Author: centexitguy Page 15 of 142

What is Data Masking & How To Implement It?

On January 25, 2023

A data breach is one of the most common cyber attacks experienced by organizations. A data breach costs the loss of finances, reputation, and credibility to the organization. As per a survey, in 2021 average data breach costs was $4.35 million, which was a 12.7% increase from 2020.

Such an increase in the number of data breaches has made it essential for organizations to implement data security strategies such as data masking.

What Is Data Masking?

Data masking can be defined as the process of masking the original data and creating its replica by using different characters and symbols. The replica of the data is similar in structure and format to the original data; however, the data values are different.

Types of data that can be protected using data masking include:

Personally Identifiable Information
Protected Health Information
Credit Card Information
Intellectual Property

Organizations can use different types of data masking techniques to secure data.

Types of Data Masking:

On-the-Fly Data Masking
Dynamic Data Masking
Static Data Masking
Deterministic Data Masking
Statical Data Obfuscation

Why Do Organizations Need To Implement Data Masking?

Data masking is an essential cyber security strategy that offers the following benefits to organizations:

It is essential to comply with regulations such as HIPAA.
Data masking minimizes exposure of sensitive data.
Allows organizations to decide how much data they want to reveal.
Ensures transparency of applications allowing data masking based on the user level.

While the benefits of data masking emphasize the importance of including it in the cyber security strategy of an organization, its efficiency depends upon the techniques used to implement data masking.

How Can Organizations Implement Data Masking?

There are multiple ways for organizations to implement data masking in their cyber security strategies. Some ways of data masking are:

Data Pseudonymization: In this data masking technique, cyber security professionals identify the sensitive information in the dataset. The sensitive information might include details such as name, email, contact information, financial information, trade secrets, etc. After identification, the data is replaced by pseudo value while rest of the data remains same. This allows de-identification of data that can be reversed, if needed.
Data Anonymization: This technique allows the cyber security teams to secure sensitive information by using data encryption methods. After encryption, the identifiers that connect data to any user are deleted to prevent hackers from gaining access to the masked data or user activity.
Data Shuffling: Under this technique, the values of data entities in the columns of a data set are shuffled either vertically or across different columns. In simpler terms, no change is made to the data values, however the value of an element is assigned to another element and vice versa. The purpose of data shuffling is to ensure permutation of data elements in a way such that no correlation can be derived among the data elements.
Tokenization: Tokenization is done by replacing actual value of data elements with values that look similar but do not have any actual meaning. For example, in a data set of employee salaries, the values of salaries may be replaced with tokens of numerical values that are not actual salary amounts.
Averaging: This technique is used when it is required to maintain actual total value of a column in the data set. The values of individual elements are replaced with an average value such that the sum of all values in the column still remains same.

Centex Technologies assists businesses by providing different data security solutions. To know more, contact Centex Technologies at Killeen (254) 213 – 4740, Dallas (972) 375 – 9654, Atlanta (404) 994 – 5074, and Austin (512) 956 – 5454.

Expert Tips for Safe Internet Banking

By centexitguy

On January 19, 2023

In Security

PDF Version: Expert-Tips-for-Safe-Internet-Banking

What is RMM Software?

By centexitguy

On December 31, 2022

In Networking

RMM refers to Remote Monitoring & Management, also known as Remote IT Management or Network Management. It is a software used by IT teams to access, manage, and monitor network and endpoint devices remotely. The endpoint devices include computers, laptops, mobile devices, etc. connected to the network.

The rapid change in the business workforce has enhanced the need for RMM software. Increased number of remote teams has resulted in a decline in compliance to cyber security protocols at endpoints, making the organizations more susceptible to cyber-attacks.

This alarming number makes it imperative for IT teams to gain thorough visibility across remote networks to monitor and manage the network channels and endpoints for reducing cyber security risks.

Components of RMM Software

The functioning of Remote Monitoring & Management Software is facilitated by two key components – Agents and Center.

Agents are the components installed on every device connected to the network, including desktops, mobile devices, routers, etc.

The Center is the centralized component of RMM software that is installed on the server.

The center issues monitoring & management functions to the agents, who follow the instructions to execute the functions.

Functions of RMM Software

The defined functions may vary as per the configurations & capabilities of individual RMM software, but let us talk about five core functions delivered by every Remote Monitoring & Management Software.

Remote Access: Gaining remote access to the devices connected remotely to a network is requisite to manage and monitor these devices. RMM software does the needful by providing remote access to IT professionals enabling them to monitor and troubleshoot without being onsite.
Monitoring: Regular network monitoring is essential to identify vulnerabilities that can expose the network to cyber-attacks or lower its efficiency. RMM software monitors the network and endpoints for vulnerabilities and unusual behavior, such as outdated software, high CPU usage, etc. It also generates alerts to notify the IT team of required actions.
Management: Managing a network involves multiple tasks such as installing updates, configuring devices, managing user access, etc. Remote Monitoring & Management software provides a platform for remotely managing a network and its devices. It is capable of automating routine management tasks such as installing system updates, rebooting machines, etc., based on permissions granted to the software.
Support: RMM software provides tools such as a share screen that allow the IT team to provide support or troubleshooting assistance when required. These tools allow the IT team to gain complete control of the systems making it easier to understand the technical issues and provide effective solutions.
Reporting: RMM software generates network reports to help the IT team build trends and spot diversions from regular network activity to locate potential risks. The reports provide a deep insight into access requests, activity logs, network performance, etc.

