Managed IT services involve outsourcing your IT management to a third-party provider who takes responsibility for monitoring, maintaining, and securing your technology systems. There are many benefits to engaging with a managed services partner, and they can significantly improve your company's overall efficiency and bottom line. In this blog post, we'll explore the key advantages of using managed IT services, focusing on four key aspects: access to reliable experts, predictable IT costs, proactive patching, and the ability to focus on growing your business.

1) Gain Access to Reliable Experts Ready to Address Any Issues That Arise

One of the primary benefits of managed IT services is having a team of reliable experts at your disposal. IT systems can be complex and challenging to manage, especially when something goes wrong. Whether it's a server crash, network downtime, or a cyberattack, IT issues often require quick resolution to minimize disruptions to business operations. Add the ever-changing technology landscape and it can be difficult to keep up.

With managed IT services, you gain access to a team of experienced professionals who specialize in various areas of IT. These experts are equipped to handle any issues that arise, ensuring your systems stay up and running smoothly. Instead of scrambling to find solutions when problems occur, you can trust that your managed service provider (MSP) will handle the monitoring and troubleshooting for you.

MSP providers offer around-the-clock monitoring of your systems. This means they can detect potential issues before they become significant problems, often preventing downtime before it happens. This proactive approach not only reduces the number of disruptions to your business but also ensures that your IT infrastructure is always operating at its best.

2) Predictable IT Costs: Budgeting for the Future

Managing IT costs can be a headache for businesses, particularly when unexpected expenses arise. The need for equipment replacements, software upgrades, and emergency fixes can quickly drain your budget, leaving little room for other investments. However, managed IT services offer a solution to this unpredictability.

By outsourcing your IT needs to an MSP, your IT expenses become a predictable line item in your budget. Instead of facing surprise costs for unplanned technology upgrades or repairs, you pay a fixed monthly fee for ongoing support and services. This approach allows you to manage your IT spending more effectively and ensures that your business is always prepared for future technology needs.

Additionally, an MSP will work with you to forecast your IT requirements based on your business goals. Whether you plan to expand your workforce, open new locations, or launch new services, your managed IT provider can help you develop a strategic IT budget that aligns with your objectives. This helps you make informed decisions about when to invest in new technologies, and it ensures that your IT systems grow alongside your business.

3) Proactive Patching: Keeping Your Systems Secure

Cybersecurity threats are a growing concern for businesses of all sizes. Hackers are constantly developing new methods to exploit vulnerabilities in software and operating systems, putting your company’s data and reputation at risk. One of the most effective ways to protect your business from cyber threats is through proactive patching and patch management.

Proactive patching involves regularly applying updates and security fixes to your business’s servers, operating systems, and software. These patches help address known vulnerabilities, ensuring that your systems are secure and up to date. Failure to apply these updates leaves your systems exposed to the latest security threats, which could result in costly data breaches or system compromises.

With managed IT services, patch management is handled on your behalf. Your MSP will ensure that all necessary updates are applied promptly, so you never have to worry about falling behind on critical security patches. This proactive approach to cybersecurity not only protects your business but also saves you the hassle of manually managing updates or worrying about security risks.

4) Focus on Growing Your Business, Not Your IT Needs

One of the most significant advantages of outsourcing your IT management to a third-party provider is the ability to shift your focus from technical issues to more strategic business matters. When you're not bogged down by IT problems and maintenance tasks, you have more time and energy to focus on what truly matters—growing your business.

Whether it’s expanding your customer base, improving your products or services, or exploring new markets, the less time you spend thinking about IT, the more you can invest in the future of your company. With managed IT services, you can rely on a team of experts to handle the day-to-day management of your technology systems, freeing you up to focus on your core business activities.

Additionally, your MSP can offer valuable insights and advice on how to leverage technology to improve your business processes and achieve your goals. Whether it's recommending software tools to streamline operations or helping you adopt cloud-based solutions to increase flexibility, a good managed service provider acts as a trusted technology partner who can help guide your business to success.

The Strategic Advantage of Managed IT Services

In today’s competitive business landscape, having a robust and secure IT infrastructure is essential to success. Managed IT services offer businesses of all sizes a range of benefits, including access to reliable experts, predictable IT costs, proactive security patching, and the freedom to focus on strategic growth. By outsourcing your IT needs to a trusted provider, you can ensure that your technology systems are always running at their best, while also freeing up valuable resources to focus on what really matters—taking your business to the next level.

Whether you're looking to reduce IT headaches, improve security, or develop a long-term technology strategy, managed IT services offer a solution that can help your business thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Jason Hood

President, DMC Technology Group

Jason Hood brings over 30 years of IT leadership to DMC, having successfully guided companies through transformative business initiatives across a range of industries.

