Security Assessment

Over 80% of organizations conduct security audits, as reported by the 2004 CSI / FBI Computer Crime and Security Survey.

While it is true that small businesses are not directly attacked as often as larger organizations, there are three reasons why small businesses should be concerned.

1. The first reason is that small businesses often end up as part of larger attacks, such as mass worm outbreaks or efforts to harvest credit card numbers.
   
2. The second reason is that because security is becoming tighter than ever at larger companies, small business networks look increasingly tempting to attackers.
   
3. And the third reason is that this logic assumes that all attacks come from the outside.

Of course, there is no way to guarantee 100% network security. However, you can achieve a reasonable level of security and be prepared in case breaches do happen.


Cost of Damage is High

Small and midsize companies can be especially hard-hit by a compromise in security because they often lack the staff and budget needed to quickly address a security assault. You will be better able to protect your business by determining your level of acceptable risk.

Consider these circumstances:

• Downtime - it could take days, even weeks to clean up after a security disaster
  
• Cash Loss - the cost of lost business combined with the expense of technicalsupport could drain your bottom line.
  
• Confidentiality Leak - it’s possible you may never be able to restore the damage of confidential information that has been viewed, tampered with, and/or stolen.
  
• Legal Liabilities - if a security breach that has damaged your company carries on to damage business partners, employees, customers and other innocent bystanders, you could be held accountable.
  
• Customer Dissatisfaction - negative effects on your business can lessen your customer’s confidence in your ability to meet their needs.

EVERY Network is at Risk

With networks controlling more core business operations and the use of new technology advancements, such as remote access and wireless mobility, IT systems face new security challenges year after year.

There are many internal and external threats to your network. Protection comes from awareness. Are you aware of what your IT system is up against?


Internal Threats

Today 60% of network assaults are initiated from within a company. Surprising, isn’t it? You may be putting your business at risk without even realizing it.

Internal threats include:

• vindictive employees
• incompatible software
• remote access programs
• email
• abuse of Internet access

External Threats

Unlike property damage, network vandalism can reach your company from half way across the globe. Hackers use attack tools that can be easily downloaded off the Internet!

Assault methods include:

• trojan horse programs
• vandals
• data interception
• viruses
• denial-of-service
• social engineering
  

Types of Attacks or Misuse Reported in a 12 Month Period

        78% Virus.
        59% Insider abuse of Net access.
        49% Laptop/mobile theft.
        39% System Penetration.
        37% Unauthorized access to information.
        17% Denial of Service.
        10% Theft of proprietary information
        5% Telecom Fraud
        Less than 5% Financial fraud.
        Less than 5% Sabotage.


Bennett’s Security Assessment Service

1. Discovery Process - evaluate your current state of security, both hardware & software.

2. Usage Review - evaluate the usage of your hardware and software components.

3. Determine Acceptable Risk - Bennett’s Network Security Technicians will consult with your senior management and IT professionals to help determine your acceptable level of risk and your goals of a secure structure.

4. Recommendations - your end result will include a map of your network, an overview of the assessment and a security system recommendation.

For questions or additional information, fill out our customer service form.