Microsoft recently announced that all Azure sign-ins will soon require multi-factor authentication (MFA) to boost security. Even if you don’t use Azure, a cloud computing platform, this is something you should pay attention to. Because MFA is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your digital assets.

What is multi-factor authentication? Think of it like adding an extra security measure to the door of your business.

Normally, you log into your accounts with just a password. But passwords aren’t as safe as they used to be; cyber criminals are good at cracking them. MFA adds another layer of security. It’s like saying, “OK, you have the key, but I’m going to need to see some ID too.”

After entering your password, you’re asked to verify your identity a second time. This could be a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint scan, or a quick tap on an app like Microsoft Authenticator. It’s an extra step, but an important one. Even if someone manages to steal your password, they’d still need this second form of verification to get into your account. That’s a massive roadblock.

Yes, adding another step to your sign-in process might sound like a hassle. But the reality is, it’s a small inconvenience that can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Imagine the fallout if someone gained access to your sensitive business information. The cost of a breach, in terms of both money and reputation, is much higher than the few extra seconds it takes to use MFA.

There are a few different ways to set up MFA. Some people prefer getting a one-time passcode via text message, while others like the convenience of a push notification on their phone. Biometric options, like fingerprints or facial recognition, are also becoming more common. And for those who want something extra secure, there are physical security keys that plug into your computer.

Microsoft’s push for MFA with Azure is just the tip of the iceberg. The truth is this kind of security measure is a business security basic.

Need help setting this up and making it easy for your business? It’s what we do. Get in touch.

If you’re like most people, you probably find system updates a hassle. They take ages and those big downloads eat up precious bandwidth and storage. 

Date: Wednesday 1st November 2023

Title: Suffolk IT company is recognised for its data protection diligence

As a well-respected IT Support company based in the heart of Ipswich, DPS Tech are celebrating being awarded with the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification. This certification is a recognition of a series of high standards which demonstrate that your business has systems in place to protect corporate information and data, whether this is online or offline. In a recent ISO survey* it was estimated that only 2.5% of companies had managed to gain this award. ISO 27001 isn’t a quick or easy programme for any company to achieve. Managing Partner, Dean Willingham explains, “It has taken many months of focussed work, not necessarily changing our processes but streamlining and strengthening them further. As part of working towards this award, we had to evidence all of our internal procedures, so it was extremely thorough and detailed. It was then independently assessed by a certified auditor.”

He continues, “We are delighted to finally receive this recognition after months of hard work by the whole DPS team. This award for us encompasses the effort that has been put in by the individual staff members and their effective teamwork. ISO 27001 is a highly regarded international, industry standard that provides the framework for an effective Information Security Management System. It sets out the policies and procedures needed to protect your organisation and includes all the risk controls necessary for robust IT security management. Knowing that we are now a company with this important accolade, gives clients real peace of mind that they are dealing with an IT company who take the protection of their data extremely seriously.”

DPS Tech support a wide range of organisations both locally and nationally covering many sectors including Shipping and Logistics, Manufacturing, and Education. Established in 2001, and built upon a foundation of technical expertise, they have a solid reputation for delivering innovative and trusted technology, combined with dependable and proactive IT Support for their customers.

Dean continues, “We are one of the very few IT companies to have worked meticulously to achieve this ISO accreditation. The processes we use, provide a systematic approach to risk management, addressing the three pillars of information security which are People, Process and Technology and I couldn’t be prouder of the whole DPS team for their commitment to this project. It is clear our industry is going to be subject to regulations as we have such a privileged position with a company’s systems and data; this helps galvanise our position as a Cyber Security focused provider.”

DPS work closely with leading manufacturers and continually invest in staff and in-house systems. It’s all part of their commitment to providing the infrastructure and support to allow businesses to grow and operate effectively. Dean concludes, “We pride ourselves on a non-jargon approach. We become integral to our clients’ organisations large or small. Giving the reassurance of a reliable, now ISO 27001 accredited IT system, with a proactive support which also potentially adds this accreditation to the clients supply chain.”

You can contact DPS Tech via www.dpstech.co.uk or follow them on /dpstechgroup

 -ends

Notes to editors: -

*Based on the ISO 2020 survey.

Please contact Steph Mackentyre, In View Publicity for details 07957 859343.