So, Should I Have One Password or Many Passwords?

Passwords are the first line of defense against cybercriminals and their unauthorized access to your company and personal data.

 

Most people around the world struggle with managing their passwords. A recent Verizon Data Breach Investigation reported over 70% of employees repeat passwords while at work. According to the study, 81% of hacking-related breaches used either stolen or weak passwords.

 

To make matters worse, password reuse by individuals at home is transferred to their workplace. Despite the fact that 91% of people are aware that it is bad practice to reuse passwords, 59% do so at both their place of employment and home. Using a strong password is fundamental to ensure your information won’t be at risk.

 

Importance of a Strong Password

Creating a strong and secure password can reduce the risk of cybercriminals guessing your password and accessing sensitive data. Compromised passwords caused 80% of all data breaches in 2019, resulting in financial losses for both businesses and consumers.

 

Fear of forgetting complex passwords, especially when there are several to remember, is a common worry that people have while creating them. A strong password makes the amount of time it takes to guess it exponentially longer if you use a 20 character randomized password with upper/lowercase letters, numbers, symbols. It would take a computer 3 sextillion years to crack it.

 

There are many different types of attacks that cybercriminals use that target simple passwords. For businesses, cybercriminals can start disinformation campaigns against companies, sharing their data with competitors or stealing a company’s data and holding it for ransom.

 

Tips On How to Create a Secure Password

Creating a secure password does not have to be hard. Here are a few easy steps on how to generate a strong and secure password to avoid any breaches.

  • Do not reuse passwords
  • Use a unique, strong password for every website, application and system
  • Use a mixture of symbols, numbers and uppercase and lowercase letters
  • Do not use personal information such as your birthday or dog’s name
  • Use a password generator

Lastly, save all of your existing passwords in a password vault so you never forget a password again.

 

How to Protect Your Passwords

It’s tempting to use your internet browser to remember your passwords, but this is not secure. Depending on the settings on your web browser, anyone with access to your computer can copy all of your passwords and use them to log in to your bank or sell your login information to other cyber criminals.

 

Never write down your passwords anywhere. If you write them down, anyone who may have access to your space can readily steal it. If possible, never share your credentials with anyone. If you must, use a password manager to securely share them. Or better yet, if your password manager has time-limited sharing, make use of that. Always be on the lookout for criminals attempting to con you by calling or emailing you and asking for your passwords.

A password vault is an encrypted digital web vault within a password manager that stores online login credentials, documents, images and other sensitive information. Users input a single master password that decrypts the vault and provides access. A password manager can make your life easier by providing quick and simple access to your accounts while significantly improving the security of those accounts, making it much more difficult for cybercriminals to gain access.

 

Keep Your Passwords Secure 

Safe and secure passwords are simple to create with a quality password vault. Don’t stress about coming up with passwords for every account yourself.

 

Schedule a call with our expert, to learn how to implement password best practices for every user at your company:

Why is the door to your IT network propped open?

 

Your team tells you the door is closed and locked. After someone comes in and steals your data, you find out that the door was actually propped open.

 

When it comes to your computer network, your protection is limited to the knowledge and skills of the people protecting your computer network.

 

Because the risks to your business are so high, you need an expert’s second opinion. And, it’s Free. No cost. No obligation.

 

Does this mean you could call us up every six months and have us check on the health of your network and NEVER pay us a dime? Yes.

 

The question is, Who will find the holes in your computer network first? Your team is doing the best that they can. A cyber-attacker? We hope not. Maybe your cyber-insurance carrier can be your second opinion. However, based on the results of their assessment, they may cancel your cyber-insurance coverage.

 

Our FREE Network and Security Assessment Includes:
1. Review how you use, share and back up data

  1. Dark web report of compromised passwords being sold on the web.
  2. 365 security review
  3. Email Security Review
  4. Multiple network and security scans
    6. Report of Findings and Executive Summary

 

CCS has been helping companies with their IT issues since 1974. We help hundreds of companies across the U.S. and beyond.

Your Biggest Cybersecurity Risk – Your Employees

Employees can pose a significant cybersecurity risk if they are not adequately trained or if proper security measures are not in place. Here are a few reasons why employees can be a cybersecurity risk and some strategies to mitigate those risks:

 

  • Lack of awareness and training: Employees who are not aware of common cybersecurity threats or best practices can inadvertently become an entry point for attackers. Organizations should invest in comprehensive cybersecurity training programs to educate employees about potential risks, such as phishing emails, social engineering, and safe browsing habits.

