Many people have been working remotely for almost a year now as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Unsurprisingly, the concept of working away from the office is something that a diverse cross-section of businesses are considering introducing into their business models going forwards.

Remote working has a number of benefits, including a better work-life balance for employees, and lowered business expenses, such as the cost of office space and utilities.

If remote working is going to become part of your regular routine, then we highly recommend that you optimise your IT provision now in order to avoid any issues in the future.

Improve your connection

We’re all familiar with WiFi issues and, unfortunately, it is something that can ‘just happen’. There have been issues with the volume of users now connecting remotely, with bandwidths struggling to cope.

However, there are some quick and simple ways to improve your WiFi connection without spending a fortune.

It may seem like an obvious one, but being closer to your router actually does wonders for your connection. If possible, set up your workstation next to your router or even place it on the desk that you are working at.

If you’re still struggling, we recommend that you invest in a WiFi extender or booster, which can be purchased online at a reasonable cost.

You could also talk to your WiFi provider to see what options are available for you to update or increase your plan.

VoIP systems

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems are great when it comes to both remote and flexible working. It’s definitely something that we recommend you invest in (if you haven’t already).

A VoIP system converts your voice into a digital signal, allowing you to make a call directly from a computer.

These systems are powered by the internet, allowing devices to be moved around freely wherever there is WiFi. This is beneficial when scaling up or relocating as it eliminates lengthy downtimes and incurred maintenance costs. Simply plug in and connect to the internet, and voila! You’re ready to go!

VoIP systems are generally a more affordable option in comparison to traditional phone lines and require very little maintenance. And the majority of problems that do arise can generally be resolved remotely. It’s worth noting that traditional phone lines are in fact being phased out and will be completely replaced by VoIP by 2025.

We recommend that you switch to VoIP now to get ahead of the change.

Be resourceful

Use a second monitor. If you’re used to working with a bigger screen while in the office, a laptop might seem small in comparison, especially when working on tasks that require a keen eye.

Consider using your TV screen as your desktop or get a second monitor to connect to your laptop – all you need is an HDMI cable. Going wireless is also another option, and for this you could use Chromecast, AppleTV another streaming device.

Use headphones with a microphone. This might seem like a pretty obvious thing to suggest, but you will be surprised by the amount of people who use headphones without a microphone, or who don’t use headphones at all.

When you’re on a video call, try using headphones with a microphone to avoid any background noise interfering and ensure that you can be heard clearly.

Stay up to date

It can be easy to forget the importance of keeping your applications and software up to date when you’re out of the office.

Maybe your IT department usually takes care of this, or your work colleague reminds you to do them.

Don’t miss out on vital updates for any of your programs and devices. Ensuring that all updates are done as soon as possible means that your device will stay protected against hackers and cybercriminals, who are looking for weak spots to take advantage of.

It also helps to keep everything moving efficiently by staying up to date with the latest features and tools.

Protect your data

We recommend that you use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to help protect your data. A VPN is essentially a secure tunnel to access the internet. Cybercriminals will look to exploit a range of areas, so it is important that your online activity is protected.

As employees spread out, so does your company data, making it an easier target for cybercriminals. Security is often cited as a major reason organisations are hesitant to allow remote working, but solutions and best practices are available.

Setting up extra cyber precautions, such as a VPN, can significantly reduce your risks and give your employer more peace of mind.

Having immediate and reliable access to company data is vital whilst working remotely. All members of staff need to be able to access servers and files easily, wherever they are. There are two main options when it comes to storing data, on premise or the cloud.

Cloud solutions are a great option for remote working as they can be accessed anywhere with the correct login credentials.

This means the security of a cloud server may be called into question; however, additional measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and better passwords will ensure your team can access files and data securely when working remotely.

On-premise refers to local hardware, which means all company data is stored on servers, computers and other devices within the company site.

One of the main advantages of an on-premise solution is the security, which is of critical importance today. Whilst no single method can ever be 100% effective at preventing breaches, storing data locally can help keep remote hackers out of a system. However, it is imperative that organisations implement safeguards to protect their on-premise devices.