The post Why Outsourcing IT with DMC Technology Group Transforms Your Business appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

User and computer accounts lie at the heart of an Active Directory Domain, controlling who can log into the domain, from which computers, and with access to which resources. The Domain Controllers silently direct all of this traffic and do such a good job of staying "out of the way" that it's sometimes easy to forget about the underlying accounts and systems involved. As computers get replaced with new ones, the older computer object may remain in Active Directory for days, weeks, months or even years. In some cases, those computer accounts may be disabled, as happens when a computer is removed from the Domain. In other cases, the objects may simply continue to exist, untouched and forgotten about.

Similarly, user accounts may be disabled when people stop working for a company, but this is not always an automatic process, and it can sometimes be overlooked. This can lead to user accounts existing in the Domain for some time, often with a static password and with very little attention being paid to it. In cases where Entra Connect is being used to synchronize on-premises user and computer accounts with Entra ID, this can be particularly troubling. An enabled, but disused, user account can provide a possible entry point for malicious behavior.

Often flying even further under the RADAR, Group Policy Objects may be created for initial testing or used to perform a specific task, then forgotten about and left in place long after they've become irrelevant. In many cases, the settings contained in those policies are benign and unimportant, but a large number of applied and unnecessary Group Policy Objects can slow down Group Policy Processing on client computers and add unwanted network traffic between client computers and Domain Controllers. Group Policy issues become more likely, and potentially more disruptive, over many years as network administrators come and go. The combined efforts of several administrators over many years, combined with a reluctance to make changes to policies that are not fully understood, can lead to sprawl, complexity, and the potential for configuration issues on client computers and servers.

This can also be true of login scripts, which can "hide in plain sight" for years, without doing anything of any benefit. A legacy login script may be directing computers to map drives to servers and shares that no longer exist, or printers and print servers that haven't be in production for years. These scripts may be written to prevent error messages from appearing to the end user, but the time it takes to process invalid login script commands may increase login times.

Many companies also have a standard procedure for deploying new servers and computers, and this often involves the use of a standardized password for the local Administrator account. If that account is compromised on any one of the computers on the network, those same credentials can be used to remotely access other computers with the same username and password on them. This lateral movement can allow malicious software or hackers to move rapidly across the network, wreaking havoc and causing devastation as they go.

DMC Technology Group can help identify user and computer accounts that have not communicated with the domain for some time, which can help to identify those accounts that can be disabled or deleted from Active Directory. We can also assist with the implementation of Microsoft Defender for Identity, which can monitor the behavior on the local Domain, and alert administrators when dangerous or anomalous behavior is detected. We can help determine which Group Policy Objects and login scripts are still being used, and which are no longer relevant and can be removed from the network. To help prevent lateral movement, we can help install and configure the Local Administrator Password Service (LAPS) either on-premises using Active Directory or in the cloud, using Entra ID.

It's truly a testament to the longevity and effectiveness of Active Directory that we spend so little time thinking about the accounts, protocols and services that make it all work. But a little "Spring cleaning" now and then can help reduce the complexity of an Active Directory environment and streamline the communication process between client computers and their Domain Controllers. A few hours spent on this kind of tune-up now can yield benefits for months or years to come.

Jason Hood

President, DMC Technology Group

Jason Hood brings over 30 years of IT leadership to DMC, having successfully guided companies through transformative business initiatives across a range of industries.

The post Why Active Directory Domains Still Matter: The Overlooked Maintenance Tasks That Could Cost You appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

The Upgrade Process: Is Your System Ready?
Windows 11 introduces stricter hardware requirements compared to Windows 10. Before upgrading, devices need to be evaluated to ensure they meet the minimum system requirements. While modest, the system requirements include:

• Processor: A compatible 64-bit CPU with at least 1 GHz clock speed and 2 or more cores.
• RAM: 4 GB or more.
• Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
• Display: A high-definition (720p) display, 9” or larger, with 8 bits per color channel.

Microsoft provides a PC Health Check tool to verify system compatibility. This tool is very handy for taking the guesswork out of matching up requirements, especially on shop floor systems, or newly purchased hardware that seems as though it should be compatible. If your device fails the PC Health Check tool, its clear checklist style readout will tell you where things went wrong, so certain issues can be addressed, such as insufficient disk space. However, for some errors, like an incompatible TPM chip or CPU, you simply won’t be able to upgrade that system to Windows 11, and you’ll need to plan for purchasing new hardware.

CPU Compatibility: A Major Roadblock
One of the most significant hurdles for users upgrading to Windows 11 is CPU compatibility. Windows 11 requires a relatively modern processor for compatibility with its newer security features, which excludes many CPUs that were perfectly capable of running Windows 10. For example, Intel 7th Gen processors and older, as well as AMD Ryzen 1st Gen processors, are not officially supported.

