Security threats occur often. Major breaches gain press, alerting and worrying owners of small to midsize business outfits. Some owners are not tech savvy, hosting no tech teams in-house; to such owners, the digital space affords better resources and communications with clients and employees. However, the ongoing security protection and nightmare of immediate threats creates need for security measures and information.

Port Scan

ShieldsUp helps owners scan a bevy of ‘open ports.’ An open port does not equal an immediate sign of danger. The company computer system may be sending email blasts or running other systems. However, hackers use ‘backdoor’ methods of system access; once in a system, hackers ‘hide’ presence or change codes, becoming sole executives.

Scanning services help keep owners and IT workers aware of system operations and the arrival of potential threats.

Network Users

Some services help executives probe networks, revealing what machines and personalities use afforded resources. Rogue machines and personalities are not a problem for extremely small outfits, but once a corporation begins growing, it becomes difficult for system execs to track who are posing potential threats and using resources.

Frequent network scans are economical and wise operations used by small to large-sized business owners and IT teams.

Software Updates

Logistically, some businesses rely on major to minor software implementations. Hackers are smart, formulating long-term plans, in some cases keeping track of when software upgrades occur, preying on those using previous versions. Software manufacturers place greater emphasis toward popular and recent versions; hackers have to ‘figure it out’ software, warranting incipient upgrades.

Sadly and often, software breaches are facilitated by in-house executives’ laziness or lack of awareness in updating business software.

Wireless Access Points

Today’s business office is nontraditional, sans cubicles, formal wear and desktop computers. Employees using Wi-Fi connections create holes in main networks, allowing access to others (who may or may not be in the building).

A number of applications help owners detect Wi-Fi connections in the area, alerting them of alien users.

Penetration Tests

Building inspectors consistently check an entity’s integrity and ability to withstand future weather, wear, etc. Penetration tests do the same for digital infrastructures, alerting IT teams of potential areas of concern. Penetration test software may be purchased from a number of vendors including Rapid7.

Like a seasonal dental exam or health screening, penetration tests unveil potential threats and afford greater peace of mind.

Freelance Hackers

Some agencies and freelance ‘hackers’ address a company’s system for a fee, attempting to penetrate systems as faux rogues. Like many roles in life, those with experience make the best teachers (Some offer CEH V8 and other ‘white-hat hacker’ courses.) Therefore, those with experience “toying” with different systems are beneficial to legitimate business owners of all sizes.

Use extra caution approaching individuals and agencies. Ask for references and proof of social credibility.

Hacking and cyber threats increase as more businesses depend on digital resources and systems. Awareness and constant vigilance is a business owner’s best defense against potential threats. Seek applications, personalities, and agencies to help guard valuable business assets.

Author Bio: loves computers and information technology. She values tech training and often blogs about social media and other important questions and concerns businesses can have when using computers.