A data centre is also an option for protecting your data. At its simplest, a data centre is a physical facility that organisations use to house their applications and data, incorporating software, firewalls and antivirus.

Additional benefits include round the clock monitoring and maintenance, constant accessibility and backup facilities.

For more information on our services and how they can assist remote working, get in touch with a member of our team.

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The manufacturing industry has seen a myriad of exciting tech developments in the last few years, helping to aid productivity, efficiency, and the overall capabilities of a business. But all this new tech can cause cyber security concerns to arise.

Manufacturing continues to be a target for cyber-attackers, and with 45% of manufacturers feeling like they don’t have access to the right tools to protect themselves from a cyber-attack, it is now more important than ever that manufacturers put procedures in place. We’ve rounded up our top five manufacturing cyber tips to help keep your business as cyber safe as possible.

Source: Cerasis

1. Ensure All Employees Have Cyber Security Training

It is vital that all members within your team receive regular cyber security training. When dealing with high tech equipment on a daily basis, it is crucial that employees are comfortable using certain tech and can identify and report any cyber security concerns quickly and efficiently. Being familiar with the technology and operating systems that are being used will ensure anything out of the ordinary can be flagged and dealt with in the correct way.

2. Update Your Protection Software

While it may seem obvious to install antivirus programmes, it is vital that all internet connected devices within a network are protected. Make sure antivirus software and intrusion detection software are regularly updated and deployed across your network. Automate this process where possible to make sure updates are done as soon as possible. It is important that any updates are done quickly as these will plug any holes or fix any errors that have been found.

3. Don’t Forget Your IIOT

Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) technologies are becoming commonplace in most UK manufacturing businesses. Whether you’ve got large pieces of machinery, connected sensors, or personal protection wearable devices, they all must be protected. These devices can often be forgotten when considering cyber security. We suggest adopting the mindset of if it’s got an internet connection, it can be hacked and therefore needs protecting!

4. Back Up Key Data and Programmes

In the event that a breach or error should occur, it is important that all files, data, and operating programmes are backed up and able to be recovered. In the manufacturing industry, data loss can bring your business to a halt, causing expensive downtime. Making sure everything is backed up and accessible should the worst happen could save a lot of time and money. We suggest you consider opting for an external data centre, these can be managed by an expert company and can keep your data safe should your network be accessed.

5. Think Like a Hackers

When it comes to manufacturing cyber tips, we recommend putting yourself in the shoes of a hacker. This may sound strange, but the best way to protect yourself from a hacker is to understand their motivations. Look at your business and identify any key areas, devices, or assets that would be of interest to a hacker. Cybercriminals are generally inspired by financial gains, so any data containing personal information, customer records, or actual cash is what they’ll be after. We recommend setting up multi-factor authentication as well as restricting access to just those employees who require it. These actions will help limit the opportunities for accessing valuable data and add an extra layer of protection.

Here at Probado, we regularly work with manufacturers to ensure their systems are safe and can operate at the highest level across all sites. For more manufacturing cyber tips, check out our blog on how to avoid manufacturing security risks.

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While it is vital that we are keeping data secure throughout the pandemic, it is an ongoing necessity. Ensuring that remote working is as safe as can be for both employees and companies is essential to implementing successful remote working strategies both now and in the future.

For those who have already adopted remote working, robust data security policies may already be in place. However, many companies have not worked this way before, at least not on this scale, or may have only just begun to dip their toes into the remote working pool, meaning that their security best practices may still be in the initial phases of development.

The main thing to consider when taking operations remotely, in any scenario, is training. The key to keeping data secure is ensuring all employees are comfortable with the systems they are using, they understand the importance of security measures and best practices, are able to spot anything that may be suspicious or out of the ordinary, and know how to report or solve any problems that arise.

When employees are out of the office it is vital that they feel comfortable with these processes without the immediate, on-site assistance of their IT teams or line managers. Make sure that all staff have received up-to-date training and are happy with their new remote set up.

