Supporting a secure network
The data that flows across you company network is essential to your business. Keep it secure!
Internal network security
A computer network should be secure so that users only have access to the data they need to perform their daily tasks and no more. Having the cleaner have access to the payroll accounts, could lead to some interesting results for a disgruntled employee!
External network security
Most computers in a business environment are connected to a network and, in turn, that network is connected to the internet. Therefore, all PCs on the network are connected to 'the outside world' and security should be applied as to what data is available to external users.
You would never leave the front door of your office unlocked, in case of theft; simply put, treat your computer network in the same way as the building it resides in. There are many internet based scams with new ones appearing every month or so. Educating users to be aware of such scams is like making sure they lock the office when leaving at night.
Many scams are not just after bank details, one of the most popular scams for obtaining money has been the creation of web-based Anti Virus checker that returns false infection reports and then charges the user an amount to fix them. Not only does the scam instantly get a credit card payment, but the users credit card details, probably to be sold on at a later date.
The theft of personal identity is also becoming popular. Social networking sites are excellent for marketing products and setting up 'fan clubs' but great care should be taken as to what details are placed on such sites for all the world to see.
e.g. If you state on Facebook that you are going on holiday to Spain next week, you are effectively advertising to every criminal with an internet connection that your house will be empty, your credit cards are ripe for cloning and your car for stealing.
Keep you company data within your company - It could save your business.
