In a recent cyber-attack on Omni Hotels & Resorts, the repercussions were severe, costing the company over a million dollars and disrupting its entire IT infrastructure. The incident, reminiscent of the MGM ransomware attack in Las Vegas, underscores the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures in today’s digital landscape, especially for businesses here in New Jersey.
As the CEO, president, or owner of a small business with 25 to 100 employees in New Jersey, you may recognize the necessity of IT support and services, yet hesitate due to concerns about expenses. However, the consequences of leaving your business vulnerable to cyber threats far outweigh the initial investment in cybersecurity.
Consider this scenario: a cyber-attack compromises your network, jeopardizing sensitive data and disrupting essential operations. The aftermath could be catastrophic, potentially resulting in financial losses, damaged reputation, and legal liabilities. It’s not a risk worth taking.
To mitigate these risks and safeguard your business, here are some essential tips:
- Exercise Caution with Public Wi-Fi: Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, including those in hotels, coffee shops, or airports. These networks are often targeted by hackers, putting your devices and data at risk of infiltration.
- Disable Auto-Connect Features: Hackers can exploit auto-connect features to trick your devices into joining malicious networks. Disable this feature and manually connect only to trusted sources to minimize the risk of unauthorized access.
- Utilize Your Phone’s Hotspot: Instead of relying on public Wi-Fi, consider using your phone’s hotspot feature to provide secure internet access to your devices. If your phone doesn’t support this feature, contact your wireless provider to enable it.
While these tips offer immediate protection, implementing professional-grade cybersecurity tools is paramount for comprehensive defense. Whether your team travels frequently or works remotely, investing in robust cybersecurity measures is essential to safeguard your business assets and continuity.
The recent Omni Hotels incident serves as a stark reminder that no business, regardless of size or industry, is immune to cyber threats. Even large enterprises with significant budgets for cybersecurity can fall victim to sophisticated attacks. As a small business owner in Central New Jersey, it’s crucial to recognize the reality of cyber risks and take proactive steps to protect your company.
To assess your business’s cybersecurity posture and address vulnerabilities effectively, we offer a FREE Security Risk Assessment. Our cybersecurity experts will thoroughly evaluate your network and propose tailored solutions to enhance your defenses.
Don’t leave your business susceptible to cyber threats. Schedule your Security Risk Assessment today by clicking here or calling our office at 732-972-6665. Take proactive measures now to safeguard your business’s future.