Ensure that all devices being used to access company data have up-to-date antivirus software installed on them and automate any updates if you can. Making sure that updates are done as quickly as possible help to patch any holes or weak spots in previous versions and can be essential for preventing a data breach.

A great option for keeping your data secure while preserving remote access is by using a data centre. Data centres are a terrific option and can come with a range of additional security benefits, such as specialist physical 24/7 security. As well as being able to access data remotely, data centres allow for the deployment of firewalls and antivirus software across your entire network. You can read more about data centres here.

Another thing to consider when working remotely is using a secure connection. While it is easier in these current times to avoid public spaces and unsafe public WiFi connections, the security of your connection is still important. Ensure your WiFi is password protected and you can control who has access to the network.

We would highly recommend using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN is essentially a secure passage for you to access the world wide web. Cybercriminals will look to exploit a range of areas, so it is important that your browsing and online activity is protected.

Keeping data secure needn’t be a worry for your business, our team are still working remotely and are available to help you with any issues that may arise when working from home. Whether you’re struggling to keep the connection or need some advice on how to implement these strategies on a longer-term basis then please get in touch with a member of our team.

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According to Computer Weekly, almost half of UK manufacturers have experienced a cyber security incident, with Enscite also reporting that the manufacturing sector is the third most hit by cyberattacks in the UK.

Managing cyber security risks on just one site can be challenging let alone at multiple locations. Here is everything you need to consider to ensure all your manufacturing sites are as cyber-safe as possible.

Have a dedicated team

Most manufacturers will have a dedicated IT or cyber security team; however, they may only be based in the head office or one central location. Having a dedicated member of staff on each site (or at the very least, regular visits and audits) is crucial to being able to identify cyber security risks, data breaches or weak spots and manage them effectively and quickly.

There are many cyber-attacks that can lay undetected to the untrained eye until it is too late. It can take companies over six months to identify a data breach, therefore having specialist staff on the ground at each location can ensure that any breaches are identified and dealt with as soon as possible.

Provide training for all employees – your first and last line of defence

Training is essential for ensuring cyber security across multiple manufacturing sites. Providing training just for your IT team is not enough – all staff need to be trained in basic cyber security, covering everything from how to identify a spam email to the reporting procedure in your organisation. Whether they’re working with a single email account or a specialist piece of computer operated equipment, cyber security training is essential.

It is not always possible for the IT team to be on hand 24 hours a day but if all staff are vigilant and aware of what to look out for, it can help protect not just their site, but the entire network including admin systems, manufacturing equipment, specialist software and customer data.

Be vigilant with technology

More and more manufacturers are investing in artificial intelligence, robotics, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and Industry 4.0. These are incredible developments in the manufacturing sector that can provide significant value to manufacturing sites and end products alike.

However, with great connectivity comes greater cyber security risk. The more devices that are connected to the internet and are controlled via automated technology, the more targets there are for hackers and cyber criminals. Ensure your entire network is covered by firewalls, anti-virus software and is password protected. Multi-factor authentication (including biometrics) is a great step to enforce, adding an extra layer of protection to devices, accounts and equipment.

Be equal across sites

Ensure all sites have the same level of cyber security in place. If one site has a weak spot, hackers can manipulate this to gain access to the entire network covering all locations. While manufacturers will want to invest in tools and equipment to improve the work they produce and the value they can give to customers, investing in cyber security programmes, equipment and training is just as important.

This will not only protect your business but also your customers’ information. With almost 60% of customers asking for proof of the robustness of a manufacturer’s cyber security system, its importance can’t be ignored. Having an even blanket of protection over all sites means that each base and each customer has the best possible chance at avoiding a cyber-attack.

We work with a number of manufacturing businesses across a variety of sectors to ensure their work across multiple sites is as safe as possible. If you’re looking to improve the cyber security of your manufacturing sites, get in touch with a member of our team here.

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Trending in 2020

1. The Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) has seen a huge rise throughout 2019 (with even the egg trays in the fridge having a WiFi connection) and it isn’t likely to slow down in 2020. According to research by Software Testing Help, by 2021 there may be approximately 20 billion connected smart devices on the planet. That’s over double the world’s population!

