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What Is Cryptography?

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On August 15, 2016

In Security

15 August, 2016

Cryptography is a form of information security technique that involves converting cleartext into an indecipherable format, known as ciphertext, so that it can be securely transmitted over the internet. It ensures that the encrypted information can be read and processed only by the user it is actually intended for. Cryptography software makes use of mathematical algorithms to encrypt information and requires the user to enter a key in order to change it back to plain text.

Types Of Cryptographic Algorithms

  • Secret Key Cryptography: Also known as symmetric key cryptography, it uses the same key for both encryption and decryption of information. The key is known only to the sender and receiver.
  • Public Key Cryptography: In this, the sender encrypts the information using a public key and the receiver can decode it through a private key. It is also referred to as asymmetric key cryptography.
  • Hash Functions: This form of cryptography does not involve the use of any key. Hash functions, also called one-way encryption or message digests, are mainly aimed at ensuring data integrity. In this, the plain text is converted in the form of a fixed length hash value. If the data is modified at any stage, the hash value gets changed and indicates unauthorized access.

Benefits Of Cryptography

  • Confidentiality: It prevents the information from being accessed by anyone else except the end user.
  • Data Integrity: It safeguards the data against undetected modifications, either during transmission or after being stored on the computer.
  • Authentication: Both sender and receiver can authenticate each other’s identity.
    Non-Repudiation: The sender cannot deny the authorship of the information at a later stage.

Drawbacks Of Cryptography

  • A strongly encrypted information may make it difficult even for the authorized users to access it if they do not have the key.
  • The sender cannot allow selective access to the information with the use of cryptography.
  • Cryptographic algorithms are based on complex mathematical computations. Thus, it may slow down your computer’s speed to encrypt and decrypt the data.
  • Cryptography is a time consuming process. It takes too long to create the code and transmit it to the receiver.
  • It does not protect the information from other potential threats arising out of poor infrastructure and security procedures.

Centex Technologies provides efficient IT security solutions to the business firms in Central Texas. For more information, feel free to call us at (855) 375 – 9654.

Ways To Fortify Your Firm’s Computer Security

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On August 9, 2016

In Security

9 August, 2016

Data breach has become a common occurrence these days. However, owing to the increasing focus on computer security, many organizations have taken the necessary steps to protect themselves against online attacks. As a result, small businesses are turning to be an easy target for the hackers due to the absence of a stringent cyber security policy.

Listed below are steps to fortify your firm’s computer security:

Understand The Potential Risks

Though technological advancements, BYOD policy and cloud computing have simplified business operations to a great extent, they have also increased the risk for a potential data loss. Therefore, you should evaluate the risks and benefits before implementing these in your organization. Make sure you employ strong password policies, enforce installation of security software and enable remote wiping in case a device is stolen or lost. Devices that support data encryption should only be allowed to access the corporate network.

Restrict Access To Confidential Data

The computer systems that have confidential information should be accessed only by a limited number of employees. Important official accounts and server room should also be protected against unauthorized access. Password protect all the computers and encourage the employees to lock the systems when they are not around. You can also use biometric authentication to further intensify computer security.

Educate Your Employees

Even with all the cyber security measures in place, your organization is at risk if the employees are not well-informed about the potential threats. It is important to educate your employees on the adverse effects of these attacks and the best ways to protect against them. They should also be informed about the common attack vectors, such as spear phishing and drive-by downloads. Make sure they understand the rules and regulations regarding handling of removable media, operating official email accounts as well maintaining privacy of sensitive information.

Regularly Backup Your Data

Even if you have implemented an infallible cyber security policy, it makes sense to backup all the important information stored on the computer systems. In case your computer is infected with a malware, it may manipulate, delete or restrict access to the files. If you have a backup on Cloud or an external removable device, a data breach would not have much effect on your company’s operations.

We, at Centex Technologies, can review and suggest measures to fortify the computer security of your business firm in Central Texas. For more information, you can call us at (855) 375 – 9654.

Top Malware Myths And Facts

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On July 27, 2016

In Security

27 July, 2016

Over the past few years, computer security has become the primary concern for most people. To stay protected, it is important to know about different types of malware found online i.e. how they spread and the repercussions they may bring. However, there are a myriad of misconceptions about malware that put internet users at risk.

Discussed below are some common myths and facts about malware that you should know to safeguard your computer and protect your information online:

Myth: Updating software is not important for computer security
Fact: A computer with an outdated version of anti-virus software is more susceptible to malware infection. Software vendors frequently release patches and upgrades to protect against the latest security threats. Hence, you must either enable the anti-virus software to update automatically or check for newer versions available on the vendor’s website.

Myth: Malware infection can be easily detected
Fact: Though some types of malware show obvious signs when they infect a computer, such as displaying a pop-up demanding ransom from the user or causing the system to crash. However, certain malware are specifically designed to avoid detection by the user. They may be programmed to stealthily collect sensitive information, send spam emails from the computer or lock down important files.