 

  • Insider threats: Employees who have malicious intent or unauthorized access to sensitive information can pose a significant risk. Implementing access controls, regularly reviewing access privileges, and monitoring employee activities can help detect and prevent insider threats.

 

  • Weak and duplicate passwords and authentication practices: Employees using weak or easily guessable passwords can lead to unauthorized access. Enforcing strong password policies, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), and educating employees about password hygiene can help mitigate this risk.

 

  • Legitimate Looking Links/Requests for Data: Cybercriminals may attempt to manipulate employees through “social engineering” techniques such as phishing emails, fake on-line ads or phone calls in order to gain access to sensitive information. Regularly educating employees about these tactics and encouraging them to verify suspicious requests can help reduce the success rate of these legitimate looking attacks.

 

  • BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): When employees use personal devices for work purposes, it can introduce additional security risks. Implementing a strong BYOD policy, including device encryption, remote wiping capabilities, and regular security updates, can help mitigate these risks.

 

  • Negligent handling of data: Employees may unintentionally mishandle sensitive data, such as sharing it with unauthorized individuals or leaving it unsecured. Organizations should establish clear data handling policies, conduct regular training on data protection, and implement access controls to minimize the risk of data breaches.

 

To address these risks, organizations should prioritize cybersecurity awareness and training, establish robust security policies, regularly update security measures, and foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness among employees.

 

If you have concerns, schedule a call with us to get your questions answered – no risk – no cost.

Enhance Your Brand and Boost Effectiveness with CCS Technology

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, entrepreneurs need to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to emerging trends and technologies. The rise of virtual and hybrid workforces has become a critical factor in maintaining business continuity and driving productivity. To excel in this new era, entrepreneurs must embrace innovative solutions that streamline operations and ensure a seamless transition to remote work environments. CCS Technology Group’s managed IT services offer the ideal solution for entrepreneurs looking to extend their company’s brand and enhance effectiveness in the digital workplace.

Streamlined Operations for Virtual or Hybrid Workforces
Managing IT infrastructure can be challenging, especially with dispersed teams and remote working arrangements. CCS Technology Group specializes in providing comprehensive managed IT services that enable entrepreneurs to optimize their operations, irrespective of their workforce’s location. By leveraging their expertise, entrepreneurs can focus on their core business activities while leaving the complexities of IT management in capable hands.

Seamless Collaboration and Communication
Effective collaboration and communication are pivotal for virtual or hybrid workforces. CCS Technology Group offers robust tools and platforms that facilitate seamless interaction among team members, regardless of their physical location. Through their managed IT services, entrepreneurs can ensure that their teams have access to secure and reliable communication channels, project management tools, and virtual meeting platforms. All of our managed service platforms include complimentary company branded virtual backgrounds to ensure our client’s brand is maintained despite an employee’s physical location. Such infrastructure empowers employees to collaborate efficiently, enhancing productivity and fostering a strong team dynamic.

Enhanced Data Security and Privacy
With the increasing reliance on digital platforms and remote access, data security and privacy have become paramount concerns for entrepreneurs. CCS Technology Group understands the importance of safeguarding sensitive business information. Their managed IT services include robust security measures, such as firewalls, encryption protocols, and regular data backups, ensuring that critical data remains secure from potential threats. By partnering with CCS, entrepreneurs can instill confidence in their stakeholders, reinforcing their brand’s commitment to protecting sensitive information.

Scalable Solutions for Business Growth
Entrepreneurs are constantly striving for business growth and expansion. CCS Technology Group’s managed IT services are designed to support this journey. With scalable solutions tailored to individual business needs, entrepreneurs can easily adapt their IT infrastructure to accommodate changes in their workforce size or operational requirements. Whether scaling up or down, CCS ensures that the technology foundation remains robust and aligned with the business’s objectives.

24/7 Technical Support
Downtime and technical issues can severely impact business operations, leading to lost productivity and revenue. CCS Technology Group offers managed IT service packages which provide round-the-clock technical support to address any IT challenges promptly. Their team of experienced professionals offers proactive monitoring, rapid issue resolution, and comprehensive support, ensuring that entrepreneurs and their virtual or hybrid workforces can operate smoothly without interruption.

In the era of virtual or hybrid workforces, entrepreneurs need a reliable partner to navigate the complexities of IT management and optimize their operations. CCS Technology Group’s managed IT services offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to extend their company’s brand, enhance effectiveness, and drive productivity in virtual or hybrid work environments. By leveraging their expertise, entrepreneurs can focus on their core competencies and confidently embrace the future of work. Partnering with CCS Technology Group is an investment in the success and growth of your business in the digital age.