This has left some users frustrated, as their otherwise functional systems running Windows 10 perfectly fine, are deemed incompatible. For those systems that can’t be upgraded, but are considered business critical, Microsoft Extended Security Updates may be an option for the short term.

Increased Security in Windows 11
One of the most compelling reasons to upgrade to Windows 11 is its enhanced security features. Microsoft has made significant improvements to protect users from modern threats, including:

• Hardware-Based Security: Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, which work together to protect against firmware-level attacks and ensure that only trusted software runs during startup.
• Windows Hello: Improved biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) for secure and convenient login.
• Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: Enhanced protection against phishing and malicious websites.
• Virtualization-Based Security (VBS): Isolates critical system processes in a virtualized environment to prevent malware from accessing sensitive data.
• Zero Trust Architecture: Windows 11 is designed with a Zero Trust approach, ensuring that users and devices are continuously verified before accessing resources.

These security enhancements make Windows 11 a more robust choice for both individuals and businesses, especially in an era of increasing cyber threats.

Legacy Software: The Hidden Pitfall
Another critical consideration is legacy software. Many businesses rely on older applications that may not be compatible with Windows 11. This is especially true for specialized software for interfacing with hardware like PLCs, or an aging ERP system that is no longer actively developed or maintained.

Before upgrading, businesses should work with a trusted IT Partner to assess their readiness for the upgrade to Windows 11 and do the following:

Check Software Compatibility: Verify with software vendors whether their applications are compatible with Windows 11, or if not, what the timeline for compatibility may be, so you can accurately assess business impact.

Test in a Virtual Environment or New System: Run Windows 11 in a virtual machine or on new hardware to test critical applications before committing user systems to the upgrade.

Explore Alternatives: If legacy software is incompatible, consider finding modern alternatives or running the software in a virtualized Windows 10 environment. Leverage the experience and technical expertise of your IT Services Partner to build a solution that keeps business running with minimal impact.

Failure to address legacy software compatibility can result in disrupted workflows, lost productivity, downtime, and unforeseen costs for software upgrades or additional vendor support.

Windows 10 End of Support: The Clock is Ticking
Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14th, 2025. After this date, the operating system will no longer receive security updates, leaving systems vulnerable to new threats. This deadline underscores the importance of planning your upgrade to Windows 11 sooner rather than later.

For businesses, the end of support means they must either upgrade to Windows 11 or invest in extended security updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, which can be costly. While it may seem like October is a long way away, the reality is that there’s no better time to start working with your IT Partners on a plan for upgrading your hardware.

Extended Security Updates for Windows 10
For organizations that cannot immediately upgrade to Windows 11, Microsoft is expected to offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, similar to the program provided for Windows 7. These updates will provide critical security patches for up to three years after the end-of-support date, but they come at an additional cost. Businesses should weigh the cost of ESUs against the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 to determine the best course of action.

Key Considerations Before Upgrading

• Backup Your Data: Always back up important files before performing a major upgrade. OneDrive folder syncing and a robust backup platform help to curb fears of a catastrophic loss of user files during an upgrade gone awry.
• Check Hardware Compatibility: Use the PC Health Check tool to ensure your device meets the requirements.
• Evaluate Software Dependencies: Identify and test critical applications for compatibility.
• Plan for Hardware Upgrades: If your system is incompatible, budget for new hardware that supports Windows 11.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on Microsoft’s announcements regarding updates and support deadlines.

Conclusion
Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is a significant step that requires careful planning. While the new operating system offers many benefits—including enhanced security, a modern interface, and innovative features—the stricter hardware requirements and potential compatibility issues with legacy software can pose significant challenges. With the end of support for Windows 10 looming, now is the time to evaluate your systems, address any roadblocks, and prepare for the transition. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure a smooth upgrade process and continue to enjoy a secure and efficient computing experience.

By addressing these key points, businesses can make informed decisions about upgrading to Windows 11 and avoid the pitfalls that come with these forced upgrades.

Failing to plan is always planning to fail, and DMC is here to partner with you as your trusted advisor in the perilous process of upgrading to Microsoft’s latest operating system. Please reach out and the DMC Technology Group experts can get to work!

Jason Hood

President, DMC Technology Group

Jason Hood brings over 30 years of IT leadership to DMC, having successfully guided companies through transformative business initiatives across a range of industries.

The post Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11: What You Need to Know appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

Recently, I found myself deep in conversation with my Managed Service Provider (MSP) customers as we prepared for M365 license renewals. It struck me how much digital clutter accumulates over time, and how important it is to regularly step back and clean house.

