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Happy New Year from 365 iT SOLUTIONS

Happy New Year from 365 iT SOLUTIONS

Together with our clients and partners, we look forward to seeing what 2023 will bring.

Thank you to all our employees, clients, and partners!

We appreciate all you have done to help us grow this year and look forward to 2023 with you.

Best wishes for the new year!

Happy New Year from 365 iT SOLUTIONS 1

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Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from 365 iT SOLUTIONS

365 iT SOLUTIONS would like to wish everyone peace and prosperity this holiday season!

The festive Christmas holiday season seems like the perfect time to extend our warmest thanks for being a part of our daily journey.

We greatly appreciate our clients ongoing support.

If you are looking to donate to a charity, we recommend CanadaHelps.

This give people the ability to donate to Canadian charities online.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and your family!

Merry Christmas from 365 iT SOLUTIONS 1

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Who is the Top Cloud Services Provider in Toronto

As companies are investing in new technology in Toronto, who is the top cloud services provider in Toronto has become a very important question for businesses.

Three top cloud providers for Canada include Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS, and Google Cloud. There are more options, however these three companies dominate the cloud services in Toronto.

Today’s economy is driven by knowledge. It is the way we share information that determines the extent of a company’s success. The emergence of cloud services during this shift has been the real game changer when it comes to sharing and exchanging information worldwide securely.

Cloud services in Toronto have revolutionized the way we store and share information. Organizations and Managed IT Services providers have been able to overcome the limitations of sharing through physical devices and a whole new dimension of the internet has been opened.

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What Is Cloud Services?

The cloud is a virtual space on the internet. It can be used to store digital resources such as software, applications, and files. Cloud services storage is essentially an internet-based virtual storage system.

Cloud services technology allows people to access digital resources stored in virtual space via networks, often satellite networks. In this way, information and applications can be shared without being restricted by a person’s physical location.

What Are the Advantages of Cloud Services?

We will cover five areas where cloud services in Toronto will offer a competitive advantage.

  1. Cloud Services Offers Better Storage Options

The capacity of a physical device does not limit cloud storage. There are no capacity limitations, unlike previous legacy storage solutions. A device can now have better and higher storage without worrying about upgrading hardware.

  1. Cloud Services Offers Better Scalability

As companies bandwidth requirements fluctuate, cloud services are a useful tool since it allows them to scale up when needed or scale down easily. Growing brands often attribute their success to cloud services scalability.

  1. Cloud Services Offers Better Collaboration for Remote Users

In today’s demanding economy, employees must be able to collaborate across multiple remote locations. Digital resources can be shared and accessed from anywhere in the world with cloud services securely. As a result, global teams can collaborate more effectively and securely.

  1. Cloud Services are Affordable

Many companies reduce their capital expenditures by using cloud services technology to eliminate the need for physical storage hardware. By appropriating these funds, new pathways to success can be paved through innovation and research.

When a small business is just getting started, purchasing software can be a costly endeavor. Instead, such companies can pay as they go for the cloud-based software. Rather than purchasing a service, it is more like leasing it.

  1. Cloud Services Disaster Recovery

The importance of disaster recovery protocols cannot be overstated for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses, however, lack the funds and expertise to do this. With the Cloud Services, smaller corporations can implement backup and recovery solutions efficiently and cost-effectively. Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) will be in depth and covered by cloud services and Outsourced IT Support Toronto.

365 iT SOLUTIONS can help you explore Toronto cloud services for your business or nonprofit. We will simplify your cloud services. Our IT Outsourcing Services, Managed Security Services, and IT Support Services are award winning in Toronto.

How Does Cloud Services Work?

Instead of using your own or company computer hard drive, cloud technology stores and accesses programs and data over the internet.

How Does Cloud Services Allow for File Sharing?

Virtualization is usually the primary enabler of cloud services. By separating physical computing devices into multiple virtual ones, virtualization software allows them to be proactively handled by a Managed IT Services Toronto provider and used separately as needed.

Using smart devices including laptops and smart phones, users can access a pool of cloud services computing resources that are usually shared such as applications, storage, and computers over the internet. An IT environment with shared resources is created by pooling various software and hardware components.

Many organizations use Toronto IT services to handle their Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring to ensure their cloud services are safe and protected from cyber criminals and hackers.

What Is Hybrid Cloud Services?            

Hybrid cloud services technology refers to combining a public cloud with a private cloud to facilitate easy application and data sharing. Hybrid cloud services technology enables businesses to gain more control over their private data.

