Top 7 Reasons to Choose a BOOSTER Pack

Top 7 Reasons to Choose a BOOSTER Pack

If you’re paying too much for your business IT support, you’re going to love this!

You may not have heard of our Booster packs before because we’ve newly developed them in response to Coronavirus and the precarious position that left many small and medium business owners facing. We know you’re busy, so we’ve put together this quick list of reasons why you need to ditch your expensive IT bills and change to a Booster pack.

  • It’s Convenient – You and your team can get professional IT support within minutes of needing it. You want help now, you got it!
  • It’s Affordable – We’ve developed affordable Booster rates to help businesses survive and thrive through these challenging times.
  • It’s Scalable – Choose the right amount of support you need and that’s all you pay for! Choose from two, ten or twenty hours when you book.
  • It’s Predictable – Booster is the most powerful way to maintain budget control. There are no hidden fees, no surprise costs.
  • It’s Trackable – You can easily track the time you’ve used and how many support hours you have left on our handy dashboard.
  • It’s Flexible – Available from as little as 2-hours or as large as 20-hour packs, Booster lets your business choose the IT support that fits what you need.
  • It’s Manageable – Don’t you hate it when a subscription and payments just auto-renew? Us too, so we don’t do it to our customers.

Ready to get Booster now, click here to book.

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IT Troubles? We’re Here For You!

IT Troubles? We're Here For You!

It’s an ordinary workday, walking into your office with coffee in hand. You take a seat at your desk and switch on your computer. The screen stays blank.

StormWarden offers end-to-end business IT services that provide you with reliable access to the right support when you need it the most. Our Wardens work around the clock, around the world, so you can always access the best IT support. Send up an SOS signal by phone or through our easy online portal and we’ll come to your rescue.

Support | I need a hero!

StormWarden offers end-to-end business IT services that provide you with reliable access to the right support when you need it the most. Our Wardens work around the clock, around the world, so you can always access the best IT support. Send up an SOS signal by phone or through our easy online portal and we’ll come to your rescue.

Security | We will protect you

Unfortunately, many businesses out there are ideal targets for hackers due to a lack of effective security programs and systems. StormWarden stops evil-doers in their tracks! Our Wardens using the combined powers of Internet Security and Cloud Safety, will protect and defend your business’ system from data mining, threats, and privacy breaches. Without fear of security breaches, your business is free to run faster than the speed of light – or maybe just as fast as you want.

Cloud | Up in the sky!

StormWarden will help your business take to the skies. We make it easy to securely migrate and store your data and programs on the cloud. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, its your business! Reach new heights as you increase productivity, accessibility, and collaboration within your team by sharing the files you need to get tasks done. Our Wardens will work with you to streamline operations and connect on-premises solutions to workload-ready systems.

Infrastructure | Made of Steel

Our Wardens review your existing technology and IT infrastructure to determine what’s working, what’s running out of time, and what needs to be replaced. We then develop a strategy to introduce the right technology and the right times to meet your needs and your budget. It doesn’t end there! Our Wardens will be on standby as you install any new tech to ensure that every upgrade improves your day-to-day productivity.

Projects | In a flash!

Our Wardens are able to leap mammoth projects in a single bound! The StormWarden team can also lend our powers of expertise to developing superhuman IT solutions for your next Project. We strategically and comprehensively plan the smooth rollout of your IT projects and support your long-term goals and success.

The Sidekicks | The Cavalry is Here

Antivirus, Hardware, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, VOIP, IT Management, and more!

StormWarden understands that not all business IT issues are the end of the world as we know it. There are times when your business just needs a helping hand with the day-to-day, or a minor change. Our Wardens are skilled in every aspect of the IT industry, making us your go to, one-stop-shop business IT partner.

Avoid getting into an IT rage – nobody will like you when you’re angry.

Work with StormWarden today and get the super IT support your business deserves.

StormWarden Booster provides a one-off service to boost your IT resources.