So, what exactly is an IoT device and should your business invest in any this year? The basic principle of the Internet of Things is the ability connect everything via the internet, allowing it to be controlled and monitored. You may in fact already have some IoT devices in your home or office, such as a smart speaker.

2. 5G

5G is already set to be one of the biggest technological changes in 2020, even at this early stage in the year. Spiceworks project that two thirds of large enterprises plan to deploy 5G technology by 2021. A full 5G upgrade will see the complete overall of the existing wireless data system into a newer, cheaper, more sustainable model. This global project has been subject to ongoing political debate over the companies involved and their jurisdiction over the networks. But what actually is 5G and how will it affect your business from this year onwards?

In a nutshell the completion of 5G’s installation means that, if all goes to plan, once the systems are fully in place and operational, mobile and fixed devices can become fully wireless.

3. Multi-cloud

While most businesses will be familiar with cloud computing, the IT trend set to sky rocket this year is multi-cloud. Essentially, multi-cloud is just that, multiple cloud services working in unison. Businesses can now incorporate private, public and hybrid clouds into their networks. A multi-cloud system is defined by Avi Networks as ‘the use of multiple cloud computing and storage services in a single network architecture.’ So, why adopt a multi-cloud strategy? The benefits include:

• Vendor lock-in avoidance
• Multiple cloud services
• GDPR compliance
• Resilience

4. Industry 4.0

You may have heard of Industry 4.0 but do you actually know what it means? Tech Radar defines it as “the growing combination of traditional manufacturing and industrial platforms and practices with the latest smart technology”. Industry 4.0, hailed as the fourth manufacturing revolution, can support automation and lead to better communication across sites.

Industry 3.0 saw the introduction of computers, but this new revolution is seeing computers working together and communicating with each other to work without human direction. This digitally connected network of machines is set to revolutionise the industry this year. Watch this space!

Troubling in 2020

While there are many exciting developments in the IT sector for 2020, there are also a number of challenges that businesses will face in the coming year . . .

1. Ransomware

We may have all heard of ransomware, but in the coming months ransomware attacks are set to rise. McAfee reported that in the first quarter of 2019, ransomware attacks grew by almost 120%. These shocking figures are only set to increase.

2020 has already seen ransomware attacks target schools, legal agencies and currency exchange firms. However, if businesses are proactive when a threat is identified and keep on top of staff training and updates, they will be in the best position to avoid an attack.

2. AI is a Target

More and more businesses are taking on artificial intelligence (AI) systems, and why not? From autonomous vehicles to smart speakers and chatbots, most of us will interact with artificial intelligence on a regular basis. However, with these fantastic developments comes enormous risk. There are a number of ways in which AI can be dangerous; as these new systems are developed, effective and reliable safety measures aren’t always available straight away.

While we can programme AI devices to help with day-to-day tasks, these devices can be manipulated to act in a dangerous way. These devices do not possess a moral compass as humans do, they are simply following their code. This makes AI devices a prime target for hackers and cybercriminals.

3. Skills Shortages

While there are so many incredible discoveries and advancements being made in the IT industry every day, many businesses are struggling to adopt these new technologies due to a lack of skills.

Edge estimated that in 2018 there were 600,000 tech vacancies in the UK alone, with that figure set to total one million in 2020. A lack of skilled professionals could lead decision makers to automate roles, removing the need for skilled individuals altogether. Look at ways your business can develop the skills of your existing staff as well as ways to inspire young people to get into the industry. A fantastic way to do this is through school visits, work placements, apprenticeships or mentoring schemes.

4. Data Privacy is Just as Vital as Ever

While GDPR will celebrate its second birthday in May 2020, data privacy and processing are just as important as they were two years ago. With all these amazing updates to technology and systems, companies will need to ensure new methods are compliant. Technology plays a crucial role in collecting, processing, storing, accessing and monitoring data. Any changes to these systems will need to be fully compliant. We are still seeing massive businesses being handed huge fines due to improper use, storage or distribution of data. It is estimated that, since its introduction, EU regulators have dished out fines worth £97.29m for GDPR related issues.

