Threats

What do you think about when people talk about network security, viruses, and hackers? Most people think about this problem as related to the Internet. Where do the threats and risks come from? In reality, most of the more severe security challenges originate from inside your computer network; employees downloading programs, spy-ware, viruses, mal-ware, and other software from the Internet are real concerns. However, there is more to think about and many other challenges to overcome.

Liabilities

Did you know that individuals and businesses are getting caught up in legal action as the result of poorly secured computer systems? Many people think nothing of using business computers to download copyrighted content like music, movies, software and in some cases sexually explicit media. Over the last few years there have been many public examples of litigation due to copyright infringement. In some cases employees have been caught running complete businesses on company computer systems. Businesses you would not want associated with your company.

Decreased Productivity

Many employees have Internet access at work. Do you know how much time your employees spend surfing the web each day? Poor computer security provides employees with access to non-essential content. On average, employees spend more than 50% of their time, or your time, accessing information that is not work related. In addition, having broad access to content unrelated to work can lead to damaging situations. Don't under estimate the amount of time and money that is lost because employees are not focused on the jobs they were hired to perform.

Confidentiality

What do you consider confidential business information? What if your employees or competitors had access to your customer information, financial information, e-mail, online accounts, medical information, or HR information? Or worse, what if they had the ability to change, delete, or steal this information? Many networked computer systems are not properly secured to insure the confidentiality and authenticity of important information.

Impact On Technology

What is the impact to your business if your computer systems cannot function properly or in some cases, at all? The impact of viruses, worms, hackers (from outside and inside your network), spy-ware, ad-ware, and other malicious software can be dramatically reduced if your computer systems are properly configured and secured. Many businesses deal with these issues as if they are expected to happen, the cost of doing business when using computers and technology. This does not have to be the case.

Revenue Loss

Businesses lose millions of dollars ever day as a result of inadequate network security. What can businesses do to reduce the liabilities and risks, increase productivity, ensure confidentiality, and increase revenue? If you already have an existing network, have a third party review its configuration. If you are implementing technology make sure security is part of the design and implementation. Educate your employees so they are security minded and aware. ParaLogic can assist you in designing, implementing, and maintaining a secure and profitable business.