To learn more visit us at www.ccstechnologygroup.com or call us at 224-232-5500.

The Tech Detective’s Guide to Buying and Selling Companies

Picture this: You’re about to embark on a thrilling journey of buying or selling a company but lurking in the shadows are hidden mysteries of information technology (IT) needs. Fear not! CCS Technology Group, the tech detectives of the business world, are here to assess, decode, protect, integrate, and support!

The Case of the Tech Assessment: When buying or selling a company, understanding its IT infrastructure is crucial. CCS Technology Group dons its detective hat and conducts a comprehensive assessment, examining the existing technology stack, hardware, software, networks, and security protocols. Their team of tech-savvy investigators leaves no stone unturned, delivering a detailed report on the company’s IT strengths, weaknesses, and future potential.

Decoding the IT Blueprint: Every good detective needs a blueprint to crack the case, and CCS Technology Group excels in mapping out an IT roadmap for companies. They consider the business’s current and future goals, scalability requirements, and industry trends to design a customized IT strategy. With their expertise, entrepreneurs can navigate the intricate maze of IT solutions, ensuring a seamless integration of technology during the buying or selling process.

Cybersecurity Chronicles: In the digital realm, cyber threats lurk in the shadows, waiting to strike. CCS Technology Group acts as the guardian of data security, fortifying the company’s defenses against potential breaches. Their team of cyber sleuths conducts vulnerability assessments, implements robust security protocols, and educates employees about best practices. By partnering with CCS, entrepreneurs can confidently assure potential buyers or sellers that their valuable data is safe and sound.

Unmasking IT Integration: Challenges Merging two companies often comes with IT integration challenges. CCS Technology Group takes the lead, working behind the scenes to seamlessly integrate disparate IT systems, ensuring compatibility, and minimizing disruptions. Their tech wizards ensure that data migration, software integration, and network harmonization are executed flawlessly, saving entrepreneurs from headaches, and keeping the business running smoothly.

The Magical Support Portal: Every detective needs a trusty sidekick, and CCS Technology Group’s support portal is just that. Entrepreneurs and their teams can access a magical world of 24/7 technical support, where their IT queries and challenges are swiftly resolved. The support portal becomes the go-to resource for troubleshooting, software updates, and expert guidance, ensuring a stress-free transition during the buying or selling process.

The Happy Ending With CCS Technology Group as your IT Partner: The buying or selling journey ends on a high note. Entrepreneurs can confidently showcase their company’s IT strengths, align technology with business goals, and assure potential buyers or sellers of a seamless transition. The tech detectives at CCS Technology Group have successfully unraveled the mysteries of IT needs, leaving entrepreneurs to celebrate their newfound success.

In this exciting tale of technology and business, CCS Technology Group emerges as the hero, solving the mysteries of IT needs during the buying and selling process. With their expertise, entrepreneurs can confidently navigate the digital landscape, ensuring a smooth transition and a bright future for their business. So, put on your detective hat, embrace the power of CCS Technology Group, and embark on your own thrilling journey of buying or selling a company!

About CCS Technology Group
Our goal is simple. We aim to deliver IT support that’s responsive, effective, and convenient. After all, technology should make it easier to run your business.
Enlist us to manage your IT needs, so you can focus on your business, business development, and acquisition targets free from headaches and hassles.
To learn more visit us at www.ccstechnologygroup.com or call us at 224-232-5500.

Minimizing Employee Anxieties with IT Support

Joe Reiplinger and Chris Higgins from CCS Technology Group were guests on NBC Milwaukee’s TMJ4 “The Morning Blend”  and discussed the importance of having IT support for your business. According to PEW Research, more than 93% of today’s businesses rely on computers and information technology for their operations. Managing IT operations and security needs for these systems falls on in-house resource, or an outsourced managed IT services firm, such as CCS Technology Group.   Take a look:

 

More IT Expertise – 40% Lower Cost

The average salary for an IT employee in Illinois is $77,267 in 2022. If you include compensation, benefits and payroll taxes, the average IT employee costs your company more than $90,000 per year or $7,500 per month.

 

If your 50 employee company has 2 IT employees, that’s $15,000 per month.

 

Why not cut your IT expenses by more than 40% and get access to the expertise of 30 IT professionals instead of 2 IT employees? This is the value of an IT Managed Services Provider.

