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cyber security Tag

07 Jun

Posted at 10:13h in Blog Post
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Information technology (IT) has more than its fair share of acronyms. Often, it’s a matter of one letter differentiating the options. So, when it comes to MSPs and MSSPs, what’s the distinction? With MSP and MSSP you compare managed service providers with managed security service providers. But since MSPs also work to secure your IT infrastructure, the names alone don’t tell you enough. ?   Key Differences Between an MSP and MSSP Distinguishing between these two can help determine which one better suits your business. The following helps you compare the options. Scope of Services MSPs and MSSPs focus on different aspects of IT management. MSPs typically manage, update, and maintain IT infrastructure and applications. They ensure business technology runs smoothly. They perform network and system health monitoring, as well as proactive maintenance. MSSPs specialize in security to protect networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. They protect your business from potential security breaches and support regulatory compliance. Practical example: An MSP might manage email, backup and recovery, or software updates, whereas the MSSP would offer services such as threat monitoring, vulnerability scanning, or incident response. Skill Set/Experience MSPs offer a more generalized understanding of IT and security best practices. They can oversee your IT operations either as a partner or your outsourced IT department. The MSSP’s experts typically specialize more in cybersecurity. They identify and mitigate complex security risks. Practical example: An MSP might have general IT technicians on staff. An MSSP's team specializes in areas such as penetration testing, threat intelligence, or compliance. Service Level Agreements (SLAs) MSPs and MSSPs meet different needs, so their SLAs are distinct. Expect an MSP to focus on response times, system uptime, or ticket resolution. The MSSP's SLA might relate more to incident metrics, such as detection and response times. Practical example: An MSP may guarantee a response time of four hours to resolve a system issue. The MSSP may guarantee to detect and respond to a security incident within 30 minutes. Cost Structure Expect different pricing structures depending on the service scope and expertise required. MSPs typically charge a fixed monthly fee based on the number of devices or services managed. This often costs significantly less than working with an MSSP. MSSPs may charge a combination of fixed and variable fees based on the number of security events, incident response, or forensic investigations. Practical example: An MSP might charge $50 per device per month. The MSSP might charge a flat fee of $5000 per month. You might also pay extra fees for remediating security incidents. Deciding on the Best Provider If your business primarily needs help with routine IT tasks, an MSP might be the best fit. Businesses with limited budgets or smaller-scale needs may also find MSPs more cost-effective. When you have sensitive data or compliance requirements, you could need an MSSP. MSSPs often have a deeper understanding of standards such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or GDPR. Choosing the wrong provider can waste resources and leave you potentially vulnerable. Contact our experts at 570-235-1946 or visit our Contact Page. We can help you make informed decisions about your IT management and security needs....

26 May

Posted at 10:06h in Blog Post
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What is Zero-Click Malware? You know not to open an email attachment from someone you don’t know. You also avoid downloading unexpected files or questionable popups when you go online. But did you know there’s malware that requires zero action from you? Zero-click malware can infect your device without any interaction on your part. Traditional malware required the user to click a link, download a file, or execute a program. It often relies on phishing and social engineering to fool you into taking action. Zero-click malware exploits vulnerabilities in your operating system (OS) or applications. It uses carefully crafted, undetected code to access and execute a payload automatically, and there’s no trigger. If one is present on the system you’re using, you’ll navigate right into it. This makes zero-click malware attacks all the more dangerous. After all, they happen without your knowledge or consent. Meanwhile, attackers can use zero-click malware to: gain access to sensitive data, such as passwords or financial information; take control of your device; impersonate you and send out messages on your behalf; carry out additional attacks. Understanding Zero-Click Zero-click attacks exploit bugs, misconfigurations, or design flaws in an application or OS. They can come in many forms as attackers: target email applications and messaging apps such as WhatsApp or iMessage; build malicious websites; hack and infect legitimate websites; exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols or services. In one well-publicized example, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos suffered a zero-click attack. A WhatsApp message compromised his texts, instant messages, and potentially even voice recordings. Another well-known attack targeted the WhatsApp accounts of journalists, activists, and human rights defenders in several countries. The attackers installed the Pegasus spyware on the targeted device simply by placing a phone call to the device, even if the user did not answer the call. The malware could extract messages, photos, contacts, and other sensitive data from the device, as well as activate the device's camera and microphone to record the user's surroundings. How to Protect Against zero-click malware Protect against zero-click malware by keeping your device's software up to date. These attacks are often designed to exploit unknown vulnerabilities in software, enabling automatic updates can help ensure you run the latest, most secure software. Also, install and use security tools such as antivirus software and firewalls, which help detect and prevent the malware from infecting your device, and remain cautious about clicking on links or downloading files from unknown sources. Further reduce your risk by using strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Plus, limit your device exposure to public Wi-Fi networks and unknown devices. In case of a zero-click malware or other types of data breach, regularly back up your data, too. Store backups on a separate device that uses strong encryption and two-factor authentication, or use a secure cloud storage service. Not sure about the strength of your online protections? We can help secure your devices. Contact us today at 570-235-1946 or visit our Contact Page....