Top Security Trends To Watch For in 2018

Top Security Trends To Watch For in 2018 Banner New

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With a record number of leaks, hacks, and breaches, 2017 proved to be the worst year for network security. Unfortunately, 2018 may usher in more of the same. This is why network security is top of mind for businesses and their IT support providers. To protect your business, we’ve listed some of the top security trends you should watch out for.

GDPR Launch

The European Union recently adopted stricter regulations for how businesses collect, store, and use customer information. This May, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be in full effect, imposing stricter rules regarding how companies collect, store, and use consumer data. Even US companies will need to abide by these rules if they plan on doing business with EU citizens or entities.

It is likely that other nations, including the US, will begin imposing stricter protection and usage mandates that model the EU’s own. Regardless, any company that plans on doing business with a significant portion of Europe will have to prepare data security protocols to achieve compliance.

IoT Will Be Vulnerable

The Internet of Things (IoT) revolution is upon us. From smart homes to smart offices, it seems everything is becoming internet-enabled. However, IoT vulnerabilities offer attackers a backdoor into a network you otherwise thought was properly secured. Although convenient, IoT devices often lack necessary security features that protect your network.

As such, it’s important that you choose devices that get regular support and updates from manufacturers. Network security measures like firewalls and intrusion prevention systems must also be in place in order to prevent IoT-based attacks.

Increased Internal Security

A large percentage of breaches have occurred due to the activities of authorized individuals. This can include something as malicious as direct employee theft of data or as accidental as network access granted via an email phishing scam. In 2018, companies would do well to increase internal security with network monitoring tools and regular security training to secure the vulnerability caused by negligent and disgruntled employees.

Enhanced Analytics

Most businesses use several layers of protection, which may include a hardware firewall, antivirus software, and spam filters. The trouble is that these methods produce an incredible amount of data, which can make it difficult to spot and respond to suspicious activities.

As part of managed IT services, proactive monitoring will take things a step further. By actively monitoring your network, your IT support provider can identify potential threats in real time and take appropriate action as needed.

Cloud Security Becomes a Priority

With many organizations moving their business operations to the cloud, much focus will turn toward cloud security. There are many cloud service providers and they run the gamut, from small reseller operations to full service IT firms. So choosing one that can guarantee your data’s safety is critical.

The cloud offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses of all sizes to streamline their processes, cut costs, and improve efficiency and productivity. However, businesses should be cautious with whom they trust for their cloud services, as not all providers are created equal.

This is why you need to thoroughly examine a potential cloud provider’s service level agreements. Do they have comprehensive uptime and security guarantees? If not, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Managed IT Services Will Continue To Evolve

Many small and medium-size businesses (SMBs) lack the resources necessary to staff and manage an entire IT department. To that end, managed IT services offer a service-based form of security that picks up where store-bought and homemade security solutions leave off.

With helpdesk, remote monitoring, disaster prevention and recovery services, managed IT services are a growing market solution for SMBs looking to enhance their security to enterprise levels without the enterprise-sized costs.

Complete Technology provides robust IT solutions to businesses in Kansas City and the surrounding area. We offer a range of managed, onsite, and helpdesk services tailored to the needs of SMBs.

If your organization is concerned with network security in 2018, contact Complete Technology today and let us show you how we can shift your IT burden so you can focus on running your business.