Last month in Las Vegas, Nevada, hotels got hit with Ransomware. It affected all resorts on the strip owned by one company, forcing the staff to move to manual operations for check-ins and other registrations. The hotel chain found, that not only had computers at their establishment had been hit, but the Ransomware had also made its way to the PCs in the Casino, the Parking Garage
system, and other locations/infrastructures. The ‘Scattered Spider’ ransomware attack compromised the resorts sensitive data, demanding a hefty ransom in exchange for its release. Once inside, they moved laterally, compromising multiple systems, and causing widespread damage. It took the chain over a month to get back up and running appropriately.
As good as the security devices being employed in the resorts may have been, it was no match against a very well implemented social engineering attack by cyber criminals. You may be wondering how MSPs effectively counter cyber-attacks, given the criminals' ability to exploit social engineering tactics and encrypt everything. The solutions lie in adopting a proactive and multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. While it is undeniable that cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, being well-prepared is an essential initial step. By implementing robust network segmentation, diligently managing security permission roles, and having a well-tested disaster recovery plan businesses can effectively minimize the impact of cyber threats. And Alpha can help you get there, lets dive in!
Network Segmentation
Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller, isolated segments or subnetworks to enhance security, efficiency, and manageability. By implementing network segmentation, an attacker's ability to move laterally within the network is restricted, confining their access to specific areas. In the event of a breach, this containment strategy prevents them from freely navigating the entire infrastructure, thereby greatly minimizing potential harm. These segments, commonly referred to as
"segmented networks," operate independently and communication between them is carefully controlled and monitored. The creation of these segments is typically based on criteria such as department, function, or security level.
Why Is Network Segmentation Important For Business?
Enhanced Security: One of the primary reasons businesses implement network segmentation is to enhance their cybersecurity defenses. By dividing the network into segments, the risk of a breach in one segment automatically granting attackers access to the entire network is mitigated. This containment effectively limits the lateral movement of threats and minimizes the potential damage.
Granular Access Control: Network segmentation also enables granular access control, allowing for fine-grained control over who can access specific parts of the network. This capability ensures that sensitive data can be isolated and access permissions can be tailored to specific job roles, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Improved Network Performance: segmenting a network can lead to improved network performance. Each segment can be optimized for its specific function, reducing network congestion and latency. As a result, data transfer becomes faster and more efficient.
Simplified Compliance: For businesses in regulated industries, network segmentation can simplify compliance efforts. Segregating sensitive data ensures that it is isolated and protected according to regulatory requirements.
Security & MSP Assistance in Network Segmentation
Now that we've established the importance of network segmentation, let's dive into the security implications and the role of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in implementing it.
Network segmentation significantly enhances cybersecurity by reducing the attack surface. If an attacker gains access to one segment, they are confined to that area, limiting their ability to compromise the entire network. This containment strategy is particularly effective against lateral movement, a common tactic used by cybercriminals.
In addition to thwarting internal threats, network segmentation can also thwart external threats. Firewalls and security policies can be deployed between segments to monitor and filter traffic, adding an additional layer of protection.
Managed Service Providers play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and maintaining network segmentation strategies for businesses. Here's how they can assist:
Expertise: MSPs possess the knowledge and experience to design network segmentation strategies tailored to the unique needs of each business. They understand the best practices and can help businesses achieve their security and operational goals.
Implementation: MSPs can handle the technical implementation of network segmentation, ensuring that it is carried out efficiently and without disruptions to day-to-day operations.
Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance: Network segmentation is not a one-time project but an ongoing effort. MSPs can continuously monitor and update the segmentation strategy to adapt to changing threats and business needs.
Cost-Effective Solutions: MSPs often provide cost-effective solutions by leveraging economies of scale and expertise, which can be more budget-friendly than an in-house solution.
Network segmentation is a super cool aspect to utilize in today’s modern IT infrastructures, offering enhanced security, better network performance, and simplified compliance. Gone! Should be the days of one person having access to everything, without restrictions or segmentations. By maintaining precise control over security permissions and segmentations, even if an attacker manages to infiltrate, their reach is limited. Utilizing combinations of preparedness, network segmentation, and role-based security measures can greatly impede cyber-attacks and safeguard businesses from the severe consequences of breaches. When you partner with Alpha Technologies, we can facilitate the successful implementation and maintenance of network segmentation, simplification, and security ensuring that your business remains protected in an evolving cybersecurity landscape.
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AS SEEN ON SOCIAL: ALPHA-BITS!
Game On! Huntington Chamber of Commerce Event
Alpha Technologies had a blast at the Huntington Chamber of Commerce Event and took home 2nd place on our mini-putt-putt video game inspired courses.
posted 9/28/2023
CISA Cybersecurity Awareness Month Webinars
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! What better way to start it than with free webinars from CISA on this years current topics!
posted 10/03/2023
Be Prepared, Not Scared.
If you're uncertain about your cybersecurity, Alpha Technologies is your solution. We provide the security you need to protect your digital world, offering peace of mind and expert guidance. It's about being prepared, not scared. Click the image below to learn how to get prepared with Alpha Secure.
posted 10/13/2023
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