By using an internet browser, users can access and store data in the cloud. The backend is the primary component of cloud services that stores data and information. Databases, central servers, and computers make up the system.

Data security threats, breaches, and data loss are minimized by cloud service providers in Toronto by maintaining multiple copies of data. This redundancy is the process of making multiple copies of data for backup purposes.

Many organizations turn to Managed IT Services Mississauga providers and their Tech Support Services.

Who is the Top Cloud Services Provider in Toronto 2

What Are Three Types of Cloud Services?

When working with a top cloud services provider, software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Platforms-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) are three types of cloud services. Internet-based cloud services host all information and services.

What is Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)?

Software as a service (SaaS) is a cloud-based software solution in which users are able to access applications through the internet.

What is Platforms-as-a-Service (PaaS)?

PaaS (Platform as a Service) is a cloud services model in which third parties deliver hardware and software tools to users.

What is Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)?

The concept of infrastructure as a service (IaaS) involves virtualizing computing resources over the Internet and providing them as a service.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  is one of the first CyberSecure Canada certified Managed IT Services in Toronto.

We offer an industry leading complimentary data breach scan for qualified companies in Toronto.

We can help your organization find the top cloud services provider in Toronto.

We Make IT Simple!

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Who Are the Top Managed IT Service Providers in Toronto

As many businesses are already working with managed IT services providers in Toronto, many wonder who are the top managed IT services providers in Toronto to help their business?

Startups and organizations are dependent on technology to improve efficiency and protect themselves from cyberattacks. There is no doubt that IT Support Services in Toronto have become increasingly important to small and medium-sized businesses.

It cannot be overstated how important IT solutions and Managed IT Services are to increasing the efficiency and productivity of an organization. It also helps businesses perform better against competitors as well as reach their business goals more easily.

Because of the costs involved in hiring an in-house IT department, small or medium business may not be able to afford such a service or extremely limited in the skill set for the salary they can afford. In most cases, IT services are provided either by a remote help desk or local Managed IT Services in Toronto.

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What is the difference between IT service providers and managed IT services?

While managing IT services, cyber security services, and other IT solutions services, the managed IT services provider sometimes referred to as Outsourced IT Support Toronto or Managed IT Services Mississauga, can help organizations increase productivity and efficiency while maintaining optimal cyber security for their computer systems.

The IT Outsourcing Services provided by IT support service companies in Toronto are generally responsible for the installation and maintenance of software and hardware. This includes building, testing, and repairing of IT infrastructures as well as provision of IT consulting services, Managed Security Services, Tech Support Services, Cloud Services, and managed IT services.

Who Are the Top Local Managed Service Providers in Toronto?

Here are 5 reasons why you should use a local IT services provider Toronto to find them:

An IT Outsourcing Toronto provider that is in the same city as the business is considered a local IT solutions provider or local managed IT services provider. There are many managed IT services in Toronto that are considered local IT providers for small and medium sized businesses.

It may be beneficial for a company to hire a local IT services provider for a variety of reasons, including the following:

  1. On-site support from managed IT services provider

This is one of the advantages of working with a local IT service provider or local managed IT services provider. While it is true that local IT solution providers can perform all the tasks that offshore IT departments can perform however there is no way that virtual IT service providers can perform all the tasks as well as local IT services providers can. Small and medium-sized businesses can take advantage of the presence of local IT professionals at the workplace if an incident requires the presence of a skilled IT professional.

Toronto IT providers can have local IT experts sent to your Toronto office to diagnose IT infrastructure problems and resolve them seamlessly within minutes as soon as possible. The situation in this case may require you to either have some IT knowledge or a member of your team to have some prior knowledge of IT before following professional instructions. Offshore IT support services may be insufficient in this case.

By using a managed IT services provider in Toronto, you will not have to deal with this stress, and you’ll resolve problems faster. This will allow you to concentrate on your business instead of worrying about IT services and cyber security. It will also provide your entire team the confidence and assurance you are in good hands.

  1. Managed IT services providers support the local economy

There are many benefits to hiring local IT providers or managed IT services providers for small and medium-sized businesses including the economy. To improve the economic viability of Toronto, it is imperative to partner with a managed IT services provider in Toronto, which includes cyber security and managed IT services. It is important to note that this law has an impact on all spheres of economics.

  1. Managed IT services is personalized per business

A local IT services provider or managed IT services provider can provide a level of personal service and customer care that cannot be matched by a company that provides IT services remotely. There is a common misconception that businesses are receiving generic IT solutions from offshore IT service providers and one-size-fits-all IT solutions.

