The California Cybersecurity Integration Center (Cal-CSIC) has developed a statewide strategy to reduce the likelihood of cyber incidents that could negatively affect our economy. Unfortunately, most organizations set up their IT infrastructure based on business and operational needs rather than security considerations. Teleworking requires additional network security and user considerations. Thankfully, the Cal-CSIC has issued a teleworking advisory guide for those who are working from home due to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Some of their tips include:
- Stay aware of Phishing Scams
- Phishing websites, emails, and links are all designed to mimic trusted companies to trick you into disclosing your login, social security number, or credit card information. The latest scheme that has been prominent during the Coronavirus (Covid- 19) pandemic are scams relating to reporting sites, health care advisories and public emergency measures. Be cautious and always validate the credibility of any phone call, website, and email during this crisis.
- Protect your Personal Computer
- The California Cyber Security Integration Center has recommended some of the following actions users can take to increase the level of protection from malicious activity or harm.
- Maintain regular system and software updates.
- Ensure the automatic system update feature for your specific operating system is turned on.
- Don’t use the same password for all of your accounts.
- Validate you are running anti-malware/anti-virus and update your virus definitions directly from the manufacturers website.
- Enable domain name filtering to protect against phishing and malicious websites with OpenDNS.
- The California Cyber Security Integration Center has recommended some of the following actions users can take to increase the level of protection from malicious activity or harm.
- Utilize Productivity Tools
- Unified communications tools, such as Accession Communicator, allow you to securely access all of your business assets and communicate with teams remotely during the pandemic. You and your teams should make use of these applications to maintain business continuity.
If all of this sounds like a lot to handle, you might want to consider a third-party IT provider to meet your business needs during the pandemic. A Managed IT Service provider will help manage the security of your business and monitor IT workstations and infrastructure. All of your computers, servers, and software will be managed at a fixed price. Features include anti-virus management, site assessment, and regular network supervision. For more information on our Managed IT Services at Utility Telecom visit us here to request a free quote, https://www.uyt.co/managed-it-services-msp/.
The California Cybersecurity Integration Center serves as the central organizing hub of state government’s cybersecurity activities and coordinates information sharing with local, state, and federal agencies, tribal governments, utilities and other service providers, academic institutions, and nongovernmental organizations. For more information on their teleworking advisory please visit their official website here.