For most of us, IT is a vague term to encompass all things “technology”. We trust our IT provider or in-house IT staff to keep our personal and professional data safe while on our company’s network. But what happens if your IT provider is not as skilled with cybersecurity practices as you assume? How do you know if your IT team is doing all they can to secure your network?
1. Ask about vulnerability management
Your IT provider should have processes in place to identify, asses, prioritize, and remediate vulnerabilities in your systems. Ask your provider about what they are to establish transparency and understanding.
2. Discuss Incident Response Protocol
An incident response plan outlines what an organization will do in the event of a data breach or any other security incident. A capable IT provider should have a well-defined plan in place that will minimize damage and downtime.
3. Inquire About Security Toolset
Ask about the security tools and technologies they use. They should be up-to-date on antivirus, firewall, intrusion detection systems, and security monitoring tools.
4. Request a Penetration Test
A penetration test is a simulated cyberattack on a computer system, network, application, or organization’s infrastructure. Through this test, the implementor will identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and potential security risks that could be exploited by hackers. We suggest allowing a third party to implement this for objectivity.
5. Assess Communication and Transparency
If your provider has vague answers and confusing replies, they may not be as credible as you hope. A trustworthy IT provider should be open about their protocols, management, and training.
A transparent and responsive IT provider should be willing to address your questions and provide evidence of their up-to-date procedures. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of your IT provider, consider contacting radius180 for a penetration test.