Unnecessary Licenses

Take, for example, a client I worked with last year. They had dozens of unused M365 licenses assigned to former employees, shared mailboxes still hosting outdated project emails, and a web of transport rules so tangled it was a wonder any emails reached their destination at all. Sound familiar? If so, it might be time for a little IT spring cleaning.

The first step? License assignments. It is easy for organizations to accumulate unnecessary licenses, driving up costs without adding value. By reviewing and reallocating these, we were able to optimize spending and ensure every user had exactly what they needed—no more, no less.

Unused Mailboxes

Next, we turned our attention to user accounts. Over the years, old accounts piled up like digital dust bunnies, often with permissions still lingering long after their owners have moved on. We combed through active directory, removing or disabling inactive accounts, and tightening access controls to improve security.

Then came the mailboxes. You would not believe how many standalone and shared mailboxes we found that had not been accessed in months, sometimes years. We archived what we needed, deleted the rest, and refined permissions to keep things lean and manageable.

But the real revelation was in the group structures. So many teams had created ad hoc groups for one-off projects that never were cleaned up, leading to confusion and misrouted emails. By streamlining these groups, we restored clarity and efficiency to their communication workflows.

Updates to Email Security 

And of course, no IT cleanup is complete without a deep dive into email security. We reviewed forwarding rules and transport policies, shutting down any unauthorized forwarding and ensuring phishing protections were properly configured. SPAM filters got a tune-up, and unnecessary rules were pruned to prevent disruptions.

By the end of this process, my client’s M365 environment was running smoothly—no excess, no confusion, just a clean, efficient system ready for the months ahead. 

It was a reminder that IT hygiene, just like home cleaning, should be a regular habit rather than a once-a-year scramble.

So, when was the last time you gave your IT setup a good spring cleaning? If you have not done so recently, now’s the perfect time to start. 

Need help with your IT spring cleaning? Please reach out and the DMC Technology Group experts can get to work!

Jason Hood

President, DMC Technology Group

Jason Hood brings over 30 years of IT leadership to DMC, having successfully guided companies through transformative business initiatives across a range of industries.

The post Spring Cleaning for IT: A Fresh Start for Your M365 Environment appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

The Threat: What You Need to Know

The vulnerability affects multiple generations of SonicWall firewalls (Gen 6 and Gen 7) running older firmware versions. Exploitation could allow attackers to bypass authentication, gaining unauthorized access to network resources. SonicWall has strongly urged customers to update their firmware to mitigate this issue.

Affected Firmware Versions:

• 6.5.4.15-117n and older
• 7.0.1-5161 and older

Recommended Firmware Updates:

• Gen 6 / 6.5 hardware firewalls: SonicOS 6.5.5.1-6n or newer
• Gen 6 / 6.5 NSv firewalls: SonicOS 6.5.4.v-21s-RC2457 or newer
• Gen 7 firewalls: SonicOS 7.0.1-5165 or newer; 7.1.3-7015 or higher
• TZ80 firewalls: SonicOS 8.0.0-8037 or newer

Additional Risks

The firmware updates also address other vulnerabilities, including:

• CVE-2024-40762: Weak pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) in the SSL VPN authentication token generator.
• CVE-2024-53705: Server-side request forgery (SSRF) vulnerability in the SSH management interface.
• CVE-2024-53706: Privilege escalation flaw in Gen 7 SonicOS Cloud NSv for AWS and Azure.

SonicWall's Recommendations

• For SSL VPN vulnerabilities:
  • Restrict access to trusted sources.
  • Disable internet access entirely if not required.
• For SSH vulnerabilities:
  • Limit SSH management access.
  • Disable internet access to SSH management if possible.

How DMC Technology Group Can Help

At DMC Technology Group, we understand the critical importance of network security and proactive threat mitigation. If you’re a SonicWall user concerned about this vulnerability, we can:

1. Assess Your Network Vulnerabilities:
   Conduct a thorough review of your network to identify risks and ensure all firmware is up to date.
2. Implement Patch Management:
   Apply the latest SonicOS firmware updates to secure your firewalls against known threats.
3. Enhance Security Policies:
   Configure firewall rules, restrict management access, and implement best practices for SSL VPN and SSH security.
4. Monitor and Respond:
   Provide 24/7 network monitoring to detect and respond to suspicious activity in real time.
5. Train Your Team:
   Offer training and resources to ensure your IT team can maintain a secure and resilient infrastructure.

Staying Ahead of Threats

Cybersecurity threats evolve rapidly, and vulnerabilities like this highlight the importance of vigilance. With our expertise, DMC Technology Group ensures that your organization is protected against the latest risks.

Contact us today to secure your network and safeguard your business, or download our Security Checklist to see if you're vulnerable.

Stay protected. Stay proactive. Stay connected.