All things considered, 2020 is set to be a fantastic year for the IT industry. Yes, there are challenges to tackle, but with new developments come new problems that must be addressed – this has and will always be the case.

If you have any concerns about what 2020 hold for your business’s IT, get in touch with a member of our team here.

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The year was off to a brilliant start from quarter one as we reported a growth of 39% compared with the same period last year, against projected annual growth of 32%.

This year we have provided and managed telephony and IT services for over 40 clients on retained monthly contracts. We also offer training programmes, and throughout 2019 we delivered a series of FOC Cyber Security awareness events for the third sector and commercial clients.

As well as offering our services, we were invited to become a member of the University of Huddersfield’s Manufacturing Supply Chain Advisory Group as well as joining the National Physical Laboratory’s Manufacturer Measurement Network. Of course, all of this kept us busy and enabled us to take on two new members of staff, increasing our workforce by 50% to a team of six.

2019 saw us installing a number VoIP systems for our clients, six of which were installed in the last six months! This is an increasingly popular service as more and more businesses are moving towards a fully connected, flexible model of working.

Always striving to uphold our ethos of honesty, integrity, knowledge and excellence, our customer service is top of our list of priorities. We are thrilled to have received an average 94.88% ‘good’ rating from our clients for the entire year! We also processed 11,128 helpdesk calls throughout 2019, advising and supporting our clients.

We strive to do our bit and give back to the communities we work in, so over the last 12 months we have gifted services to Holme Valley Mountain Rescue, setting up a wireless communication grid which is now used during rescues. We have also worked with Inspire Oldham this year, joining other businesses in sponsoring their volunteers, attending the National Diversity Awards in September.

In 2019 we embraced social media and communications, working with an agency to help tell our stories and communicate our message. Since January, we have posted 13 blogs, helping to increase web traffic and gain a total of 6,356 page views this year, with a 144% increase from January to December.

We also posted 294 times on social media. Across Twitter and LinkedIn we received a combined total of 67,609 organic impressions and 1,047 engagements.

We’ve had a fantastic year here at Probado and can’t wait to continue in 2020. If your business is looking to improve your IT support and cyber security in the new year, get in touch with our team.

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You may have heard a lot of talk about data centres, but what actually are they, can they benefit your business and are they really secure enough to process and handle your data?

What is a data centre?

How Stuff Works define data centres as ‘centralised locations where computing and networking equipment is concentrated for the purpose of collecting, storing, processing, distributing or allowing access to large amounts of data.’

There are generally two types of data centre, internet facing or enterprise. Internet facing data centres, also known as external data centres, typically support fewer applications but are accessible by a larger number of individuals. However, enterprise, or internal, data centres will have fewer users but support more applications.

How do they work?

Also called server farms, data centres are rooms or buildings comprised of multiple servers that host a range of applications needed to keep a business running. These include collaboration services, file sharing, email networks, firewalls and databases.

Data centres can house vast amounts of servers, even into the thousands. According to datacenters.com the largest data centre in the world is in China at 6.3 million square feet in size, which is equal to 110 football pitches.

All physical servers and components are stored in one location allowing them to be connected by cables and maintained in one secure place.

Data centres connect all these services to the user locations, allowing access to specific data and platforms across a company.

With more and more businesses moving to digitalisation and cloud-based services, data centres are having to expand and incorporate more servers, therefore taking up more physical space. However, the rise of cloud networks has presented increased, international cyber security risks, leading many to question if accessing data this way is really the safest option for their business.

How reliable and secure are data centres?

Protecting a data centre is essential with many becoming physical targets for hackers and thieves.

Naturally, having an external data centre with all these assets in one location presents a security risk, to both the intangible data and the physical servers. While the data centre can deploy firewalls and security programmes to the end user, just how secure are data centres themselves?

