With Cybercrime on the rise resulting in an increased number of small businesses affected by electronic theft, Amity Insurance Agency, Inc., a leading full service agency in the Boston area, has issued the following initiatives for protection.
First, use two-factor authentication; one that the user knows, such as a specific password and a second randomly generated number that the user must input. The random number is generated from an electronic token card, which outputs a new number every few seconds. If the user enters the number that the system is expecting, the system will then authenticate the user.
Next, inoculate computer systems against what is known as the Clampi Trojan virus, one that resides on a computer just waiting for the user to log onto financial web sites. It then captures login and password information, relays the date to servers run by criminals and instructs the computer to send money to accounts that the thieves control. This virus can also steal credit card information. Be advised that this virus monitors more than 4,500 finance-related web sites.
Also, be on guard against so-called “phishing” emails and pop-up messages. While these messages have the appearance of being from legitimate services the user regularly does business with, they are deceptive. These pop-ups will ask the user to update or verify information, often warning of dire consequences if the user fails to do so. Clicking on the links in the message brings the user to what looks like a real web site, but it is actually bogus. The site then collects personal information that can be used to steal the user’s identity.
Arrange for your financial institutions to alert you should they spot unusual activity involving your business’ accounts.
Also, install firewalls and utilize encryption technology to block uninvited visitors from uploading or retrieving data from your company’s servers and to protect data sent on public networks.
You can never be too cautious about opening email attachments, particularly if the sender is unfamiliar. Attachments can contain viruses or so-called “Trojan horses” that can steal login information and passwords and corrupt a system.
And always protect against intrusion by former or current disgruntled employees. This can be accomplished by deactivating passwords for former employees, erecting barriers to keep employees from accessing systems unrelated to their jobs and by implementing safe and sound accounting procedures for all financial transactions.
In addition, small businesses may want to consider purchasing computer fraud and employee theft insurance; these policies will protect the business against resulting losses.
Amity Insurance is licensed in most states. The agency maintains headquarters at 500 Victory Road, North Quincy 02171. For information on products or services, please visit www.amityinsurance.com or call 800-940-4010 to schedule a free analysis of insurance needs.