The post Protecting Your Network: Addressing the SonicWall Firewall Authentication Bypass Vulnerability appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

While granting access to social media sites on company networks and devices can support employee engagement and productivity, it also exposes organizations to significant cybersecurity risks and reputational challenges.

At DMC Technology Group, we understand the complexities of balancing workplace flexibility with the need for robust security measures. In this blog post, we explore the risks of allowing social media access on corporate networks and devices, and how creating a comprehensive social media policy can bolster cybersecurity and mitigate potential damage.

Understanding the Risks of Social Media Access

When employees access social media platforms on internal networks and devices, they inadvertently create potential vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Here are some key risks to consider:

1. Phishing Attacks

Social media platforms are prime hunting grounds for cybercriminals. Employees may click on malicious links disguised as harmless posts or direct messages, leading to phishing attacks that compromise sensitive company information.

2. Malware and Ransomware

Social media advertisements, downloads, or unauthorized apps can harbor malware or ransomware, which can infect an organization’s network, resulting in financial loss and operational downtime.

3. Data Leakage

Employees may unknowingly share sensitive company information on social media. For example, an innocuous photo of a workstation could expose confidential data on a visible screen.

4. Reputational Damage

What employees post on social media, whether intentional or accidental, reflects on the company. A poorly thought-out post could harm the organization’s brand image or expose it to legal liabilities.

5. Reduced Productivity

Unmonitored access to social media can lead to distractions, reducing overall employee productivity and focus during work hours.

Creating a Social Media Policy: A Key Step Toward Security

A well-crafted social media policy is essential for addressing the risks associated with employee social media use on company devices and networks. Here’s how an effective policy can help:

1. Define Acceptable Use

Clearly outline which social media platforms employees may access during work hours and the scope of acceptable use, such as professional networking on LinkedIn versus personal browsing on Facebook.

2. Set Security Guidelines

Educate employees on recognizing phishing attempts, avoiding suspicious links, and understanding the risks of downloading unauthorized apps. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for work-related social media accounts can also add a layer of security.

3. Address Content Sharing

Provide guidelines on what employees can and cannot share online, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding company data, client information, and proprietary content.

4. Monitor and Control Access

Consider using network filtering tools to restrict access to certain platforms or implementing monitoring software to track usage and detect potential threats in real time.

5. Promote Personal Accountability

Encourage employees to think before they post. What may seem harmless to them could have unintended consequences for the organization.

6. Detail Incident Response

Outline procedures for reporting suspected security breaches or inappropriate posts, ensuring swift damage control and mitigation efforts.

How Technology Can Support Your Social Media Policy

Technology solutions play a critical role in enforcing your social media policy while maintaining a secure network. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Endpoint Security: Deploy endpoint protection software on all devices to detect and block threats originating from social media use.
• Firewall Configuration: Use firewalls to limit social media access to specific times, locations, or groups within your organization.
• Network Monitoring: Implement tools to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity related to social media use.
• Employee Training Programs: Invest in ongoing cybersecurity training to keep employees informed about the latest social media threats and best practices.

DMC Technology Group: Your Partner in Cybersecurity

Allowing social media access at work doesn’t have to be a cybersecurity nightmare. With the right balance of policy, education, and technology, you can create a secure environment that supports productivity while mitigating risks.

At DMC Technology Group, we specialize in helping businesses design and implement robust cybersecurity strategies tailored to their unique needs. From policy creation to advanced endpoint protection, we ensure your organization remains secure in an increasingly digital workplace.

If your organization needs help navigating the challenges of social media security, reach out to DMC Technology Group today. Together, we’ll craft a solution that safeguards your business while empowering your workforce.

Contact us now to learn how we can fortify your organization’s defenses and support your journey toward smarter, safer social media use.

The post Navigating the Risks of Social Media Access in the Workplace appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

Before joining DMC, Hood held leadership roles at respected organizations including Stratascale, OnPoint Group, Dana Holding Corporation, First Solar, and Eaton Corporation. He earned a BA from the University of Toledo and an MBA from Tiffin University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason as our new president,” said Patrick Sheehan, CEO of DMC Technology Group. “His leadership skills, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence make him a natural fit for DMC. As a life-long resident of the Toledo area and an Eagle Scout, Jason shares our values and passion for giving back to the community. We are proud to have him lead our team into the future.”

Jason Hood

President, DMC Technology Group

My mission is to guide enterprise and F500 clients through the building of multi-year strategies that support their business goals and ensure the close alignment of technology to the goals of the business. I assist our executive-level clients with sourcing, testing, and implementing emerging technologies to improve digital agility and business transformation.

Hood expressed his enthusiasm for the role and his dedication to advancing DMC’s presence in the region. “DMC’s legacy of delivering innovative IT solutions and its strong community ties are what drew me to this opportunity,” said Hood. “I look forward to building on that foundation, expanding our impact in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, and helping businesses thrive through technology.”

