cyber security

Cyber Security is at the core of everything that we do at The Unite Group.

Protecting and securing your data is a priority, and we have a number of solutions for this when outsourcing your IT with The Unite Group.

We understand that not everyone can be an expert in cyber security, so we have put together our top tips on how to keep your data secure.

  1. Keep your software up to date.

Outdated software and applications are easier to hack into, one way to avoid this is by turning on automatic updates on your devices and desktop web browser. It is also essential that you update your plug ins too! Many harmful malware attacks take advantage of software vulnerabilities, often in common applications such as operating systems and browsers. View software updates as an essential to protect the cyber security of your business.

  • Make use of anti-virus protection and firewall.

Anti-virus protection is a great solution to prevent malicious attacks, the protection blocks malware and other malicious viruses from entering your device. The software acts as a cyber security mechanism by scanning, spotting, and inhibiting potential viruses from entering the system. Whereas a firewall filters the traffic that is directed to your website and filters out hackers and viruses. A firewall acts as a barrier protecting your system from potential threats.

  • Use strong passwords.

Having a strong password prevents hackers and scammers from accessing your accounts and confidential information. It is suggested to have a password between 8 and 64 characters which includes uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Make sure your password is easy to remember, but don’t leave any hints online. It is recommended that your password is changed at least once a year.

  • Use two factor or multi-factor authentication.

Two-factor or multi-factor authentication adds layers of cyber security to the standard password. Two-factor authentication requires you to enter an additional passcode to identify the user. Whereas multi-factor requires you to enter two additional methods of authentication. A hacker may be able to access your password, but by having additional methods this prevents them from accessing your confidential information.

  • Be aware of scams.

Do not open emails from someone that you don’t know, don’t click on any suspicious links. Always be weary of where emails have come from and check for any errors in emails that you receive. If you receive an email or text asking for confidential information, do not respond and delete the email and text.

  • Protect sensitive personal identifiable information (PII).

Any information such as your mobile number, email address and location details should be kept private or only shared with those that you trust on social media. You can make your social media accounts private so that only your family and friends see your private information.

  • Back-up your data regularly.

This is often overlooked due to time constraints; however, IT managers recommend keeping three copies of your data, on two different types of media and one copy in the cloud.

Cyber security is a priority in the workplace because your working day relies on your data being secure and protected through the likes of antivirus software and data replication. Here at The Unite Group, we aim to ensure that your data is protected. Our engineers undergo regular cyber security training to make sure they are equipped to tackle and prevent any cyber security issues that may arise.

If you are interested in outsourcing your Managed IT Services to The Unite Group, then give us a call today on 0191 466 1050 or email us on info@theunitegroup.co.uk.