Benefits of RMM Software

In addition to the basic functions, RMM software offers an array of benefits:

Regular monitoring of the network and endpoints by RMM allows for the timely detection of vulnerabilities. This allows the IT team to manage the vulnerabilities before they act as backdoors for the cyber-attacks.
RMM software allows the IT team to manage technical issues endpoint users face in real-time. This helps in lowering the downtime for users.
Organizations can expand their teams globally as IT teams are capable of monitoring & managing clients and users irrespective of location.
Regular monitoring & management of network and endpoint devices helps in increasing productivity by offering preventive maintenance.

To know more about RMM software, contact Centex Technologies at Killeen (254) 213 – 4740, Dallas (972) 375 – 9654, Atlanta (404) 994 – 5074, and Austin (512) 956 – 5454.

How Does SandStrike Spyware Attack Android Devices?

By centexitguy

On December 29, 2022

In Cybersecurity

SandStrike is a type of spyware that attacks different kinds of data on an Android device, like call logs, contacts, etc., to spy on and track the activities of its victims. The spyware is sent out using a VPN app infected with malware.

Let us understand the stepwise process of SandStrike spyware infection:

The spyware exploits people’s religious faith to target them.
The threat actors build authentic-looking social media profiles on various platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.
The pages share religion-oriented posts to grab the attention of firm believers of the religion.
After gaining the victim’s attention, the threat actors share links for watching more videos around religion-focused topics.
Generally, the links lead to apps such as Telegram channels or VPN apps owned by the cyber threat artists.
The idea is to use VPN apps to bypass Government’s cyber security and watch religion or faith-oriented content that is otherwise banned by the Government.
These links are injected with malicious code for SandStrike spyware.
When victims click on the link to download the VPN app, the spyware is automatically downloaded and installed on the target device.

Users rely on VPN to seek privacy & security to hide their internet activity. However, the threat actors cunningly trick users and use the VPN to intercept the same. Once the SandStrike spyware is installed on the target device, it starts spying through the infected device.

What Type of Data Does SandStrike Target?

SandStrike spyware targets diverse types of data including, but not limited to:

Call logs
Contact list
Messages
Personal data
Search history
Saved financial details
Login credentials

In addition to scooping through the data on the device, the spyware also monitors the user’s activity to collect information that can be used for social engineering attacks.

The spyware collects all the data & sends it to remote servers owned by the threat actors. The cybercriminals use this data for financial gain by selling it on the dark web or using it to fabricate severe cyber-attacks such as identity theft, ransomware, etc.

How to Stay Protected Against SandStrike Spyware Attacks?

While antivirus and antimalware programs may not provide effective protection against spyware, a few best security practices can help protect your devices.

Be cautious before clicking on social media and email links.
Download VPN apps from the original developer’s link in the Google Play Store. Make sure to check the reviews, number of downloads, correct spelling of app name, and correct name of the developer before downloading the app.
Refrain from saving your financial information on your browser or payment apps for easy payments.
Download the latest updates for your operating system and apps on the device.

To know more about enterprise cybersecurity solutions for your business, contact Centex Technologies at Killeen (254) 213 – 4740, Dallas (972) 375 – 9654, Atlanta (404) 994 – 5074, and Austin (512) 956 – 5454.

Top Cyber Security Defense Tips for MSP Businesses

By centexitguy

On December 28, 2022

In Security

MSP – Managed Service Provider can be defined as a third-party business providing services to manage its client’s IT infrastructure and systems remotely. To provide services seamlessly, Managed Services Providers are required to gain access to clients’ systems, data, and information (user locations, infrastructure, IT structure, and network). A cyber security breach can expose clients’ data and compromise the system’s security.

The cyber security of a managed service provider is connected with that of its clients, highlighting the significance of a cyber-security defensive strategy for MSPs.

Consequences of a cyber-security incident on the MSP network.

Loss of Reputation: A data breach can result in a loss of client trust, which can be a big blow to the business.
Loss of Business: Loss of trust and reputation can provoke some clients to stop doing business with the MSP and shift to a new service provider.
Financial Loss: Loss of clients causes financial loss for a managed service provider. Additionally, the business has to spend financial resources on restoring its systems and network and might be required to pay legal penalties associated with the mishandling of client data.

Best practices and defense strategies for MSPs:

Manage Vulnerability: Ensure that client systems and networks are routinely scanned and tested to detect obsolete systems and identify areas that require updates or patches. Vulnerability management aids in the prevention of zero-day attacks by stopping cybercriminals from obtaining access and exploiting vulnerabilities.
Threat Detection: Firewalls and intrusion detection systems are crucial for detecting threats. They aid in identifying and blocking potentially hazardous traffic using advanced settings.
Preventing Targeted Attacks: Some common examples of targeted attacks against Managed Service Providers include password spraying, brute force attacks, and phishing. These targeted attacks can be avoided by encouraging users and employees to practice password and internet usage recommendations.
Zero Trust Model: A zero trust model bases authorization on carefully examining each access request. Additionally, to stop the lateral spread of the attack, the organization’s network should be divided, and components should be independent of each other.
Streamlined Offboarding: Offboarding process refers to removing accounts and tools that will not be used by the organization in the future. These may include accounts of employees leaving the organization. It is important to delete shared accounts and revoke access of transitioning employees. Organizations should perform regular audits to detect any dead accounts or network ports.
Backups: MSPs should maintain regular data backups and encourage their clients to do the same. This helps maintain business operations by restoring the data and infrastructure in case of a cyber-attack or data breach.

To know more about cyber security defense tips for MSP businesses, contact Centex Technologies. You can contact Centex Technologies at Killeen (254) 213 – 4740, Dallas (972) 375 – 9654, Atlanta (404) 994 – 5074, and Austin (512) 956 – 5454.