StormWarden Rescue delivers a stable, monthly investment in your IT services, providing predictability to your IT spend.

All you need to do is choose the number of hours you need, from Spark to Supercharge, and get started.

Plus, for a limited time you’ll receive two free hours of support, valued at $199, when you first sign up to try StormWarden.

What are you waiting for? Start your Free Trial now!

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The Biggest IT Threats of 2020 – and How to Avoid Them Next Year

The Biggest IT Threats of 2020 - and How to Avoid Them Next Year 

2020 has been a year that most people would rather forget. And for IT professionals and Australian businesses, it’s also been a year of turbulence when it comes to cyber security. From malicious attacks to phishing scams and even proposed changes to the Privacy Act, there’s been a lot to keep track of in the world of data security—and plenty of room for improvement in the year ahead.

The Biggest Cyber Threats in 2020

Cyber-attacks continue to be one of the biggest security issues facing Australian businesses and individuals.

According to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), which keeps track of notifiable data breaches, there were more than 1000 breaches in the financial year ending June 2020, with more than 60% of those breaches a result of malicious or criminal attacks.

Those are data breaches are concerning, as private information can wind up in the hands of criminals or for sale on the dark web. But the problems go deeper. In the same period, the Federal Government’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) responded to 2,266 cyber security incidents and received 59,806 cybercrime reports at an average of 164 cybercrime reports per day, or one report every 10 minutes. The most common type of cybersecurity incident was ‘malicious email’ (27%), such as a phishing scam.

Other major IT security issues in 2020 included:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic meant more individuals are working from home, potentially leaving businesses more vulnerable to phishing and malware attacks.
  • In June Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed Australia had been the subject of an unrelenting and sophisticated cyber attack from an unnamed foreign entity.
  •  In August, the Federal Government’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) published advice on COVID-19 themed malicious activity.
  • By October, the ACSC noticed an increase in ransomware attacks affecting Australian businesses and individuals.

This activity highlights the need for all businesses, no matter how big or small, to take steps to protect against malicious attacks.

What’s Next for IT Security in 2021?

In response to growing cyber security concerns, the Federal Government has released a new Cyber Security Strategy, announcing Australia’s largest ever investment in cyber security. This strategy will see 1.67 billion invested in initiatives aimed at improving Australia’s cyber security over the next decade, including a previously announced cyber enhanced situational awareness and response (CESAR) package.

Additionally, reforms have been planned for the Commonwealth Privacy Act 1988, which may affect Australian businesses.

However, even the biggest government investments won’t make cyber crime disappear overnight. It’s essential that all businesses take steps to improve cyber security processes. Looking ahead to 2021, here are the IT security trends you can expect:

A Continuation of Remote Working

The impact COVID-19 could result in more people working from home in 2021 and further into the future. Organisations must ensure best practices including security settings, administrative control, multi-factor authentication and cloud security, as a start.

IT Workforce Assessment

Do you have the right people in the right roles when it comes to IT security? Whether you outsource IT or have someone in house, ensuring you have processes and procedures in place for administrative tasks and application control will be essential to mitigate security risks.

Software Patching

The ACSC suggests promptly updating (or patching) all internet-facing software, operating systems and devices. Patching will continue to be key to cyber security in 2021, with reliable app providers generally offering ‘patches’ for known threats via software updates. It’s best practice to install the latest available updates within 48 hours of them becoming available.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Two-step logins are becoming standard for many applications. Don’t make it easy for criminals to access your private business or personal data and ensure the use of multi-factor authentication across all remote access services.

VPN Usage

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows you to securely connect with another network over the internet by encrypting your activity and data. 

Smarter Backups

Ransomware attacks are a growing area of concern for Australian businesses. A hacker can cripple organisations by encrypting all connected electronic devices, folders and files and rendering systems inaccessible, before demanding a ransom in return for the decryption keys.