Most data centres will have round the clock surveillance, with security personnel present at all times. They will be accessible to a select few people, which, at more advanced sites, will require fingerprint, voice or DNA authentication to access control systems.

Data security and external data centres

Using an external data centre means that the servers will have increased, specialised physical security as well as allowing greater flexibility and growth potential for your business.

This method, known as colocation, where businesses outsource to professionally managed data centres, has a number of benefits, including improved data security.

As well as installing your own firewalls, antivirus and protection programmes throughout your network, external data centres will have additional, specialist measures in place to protect its clients’ data. By outsourcing your data centre, your business will benefit from professional expertise in both data security, physical security and GDPR compliance.

In the same way that cloud accessible data centres centralise data and applications, they also centralise security programmes. Managing all these attributes from a central location means that all security protocols and programmes can be deployed across the entire network from the main source. Many are opting for a security information and event management system (SIEM) to run throughout the data centre, offering a real-time view into the data centre’s position as well as allowing control throughout the network of cyber security procedures.

If you’re thinking about using a data centre for your business, get in touch with a member of our team here for advice on how to ensure your data is safe.

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Technological advancements mean there are various data storage options available, whether on-premise or in the cloud. Each solution has advantages and disadvantages – so which storage solution is right for your business?

On-premise Solution

The term “on-premise” refers to local hardware, meaning all company data is stored on servers, computers and other devices within the company site.

One of the main advantages to on-premise solutions is the security, which is of critical importance today. According to a report by Risk Based Security, over four billion data records were compromised in 2016 alone.

Whilst no single method can ever be 100% effective at preventing breaches, storing data locally can help keep remote hackers out of a system.

Having said that, it is imperative that organisations implement safeguards to protect their on-premise device. A study conducted by the Ponemon Institute found that 59% of disgruntled employees will take sensitive data with them.

Many organisations remain reluctant to opt for on-premise solutions due to higher upfront and lifespan costs. Like all computers, on-site servers do not have an infinite lifespan and they will need to be serviced regularly.

Besides maintenance costs, on-premise storage solutions also come with some significant indirect costs. Their very nature requires them to be running constantly to ensure accessibility, which in turn has an impact on monthly energy bills, particularly for larger companies with more than one device.

Cloud Storage

Unlike on-premise storage, cloud services are remote servers or hardware maintained by a third-party provider. This provider will sell storage space, bandwidth and access requests to organisations, depending on company needs.

It is unsurprising that cloud data is almost always cheaper than on-premise solutions. By using cloud storage, an organisation can tailor its solution to suit its specific needs. If the organisation only requires 14TB of storage space, it can purchase that exact amount.

Most reputable cloud providers will allow companies to change their plans simply. At the touch of a button, organisations can add more space to a plan, or alternatively decrease storage, ultimately saving the company money.

Another benefit of cloud data storage is the ability to access data remotely at any time. When an organisation purchases cloud storage, it is given access credentials which can be used to access data via the internet, offering a great deal of flexibility.

A major drawback of cloud storage is the risk of security breaches. Unfortunately, remote servers are accessible by anybody at any time, leaving organisations without proper encryption open to cyber-attacks. In order to ensure safety, it is of high importance that companies ensure their systems are fully secured and only accessed by authorised members of staff.

Whichever solution you choose, it pays to talk to a professional who can help you decide the best solution to suit your business. For more information, drop us a line or, for more on online security, see our previous blog.

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Safe Connections

Logging on to Wi-Fi when you’re out and about is sometimes necessary, but always look for a secure connection. That means Wi-Fi with a password. While lots of places have password protected Wi-Fi, be wary of the ones who publicly advertise the passwords, for example on the wall of a café, as these can be just as unsafe as those with no password at all.

Make sure you turn off the auto-connect for Bluetooth as well as Wi-Fi, especially when travelling. Open networks provide hackers with an open door into your devices and all the data stored on them.

Consider using a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs are a great way to protect your data before you even start surfing as they create an encrypted tunnel for you to access the internet.

