Cyber Security - Are you at risk? |

Given the recent ransomware attacks, financial technology expert Joel Bruckenstein interviews cybersecurity expert Brian Edelman. In this podcast from the AICPA PFP Division, they discuss:

What exactly is ransomware
Scope of the recent global ransomware attack, which is the largest in history, and how likely it is
Which operating systems are the most and least vulnerable
How vulnerable CPAs and financial advisers are to this sort of ransomware attack and why
Signs your systems may be infected with malware (not just ransomware) and what to do if your computer is acting in an unusual way
What can you do to protect yourself and what to do if your impacted by a ransomware attack, including actionable takeaways

Although one size does not fit all, here’s our recommended security checklist for your business network.

SYSTEM SECURITY CHECKLIST	Complete
1. Encrypt all hard drives on all machines with confidential data
2. Turn off systems at night, weekends and vacation (n/a-servers)
3. Reboot computers as you leave for appointments & lunch, logging back in when you return
4. Require passwords to access the start screen on all smart phones, tablets and laptops
5. Establish a password with 8 characters of letters, numbers and wildcard character, memorize it and do not share it; and utilize DashLane password software
6. Install and update an antivirus/anti-phishing and firewall security suite program on all systems (We use & recommend BitDefender)
7. Implement physical security standards: power down systems when leaving, locking up portable devices, securing server rooms
8. Implement a “no-click” policy on email links
9. Restrict remote access to data by all owners and employees, implementing a written office-wide policy and VPNs rather than remote log-in software
10. Change default passwords and addresses on all devices including routers, computers, tablets, smart phones and software
11. Practice invisible client interviews: clean desks, files locked away, and computers turned off; or perform all interviews in conference rooms without computer system access. Never allow a client unaccompanied in any room with a computer or file
12. Establish written standards for work-at-home situations requiring secure rooms, no-access to computer policy except by staff, system shut down at all times when absent. See TaxSpeaker® Telecommuting policy
13. Perform employee background checks similar to banking institutions
14. Redact all client SSN’s, firm EFIN & personal PTIN on all documents
15. Never provide a client or outsider with Wi-Fi access in your office
16. Never, ever use public Wi-Fi including planes, airports, restaurants unless through a secure VPN or using encrypted email
17. Accept client data only by portal upload, physical visit or surface delivery
18. External mail boxes and drop off areas must be locked and secure
19. Change Wi-Fi and all logins upon dismissal, retirement or job change of an employee
20. Implement, educate and enforce a company-wide computer/internet use policy.

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David Conley

David is a partner at Smith, Conley & Associates, PC. In addition to writing and tax consulting, he is active in the pro-life community serving as President of the Fayette County Right to Life chapter of Georgia Right to Life.
He is also a founding Board Member and Finance Director of the Fayette Pregnancy Resource Center and serves on the Board of the National Equal Rights Institute.