The important thing to note is that local providers will diagnose your business to determine its technological needs.  IT will provide you with IT services that are tailored to meet those needs and your business goals. The advantage of doing this is that you can be sure that all your IT needs are addressed proactively, as well as addressing possible challenges like outdated technology or inadequate hardware setup that can be easily identified and addressed before they become a problem.

This also can include Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring, Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR).

  1. The local managed IT services provider understands the local economy

Compared to IT service providers or managed IT services providers that not local cannot offer the same service at the are not aware of the local challenges that your company faces, the economic situation, business procedures, and other essential factors that affect your community at large.

This unique local knowledge can provide satisfactory services and handle everything with the right attitude. It is also advantageous for a company to be able to rely on a local IT service provider or managed IT services provider if its IT infrastructure suffers from a disaster.

  1. Local managed IT services provider in Toronto can offer onsite training

The use of online learning and virtual training is on the rise, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. It forced schools and companies to look for online solutions to survive. Virtual lessons using Microsoft Teams or other online learning aids are more effective than hands-on training in person. Many companies found working with a local managed IT services provider more effective.

Who Are the Top Managed IT Service Providers in Toronto 2

Who Are the Top Managed IT Service Providers in Toronto

365 iT SOLUTIONS is a Toronto managed IT services provider that is CyberSecure Canada certified and award-winning managed IT services provider in Toronto.

We are one of the top managed IT services providers in Toronto.

We Make IT Simple!

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Why Two-Factor Authentication is Better Than Single-Factor Authentication

As companies plan their cyber security with managed IT services providers in Toronto, many wonder why two-factor authentication is better than single-factor authentication at protecting their business.

A key aspect of network security is the verification of user authentication activity. Government agencies, small and medium-sized businesses, and big organizations must hold it in high regard. Having a solid user authentication system protects your business and network infrastructure (database, records, software and hardware, computers, etc.) from potential threats.

To prevent unauthorized network access, it’s usually imperative to implement authentication systems. One of the most popular authentication methods has been Single-Factor Authentication (SFA). As a result of technological advancement, which has both positive and negative effects, it has become more vulnerable. Thus, we examine SFA loopholes as well as other alternatives you can consider.

We will cover in this article why two-factor authentication is better than single-factor authentication at protecting their business as a Managed IT Services in Toronto.

Why Two-Factor Authentication is Better Than Single-Factor Authentication 3

How does Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) work?

Security methods such as Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) are typically used to control and secure network access. Using one category of credentials for verification, the method identifies and ensures that the party seeking access is authorized to do so.

In Single-Factor Authentication (SFA), passwords are the most common authentication method. In this method, users are required to enter the right username and password to gain access. In this method, the user or network administrator needs to be diligent in creating a strong password and ensuring it remains secure and unknown to unauthorized parties.

According to CISA (Cyber-security & Infrastructure Security Agency), Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) is a vulnerable authentication method. The Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) system has been vulnerable to phishing, social engineering, network sniffing, and keylogging techniques.

Businesses that use it as the main network security method are vulnerable to network compromises and other security threats. I will provide more information about Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) risks in this article, but first let’s examine the alternatives. A Managed IT Services can help select the proper security.

Why Two-Factor Authentication is Better Than Single-Factor Authentication 2

How does Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) work?

In some cases, this authentication method is called two-step verification or dual-factor authentication. To perform a proper identification or verification process, a user or system administrator must provide two distinct authentication factors.

Cyber security professionals are rapidly replacing Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) with this much-improved method. By restricting access to your business network, data, and other essential resources, two-factor authentication (2FA) increases security. SFA requires only a username and password (the only factor), whereas 2FA requires a second (different) factor, such as a code (security token), fingerprint, or facial scan (biometric factors).

By making it difficult for unauthorized personnel to access the system or network, the method adds another layer of security to the verification process. As a result, a compromised password does not leave the system vulnerable since the attacker must still scale through a second factor to identify and verify themselves. Using Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring would be beneficial to help your employees.

Why Two-Factor Authentication is Better Than Single-Factor Authentication 1

How does multi-factor authentication (MFA) work?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a type of two-factor authentication (2FA). Before accessing a system or network, users must provide more than one authentication factor. In addition to Single-Factor Authentication (SFA), multi-factor authentication encompasses other authentication methods.

MFA is now used by most businesses, especially for sensitive information and highly valuable data. Most password decryption methods, such as phishing, social engineering, and malware fraud, are rendered ineffective by the method’s complex security layers. Even though Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is not a permanent solution to these attacks, it helps mitigate them and makes it harder for unauthorized users to access the network.

How does single-factor authentication (SFA) affect security?

Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) still exposes businesses to certain risks, which can cause valuable data to be lost, compromised, or inaccessible. Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) can be used for financial accounts, company networks, databases, and computer systems.

Therefore two-factor authentication is better than single-factor authentication at protecting their business.

Is single-factor authentication (SFA) prone to cyberattacks?

With Single-Factor Authentication (SFA), attackers will have an easier time gaining unauthorized access and breaching data. Data breaches are continuously causing businesses to lose money. Your business could lose millions if you use the SFA method for your network security.

Using phishing and other methods, Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) can be easily compromised using a single factor (password or pin code). Data breaches caused by compromised or stolen credentials accounted for 19 percent of breaches in IBM‘s cost of data breach report 2022, while phishing caused 16 percent. The ease with which attackers can bypass SFA puts your business at risk of these attacks.

If you forget or misplace the required factor without any means of recovering it, Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) could result in permanent loss of access.

The Multiple Factor Authentication (MFA) process provides an alternative method of gaining access to a system or network if the single factor authentication method is not possible. Using MFA over Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) is another way to protect yourself.

Do you need assistance with multi-factor authentication?

It is crucial for businesses to move beyond Single-Factor Authentication (SFA) and move towards Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to avoid easy attacks and data breaches that could cost them millions.

Your business’s network security should not be compromised by not integrating a Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solution. Now that you know why two-factor authentication is better than single-factor authentication at protecting their business, let a managed IT services provider in Toronto help using an award-winning IT Support Services and IT Outsourcing Services with real world experience.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  is a CyberSecure Canada certified and offers many other services including Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR)Managed Security ServicesTech Support Services, and Cloud Services.

We Make IT Simple!

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Cybersecurity Is Failing and Hackers Are Winning

Ask any cyber security professional or managed IT services provider and they will all tell you that cybersecurity is failing and hackers are winning their attacks against businesses.

There has been a massive exponential growth in the cybersecurity industry over the last 20 years since the turn of the century. It has been predicted that the value of cybersecurity will nearly double again soon, according to well-known cybersecurity experts and cyber security companies. There is no question that technology, IT infrastructure, and cloud services are less secure than they have ever been resulting in a higher rate of cyberattacks from hackers and cyber criminals.

The number of hacks that occur on a regular basis has gone up alarmingly in the last few years based on managed IT services providers.  This ranges in size and scope from ransomware attacks carried out by novice cybercriminals to sophisticated cyber security breaches perpetrated by state-sponsored hackers in China, Russia, and the United States.

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There is a growing number of cyber security professionals who believe that despite the rapid increase in dollars spent on cybersecurity, it is more difficult than ever for them to determine whether it is even possible to stop all cyber attackers.

There are several other companies that publish reports identifying new hacking groups, including Kaspersky, Trend Micro, Palo Alto, Fidelis, and CrowdStrike. These all show that cybersecurity is failing, and hackers are winning. Despite this, the reports are rarely attributed to a specific country or group, mainly because modern technology makes it almost impossible to identify who is behind most cyberattacks according to cybersecurity professionals.

Many business leaders believe that cybersecurity is failing, and hackers are winning, which is a clear sign of the industry’s importance. In order to hold a successful cyber security conference, cybersecurity companies need to hire former army generals, just as defense companies need former army generals as well as look into Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring.

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Many cybersecurity products and advice are available through managed IT services Toronto, but businesses do not know what to buy because there are so many options. There is a boom in cybersecurity companies now, and the industry is experiencing a lot of growth. Symantec, Kaspersky, McAfee, and Trend Micro, some of the biggest cybersecurity companies, had to admit last year that some of the products they sold to their own customers contained vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. Another example is that cybersecurity is failing, and hackers are winning. Good news is managed IT services in Toronto are proactively managing cyber security.

In North America, over 50 percent of the population does not use the internet due to security and privacy concerns.

In the opinion of a large cybersecurity company and 365 iT SOLUTIONS, internet users face several problems that go unaddressed. As a result, there are several top minds in the cybersecurity field who work for the government on programs that identify vulnerabilities in systems, which are then exploited by intelligence agencies to gather information from them. It is the zero-day vulnerabilities that are the most valuable. They allow a hacker or cybercriminal to gain access to any system then can penetrate.