Under Sheehan’s leadership, DMC has experienced consistent growth. Hood’s appointment marks a renewed focus on both regional expansion and enhancing client and employee experience.

Sheehan will continue as owner of DMC Technology Group, with a particular focus on its IBM customers and solutions—the niche where the company began over 31 years ago.

For more information about DMC Technology Group and its services, visit www.dmctechgroup.com.

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About DMC Technology Group
DMC Technology Group is a locally owned IT services provider based in Toledo, Ohio. For over three decades, DMC has been committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower businesses to achieve their goals. Services include managed IT, cybersecurity, network monitoring, IBM Power i support and helping organizations streamline operations and enhance security in an increasingly digital world.

The post DMC Technology Group Names Jason Hood as New President appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

Holiday-season cyberattacks are a very real threat. Cybercriminals know that as companies wind down for the holidays, they have an opportunity to exploit overlooked security gaps. The stakes are high, and failing to secure company systems can have serious consequences, including job loss. Here’s how you can protect your company—and your job—by securing systems when everyone else is winding down.

Why the Holidays Are Prime Time for Cybercrime

During holiday seasons, most businesses run on reduced staff, with many team members out of office. This creates several issues:

• Lower Surveillance: Fewer people on duty means attacks are less likely to be quickly noticed and stopped.
• High Data Traffic: End-of-year financial data and large volumes of customer activity mean cybercriminals have a lot to gain if they successfully breach a system.
• Delayed Incident Response: When key people are away, response times can lag, allowing attackers more time to exploit systems without interference.

Cybercriminals love the holiday lull, and they’re counting on unguarded systems. Don’t give them that opening.

The Top Steps to Protect Your Company (and Your Job) Over the Holidays

By taking these proactive steps, you can keep your company secure and avoid becoming the unfortunate face of a cybersecurity failure.

1. Implement Strong Authentication Protocols

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): This extra layer requires more than just a password, which can thwart attackers who manage to steal login credentials.
• Password Hygiene: Encourage everyone to use strong, unique passwords for each system. Weak passwords are an easy entry point, so make sure all team members are using secure passwords and possibly a password manager.
  

2. Complete System Updates and Patch All Software

• Vulnerabilities are often addressed in software patches, so make sure all updates are completed before the holidays. Cybercriminals are quick to exploit known flaws that haven’t been patched, especially during times when IT teams are thinly staffed.

3. Educate Employees on Recognizing Holiday Scams

• Many breaches start with business email compromise through phishing scams. Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a cybercrime where scammers impersonate trusted figures via email to steal money or sensitive company information. Common tactics include requesting fake bill payments or obtaining data for further scams. BEC incidents are increasing, with nearly 20,000 complaints reported to the FBI last year, partly driven by the rise in remote work.
  
• Educate your team on common holiday scams, like fake shipping notifications, “urgent” donation requests, and deal offers from suspicious sources. Even if most employees are out, training them beforehand reduces the chance of anyone clicking a dangerous link while away from work.
  
• Criminals adapt to seasonal trends, so watch out for holiday-specific scams:
  • Phony Promotions or “Holiday Deal” Phishing: Fake emails promising discounts or gift card promotions are a common tactic for spreading malware.
  • Bogus Shipping Updates: With increased online orders, cybercriminals send fake shipping notifications with malicious links.
  • Emotional Charity Scams: Appeals for urgent donations can lure employees into giving out financial details or clicking harmful links.

4. Set Up Continuous Monitoring and Alerts

• Automated monitoring tools are essential for spotting unusual behavior, like unexpected login attempts. Set up real-time alerts for suspicious activity and ensure there’s a plan to address alerts if IT staff are out.

5. Limit Access to Critical Systems Temporarily

• Consider limiting access to sensitive systems during the holidays, especially if staff don’t need regular access to them. Temporarily deactivating access for unnecessary users can minimize risk during low-activity periods.

6. Conduct a Security Audit Before the Holidays

• Do a thorough check for open vulnerabilities, from unused accounts to outdated software. This proactive approach reduces the chances of falling victim to opportunistic attackers.

7. Back Up Important Data and Test Your Backup Process

• Make sure all critical data is backed up and that your restoration process is tested. Should a ransomware attack occur, you’ll want a secure way to recover without paying attackers.

8. Develop a Rapid Incident Response Plan

• Ensure there’s a clear protocol for handling a security breach even if key people are out. Know exactly who to contact, and make sure every team member understands the process, no matter where they are.

Don’t Start the New Year with a Pink Slip

Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting company assets—it’s about protecting your own job. Failing to secure systems over the holidays could lead to more than a reprimand if an attack costs the company financially or damages its reputation. 

