Data Net Blog

News flash: just because you’re a smaller business doesn’t mean you’re a smaller target for cyberattacks. You’re not immune, and you can certainly fall prey to the unfortunate reality of the modern cyberthreat landscape. If anything, small businesses are the perfect target, and we’ll explain why.

While now may not be the most dangerous time to run a business, it is arguably a contender. Businesses are more reliant on digital technology than ever, meaning that these businesses also have to deal with more threats than ever. One such threat: the phishing scam.

Would you trust a bank that locks its doors at night but leaves all the money sitting in a big pile on the floor? Probably not—if someone got through the door, they could take all the money without any trouble.

This is kind of how cybersecurity used to work. If someone got into a company’s network, they could see and use anything they wanted. But now, many businesses are using a better system called zero-trust security.

Many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) believe that CMMC, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, is only meant for major enterprises working with the government. However, this isn’t the case. If your business handles Federal Contract Information (FCI) or works with the Department of Defense (DoD), CMMC compliance is mandatory.

Cybersecurity is super important for any business today, and it can make the difference between a business staying safe or failing because of a cyberattack. While there are many things you need to do to protect your business, there are some key steps you can start with to keep it secure. Let’s go over what you should do.

There are a lot of myths when it comes to NIST compliance. In this blog, we take a look at three of those myths and why they ring faker than an artificial tree.

Embarking on the journey to CMMC certification can feel like gearing up for a marathon. It's a path that requires preparation, endurance, and a clear roadmap. But fear not! Just like a seasoned coach, we're here to guide you through each stride and hurdle. Let's break down the CMMC certification process into manageable steps, turning this marathon into a rewarding journey towards cybersecurity excellence.

A lot of people don’t take cybersecurity and data privacy seriously enough, and that puts both them and others at risk. We’ve all gotten used to sharing personal information online—whether it’s on social media, shopping websites, or other digital services. But if we’re not careful, this can lead to big problems like hackers stealing your identity or money. When people don’t use strong passwords or turn on two-factor authentication, they leave gaps that hackers can take advantage of. These gaps don’t just affect individuals—they can lead to bigger cyberattacks that hurt entire organizations or communities.

Welcome to the myth-busting session of the day, where we tackle the tall tales and folklore of cybersecurity. In the world of Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs), there are myths about cybersecurity that are as persistent as that one song you can't get out of your head. Let's set the record straight and uncover the truth behind these myths, so you can fortify your digital defenses with facts, not fiction.

Welcome to the digital age, where treating cybersecurity as a mere formality is like leaving your car keys in the ignition downtown. In this era, a complacent attitude towards cybersecurity can be more costly than you might imagine. It's not just about being smart; it's about being vigilant and proactive in a world where digital threats are as common as coffee shops.

Today’s businesses need an established cybersecurity strategy. It’s as simple as that.

However, many businesses need guidance to create this strategy, which is why the National Institute of Standards and Technology has developed a framework for proper cybersecurity protection. Let’s walk through this framework and discuss what you need to do to meet its requirements.

In today's fast-paced construction world, mobile devices are as essential as a trusty hammer and hard hat. They keep us connected, help manage projects, and store critical data. But just like a tool belt keeps your tools safe, your mobile devices need protection too. Let's dive into the world of mobile cybersecurity, where safeguarding your digital tools is as important as locking up the job site at the end of the day.

Welcome to the less talked about, yet critically important world of legal compliance in cybersecurity. Today, we're not just focusing on the technicalities of keeping your data safe; we're diving into the legal ramifications of what happens when cybersecurity is treated as an afterthought. This is about understanding the legal landscape, where non-compliance and misrepresentation can lead to more than just a slap on the wrist. Let's navigate these waters together, ensuring your business stays on the right side of the law.

Problems with cybersecurity can really sink your business. Unfortunately, more opportunists are out there today looking to profit off of business’ lack of vigilance. One example of this are large-scale scam operations that have been running in Southeast Asia, and they are now spreading to other parts of the world. These scams, called "pig butchering" scams, have caused major harm, with around $75 billion lost worldwide in 2023.

Welcome to the human side of cybersecurity! Today, we're not talking about fancy algorithms or high-tech firewalls. Instead, we're focusing on the most crucial element in your cybersecurity arsenal – your team. Just like a sports coach hones the skills of their athletes, it's vital to train your team in the art of cyber defense. So, let's dive into why employee training isn't just a nice-to-have, but a must-have in your cybersecurity playbook.

Today, we're rolling up our sleeves and diving into the world of cyber hygiene. Just like you wouldn't leave your house without brushing your teeth (hopefully!), you shouldn't navigate the digital world without basic cybersecurity practices. In our series, we’ve been focused on small and medium-sized businesses, especially those in the construction industry, but this applies to just about every organization. It's all about keeping your digital environment as sparkling clean as your kitchen counter. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of cyber hygiene and why it's as essential as your morning shower.

Hello, DoD contractors and cybersecurity enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of CMMC 2.0, the updated version of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. Gone are the days of five levels of complexity; CMMC 2.0 simplifies things down to three levels. It's like going from a confusing remote with too many buttons to a sleek, three-button interface. Let's break down these levels in a way that's as straightforward as your favorite morning routine.

Today, we're diving into the toolbox of cybersecurity – a place where digital hammers meet virtual nails. If you're a DoD contractor, especially in the construction sector, this is where you'll find the essential tools and practices to not only comply with regulations but also to fortify your digital fortress. So, grab your digital tool belt, and let's explore the tools that will keep your business safe and compliant.

Welcome to the world of cybersecurity, where the only constant is change, and the only sure defense is staying informed and prepared. If you're a Small and Medium-sized Business (SMB) in the construction sector working with the Department of Defense (DoD), you've probably heard about the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). But what is it exactly, and why is it as important as that morning cup of coffee for your business? Let's break it down in a way that won't require a cybersecurity dictionary.

Sextortion scams are far from glamorous. These attacks involve a scammer claiming to have compromising photos or videos of their target engaged in explicit activities—often suggesting this footage was captured through their online behavior. The scammer then threatens to release this material unless a ransom is paid.