• Anti-Virus and Malware Perhaps the most serious threat to data security comes through the potential for malicious software penetrating a network or individual device . Whilst the threat is very real , the availability of anti malware and anti-virus software is really pretty straightforward and there is absolutely no excuse for not having decent protection software in place , with a regime to ensure that it is constantly updated . Not to be forgotten is the fact that operating systems themselves need to be updated regularly . For example , it is recommended that Microsoft Windows is set to automatically update with security patches etc . You ’ d be really surprised at the number of people who don ’ t have this feature turned on though !
Hopefully these few pointers will at least provoke some thought on your part around the protective measures that you have in place within your organisation . All of this in any event should form an important part of your ongoing risk analysis of the business . If you want to undertake a more detailed review in this area , we can help by finding you an appropriate expert . Just give us a call .
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A Warning from RWA
Although only a few weeks into their regime , the FCA have continued their run of recent warning notices concerning the activities of unauthorised and clone firms .
By attempting to pass themselves off as legitimately authorised entities , they each have one goal in mind – deception , either seeking to dupe unsuspecting investors to part with monies and / or obtain confidential and sensitive information with which to perpetrate their deception ( s ).
Whilst this is not a new phenomenon , the FCA ’ s publicised pursuit of such firms only serves to highlight the increased threat posed and warns investors that the protections offered by FOS or the FSCS do not apply should customers find themselves caught out .
So what can be done ?
RWA recommend a slight adjustment to compliance and risk mitigation plans by adopting the following counter measures :
1 . Check that your business name is not being used elsewhere . This can be done relatively easily using the internet ; and
2 . Review your data security and specifically your email policy by periodically checking the authenticity of email addresses ( both clients and businesses with whom you deal ) - especially so if there has been a change ;
3 . Finally , with the whole issue of social media gathering momentum you may wish to consider your firm ’ s social media exposure so as to ensure that messages posted regarding your firm are genuine and legitimate .
Our message is ‘ don ’ t do nothing ’ otherwise it may be too late .
For more information contact RWA on 01604 709509 or email helpdesk @ rwagroup . co . uk . Join the discussion 11