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No Internet, No Phones, No Access: The Alarming Implications of the PBVUSD Ransomware Attack

By Matt Mayo

DiamondIT, Founder and CEO

In January, Panama-Buena Vista Union School District’s network was infected by ransomware which shut down the school’s phone system and all Windows computers. While school officials lamented late report cards and using manual processes for communications, temporary hotspots and an examination into internal controls and network security, my mind turned to the real issue here – the protection of our children at school.

In a generation that relies on school phone systems and networks to thwart the very real possibility of a school shooting, the significance of the recent data breach at Panama-Buena Vista USD is alarming. It brings to mind the question: What are school districts doing to make sure students are protected and emergency systems are operable at all times?

Cybercrimes, Disaster Recovery, Incident Response, K-12, SecureCentric|
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The Iranian Threat & How 3 Cali Organizations Avoided Disaster

Would You Survive a Cyberattack?

For over a month you’ve heard about the threat Iran poses to U.S. businesses. Have you taken steps to prepare? According to FEMA, 90% of small businesses fail within a year, if it takes them more than 5 days to re-open after a disaster. Thinking “It won’t happen to me” is easy now, but won’t help you if a worst-case scenario unfolds.

As the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) detailed in their alert, previous Iranian targets include the financial sector, a dam in New York and a corporation in Las Vegas.  Even if your business isn’t directly targeted, you can still anticipate an impact from the Iranian cyberterrorism threat. A large vendor you work with, like Microsoft, might be targeted and take systems offline, or an attack might have a reverberating impact on the economy that you need to be ready for.

Build your cyber incident response plan now.

Cybercrimes, SecureCentric|
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Ransomware on the Rise: How to Improve Network Security in 2020

1. California-based medical supplier hit with ransomware

When hackers gained access to Solara email accounts, they extracted employee and patient information. Solara is a medical device provider based in Chula Vista and maintains highly sensitive personal information about patients. Although the company has taken steps to prevent future attacks, people caught up in last year’s hack are still at risk and need to carefully monitor the Dark Web to see if their information is for sale.

Cybercrimes, Ransomware|
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Cyberattacks Increase as Organizations Scramble to Protect Themselves

1. SMBs being pushed into bankruptcy by data breaches

A recent survey by Zogby Analytics confirmed what many people already knew: data breaches are wreaking havoc on SMBs. In particular, the financial implications of a data breach are overwhelming their capacity and forcing them to take drastic action. 

The survey, which questioned more than 1,000 small business leaders, found that 37% of SMBs that experienced a data breach suffered financial loss and 25% filed for bankruptcy. Ultimately, 10% of SMBs went out of business following a data breach. SMBs must have a disaster response plan to deal with the high likelihood of being breached.

Cybercrimes, Data security, Network Security, SecureCentric|
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More than 4 Billion Records Stolen in First Half of 2019

1. 20 Texas cities attacked by ransomware

The City of Borger, along with 20 other Texas municipalities, recently suffered a ransomware attack that disabled the city’s ability to conduct business. The attack was part of a targeted effort, and it cut off access to basic city services like public records, bill payments and communications systems. The city has been able to restore several functions without paying the ransom, but several services remain unavailable.

Many public entities such as cities and counties struggle to implement adequate cyber security solutions. DiamondIT works closely with municipalities to manage their networks within restrained budgets and long planning cycles.

Cybercrimes, Data security, Network Security, Ransomware, SecureCentric, Small and Medium Businesses|
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Do You Know the True Cost of Cyberattacks?

Cities, enterprises, nonprofits, small businesses and your organization are all united by one commonality: the threat cybercriminals pose. A successful attack harms more than your finances and will impact every facet of your business. 60% of small businesses will close after being hit with a cyberattack. The right IT investments prevent attacks and limit downtime and damage during a worst-case scenario. Below are 4 costs to consider and the solutions you can use to protect your business.

Cybercrimes, Data security, Network Security, SecureCentric, Small and Medium Businesses|
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5 Cyber Incidents You Need to Know About

1. Thousands of patients exposed in L.A. County Dept. of Health data breach

A recent phishing attack on the Los Angeles County Department of Health released names, addresses, dates of birth and Medi-Cal identification numbers to third-party hackers. Although the county reports there is no evidence at this time that this information is being misused, you should enroll in the provided credit and identity monitoring services being offered.

SMBs: It is possible to check if your company has information for sale on the Dark Web. Once you know if your credentials are compromised, you can act. Sign up for a Free Dark Web Scan here.

BackupCentric, Cybercrimes, Data security|
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2019 Cyberthreat Predictions

Cybercrime is not a new problem, but one that keeps evolving as technology itself progresses.  As we enter into 2019, the cybercrime conundrum continues: it is not a matter of IF a company or institution will be targeted by cybercriminals, but WHEN.

Cybercrimes, Malware, Network Security|
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Five Tips for Developing a Cybersecure Culture in Your Organization

Every year in October, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)  promotes National Cybersecurity Awareness Month – a time when organizations are asked to take stock of the state of their network security.  However, as we head into the holiday season, with Cyber Monday and other online sales and promotions abound – cybersecurity for both businesses and consumers is an issue everyone should pay attention to year-round.

Cybercrimes, Uncategorized|
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Embracing Compliance Can Save Money and Reputation

Data is the DNA of any business or organization.  And your data – whether it’s research and development, payroll information, client payment details, or any other mission-critical information – is up for grabs by cybercriminals who want nothing more than to sell stolen data on the dark web.

Compliance, Cybercrimes, Dark Web Services|
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