As far as hacker and cyber criminals are concerned, there is no doubt that they are winning the battle against IT departments. The good guys such as Managed IT Services Toronto, IT Outsourcing Services, and IT departments are in the dark for a number of reasons, whether it is because the government is keeping what it knows to itself, or the companies are hoarding what they know. Knowledge sharing is an issue in cyber security industry. There are a lot of hackers and cybercriminals who trade ransomware on the dark net as well as tips. This resulted from cybersecurity is failing and hackers are winning resulting in an ongoing battle for Managed Security Services and Tech Support Services,

It is estimated that in just a few years from now, the millions made through ransomware will be funneled back into criminal organizations looking for ever more sophisticated ways to hack into computers. Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR)IT Support Services, and Cloud Services are crucial to protecting any organization.

365 iT SOLUTIONS is a CyberSecure Canada certified award-winning managed IT services provider in Toronto and offer qualified companies a complimentary data breach scan that will scan the darkweb for your compromised credentials by hackers and cybercriminals.

As a boutique Toronto IT consulting firm, We Make IT Simple!

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Data Protection and Data Privacy is Good Business

Business reputation comes with responsibility because data protection and data privacy is good for business and vital to business growth.

Data protection and data privacy are causing significant delays for up to 65 percent of businesses worldwide based on the report from Cisco Privacy Maturity Benchmark Study.

Based on Cisco Privacy Maturity Benchmark Study comparison to 39 percent of privacy-mature organizations, 74 percent of privacy-immature organizations lost more than $500,000.

Data privacy maturity and data privacy effects on business were assessed by nearly 3000 global IT security professionals, IT Outsourcing Services, and Tech Support Services across 25 countries. Data privacy delays organizations by 7.8 weeks according to 77 percent of respondents.

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Customers are increasingly concerned about the level of privacy protection provided by the products and services they purchase. Managed IT services and Managed Security Services providers understand data protection and data privacy is good business.

The survey asked respondents to rate their current privacy maturity level which is defined in five levels:

  1. Ad hoc privacy maturity level
  2. Repeatable privacy maturity level
  3. Defined privacy maturity level
  4. Managed privacy maturity level
  5. Optimized privacy maturity level

Based on the Cisco Privacy Maturity Benchmark study:

Companies with lower privacy maturity levels experienced an average delay of 16.8 weeks, while businesses with higher privacy maturity levels experienced a decrease.

Businesses with optimized privacy processes reported 3.4 weeks of delays compared with ad hoc organizations.

Geographical and industry factors seem to affect delay length.

Considering these widespread and significant delays, every company should assess its own situation to determine where customer privacy concerns may cause delays. Depending on their potential revenue effects, companies should assess the return on investment of privacy process improvements, as well as the benefits of implementing such measures on sales. This is an excellent conversation with your managed IT services provider as they understand data protection and data privacy is good business especially using Cloud Services.

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Despite growing organizational awareness, online hackers and cyber criminals continue to compromise sensitive financial and personal information. Unusual behavior may appear normal at first, making it harder to detect. There are many industry regulations to give greater control over your data. data protection and data privacy is good business hence why you need employee Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring including training as it is crucial.

Estimate revenue lost due to data protection and data privacy.

Customer service issues, inaccessible corporate policies, and IT infrastructure design issues can all cause problems. An organization must understand the cause of the problem before determining a solution. Working with your IT department, IT Support Services, or  Managed IT Services provider can help build a plan.

More mature privacy processes could have prevented data breaches.

Policy and protocol development should take place if there is no such plan already in place.

Data Protection and Data Privacy is Good Business 1

Human behavior must be understood in addition to technical knowledge. Work with sensitive data every day, access company information on the go, and carry everything with them. Proactive employee cybersecurity awareness and practices must go beyond IT departments.

Organizations should not overlook the importance of investing in new technologies such as analytics or artificial intelligence. Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR) plus combining these tools with comprehensive training programs is the best way to protect organizations and customers. To drive this dual approach, we need trusted partners with deep cyber security expertise and executional skills.

365 iT SOLUTIONS is a boutique CyberSecure Canada certified award-winning managed IT services provider and Toronto IT consulting provider.

Does the darkweb have your compromised credentials, our complimentary data breach scan will check if compromised by hackers and cybercriminals.

We Make IT Simple!

 

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Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked

In a recent study from several cyber security professionals, most businesses that think they are secure get hacked by cyber criminals.

Approximately 75 percent of businesses have been attacked with cyber-attacks however they claim to be secure. Even though half of the organizations have experienced a cyber-attack in the past, three quarters of them feel that they are secure from cyber-attacks. A new study conducted by Juniper Research has examined the practices of cyber-security firms around the world.

Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked - Outsourced IT Support Toronto

Most organizations resulting in 86 percent believe that they are doing enough to mitigate cyber-attacks, which, according to 33 percent of respondents, is solely the responsibility of their managed IT services providers and IT departments when it comes to protecting their networks.

