Is your business really protected?

I would be willing to bet that you’ve gotten at least one notice in the mail that your personal data has been compromised in some way. I know I have, and when I’ve opened that letter and read “data breach” in the first sentence, I’m struck with a minor sense of panic.

As a CFO, we are always proactively assessing potential risks and mitigating them by investing in the areas that we think we need to boost protection. After the ChangeHealthcare cyber attack on February 21st, 2024 we have been dealing with the real financial impacts to our mental health practices clients in the US due to payments stopping. Cash flow was a big concern and we jumped into action to help clients continue to stay in business evaluating potential solutions, creating cash flow forecasts, and finding new ways to bill while we waited for some clarity from UHC. What we know so far: Link to video

On one hand, I half expect to log into my bank account to find it completely emptied out by whatever hacker has my information. But on the other hand, if millions of peoples’ data has been compromised, do I really have to worry about the hackers targeting me? This can happen in reality and then we are left with the aftermath and mess to untangle.?

The truth is, cyber attacks and data breaches are becoming more and more frequent as hackers work tirelessly to discover new ways to steal our data. Not only do we have to worry about our banks, healthcare companies, and other institutions that we trust to keep our private information safe from getting compromised, but as a small business owner, we also have to worry about how to keep our own business protected from these sorts of incidents.

As the frequency and sophistication of attacks continue to rise, safeguarding our enterprises against these threats has become more critical than ever. In a recent conversation I had with Eric Wood, the CEO of Geeks to Go PDX – an IT consulting company specializing in cybersecurity – we discussed the nuances of defending our businesses from cyber threats and the importance of strategic investments in protection.?

In this conversation , Eric shed some light on the escalating threats faced by businesses, and outlined a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, focusing on four main areas:

1. Network Security: From basic routers to sophisticated managed firewalls, robust network security forms the first line of defense against cyber threats. Ongoing management and expertise are essential in maintaining effective network security measures.

2. Email Security: Email remains a primary attack vector for cybercriminals. Implementing effective email security measures, including monitoring and managing login activities, is crucial in mitigating risks associated with phishing and other email-based attacks.

3. Endpoint Security: Protecting endpoints such as computers and mobile devices is paramount. Employing advanced endpoint security solutions, including heuristic virus detection and 24/7 monitoring, helps detect and respond to threats in real-time.

4. Backups: Data loss can have devastating consequences for businesses. Figuring out a bullet-proof backup strategy (and following the 3-2-1 rule), is essential in safeguarding against data loss due to cyberattacks or other unforeseen events.

As a CFO firm, we understand the importance of strategic investments amidst very real budget constraints in your small business. After talking with Eric, it’s become incredibly clear that the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your company’s online data is secure is invaluable. With Geeks to Go PDX, businesses can benefit from expert guidance and support tailored to their specific needs, helping them navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity with confidence.

My mission has always been to empower business owners like you to take control of their finances, even when it can feel scary. That’s why I’m encouraging you to take proactive steps in fortifying your defenses against cyber threats and ultimately, protect your money. By prioritizing cybersecurity and leveraging expert guidance, you’ll gain peace of mind and further thrive in an increasingly digital world.

If you’d like to catch the full conversation with Eric Wood, you can do so right here !

As always, we welcome your questions and comments. Feel free to reach out to us with your key takeaways and insights from this conversation!

Stay safe and secure,

Carla Titus – Founder/CEO

Wealth & Worth Within, LLC

Website: www.wealthworthwithin.com

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 971-236-2920

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