A standard practice for businesses today is to invest in cybersecurity. However, data breaches still continue to happen daily, and compromised data is becoming more and more common. And unfortunately, it’s got very little to do with your security investment, and everything to do with the people that work for you. In fact, a recent study showed that a quarter of corporate data breaches are due to human error. When you combine that with these averages–that a cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds and that only 5% of a company’s documents are properly protected–it makes for a scary situation for business owners.

But your employees are only human, right? We all make mistakes? It’s hard to speak that lightly about data breaches when a simple human error can cost your company thousands, sometimes millions, of dollars. The most common human errors include misdelivery, falling for phishing scams, poor user password practices, mismanagement of high-level accounts, and letting unauthorized users access corporate devices. Preventing these common mistakes is no easy feat, but there are a few options available to help.

More People Problems

One solution many companies consider is to have a dedicated IT individual or team on staff that has the technical expertise to monitor your system. But that’s often not an affordable solution, since creating and maintaining a round-the-clock security operations center (SOC) is costly. In addition, the IT staff also cares for equipment, updates (and sometimes replaces) software, and sets up and educates new hires. Indeed, that is helpful to have, but they can’t be solely dedicated to cybersecurity matters and they are only available 9 to 5. It’s the trouble with people.

Can Alexa Help?

A new trend for businesses is to turn to artificial intelligence (AI) to help with data breaches. Though AI can more easily detect threats, and are experts at password security, AI has its drawbacks and limitations as well. It not only takes a long time to get AI set up and running (due to the fact it has to be “trained” through accurate data sets, which are difficult to obtain and afford), but it requires a TON of memory, data and computing power in order to be effective. And once AI is operational, it’s known for sending a tremendous number of false alarms and alerts. It’s exhausting! 

The Answer = Managed Security Services

The easiest and often ideal solution is to hire a Managed IT Services Provider (MSP). By hiring an MSP, your network will be secure and regularly monitored, alerting you to and resolving any cybersecurity issues as they arise. Their services often include an assessment of your current technology, identifying holes and areas of risk, followed up with a customized strategy that they’ll help you and your employees to implement. They’ll monitor your network security remotely, plus they can help with technology budgeting, all the while saving you money. 

Great Lakes Computer Corporation can protect you. We offer a range of services designed to help our clients protect their businesses from data loss, from preventative maintenance to the latest in security services, at a price businesses can afford. Find out what we can do for you.