In addition, the report suggests that the real problem is not the managed IT services providers and IT departments, but rather a lack of overall organization, cyber security training and dark web monitoring planning and execution on the part of the organization.

There are more than three quarters of organizations that have a board of directors that participate in cyber-security preparedness assessments. In most companies, there is only one security executive per quarter. There are fewer than half of organizations with secure practices guidelines, but almost nine out of ten of them have continuity plans resulting in 87 percent.

In North American businesses, managed security services and cyber security is not lacking, but it is inconsistently applied, and it is not reinforced, which is one of the biggest problems faced by managed IT services providers and IT departments.

Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked - Managed IT Support Toronto

Most people resulting in 90 percent believe that they are safe from digital threats, but a small number of 56 percent believe that they need a plan in case their data is compromised. This is something addressed by IT Support Services.

Every business owner, regardless of the size of their business, is concerned about cyber security, since an attack can cost millions of dollars in lost data, reputation, time, and customer loyalty.

Our study shows that businesses believe they are far more secure than they are, based on their perception of the situation. The fact is that it is impossible for a business to be 100 percent safe nowadays, but there are several steps that can be taken to ensure that a business is as safe as possible and that it can recover as quickly as possible if a cyberattack occurs.

Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked - Managed IT Services Toronto

People are concerned about the information they hold that could be hacked the most

There is a growing concern among businesses over their credit cards and bank statements being compromised, with 78 percent citing this as their top concern. This means that people are most concerned about their credit cards and bank statements being compromised. There is even a higher number of people concerned about their credit cards and bank accounts being hacked, where 85 percent of the residents fear this will happen to them.

Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked - Managed IT Support Toronto

Most businesses that think they are secure get hacked, so what is the risk of being hacked?

As a result of the cyber security study including tech support services, which surveyed more than 2,400 people and it was found that consumers are also very concerned about their financial investment information falling into the hands of hackers and cybercriminals, according to the study. People are worried about this issue to the tune of 56 percent.

There are 46 percent of respondents in the US who are worried that this information will be hacked. Europe is the country with the highest concern about cyber security of this information, with 48 percent of Europeans reporting that they are concerned about the security of this information.

An international survey found that 44 percent of US consumers, 41 percent of UK consumers, and 43 percent of German consumers are concerned about the possibility of their family information falling into the hands of hackers and cybercriminals.

Among the hacks consumers are least concerned about are those that pertain to their criminal histories, web browsing histories, and dating profiles. There is a good chance that most people will not find this information embarrassing since there is a significant percentage of people who do not find it embarrassing.

Additionally, the study found that even when consumers’ personal information has been compromised, they might not always be notified directly if the data has been compromised. In each country, approximately half of the respondents who were victims of a hack said that they learned about the hack from the news that they had been hacked. Due to social media, young adults are more likely to hear about hacks like these as they use it as a source of information.

Most Businesses That Think They Are Secure Get Hacked - IT Outsourcing Toronto

Do most businesses that think they are secure get hacked and results in security breaches?

The survey found that consumers do not take adequate measures to protect their personal information, despite the increasing media spotlight on high profile hacks resulting from breaches of personal information. There is a quarter of people who change their passwords at least once a month. It has been reported that one quarter of people and 33 percent of consumers change their passwords once a year, less or never at all.

There is no doubt that the vulnerability of consumers to attacks is increasing, which is a striking trend. There is a study which suggests that more than half of people do the majority or all their banking online. Another 33 percent do most or all their shopping online as well.

Enhancing your cyber security by taking the following steps:

There is a great deal of enthusiasm among consumers to improve their online habits, which is a good thing. People who have had their personal information hacked in the past and those who shop online regularly are more likely to change their passwords than those who do not change their passwords often.

A further result of the survey was that respondents reported that completing security tasks would make them feel safer. Approximately 52 percent are more willing to spend at least 10 minutes on cyber security measures.

Especially when using Cloud Services, most respondents indicated that they would be comfortable using fingerprint ID as one of the top two security measures they would feel comfortable using. You will then be required to enter a four-digit password, an alphanumeric password, as well as a voice ID. A study carried out by the IT outsourcing services found that graphic passwords, GPS locators, and remote data erasure were much less comfortable for users.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  is an award-winning managed IT services Toronto provider and CyberSecure Canada certified.

Try our complimentary data breach scan of the darkweb resulting in compromised by hackers and cybercriminals.

