The cybersecurity landscape continues to rapidly evolve. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, bad actors were ramping up the sophistication of their attacks by subverting a target’s supply chain to gain access their ultimate target. A recent Department of Homeland Security alert cited managed IT service providers (MSP) are among those in the supply chain that hackers are attempting to penetrate.

Does your MSP represent a threat to your cybersecurity?

Just like your company, MSPs could be subject to hackers, phishing attacks and ransomware. Your MSP may already be providing security services to your business but are they taking even greater responsibility for their own security?

Here are the 13 key things you should know about your MSP’s security:

  • Dedicated security function – does your MSP have trained, certified subject matter experts in cybersecurity?
  • Sophisticated security toolsets – are they using best-of-breed tools to monitor their systems and yours?
  • Least privilege model – do they reasonably limit access of their personnel to only those tasks they are required to complete?
  • Patch management – do they continuously monitor and patch their tools to the latest versions so hackers cannot exploit security holes?
  • Multi-Factor Authentication – do they implement MFA across their entire network?
  • Layered security – does their internal security provide for multiple layers so hackers who may penetrate one layer are thwarted by another?
  • Isolation – do they create enough isolation of their systems so a compromised system cannot affect others?
  • Response plans – do they have a formal process in place should an incident occur?
  • Employee training – do they have a security training program for their own personnel?
  • Regulated industries – do they work for clients that require compliance under HIPAA, NIST/CMMC, SOX, GDPR and PCI?
  • Penetration testing – do they have an accredited third party test their security from outside and inside attack?
  • Certification – have they achieved a security accreditation by an organization like CompTIA for their Security Trustmark + rating?
  • Communications – do they provide you with some documentation of their own cybersecurity practices to provide you with a high level of assurance?

Security threats are a constant in an ever-evolving environment of risk mitigation. Remember, security of your business is a shared responsibility. You have your part to play as does your MSP. They should be able to answer these questions and provide you the level of confidence you need to know your business is secure.

Complete the form below to get our checklist you can use to assess your MSP’s security. For more information about Applied Tech’s security capabilities, click here.

 

The Resource Hub

Get Complete Managed Services Insights

Visit our Resource Center for up-to-date news and stories for technology and business leaders.

8 Critical Priorities Your IT Needs to Nail 

8 Critical Priorities Your IT Needs to Nail 

If you’re a business owner or leader, you know how important it is to have a reliable and effective IT partner that can help you achieve your goals, keep your workforce productive while maintaining a safe and secure network environment.  But how do you know if your IT partner is really delivering on their promises and meeting your expectations? How do you measure their performance and value? ...

Applied Tech Recognized on the CRN MSP 500 List for 2023

Applied Tech Recognized on the CRN MSP 500 List for 2023

March, 2023 – Applied Tech has been named to CRN’s Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list for 2023 in the Pioneer 250 category. This annual list recognizes North American companies with innovative approaches to managed services that support customers with the ongoing complexities of IT solutions while optimizing operational efficiencies and systems to maximize return on investment. The Pioneer...

Wisconsin State Journal Names Applied Tech a Winner of Madison’s Top Workplaces 2023

Wisconsin State Journal Names Applied Tech a Winner of Madison’s Top Workplaces 2023

Madison, Wisconsin, March 26, 2023 - Applied Tech has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2023 honor by Wisconsin State Journal Top Workplaces for the second year in a row. The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical...

Applied Tech and Platte River Networks Partnership Creates “Strategic IT Powerhouse” for Small and Midsize Businesses

Applied Tech and Platte River Networks Partnership Creates “Strategic IT Powerhouse” for Small and Midsize Businesses

Blockbuster merger expands team and expertise, bringing more knowledge, services, and technical specialization to local growth-minded businesses nation-wide MADISON, Wis. & DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two of the IT channel’s top-performing, celebrated managed service providers (MSPs) – Applied Tech and Platte River Networks have partnered to become an MSP superpower serving businesses...

Three IT Service Techs Working

Move Forward with IT Services for Business

Use managed services for small and mid-sized businesses that help you reach your goals.

Work With Us