Myth: Malware only affects Windows
Fact: Though most malware are created to target Windows users, other platforms are not immune from this online threat. With an increasing share of Android and Mac users, hackers are initiating various cross-platform malware to target multiple devices.

Myth: Reputed websites are safe
Fact: While it is partially true that malware mostly spreads by visiting websites that have pornographic or pirated content, credible websites can also be compromised. Hackers use a technique known as malvertizing, which involves placing malicious ads on reputed websites. Clicking on these ads or just visiting the website may download a malware to the user’s computer.

Myth: You are safe if you do not have anything important on your computer
Fact: Even if you have not stored sensitive information on your hard drive, malware can scan other important details that can be used to achieve its goal. For instance, it may access your email account to send out spam emails to your contacts or trace your keystrokes to steal login credentials for online financial transactions. With this information, hackers can cause serious damage including identity theft and phishing attacks.

For more information about the malware perils and prevention tips, you can contact Centex Technologies at (855) 375 – 9654.

Tips For Managing Cyber Security Risks

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On July 22, 2016

In Security

22 July, 2016

The incidences of online attacks have undergone a steep rise over the past few years, making cyber security a top priority for the organizations. A security breach can jeopardize the confidentiality of a company’s network and important data, leading to financial losses as well as reputational damage. Therefore, it is important to be proactive and identify as well as mitigate the potential threats to the corporate network.

Listed below are tips that can help organizations manage cyber security risks:

Internet Firewalls And Gateways

Internet firewalls, gateways and other such mechanisms should be adopted to protect the corporate network against unauthorized access. Devoid of proper security techniques, the company’s files, client details and other important information are at risk of being stolen, manipulated or deleted. A firewall will monitor the traffic on the organizations’ internal network and block any suspicious or unauthorized users. However, it is important to ensure that the firewall is frequently updated and password protected.

Secure Configuration

All the devices connected to the network should be properly configured to adhere to the cyber security policies of the company. This will help to identify and deal with the potential vulnerabilities. The default security settings on any device can serve as an easy backdoor for the hackers to gain access to your corporate network. Therefore, when installing networking devices, these settings should be changed and safeguarded with a strong as well as hard-to-crack password. Unrequired user accounts should be deleted and obsolete software should be updated or disabled. Auto-run feature should also be deactivated to prevent unintended installation of malicious software.

Software Management

Most cyber-attacks are initiated by exploiting the security vulnerabilities in the software installed on a computer system. Hence, it is essential to regularly download and install the updates released by the software vendors. The organization should frame a comprehensive patch management policy to ensure efficient and effective updating of the software. There should be a specified time frame within which the patches need to be installed on the networking devices. Also, all the software updates should be licensed and released by a legitimate authority.

Malware Protection

When computer systems are connected to the internet, they are likely to download malware through spam emails, fake websites, malicious advertizements or drive-by downloads. Anti-malware software should be installed to protect against such online threats. Make sure you keep it updated and allow regular scans to detect any malware installed on the device.

Centex Technologies is a leading IT consulting firm providing cyber security solutions to business firms across Central Texas. For more information, you can call us at (855) 375 – 9654.

Types And Advantages Of Access Control

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On July 16, 2016

In Security

16 July, 2016

Access control can be defined as a security technique utilized to restrict access to the physical and logical assets within an organization. The physical assets include the computer system or server room whereas the logical assets comprise networks, data, files etc. Having complete control over who can view, use or manipulate the resources in a computing environment, the companies can mitigate the likelihood of a potential security breach.

Types Of Access Control Systems

  • Mandatory Access Control (MAC): This is the most stringent form of access control mechanism. In this, the access restrictions are monitored by the operating system according to the specifications provided by the system administrator. Each user or device on a network is assigned a classification label. When a user tries to view or edit any file on the server, the computer system verifies his credentials to determine if access should be granted.
  • Discretionary Access Control (DAC): It allows each user to control access rights for their own file or program. Unlike Mandatory Access Control, the DAC is much more flexible when it comes to data security. It allows you to create customized access policies for each user. For instance, you can allow read and write access to one user as well as read-only access to another one for the same file.
  • Role Based Access Control (RBAC): Also known as Non-Discretionary Access Control, it allows access depending upon the role of a user. Role is defined according to the job profile, responsibilities and authority of an employee within the organization. For instance, an accountant would be provided access to all the files that contain financial data.
  • Rule Based Access Control (RB-RBAC): Under this type, access is allowed on the basis of a set of criteria defined by the system administrator. It is a good option if you need to stipulate access rights for a specific account during certain hours of the day. The rules set by the administrator are stored in Access Control Lists (ACLs).

Advantages Of Access Control

  • It helps to increase data security and confidentiality in an organization
  • It reduces administrative work needed to monitor unauthorized access to important files
  • Access rights and protocols are easy to implement by the system administrator
  • Access control systems decrease the possibility of security errors as the permissions are automatically monitored and regulated according to the specified criterion

We at Centex Technologies provide complete IT security & networking solutions to our clients. For consultation regarding implementation of access control in your organization, feel free to contact us at (855) 375 – 9654.

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