 

Reduce your IT expenses AND have access to industry-leading IT best practices including cybersecurity protection, network support, PC and server updates and help desk support for all your employees. We also monitor all your IT systems 24 hours a day to detect issues before they affect your network performance.

 

We want to be your technology partner. Call us today at 224-840-5868 to find out how you can get comprehensive IT expertise while also reducing your IT expenses dramatically.

Managed Services: Why Clients Choose Us

  • Infrastructure & User Support

Our top-tier engineers know how to configure your network for optimum performance—having earned certifications from CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, Apple, and SonicWall.

  • Tech Vendor Liaison Communication

We manage communications with your tech vendors, so that you can focus on growing your business.

  • Project Planning

Our project planning team assists you on big and small projects (e.g., Office 365 migration, server upgrade, firewall installation).

  • Asset Inventory Maintenance

CCS tracks all network hardware/software, including workstations (laptops/desktops), firewalls, access points, etc.—and provides a copy for your inventory records

  • Licensing & Warranty Tracking

Tired of the alerts notifying you to extend your Microsoft Office licensing? We manage it for you. Better yet, we process the renewals, too!

  • Hardware & Software Procurement Advising

If your hardware is out of date (or approaching end of life), CCS advises you on which hardware will fit perfectly in the network and within your budget.

  • Cyber Security Training & Testing / Password Management

CCS provides your team with critical cyber training.  We run simulated phishing attacks to ensure that your employees know how to spot a hacker—and, in the process, can protect your sensitive data. We also enforce a strict password policy and can quickly supply the password to an employee who has forgotten it.

Biggest Hack in Q3 of 2022

On July 21st, 2022, just four weeks ago, Twitter made the news when a hacker who works under an alias posted on breach forums that they obtained 5.43 million twitter users personal data including email addresses and phone numbers.

In less than 8 days on July 29th the post was taken down. The hacker responsible was attempting to sell this information for just over $30,000. This vulnerability was brought to light in January 2022 by a white hat hacker. Twitter announced that the vulnerability had been patched but with 5.4 million users’ data breached, we find that the patch was not secure enough.

If you have any questions on cyber security and how to avoid being a victim contact us today for a free consultation. Lastly a friendly reminder, make sure to use some form of multifactor authentication. It is never too late to secure your digital life.

Interview With An IT Apprentice

Jacob: “This is Jacob with CCS and today we are here with Viram. So Viram, tell me a bit about yourself.”

Viram: “I’m 17 years old, a senior at rolling meadows high school and I’m in the D214 Apprenticeship program.”

 

Jacob: “What got you interested in pursuing IT?”

Viram: “My dad’s worked in IT and when I was 11 years old in middle school, I attended an IT career fair & joined a coding club.”

 

Jacob: “What certifications have you pursued so far?”

Viram: “I have my CompTIA ITF and my CompTIA A+.”

 

Jacob: “When did you start your apprenticeship at CCS?”

Viram: “I started on June 6th and have been here for one month.”

 

Jacob: “Has CCS helped you further your experience in the IT field?”

Viram: “Yes, one hundred percent, they’ve provided me with hands on experience that I felt I was lacking, it is one thing is to be taught in a classroom but it’s another thing to be physically doing the work.”

 

Jacob: “What do you like most about being a part of CCS?”

Viram: “The energetic environment.”

 

Jacob: “What do you see yourself doing in the future?”

Viram: “I see myself going to college majoring in computer science, and I do plan to stay with CCS.”

 

Jacob: “Do you want to specialize in an individual field?”

Viram: “I want to pursue cyber security.”

 

Jacob: “What’re you currently doing for CCS?”

Viram: “Taking on client tickets, speaking with customers, and resolving issues like troubleshooting.”

 

Jacob: “What led you to CCS?”

Viram: “I’ve been in the computer and network pathway with school for 3 years, the distract manager reached out to me and explained a new challenging opportunity which was this apprenticeship, that guided me to CCS, and CCS allowed me to apply my skills learned from the computer networking pathway.”

 

Jacob: “Who has provided the most support in your role here at CCS so far?”

Viram: “It’s really been everybody here, but if I had to pick one person it would be Chris Adams has been a major help and has guided me to help my success, I truly see CCS as a very tight knit company.”

 

We here at CCS would like to thank Viram for being a hard worker eager to learn, and all of Distract 214 for encouraging young great minds like Viram to pursue their dreams and equipping them with the tools and opportunities to do so.