IT specialist weighs in on recent cybersecurity measures

HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The U.S. Senate passed a package of bills enhancing U.S. cybersecurity. The legislation comes after President Joe Biden released a statement about Russia’s ability to make cyberattacks.

He said his administration is stepping up security, so many leaders and tech experts are urging people to tighten their own security.

“The companies that get hit that have a national footprint are the ones who make the news, typically, but this is a threat for all businesses... small, the smallest one or two men tax office, all the way to the ones who are here in Rockingham County,” said Ross Carter, managing partner with IT Decisions in Harrisonburg.

Carter said a lot of hacking occurs after clicking following a link on a website or email. If it looks suspicious, assume it is, Carter said. Don’t click on links or input information if you’re not sure about the website.

Carter said even small offices and individuals need to protect their computers.

“Small offices still need to take proactive steps on a number of certain things to protect their business. That goes down to even the residential sector as well,” Carter said.

Small things like using multi-factor authentication can help. Carter said to never use the same password more than once.

“Many of the organizations we come in contact with don’t have near the security that really is just a baseline in this day in age,” Carter said.

If your business works with an IT department, ask them before following any links you aren’t sure about.

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