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Online threats are a serious concern for every business. New cyber security risks are constantly emerging, and the cost of failing to protect information is high. IT departments do their best to keep their systems secure, but the average IT group doesn't have enough time or the specialized skills needed to deal adequately with online risks. The services of a cyber security firm, often called a managed security services provider (MSSP), will provide greater protection.

Cyber security sounds like something that falls under the responsibility of the IT department. The IT department may handle many of the responsibilities that go along with protecting the company from cyber threats, but that doesn't make security the sole responsibility of the IT department. Ensuring that your business doesn't fall prey to a cyber attack is everyone's responsibility. With 43% of cyber attacks targeting small businesses, it's more important than ever that everyone on your team participate in your cyber security measures. 

If you’ve been presented with a requirement to align your cyber security practices with the NIST Cyber Security Framework, you might at first think that compliance will just be the IT department’s responsibility. Nothing could be further from the truth. Cyber security is a responsibility that all employees need to share, but there are some specific obligations that lie within each department of your organization.

    We all know that email scams are going around like crazy these days. Our goal is to keep you and your company safe. There are a few simple techniques that will help with our security efforts. In this article, we’ll cover: Creating a Secure Password How to Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams And Steps to Prevent Fraudulent Payments So, let's dive in.

If you’re a manufacturer in a government supply chain, you’ve probably heard by now that it will no longer be enough to self-certify your cyber security stature. You’re going to have to prove that the data you store for the parts, products and services that you supply are protected from theft, alteration or kidnapping by following the NIST Cyber Security Framework.

If you manufacture one little part for a piece of military equipment for the US government, very soon - if not already -  you’re going to be required to verify that you’re compliant with the NIST Cyber Security Framework. It might not be surprising to learn that the government is tightening up cyber security throughout their supply chain, but organizations that aren’t part of a government supply chain are also adopting the framework. The reasons may be a little different for each organization but the outcome is similar - they become better managers of cyber risk.

The lock on your front door isn’t going to keep intruders out unless you make a habit of using it. The same is true for the digital locks on your data and IT systems. Strong passwords continue to provide a solid defense against hackers, but password management guidelines within the NIST Cyber Security Framework have changed.

The year 2019 will be remembered for many significant events; the huge Amazon Rainforest fire, the burning of Notre Dame Cathedral, the US women’s soccer team won the world cup; tons of people are running for president; and Henry County spent $650K to restore its data from a cyber attack.

You’re gearing up to pick the best outsourced IT company for your business, excited about the potential benefits!  But you aren’t 100% sure how to pick the best managed IT services provider. Or maybe you’ve narrowed it down, but now you’re stuck in a dead tie. Accent Computer Solutions, Inc. has been helping companies develop their best IT strategy for over 30 years. A topic that frequently comes up is, “How can I compare IT support companies? What criteria should I evaluate?”   Since we talk about it often, we’ve compiled a list to help narrow down your search for the right IT support!

These days, more and more companies are being required to comply with regulations for security, even if they're not in a regulated industry. Specifications for NIST compliance, to name one, are flowing down the supply chain and in order to continue to do business with your customers, you may be required to prove compliance with their security standards.