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365 iT SOLUTIONS Interviewed by CBC on Employee Tracking Software

In Cross Country Checkup with Ian Hanomansing, 365 iT SOLUTIONS was interviewed on the use of employee tracking software used by employers.

Due to the pandemic, more businesses are offering hybrid work options to employees as there are questions about employee productivity from management and business owners.

Some organizations are turning toward employee tracking software for multiple reasons including the remote monitoring of remote employees work or something more positive such as controlling workflows and employee resource management.

According to December 2021 survey from Ipsos, 89 percent of people in Ontario believe the workplace has changed permanently due to COVID-19 pandemic resulting in the Ontario government needing to update its employment regulations.

The question in the show was, what are your privacy rights while working remotely?

For the full story from CBC Cross Country Checkup with Ian Hanomansing including podcast, please visit Should your boss track you online?

365 iT SOLUTIONS Interviewed by CBC on Employee Tracking Software 3

There is many employee tracking software on the market for companies to choose from however many have available options that may cross the line of privacy and confidentiality.

What is employee tracking software or employee monitoring software?

Employee tracking software or employee monitoring software includes any electronic monitoring a company can do on its employees including email, scanners, printing, GPS, and website visits to included a few.

What is the best software for monitoring employees?

365 iT SOLUTIONS only recommends ActivTrak as it is an award-winning workforce analytics software designed for the modern workplace including remote users.   The software empowers business owners and management to help employees maintain healthy work habits while optimizing business processes.

365 iT SOLUTIONS Interviewed by CBC on Employee Tracking Software 2

How do you monitor employee activity?

ActivTrak keeps the lines of monitoring extremely clear for the employer and employee. It is very important to share this information with your employees as ActivTrak does not monitor keystroke logging, email monitoring, web camera access, personal device monitoring, and video recording.

Is employee monitoring software legal?

Employee monitoring software is legal in Ontario however employers with 25 or more employees since January 1st, 2022, need to prepare a written electronic monitoring policy by October 11th, 2022, for their employees.  According to the new law, employers must enforce the policy to employees within 30 days.

If an organizations employee count remains below 25 as of January 1st, 2023, they may remove the policy on March 1st, 2023.

365 iT SOLUTIONS Interviewed by CBC on Employee Tracking Software 1

What should a written electronic monitoring policy include?

According to Ontario legal experts and HR consultants, an organizations electronic monitoring policy should include:

  • Is an employer monitoring company owned electronic devices?
  • If so, what is being monitored by the company?
  • Is the company monitoring any personal devices used for business use?
  • Is so, what is being monitored by the company?
  • Organizations must provide details of how they are being monitored.
  • Organizations must provide details of what circumstances employees are being monitored.
  • Organizations must provide details on how the information through electronic monitoring may be used.

How do I tell employees about employee tracking software?

Employee tracking software is a great tool that can be used to bring your business to the next level however it is highly recommended that you offer your employee transparency, so it is not considered micromanagement.

The goal of employee monitoring software is to build open communication and trust.

365 iT SOLUTIONS Interviewed by CBC on Employee Tracking Software 2

Here are some key points on how to address employee monitoring software to your employees:

  • Transparency – Be Open and transparent about your intent with the employee tracking software.
  • Communication – Communicate about implementation and insights. Also accept employee feedback.
  • Ownership – Include your employees in the findings and solutions to find performance improvements.
  • Culture – The top three points build a success company culture for transparency and improvement.

Always reinforce these four key points for employee monitoring software.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  is an award-winning Toronto managed IT services provider and CyberSecure Canada certified.

We are a boutique Toronto IT consulting firm specializes in award winning Managed IT Services, Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring, Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR)IT Support Services IT Outsourcing Services, Managed Security ServicesTech Support Services,  and Cloud Services.

We Make IT Simple!

 

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Ransomware Victims and How to Respond

In this article we will cover ransomware victims and how to respond based on managed IT services providers.

Approximately half of organizations are victims of ransomware attacks more than once, according to a study of over 830 IT professionals worldwide.

  • 80 percent believe cyberattacks are on the rise
  • 40 percent report more than one cyberattacks.
  • 60 percent of unsolicited emails cause initial infection
  • 7 percent of unsolicited emails affect cloud applications.
  • In 70% of cases, multiple devices are infected, emphasizing the importance of speed-to-detection.
  • Detecting such threats takes an average of two hours for 40% of IT departments.
  • The 82% of respondents who have recovered data from backups is encouraging.

Multi-layered cyber security defense is essential to protecting your system from ransomware. Detection and monitoring of cyber threats must be automated. This affects ransomware victims and how to respond.