The team at DMC Technology Group are Toledo’s local cybersecurity experts. Prevention is your best defense; whether a DMC security audit, or a full penetration test, a small investment in holiday cybersecurity can keep the holiday spirit—and your job—intact.

The post Protect Your Job Over the Holidays by Safeguarding Your Company’s Security appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

In today’s digital landscape, the threat of cyberattacks looms large over businesses of all sizes. Among these threats, ransomware attacks have become increasingly prevalent and devastating even for companies in Toledo, Ohio. This is why having an effective incident response plan is not just beneficial, but essential for every company. At DMC Technology Group, we aim to shed light on what incident response and ransomware attacks entail and why a proactive approach is crucial for your business.

Understanding Ransomware Attacks:

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or data until a ransom is paid. These attacks can cripple an organization’s operations, leading to significant financial losses and reputational damage. Here’s how a typical ransomware attack unfolds:

• Infiltration: Cybercriminals gain access to a company’s network through phishing emails, malicious websites, or exploiting vulnerabilities.
• Encryption: Once inside, the ransomware encrypts critical files, rendering them inaccessible.
• Ransom Demand: The attackers demand a ransom in exchange for a decryption key, often accompanied by threats of data leaks or further damage.
• Decryption or Data Loss: Victims may choose to pay the ransom (which is not guaranteed to work) or face the potential loss of valuable data and operational downtime.

What is Incident Response?

Incident response refers to the systematic approach taken by an organization to prepare for, detect, contain, and recover from cyber incidents. This process involves a series of steps designed to mitigate the impact of security breaches, limit damage, and ensure a swift return to normal operations. An effective incident response plan includes:

• Preparation: Developing and implementing policies, tools, and training to prevent and handle incidents.
• Detection and Analysis: Monitoring systems to identify potential threats and analyzing the severity and impact of these threats.
• Containment, Eradication, and Recovery: Containing the threat to prevent further damage, eradicating the root cause, and recovering affected systems.
• Post-Incident Activity: Reviewing and analyzing the incident to improve future response strategies and strengthen defenses.

Preventing Ransomware Attacks

While having an incident response plan is critical, prevention is the first line of defense against ransomware attacks. Companies can significantly reduce their risk by implementing the following preventive measures:

• Employee Training: Educate employees about the dangers of phishing emails and the importance of cautious online behavior.
• Regular Backups: Maintain regular backups of critical data and ensure they are stored securely offline to prevent ransomware from encrypting these backups.
• Security Software: Use advanced security software, including antivirus, anti-malware, and intrusion detection systems, to detect and block ransomware.
• Patch Management: Keep all software and systems updated with the latest security patches to close vulnerabilities that ransomware might exploit.
• Access Controls: Limit user access to sensitive data and systems based on their roles and responsibilities to minimize the potential impact of an attack.

Why Every Company Needs an Incident Response Plan:

Regardless of size, every company is a potential target for ransomware attacks. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often perceived as easier targets due to potentially weaker security measures compared to larger corporations. Here’s why an incident response plan is indispensable:

• Mitigating Financial Losses: Cyberattacks can result in significant financial repercussions, including ransom payments, recovery costs, and lost revenue due to downtime. An incident response plan helps minimize these losses by enabling a swift and coordinated response.
• Protecting Reputation: A well-handled incident can maintain customer trust and protect the company’s reputation. Conversely, a poorly managed response can result in long-term reputational damage.
• Ensuring Business Continuity: An incident response plan ensures that critical business functions can continue or be quickly restored, reducing the impact on operations.
• Compliance and Legal Obligations: Many industries have regulatory requirements for data protection and incident response. Having a plan in place ensures compliance and can help avoid legal penalties.

In the face of ever-evolving cyber threats, the importance of a robust incident response plan cannot be overstated. Ransomware attacks are not a matter of "if" but "when," and being prepared can make all the difference. 

Check out proprietary Security Posture Checklist to better understand your vulnerabilities.

At DMC Technology Group, we are dedicated to helping businesses of all sizes develop and implement effective incident response strategies to protect their assets and ensure resilience against cyber threats.

Invest in your company’s future by prioritizing cybersecurity and incident response planning today. Contact us to learn more about how we can help safeguard your business against ransomware and other cyber threats.

The post Understanding Ransomware Attacks and Incident Response: Why Your Company Needs a Plan appeared first on DMC Technology Group.

Because DMC serves multiple municipalities and city governments as co-managed customers, we understand the complexities of ensuring efficient, secure, and modern IT governance to support administration operations and public services.

Municipalities, townships and local governments carry the significant responsibility of ensuring the security and integrity of data to protect citizens and efficiently provide services.