Keep On Top of Updates

A simple way to keep your IT systems and devices safe is to ensure all software and security updates are done before you leave the safety of your office. This way your devices will be protected for your trip, as well as any devices you are leaving behind. Run an anti-virus scan to make sure there’s nothing already lurking behind the screen.

Ensuring your passwords are updated before you leave is a good idea too. Make sure they are safe and strong. Look into Multi-Factor Authentication as it will add an extra layer of protection and can act as a deterrent to possible hackers.

Social Butterfly

While it can seem like everything is being put on social media these days, we recommend you wait until you get home to share any travel snaps or stories. Letting people know your house or office is empty leaves it vulnerable. Think of all the personal data that is sitting there! Tagging locations also makes it easy for hackers to determine your routine and latch on to any weak spots during your day-to-day life.

Be On the Ball

Keep an eye on your most important accounts when jet setting. It is much easier to spot any fraudulent activity if you’re on top of things. Any issues that arise are much easier to deal with the sooner they get noticed. The longer a hacker is able to control your device without detection the more harmful it can be.

Bare Essentials

Minimise the risk of theft by only travelling with the essentials. Keep the devices you’re taking to a minimum. Many hotels provide a safe for their clientele. Take full advantage of this and store any devices, documents or sensitive information in here when you’re out and about.

This may seem like a lot to consider when you’re preparing to leave the office but if you get into the habit of checking and updating things regularly it will soon become part of your routine.

Bon Voyage!

For more information on how to protect IT systems while you’re out of the office, contact us today on info@probado.co.uk

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If you believe any of your accounts have been compromised you should take action immediately and follow these steps:

Contact your IT Support Team

If your business is covered under an IT support contract or you have an internal IT department, tell them that you suspect your account has been hacked. They will have procedures to follow in the event of suspected breaches. If you do not have IT security support in place then you should:

1. Perform antivirus scans on your devices

Ensure your antivirus software is up to date and perform an antivirus scan on all of your devices. Many breaches occur through malicious software being installed via drive by downloads or by opening malicious attachments in email

2. Change your passwords

Change your passwords for any online accounts you may have (do this from a different trusted PC/device). This includes email accounts, social media pages (such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn), online shopping accounts (e.g. eBay and Amazon) and payment gateways (such as Paypal).

The NCSC UK Cyber Survey found that 23.2 million victim accounts worldwide used 123456 as a password! You should always ensure that every password that you use is unique and not easy to guess – this will help to mitigate the scale of a compromise.

3. Enable 2/Multi Factor Authentication (MFA)

This is an authentication method whereby the user is only allowed access after successfully giving two or more pieces of evidence to confirm their identity, for example their mother’s maiden name or place of birth. Enabling 2, or MFA, offers a second tier of protection for your account. Even if your password is discovered, a hacker would still need the code provided by your second authentication method to get to your data.

2FA (and the use of unique password methods) will help to protect you against hackers using ‘credential stuffing’ techniques. This type of cyberattack is one of the top threats to web and mobile applications because of the sheer volume of accounts involved. It usually consists of large lists of email addresses and/or usernames, along with the associated passwords, being used to hack into user accounts. This usually happens as a result of a data breach and can be devastating for businesses that fall prey to this type of attack, not least because of the huge reputational risk that comes with it.

4. Check your accounts

Many malicious actors will leave back-door methods to enable them to continue to access your information even if you have realised you have been hacked and already changed your details.

The key things to check are:

• Make sure you don’t have any unknown forwarded emails in your account(s)
• Check your email account(s) sent folder – while some malicious users would delete the contents here, some may not
• Make sure your email address hasn’t been changed on any sites that you usually log into online
• Check your ‘forgotton password sections’ haven’t been changed (e.g. phone numbers, secret questions, date of birth)

5. Notify third parties

While it may seem like a daunting task, if your account has been hacked, we would recommend informing third parties associated with your account/business. This will ensure they can react appropriately and with caution to potentially malicious emails from your account.

As of 25 May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) introduced a responsibility for businesses to report certain types of data breaches to the Information Commissioner’s Office. To check if your incident qualifies you can go here: https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/report-a-breach/

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