Computer system security is often overlooked, although there have been many cases where individuals within an organization have purposely and unknowingly given away or taken private and confidential information, as well as downloading or installing illegal software causing damage and disruption to the computer systems.

Loss of information can be anything from Sales leads, Credit card information, Address and contact details as well as other types of information stored.

As a Business owner or employer you should be aware of the risks of such activities and the tools and methods used to take this information from your office or premises.

The following methods are most widely used:-

1. Memory cards / Pen drives
(Information copied to memory sticks and taken from the office without consent)

2. Internet Chat & Messenger programs
(Confidential information can be exchanged through chat and file transfer)

3. Private email usage
(Information forwarded or copied to private email accounts / client contact being carried out from private email accounts)

Another key area for security measures to be put in place is protection against external attack or intrusion or damage from within the company, many employees install and download unauthorised and in many cases illegal software which they run on their works computer.

There are many types of software applications which search for illegal files, music and applications etc. which in many cases containing Viruses, Spy ware, Pornographic material as well as other damaging content.

No system is 100% protected and secure but with a few small and inexpensive measure put in place you can help to minimise your loss and damages due to data theft and illegal software use.

There are various measures available to help protect your confidential information including:

Computer usage policies

A policy which is created giving a clear "code of conduct" for all employees detailing what is expected and permitted with regards to computer system and Internet usage. All employees must sign to agree to the terms of the usage policy and accept the consequences of failing to adhere to the guidelines.

Monitoring and Logging

If the use of such applications as Microsoft or Yahoo messenger must be used for business there are products available which can log all chat communication, which can be reviewed to ensure no illegal transactions are taking place.

Firewall's

Firewall's are used to create a secure perimeter protecting your internal computers from external attacks or intrusion from other computer users on the Internet, as well as defining policies for which content you wish to allow your employees to have access to or restrict.

What Costasys offers is a complete system security and health check with further follow up inspections to maintain the security of your computer system as well as advising areas which can be improved.

For more information and advice or to arrange a security and system inspection please click here to use our contact form and we will contact you as soon as possible.