Data protection protects the bottom line. There’s no surprise that backups are being used to recover from ransomware attacks. Preventative planning can greatly reduce the risk of data recovery, not to mention the impact on business. This should be discussed with your managed IT services provider and IT department.

Ransomware Victims and How to Respond 3

What response should you have to ransomware?

Ransomware attacks have increased, and half of businesses have been attacked by ransomware in the past year, according to a recent cyber security study. Organizations must decide whether to pay when suffering a ransomware attack if their managed IT services provider or IT department cannot recover from backups.

What are the demands of ransom viruses?

Cybercrime-as-a-service offerings and world-class customer support make ransomware a business, restoring victims’ files quickly once the ransom is paid. It’s a service business based on bad principles, which would be celebrated as an accomplishment despite its annual revenue approaching $1 billion. The ransomware business involves affiliates redirecting exploit kits for a cut from hacker or cyber criminals.

Cyberattacks must be planned before they occur, detected, and stopped during them, and recovered from afterward.

Here are five steps to combat ransomware. This affects ransomware victims and how to respond.

Ransomware Victims and How to Respond 2

Step one. Modernize Cyber Security Defenses

While signature-based anti-virus solutions are good, they cannot prevent sophisticated ransomware attacks. They are considered a reactive approach to cyber security protection compared to next generation antivirus with building artificial intelligence. In addition, next generation firewalls with active firewall security services differ greatly from traditional firewalls. By gaining comprehensive visibility and access to extensive details on how the malware entered the organization’s environment in the first place, organizations can prepare for the possibility of a cyberattack.

Next-generation anti-malware and firewall solutions are essential in a managed IT services provider or IT departments arsenals of tools to stop ransomware attacks from hackers or cybercriminals.

Step two. Structure Your IT infrastructure

Point solutions can sometimes be effective, but not when it comes to ransomware. Ransomware and other pervasive cyberattacks require an organization’s cloud and mobile strategies.

Detection and response solutions that rely on human intervention are not only ineffective but also unaffordable due to today’s automated threats. An architecture that is secure must be automated and orchestrated.

Step three. Proactively Avoid Malware

A hacker or cybercriminal will use malware to spread like a fast-moving cold among airplane passengers if it enters the network. Organizations need to get their managed IT services provider or IT department to compartmentalize data and make malware spread harder. Your organization should use network segmentation strategies as they are crucial to cover ransomware victims and how to respond.

Ransomware Victims and How to Respond 1

Step Four. Have a Data Recovery Plan

It is unfortunate that no organization is completely immune to a cyberattack, data breach, or ransomware. When an organization is breached, it is crucial to examine how it will recover. Make sure you are backing up your data first. You must also ensure you have isolated on premises local backups and cloud backups.

Backups are only useful if you can restore them when you need them. Your managed IT services provider or IT department needs to test your backups repeatedly. In addition, file-based recovery might not be enough, so restore the whole system to ensure everything is covered.

Here are some questions to ask yourself about a ransomware attack:

  1. Can you recover from an uncorrupted source immediately if your organization is hit by ransomware?
  2. What are your potential losses or downtime?
  3. What are is the cost of various solutions to protect your organization?

There is no one size fits all solution and different data has different value to hackers, cybercriminals, and your organization.

Step Five. Decide If You Are Going to Pay the Ransom.

Finally, the big question: Should you pay the ransom from the hackers or cybercriminals?

Many organizations have a very hard time addressing this question.  This can include the types of data based on your vertical market like healthcare. Whether it is critical patient-care data that hackers hold hostage or hefty fines imposed when protected patient health information (PHI) is breached because healthcare organizations are prime targets for ransomware attacks. You need to look at the entire picture.

If you do not pay the ransom, any organization should examine its damages.

  1. Can you restore your data from a backup that is undamaged?
  2. Is the business financially and functionally able to function?
  3. Is there a short-term solution to restore rather than pay?

At the end of the day, the decision comes down to how business-critical the compromised data is to the organization. If you do decide to pay, be prepared to negotiate. Generally, you can negotiate the price down, so it may make sense not to pay the first offer.

365 iT SOLUTIONS  is Toronto’s award-winning managed IT services provider that is on of the first CyberSecure Canada certified organizations.

Our complimentary data breach scan will scan the darkweb to see if your company has been compromised by hackers.

We are a boutique Toronto IT consulting firm specializes in award winning Managed IT Services, Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR)IT Support Services, IT Outsourcing Services, Managed Security ServicesTech Support Services,  Cyber Security Training and Dark Web Monitoring, and Cloud Services.

We Make IT Simple!