Ukraine — how to help
It almost feels futile to be writing newsletters about IT while we’re watching what’s happening on the other side of Europe. Our thoughts are of course with everyone involved and affected, but life and work must continue where it can. If you’re not sure how best to help Ukrainian people we recommend a donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee as the most effective option.
Client Satisfaction Survey results
The results are in from our 2021 Client Satisfaction Survey! Many thanks to everyone who took part — we’re ecstatic about the outcome, details of which you can view here.
Increased risk of security & cyber attacks?
Although there aren’t currently any specific threats to the UK’s digital infrastructure, it’s worth being aware that there is potential for “spillover” from attacks which may take place on Ukraine.
In 2017, an attack on Ukrainian tax software spread around the world and affected companies in 64 countries, including the UK, causing billions of pounds of damage.
We’re currently updating our security and password management advice, which we’ll share with you soon. But in the meantime here are some useful checks you can make:
- Enable two-factor authentication on important systems, such as banking & accounting software, social media, email (and email marketing). Ask us if you’re unsure about how to do this.
- Ensure everyone in your company knows the checks and processes around making financial payments — especially to new suppliers or when an existing supplier tells you they’ve changed their bank details.
- Have you fallen into lazy habits with passwords? Either using passwords which are too simple, or reusing a password on multiple sites? Or both? Set up a password manager and audit your security. Get in touch if you’d like us to set this up for you.
- Remember that not all scams will be digital. ‘Social engineering’ is often used to breach IT security, for example something as simple as phoning you to convince you to hand over account or password details.
- We’re also seeing a large increase in the use of messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, where scammers will pretend to be a family member in need of help. Be aware, and don’t take everything at face value.
- Don’t leave your devices — laptops, tablets, phones — unlocked and unattended, especially when traveling or in public spaces. Some firms have a requirement that if you step away from your desk, even for a minute, you must lock your computer.
- Be careful what you click, download, open or install. Even if something appears to be from a trusted source, it may not be safe. Use good judgement and if you’re in any doubt, check using a different method of communication: if you receive an email with an attachment, call or message the sender to double-check.
- Finally, but perhaps most importantly, make sure you keep your devices and software up-to-date with the latest patches and releases. This includes things like operating systems, software, apps, WordPress updates and so on on across all your computers, firewalls, servers, tablets and phones — and any other internet-connected devices.
If you’re an EJC ‘Service Desk‘ client then we’ll make sure your systems are up-to-date where we can, and as protected as possible. If you’d like to discuss these issues further or work together to perform a security audit, we’d be only too happy to help.