As with any industry, the “operating system” that allows these community organizations to serve their constituents involves network infrastructure, software, communication systems and cybersecurity measures, all of the traditional elements of a modern IT ecosystem. 

However, many townships and local city governments are spread thin and lack internal IT staff or expert resources to manage this burden. After all, the focus is on serving residents in a wide range of capacities, from public safety to city services like maintaining parks. But IT systems are the core of any operation, and these organizations have many of the same needs as other businesses and some specific requirements. 

When DMC Technology Group partners with a township, municipality or local government, we like to perform a tech audit and assessment to determine risky IT gaps, such as using a single admin account that logs into each device and caches credentials. 

Because DMC serves multiple municipalities as co-managed customers who enlist in support, we understand the complexities of ensuring efficient, secure and modern IT governance to support administration operations and public services. Here are some ways DMC takes the load off managing IT for Ohio townships and municipalities. 

Test 1, 2, 3 — Cybersecurity for Municipalities

Understanding IT vulnerabilities is the first step in establishing a stopgap cybersecurity strategy. First, is the existing IT security infrastructure working? We perform disaster recovery tests to find out, along with security and vulnerability testing. Then, we help Ohio municipalities establish and implement threat detection and prevention protocols, and incident response and recovery plans. This includes data encryption and addressing user authentication. For example, a general best practice we make sure is in place is using LAPS (Local Admin Password Solution). 

Specific to the public sector, we often help set up MDT (Mobile Data Terminals) for police and EMS units to protect those life-saving and public safety terminals and workstations. If malicious activity is recognized, an alert is dispatched and immediate action is taken to head off a breach. 

Many municipalities and public sector clients benefit from Arctic Wolf Incident Response (IR) retainer partnerships and IR builders, which are software tools that help IT partners respond to and recover from cyber attacks, data loss and service outages. When you’re serving a community and its citizens, you can’t risk downtime. 

>>Case Study: A township administrator had an incident on Thanksgiving evening. DMC’s cybersecurity tools locked down the server automatically. There was no cybersecurity incident response plan in place. They called their insurer and other companies to respond, but it took a few hours and yielded no results. However, if they had an Arctic Wolf IR retainer with guaranteed rates and a one-hour response service-level agreement with a plan in place, they would not have to adjust on the fly. Arctic Wolf has a copy of the plan so they can quickly respond. 

Plan Ahead — IT Budgeting to Manage Municipal Expenses 

Just-in-time IT break-fix decisions are costly and present a tremendous security risk. Software licensing updates can fall through the cracks. Cloud migration is put on the back burner because there’s no one in-house to manage the process. On-premise server and firewall updates are unintentionally overlooked because everyday municipal business takes precedence. But these IT musts add up to big expenses when not planned for, and municipalities are budgeting taxpayer dollars. 

Lack of IT strategic planning and budgeting can result in damaging cybersecurity threats, outdated hardware, and not enough earmarked dollars to secure systems and prepare for the future.

Proactive technology planning also includes Virtual Chief Information Officer (vCIO) services to safeguard a municipality and stakeholders from spoofing and to ensure reliable email delivery from trusted sources. 

>>Case Study: At one village, the administrator couldn’t figure out why all their emails to @yahoo addresses were failing. They didn’t realize that DKIM implementation was essential. How would you know unless you had a trusted IT co-managed services partner?

A Ready Resource, Supporting Your City 

Your No. 1 priority as an Ohio municipality, township or local government is to serve the people. We take the same approach at DMC, serving the public sector and a range of industries that require IT support. By introducing services such as LastPass Password Management or offering KnowBe4 Security Awareness Training, we act as the IT public safety officer for your operation. 

Just as you’re testing emergency response systems, DMC Technology Group is performing readiness assessments. For example, when a police department wanted to learn whether its headquarters was a fit for the Cloud or if an on-prem server needed to be refreshed, we conducted a full audit and determined the file types should live on an on-prem server because the local phone system that relies on this infrastructure. 

>>Case Study: While a police department was better served with an on-prem server, the fire department engaged in a project with DMC to successfully migrate to the Cloud. We leveraged the benefits of their Microsoft 365 licensing and moved an on-site server and domain management to Entra ID, SharePoint Online and OneDrive. Now, they will not have to worry about protecting or supporting their on-prem server, alleviating an IT management burden. 

You Run the City, We’ll Support Your IT 

At DMC, we are constantly tracking system performance, identifying bottlenecks, and making necessary adjustments to ensure that your IT environment continues to meet strategic goals.

Ready to get started? DMC’s expertise and industry knowledge can help your Ohio or Michigan local municipality, township or local government develop and execute a robust IT strategy with your efficient operations and citizens’ security in mind. Let’s talk tech.

The post Managing IT for Local Municipalities appeared first on DMC Technology Group.