The ACSC strongly advises against paying ransom demands, as there is no guarantee the adversary will actually provide the decryption keys. In 2021, companies should look to isolate regular, daily backups from the main network and the internet to protect copies of vital information. It is generally much easier and safer to restore data from a backup than attempting to decrypt ransomware-affected data. 

Increased Caution Online

One of the simplest ways to protect against cyber crime is to limit the amount of personal information you hand over to organisations. Always ask yourself—does this organisation really need my date of birth or driver licence details? Be suspicious of unsolicited requests for personal information or urgent requests for money. Review each email you receive; consider who sent it and what they are asking before you open it, click on a link, or open an attachment. Be sure to use complex and different passwords across applications. 

Find out how you can improve your IT security in 2021 by contacting the StormWarden team at 1800 986 755.

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7 Tech Innovations with Aussie Roots

7 Tech Innovations with Aussie Roots

For many, Australia Day is a time to fire up the BBQ and celebrate the great nation of Australia. This Australia Day, in the spirit of reflecting on Australia’s history, stories, and achievements, we’d like to take a moment to share some of the impressive technology innovations that have shaped the modern world that started right here.

Below, we outline seven IT inventions that you may not have realised have roots at home in Australia.

Wi-Fi

It’s hard to imagine life without “wireless fidelity”—or WiFi, as it’s commonly known. In the 1990s, before smartphones and wireless devices, major communication companies were struggling to introduce wireless networking technology. Reverberation, where radio waves bounce around the environment and distort the signal, was an ongoing problem.

The CSIRO began working on a plan to create a wireless local area network (WLAN) unencumbered by reverberation, with Aussie scientists John O’Sullivan, Terry Percival, Diet Ostry, Graham Daniels and John Deane leading the research. This team found a way to get wireless signals to their destination without interruption, and WiFi as we know it was born, patented in 1996.

Google Maps

You likely use it every time you venture out to a new location, but Google Maps, which turns 16 next month, actually has solid Aussie roots. 

In 2003, Danish-born, Sydney-based brothers Jens and Lars Rasmussen co-founded a mapping startup called Where 2 Technologies. The company, co-founded with Stephen Ma and Noel Gordon, was sold to Google in 2004, and launched as Google Maps in the US in 2005.

Black Box Flight Recorder

Now compulsory on all commercial flights, the very first flight recorder, or black box, was invented in 1958. David Warren, a research scientist at Melbourne’s Aeronautical Research Laboratory, got the idea for a flight recorder in the 1950s when he was part of a team investigating the cause of a deadly commercial aircraft crash. He thought it would have helped to have heard a recording of the last conversations between crew and other sounds inside the plane before it crashed. Australia was also the first country to make the black box compulsory on all flights.

Ultrasound Scanner

Every parent that’s seen the first glimpse of their baby by ultrasound can thank Australian scientists for their efforts. The Ultrasonic Research Group was founded in the 1950s following concerns about the effects of X-rays on pregnant women. In 1961, David Robinson and George Kossoff built the world’s first commercial ultrasound scanner.

Anti-Hacking Software Kernel

A more recent invention, in 2011 the precursor to CSIRO’s Data61 group, National ICT Australia (NICTA), developed an operating system kernel that could distinguish between trusted and untrusted software to prevent hackers from accessing computer systems. The seL4 micro-kernel was designed to stop attacks like code injection, where hackers inject malware code into vulnerable applications to gain control of an application and network.

Developers claim seL4 is the world’s first operating system (OS) kernel that is mathematically proved to be secure, besides being the fastest and most advanced OS microkernel. It is freely available and open source. In the future, it may be used in commercial products, but right now is deployed in a number of projects worldwide.

Quantum Computing

Australia is leading the world when it comes to the future of computing. Quantum physics might hold the key to computers that can be a million times more powerful than existing machines.  A team of Australian scientists developed the world’s first quantum bit or qubit in 2012. A qubit can exist in both the 0 and 1 binary states at once, and physicists believe this will allow quantum computers to work on a million calculations at once, while a normal computer can only handle one. Since then, Australia has developed a quantum computing hub in Sydney, researchers at the University of New South Wales made further breakthroughs in 2018, and the CSIRO is positioning Australia as a world leader in this technology.

Cheers Australia

With a strong history and current focus on innovation, there’s no doubt that more technology breakthroughs will be on this list in the future. From network infrastructure to cloud storage, data security, and more, there are plenty of IT challenges that need solving each day. If you’d like to find out more about how technology can work for your business, contact the IT experts at StormWarden.

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The Top 5 IT Challenges for Small Businesses

The Top 5 IT Challenges for Small Businesses

It’s true—sometimes technology can be frustrating. If you’ve ever related to the printer smash scene in Office Space or wondered why your calendar won’t sync to all devices, you’re not alone. Below we outline some common IT challenges, how you can fix them, and when you should call in the experts.

First: Have you tried turning it off and on again?

This oft-repeated line from The IT Crowd is a tech support favourite for a reason. Often, you simply need to restart an application or your computer in order to fix a problem. 

It’s also worth making sure that your operating system is up-to-date, as new updates will provide important bug and performance fixes.

For other devices, such as a printer, try switching it on and off, or even disconnecting and reconnecting the device. It’s worth trying this before you call tech support—because you know they are going to ask you, anyway.

Problem 1: Slow applications

Ever open an application and wonder why it takes forever to load? The problem could be that you’re running out of free space on your hard drive. 

Alternatively, if you find websites take a long time to load, it might not be your computer’s fault. Sometimes, your internet connection could be the problem. You can test your broadband speed at Speedtest.net, or otherwise, check that your Wi-Fi is connected.

You can also ask a professional to do a basic IT audit to get to the bottom of the problem.

Problem 2: No backups

If you’ve ever lost an important document or file, you’ll understand the importance of regular backups. Unfortunately, many businesses don’t have regular backup systems in place. 

More than an inconvenience, though, neglecting backups is a serious security issue. Ransomware is a type of malicious software (malware) that makes your computer or its files unusable unless you pay a fee. Ransomware gets onto your computer like other malware or viruses. If successful, ransomware criminals hold your files or data “ransom” and demand payment for its release.

The Federal Government’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) recommends that businesses proactively protect themselves against ransomware threats by creating regular backups of software and important files. These backups should be stored offline, for example with a reliable cloud storage provider, for at least three months. 

Problem 3: WiFi Keeps Disconnecting

Spotty WiFi can be extremely frustrating. The issue may stem from your service provider, your computer, your router, or even your environment. 

Before you throw your computer across the room in a rage, confirm that it’s within range of your wireless router. You should also make sure your WiFi is turned on and Airplane mode is turned off. On a Windows PC, select the “No internet connection” icon on the right side of the taskbar and make sure the WiFi is turned on.

You can also try connecting to a WiFi network on a different frequency band. Many routers broadcast at two frequencies, 2.4GHz and 5 GHz, which appear as separate networks on the list of available WiFi networks. 

If that doesn’t work, you can also run the network troubleshooter to help diagnose and fix common connection problems.

Problem 4: Software Doesn’t Work

It’s important to keep software up-to-date and understand that not all software is compatible with all operating systems. Older software might not function on Windows 10, and an app created for Mac OS X isn’t going to work on a Windows PC.

And it sounds obvious, but make sure you are using licensed versions of software, rather than illegal downloads. This not only will help you keep your software running, but will ensure that your business avoids hefty fines.

Problem 5: Hardware Issues

Many businesses run into problems with the lifespan of the technology that they use. Hardware will often require repairs or system upgrades after a few years. 

And unfortunately, sometimes you need to retire equipment. Standardizing hardware components and software applications will help, or you can work with an IT consultant to figure out how long your equipment will last.

Sometimes, you need to call in the experts.

Solving everyday IT issues can be time consuming (and frustrating) if you’re not a professional. Having tech support on speed dial is one way to avoid the headaches involved in troubleshooting and ensure that you’re never left stranded by tech problems.

With StormWarden Rescue, you can have your own IT professional on-call, ready to jump in and solve any tech issue at a moment’s notice. With no lock-in contracts or hidden fees, you simply pay for your tech support hours in advance and use them as needed. Find out more about StormWarden Rescue and arrange your free quote today.

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Are You Overlooking Dark Web Data Breaches?

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Are You Overlooking Dark Web Data Breaches?

4 Ways to Become Cyber Security Aware

You have clever passwords. You don’t click on suspicious emails. You follow company guidelines to keep your data safe.

Is this really enough to protect against cybersecurity breaches and keep confidential information off the dark web?

Australia’s Growing Cyber Security Threats

Every year, thousands of Australians are affected in major company data breaches.

Between July 2019 and June 2020 alone, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) received more than 1,000 mandatory data breach notifications. 

The majority of breaches (84%) involved leaked contact information, such as home addresses, phone numbers and email addresses, while over one third involved identity information such as passport numbers and driver licences, or financial information.

Once data is compromised, it could wind up in anyone’s hands. Cybercriminals use the dark web to sell confidential personal and commercial information, leaving individuals and businesses at risk of identity theft, fraud, and severe financial losses.

And it’s not just the Google’s of the world at risk. Right here in Australia, small businesses are the target of 43% of cybersecurity crimes.

Don’t Bury Your Head in the Sand

Malicious cyber-attacks can have extreme impacts on individuals and businesses alike and with more employees working from home in 2020, your business could be more at risk than ever before.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch service has received more than 4,160 scam reports related to the coronavirus involving more than $3 million in losses since the outbreak of COVID-19.

Below are four ways to encourage all employees, whether in the office or at home, to be cyber-crime aware.

1. Be unique

You’ve heard it before, but you really shouldn’t use the same password on multiple sites and applications. A password manager can be a useful tool for keeping track of passwords, while multi-factor authorisation (such as a text or email notification) offers an extra level of security to protect data.

2. Avoid phishing scams

Train your team to recognise telltale signs of false emails and phishing scams. You can also beef up cybersecurity with software to filter phishing emails out of your inbox and block phishy websites.

3. Get into the cloud

When set up correctly, cloud storage can be a lot more secure than portable storage devices (such as USBs), which can be easily copied, erased or stolen without detection.

4. Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) can help hide information about your computer and encrypt your data, making it harder for criminals to access private information.

Better the Devil You Know

You can’t protect your business against a crime you can’t see. And unfortunately, sometimes it’s impossible to know if an employee has clicked on a suspicious email link or been the victim of a malware attack until it’s too late.

A dark web scan is one way to find out if your company or personal data is already compromised. A dark web scan works by scouring collections of stolen personal information and alerting you if your information is found.

You can then take the appropriate steps to mitigate damage, tighten up cybersecurity and protect against identity theft and fraud.

Want to find out if your data is already on the dark web? Download the dark web scan flyer to learn more or click here to register for your free StormWarden dark web scan.

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Protecting Your Privacy

Protecting Your Privacy

Since 2019, the Federal Government’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has been reporting on an ongoing cyber-attack from a sophisticated foreign operator that is still in progress at the time of writing this article. The hackers aren’t just targeting big businesses and government organisations. Individuals and small businesses are particularly at risk due to having fewer cybersecurity measures in place, making them easier targets. That’s why so many businesses and individuals in Australia have decided to use a VPN to encrypt their data when online. In fact, in 2020 there has been a 23% uptick in VPN use.

What is a VPN anyway?

If you’re concerned about your personal or business cybersecurity, you need to know about VPNs. If you already know what they are, you can skip ahead to the list. A VPN is a Virtual Private Network that allows you to securely connect with another network over the internet. It connects your smart device or computer to another computer or server somewhere else in the world. Your internet activity and browsing occurs through that computer’s internet connection. All of the data between your computer and the server computer is encrypted. If your server computer is in another country, all of your activity will appear to be emanating from that country, not your own.

How does having a VPN help me?

  • Encrypts your activity and data
  • Increases privacy, protects you from sticky beaks
  • May allow you to access geo-blocked sites
  • Protects you from untrustworthy Wi-Fi hotspots
  • Allows for anonymous Internet activity
  • Can circumvent internet service provider connection-monitoring

They’re particularly useful for business travelers who may wish to securely access their local networks without directly exposing their IP to the internet. This is extremely important on public Wi-Fi which is prone to being hacked into by anyone wanting to snoop into your browsing activity. When you connect your VPN in these scenarios, anyone snooping will only see one piece of browsing activity – that you are connected to a VPN.

Top 9 Things to Look for When Choosing a VPN

1. Speed

Nobody likes a slow connection, so make sure your VPN provides high-speed uploads and downloads from the locations you’re most likely to connect.

2. Security

Look for VPNs that don’t keep logs of your browsing activity, ones with sound anonymity policies, reliable encryption, and protection mechanisms like IP and DNS hiding and kill switches.

3. Locations

This one is important to users who are interested in accessing geo-blocked websites. If you’re worried about the legalities of this, don’t! Even the Australian government has recommended we use VPNs to access geo-blocked content such as US Netflix!

4. Accessibility

Very important for business travelers. While your VPN might work fine in your country of origin, if you’re always on the road, it’s important to check your VPN can provide the same level of service in the countries you’re most likely to visit.

5. User-Friendly

Business owners looking to implement a VPN across the company will find the more user-friendly the app, the better. Some VPNs are really well set up for ease of use for even the more inexperienced technology users in your team.

6. Versatility

Some VPNs are available to use and install across multiple devices – smart phone, desktop, laptop and tablet. Others operate from the modem out, so all connected devices including your IoT devices are automatically covered.

7. Bandwidth

Unlimited bandwidth is ideal, especially if you’re uploading and downloading a lot of large files as part of your day-to-day operations. Some VPNs try to punish P2P (Peer to Peer) file sharing in an effort to stop piracy, so they engage in something called bandwidth throttling which is where they drastically slow your internet connection speed down (see point 1).

8. Support

Free tech’ support should be included and easy to access. Be sure to use a provider that makes it easy to contact them.

9. Price

There are wide ranges of prices available for VPNs and plenty of options out there to choose from so once you make a list of which of the above points matters to you most, look for a provider that can give them to you for the most reasonable price.

StormWarden’s team is always keeping up to date with the latest and greatest VPN providers. Talk to our Wardens for sound advice on which VPN is right for you. Once we find the right one, we can set it up on your systems and even train your team in how to use it!

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Cyber Attack Warning

Cyber Attack Warning

8 Things You Need to Do Immediately to Protect Your Business

Did you know that Australia is currently the target of a focused and unrelenting cyberattack from a sophisticated foreign entity? No matter how big or small your business is, this vital information means one thing: you need to act now to protect yourself.

Who is Being Targeted?

Short answer: every Australian including businesses, Government organisations and private citizens.

Nobody is immune to the tactics being used and everyone’s private data is seen as desirable. It’s not just credit card numbers, bank details, usernames and passwords, all of your personal and business data has a value on the dark web. Economists say data is worth more than gold or oil in today’s economy.

In the Last 12 Months…
  • 51% of businesses attacked by ransomware
  • 58% saw increase in phishing attacks
  • 60% increase in impersonation fraud
  • 82% experienced downtime from an attack
What Can You Do?

The Federal Government’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) says it’s imperative that you are alert to this threat and take steps now to enhance the resilience of your computer networks and smart technology.

8 Things You Need to Do Immediately to Protect Your Business

1. Multi-factor authentication (MFA)

You may already be using multi-factor authentication for some of your accounts. If you’re not, you need to start using it right away on all accounts. It’s hands down one of the most effective ways to protect your systems from cybercriminals.

MFA requires you or your staff to input a username and password and then receive another login code on their mobile phone, email or other device. This code is then entered into the system to successfully complete the login.

In order to protect your business from cyberthreats, multi-factor authentication should be applied to all internet-accessible devices and services, including web and cloud-based email, workplace collaboration apps, virtual private network connections and remote desktop services.

Here’s StormWarden CEO Aaron Harch with some more tips on MFA and cybersecurity.

2. Patch applications

All internet-facing software and apps need to be updated to the latest versions right away. The hackers behind the current threats are exploiting known vulnerabilities for which patches are already available. Updating your software will close known vulnerabilities off from hackers. Reliable app providers are prompt to act and provide ‘patches’ for known threats via software updates, so it’s always best practice to keep install the latest available updates within 48 hours of them becoming available.

3. Patch operating systems

Never use outdated or unsupported versions of your operating systems for your devices. Always ensure your smartphones, tablets and computers are operating with the latest version of their system installed. If a new operating system update arrives, be sure to download and install within 48 hours of it becoming available.

4. Application control

Effective application control will prevent unwanted malware – malicious software – from being able to open and operate on your network. If you have it correctly set up, only approved applications can run on your systems, so even if an employee unwittingly opens or tries to install malicious software, it will do no harm.

5. User application hardening

The ACSC recommends you configure your web browsers to block or better still uninstall Flash, ads and Java script on the internet. It’s also wise to disable any features you don’t need in Microsoft Office (e.g. OLE), web browsers and PDF viewers. That’s because these are popular ways hackers use to get malicious code onto your systems.

6. Block macros

Speaking of Microsoft Office, it’s recommended to configure Office to block macros from the internet. If you only allow vetted macros either in ‘trusted locations’ with limited write access or digitally signed with a trusted certificate you remove the risk of internet macros delivering and executing malicious code on your network.

7. Restrict admin privileges

ACSC describes your operating system and applications’ admin accounts as the ‘keys to the kingdom’ and rightly so! Your admin accounts have the most control and highest levels of access. That’s why it is vital to regularly evaluate the need for privileges and only provide access to those for whom it is essential.

8. Backup daily

Ransomware criminals rely on your need for your own files and data. If successful, they hold this information for ‘ransom’ and demand payment for its release. One way to mitigate risk of becoming prey to these cybercriminals is to conduct regular backups of your software and data files. Your backups should be stored off-site, for example with a reliable cloud storage provider, for at least three months. Some businesses find daily backups to be enough, however if you have a lot of new data applied to your systems throughout the day, it can be prudent to back-up your data even more frequently.

Receive a FREE Security Assessment

StormWarden is offering new customers a free security assessment including dark web scan, internal security audit and one free phishing testing assessment for your staff when you sign up for our MFA cybersecurity services. Download the MFA flyer here or get in touch to find out more about this offer.

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Top 7 Reasons to Choose Our RESCUE Service

Top 7 Reasons to Choose Our RESCUE Service

If you’re paying too much for your business IT support, you’re going to love this!

You may not have heard of our Rescue or Booster services before because we’ve newly developed them in response to Coronavirus and the precarious position that left many small and medium business owners facing. We know you’re busy, so we’ve put together this quick list of reasons why you need to ditch your expensive IT bills and subscribe to our Rescue service for a predictable, cost-effective monthly spend.

  • It’s Convenient – You and your team can get professional IT support within minutes of needing it. You want help now, you got it!
  • It’s Affordable – We’ve developed affordable Rescue rates to help businesses survive and thrive through these challenging times.
  • It’s Scalable – Choose the right amount of support you need and that’s all you pay for! Choose from two, ten or twenty hours when you book.
  • It’s Predictable – Rescue is the most powerful way to maintain budget control. There are no hidden fees, no surprise costs.
  • It’s Trackable – You can easily track the time you’ve used and how many support hours you have left on our handy dashboard.
  • It’s Flexible – Available from as little as 2-hours or as large as 20-hour packs, Rescue lets your business choose the IT support that fits what you need.
  • It’s Manageable – Don’t you hate it when a subscription and payments just auto-renew? Us too, so we don’t do it to our customers.

Ready to get Rescue now, click here to book.

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Rescuing SMEs Comes Naturally to StormWarden

Rescuing SMEs Comes Naturally to StormWarden

Now there’s a new way for businesses to get greater control of their IT budgets

We all know how challenging the COVID-19 restrictions and shutdowns have been for businesses everywhere. Like many of you, it got our team thinking about how we could especially help the small and medium businesses in our communities to stay on their feet.

As everyone braced for the inevitable economic downturn, it was natural for businesses to start seeking more affordable ways to keep the doors open throughout Coronavirus. Most business owners became focused on just keeping the essentials running while cutting back on everything else. So it seemed to us, the obvious solution was to find a way to provide businesses with just the essential IT support they need in a way that gave them complete budget control.

“Rescue and Booster were created as an incredibly easy way for businesses to gain access to professional IT services on-demand, rather than having to enter into a large commitment over a long period of time,” says StormWarden CEO Aaron Harch, “Both services we offer are super agile and as on-demand as possible. People can literally sign up, pay online, and start accessing IT support within minutes.”

Booster packs and Rescue service allow you to save on IT with 2, 10 or 20 hours of professional support available and, at reduced rates on our Rescue monthly subscription, for you and your team to use as you need it most.

If you only need an hour of support, you can book a service online and call up for your hour of support when you have an IT issue. Booster Spark and Ignite allow you to use the support hours in thirty-minute blocks over the period of 30 and 60 days, respectively. The hourly rate drops the more hours you purchase so, Booster Accelerate represents outstanding value for money, billed in fifteen-minute blocks over 60 days, on the already affordable Booster Spark rate.

Rescue Plan

Booster Pack

  • SPARK

    2 hours support
    $ 99 Hour
    • Monthly Subscription
    • 30-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Great for small jobs
    • Small investment
    START FREE TRIAL
    LOW COST TO GET STARTED.

    IGNITE

    10 hours support
    $ 97 Hour
    • Monthly Subscription
    • 30-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Needing stable support
    • Get more bang for buck
    START FREE TRIAL
    SAVE 2% FROM SPARK.
    Popular

    ACCELERATE

    20 hours support
    $ 94 Hour
    • Monthly Subscription
    • 15-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Comprehensive support
    • Work ON your business
    START FREE TRIAL
    SAVE 5% FROM SPARK.

  • SPARK

    2 hours support
    $ 124 Hour
    • 30-Day Expiry
    • 30-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Great for small jobs
    • Small investment
    START FREE TRIAL
    LOW COST TO GET STARTED.

    IGNITE

    10 hours support
    $ 121
    50
    Hour
    • 60-Day Expiry
    • 30-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Needing stable support
    • Get more bang for buck
    START FREE TRIAL
    SAVE 2% FROM SPARK.
    Popular

    ACCELERATE

    20 hours support
    $ 118 Hour
    • 60-Day Expiry
    • 15-Minute Ticket Blocks
    • Comprehensive support
    • Work ON your business
    START FREE TRIAL
    SAVE 5% FROM SPARK.

Rescue and Booster solve so many problems for businesses. There’s never a chance of scope creep or budget blowout, giving you outstanding control of your finances right when it’s vital for many business’ survival. You can give our team a ‘trial’ without making a huge commitment to work with an IT support crew you don’t yet know and trust. Best of all, it’s flexible and agile, which is the way modern business is meant to be.

So, if you need to be saved from massive IT bills, click here to book a service online.

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