you don’t have to remember to do it manually.
5. Use Encrypted Email Services
Encryption helps keep your emails secure in transit, preventing them from being intercepted and read by attackers.
Choose an email provider that offers encryption. Gmail, Outlook, and others support SSL/TLS encryption for securing your messages during transmission.
Consider using end-to-end encryption for sensitive communications.
6. Secure Your Wi-Fi and Devices
Public Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to attacks, so it’s crucial to secure your connection:
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sending or receiving sensitive emails. Use your mobile network or a Virtual Private Network (VPN) instead.
Secure your home Wi-Fi with a strong password and encryption (WPA3 or WPA2 at a minimum).
Lock your devices with a PIN, password, or biometric authentication to prevent unauthorised access.
7. Regularly Monitor Account Activity
Keep an eye on your email account for any signs of suspicious activity:
Check login activity in your email’s security settings to see if there are any unfamiliar devices or IP addresses.
Set up account alerts to notify you of any unusual sign-ins or security changes.
Act immediately if you notice anything suspicious. Change your password and review your account for any unauthorised activity.
8. Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps and Services
Sometimes, third-party apps or services request access to your email account. While this can be convenient, it’s also a risk:
Review the permissions you give to third-party apps. Only grant access to trusted services.
Regularly audit these apps by going into your email settings and removing access for any apps you no longer use.
9. Backup Your Email Regularly
Accidents and hacks happen. Having a backup ensures you don’t lose your important emails:
Set up regular backups of your email account to a secure location, such as an encrypted external hard drive or cloud storage.
Automate the backup process if possible, so you always have an up-to-date copy of your emails.
10. Stay Informed About the Latest Threats
Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Stay ahead by educating yourself:
Subscribe to security newsletters from trusted sources like cybersecurity blogs or Conformedia's emailer for security and other IT updates.
Take online courses or tutorials on internet safety and best practices.
Conclusion
Email security isn’t something you should take lightly. By following these essential steps, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, being vigilant against phishing, and keeping your software updated, you can significantly reduce the risk of your account being compromised. Remember, a few proactive measures can go a long way in protecting your personal and professional communications.
We can help ensure your email is secure. Get in touch with Richard for a chat:
