With the recent advancements in technology, data analysis has entered a new phase in which large amount of data can be harvested and processed. Big data analytics refers to the process of examining this data set to uncover existing patterns, trends, demands and correlations between various factors, which further helps to make informed business decisions. For instance, Netflix uses big data analytics to improve its video streaming services and improve user experience.

Big data is basically characterized by 3Vs i.e. Volume, Variety and Velocity.

• Volume: Different Machine-to-Machine and Human-to-Machine communications result in large amount data, which need to be analyzed to extract useful information.
• Variety: All the data that is generated is of the unstructured nature. It needs to be processed, curated and annotated to bring out important piece of information or facts from it.
• Velocity: Large chunk of data is being generated every second and needs to be processed. Therefore, there is need for tools that can handle the flow of this data and produce required results.

Why It Matters?

Big data analytics can provide valuable business intelligence by harnessing the company data and use it to identify new opportunities. This helps the company to make smart decisions, increase profits and most importantly, satisfy the customers. Few of the advantages of big data analytics are as follows:

• Big data analytics frameworks like Hadoop have started to bring significant cost reduction when it comes to storing huge amount of data.
• The ability to analyze new data can help the companies to break down every bit of information into something useful and make decisions based on the results. 
• Big data analytics is important for firms that have a large amount of data flowing every second. The analysis can provide useful information from that data and in turn, gives them a competitive edge over others.

Some of the industries that benefit from big data analytics are:

• Public Sector Services
• Healthcare
• Learning Services
• Insurance Services
• Industrialized and Natural Resources
• Transportation Services
• Banking Sectors and Fraud Detection

If used wisely, the analytic tools can help to make predictions and explain the entire growth pattern of your business. For more information about the importance of big data analytics, contact Centex Technologies at (972) 375 – 9654.

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Backdoors can be defined as malicious programs that provide a convenient way for the hackers to sneak into your corporate network. If they gain access, they may exploit the security vulnerabilities in the computer system to steal personal information, modify or delete files and install additional software. A backdoor is probably one of the most harmful types of malware as it allows the hacker to get complete control of the infected computer.

Once a computer system is infected, a backdoor may perform the following activities:

• Delete, rename, edit or copy any file stored on the computer
• Make changes in the Windows registry and execute or terminate certain applications
• Record keystrokes, gather confidential data, capture screenshots and send it to a remote host
• Reduce internet speed and performance or consume extended bandwidth
• Initiate attacks against other systems connected to the same network

How Does Backdoor Infect Computer Systems?
The typical characteristic of a backdoor is that it installs itself sneakily without being detected by the user. It operates in the background and stealthily transmits all your information to a remote server.

Here are some of the ways in which backdoors spread themselves to the computers systems:

• A user may inadvertently install backdoor through email attachments or file sharing programs. Hackers send the malware in the name of a legitimate file attachment to trick users to download or execute it.
• A backdoor may also get installed when a system is already infected with a virus, spyware or Trojan.
• Unknown remote access features in certain applications may lead to installation of backdoor on your computer. The hacker connects to the computer that has the software installed to gain complete control over its functionality.
• Unpatched software vulnerabilities are another common means through which backdoors spread themselves.

Tips To Remove Backdoor

• Though it is difficult to detect the presence of a backdoor on a computer systems, here are the steps that should be taken if you find one.
• Download and install the latest anti-virus software
• Update the operating system to its latest version
• Disconnect the computer system from the internet network
• Run a complete scan of the computer and remove all the infected files
• Once the process is complete, restart your computer before accessing the internet or opening any file

For more information on backdoor and other malicious software, you can contact Centex Technologies. We can be reached at (972) 375 – 9654.

Ransomware is undoubtedly one of the most harmful types of virus attacks for any corporate network. When a computer system is infected with the malware, it locks down all the files stored on the local hard disc, demanding a certain amount of ransom from the victim to get access to the data. Over the last few years, ransomware attacks have increased and have become a lot more targeted. Therefore, you need to stay proactive and protect your network from getting infected with this malware.

Here are some steps you need to take to ensure that your network is ransomware proof:

Perform Regular Backups

Though this is the most basic defense against ransomware, performing regular backups goes a long way in minimizing the consequences you have to face in the event of an attack. Create and implement a policy that requires the employees to backup their files at frequent intervals. When you have a copy of the files, your business activities would not be hampered due to a ransomware attack.

Disable Remote Access

In most cases, ransomware exploits the vulnerabilities in the computer systems or mobile devices used to access your network remotely. Though remote access allows employees to work from anywhere, it also increases the chances of a hacker being able to infiltrate the corporate network. Therefore, you should disable remote access, particularly on the systems where it is absolutely not required.

Deploy A Firewall

Install a reliable firewall software to prevent ransomware from getting access to your network. When you have set the rules on what type of content can or cannot be accessed on a computer system, you can significantly limit your network’s attack surface. It will also scan all the file downloads in real time and block the ones that potentially contain a malicious code.

Setup correct file and folder level permissions

Just like a firewall software protects you from external attacks, setting up file and folder permissions is important to secure your network internally. Make sure that the employees have access to only those files which they need to perform their tasks. For instance, marketing employees should not be able to view, modify or share the HR department folder. This will not only provide protection from ransomware, but lead to a more secure network environment on the whole.

For more information on ransomware and how you can safeguard your corporate network, feel free to contact Centex Technologies at (972) 375 – 9654.

Continuous network monitoring is one of the core elements of maintaining a secure and efficient IT infrastructure within an organization. As network systems have evolved over the past few years, it is essential to manage the configuration of all the network devices, servers and services to ensure timely detection as well as removal of the potential threats.

Given below are some of the tips for implementing a successful network monitoring strategy:

Note the baseline network performance

In order to identify any problems in the network infrastructure, it is important that you have an idea about its normal performance. Documenting network functionality over a period of time can help you to set accurate thresholds and receive alerts when the network is not performing up to the mark. Base-lining also facilitates proactive troubleshooting and prevention of downtime before it causes problems to the users.

Inventory management

You need to have an in-depth understanding of the IP devices, routers, switches and servers that make up your network. Make a detailed inventory of all the items you need to manage and add them in your network monitoring software. Categorize all devices on the basis of usage, vendor, location, data center and other parameters. Create a map and form connections between the system so that it represents your network architecture. This will give you a visual idea about how the inventory should be maintained.  

Monitor and report at every level

Every element in diverse corporate network operates on a separate layer to contribute to its overall functionality. In the event of a system failure, it is critical to identify the layer at which the data connection has been interrupted. Therefore, your network monitoring system should focus on observing and reporting problems at all layers. This will make it easy for you to detect if the issue has been caused due to malfunctioning of hardware, router, bandwidth or any other component.

Prepare for network expansion

With the expansion of your organization, your network also needs to evolve and incorporate new technological upgrades. This, in turn, will also increase the number of devices, network bandwidth and storage space required. Therefore, make sure you choose a scalable monitoring system that allows you to include more devices and interfaces as and when they are added to the network.

We, at Centex Technologies, provide comprehensive network security solutions to the business firms in Dallas, TX. For more information, you can call us at (972) 375 – 9654.

Software as a Service (SaaS) cloud storage solutions have offered numerous benefits for the business owners. By simplifying access to technological resources, reducing delivery times to clients and giving employees the freedom to work from anywhere, cloud applications play a major role in increasing business productivity. However, with all critical information stored off-premise, data loss remains a constant concern.

Here are some of the common causes of SaaS data loss:

• User Deletion: This is one of the biggest reasons of data loss in the cloud. The registered users may accidentally overwrite a shared file or delete a scrapped document, just to realize later that the data was important.
• Phishing And Hacking Attacks: Cyber criminals may launch a hacking or phishing attack to gain unauthorized access to data stored in the cloud. By tricking the users to click on a spam link or download a file, the hackers may be successful in stealing their cloud login credentials and manipulating the data stored therein.
• Data Corruption: At times, the data center of the SaaS cloud provider may be unable to retrieve the stored data. Without proper backup solution, important information may become inaccessible or corrupted.
• Third Party Applications: Using a third party application can put SaaS data at risk. These apps may contain viruses that overwrite or delete the information stored in the cloud. There are higher chances of data loss if emails, documents, contacts etc. are stored in multiple devices.
• Closed Accounts: Considering the employee turnover in a company, the SaaS accounts may also be closed or deleted. This may lead to the loss of important data stored by the former employee.

Tips To Prevent SaaS Data Loss

• Identify Important Information: Firstly, you need to identify the sensitive information stored on all the computers connected to the cloud. The data may include client names, personal details of employees, salary information, credit card information, social security numbers etc.
• Prevent Document Sharing: You should implement strict policies that prevent accidental or intentional sharing of files outside the organization. Restrict access to the sensitive information and block file transmission to email addresses that do not have your company’s domain.
• Backup Your Data: There are many cloud backup applications that allow you to store a secure and easily retrievable copy of your data. The information is stored in an encrypted form and can be accessed only by the authorized users.

For more tips on preventing SaaS data loss, you can contact Centex Technologies at (972) 375 – 9654.

ImageGate is a recent form of ransomware that attempts to spread malware through images and graphic files on social media websites. It has been discovered by two security researchers at Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., Roman Ziskin and Dikla Barda. The ransomware works in the same way as Locky virus that automatically encrypts the victim’s files and demands a ransom in order to reveal the decryption key.

Considering the massive increase in the use of social media platforms, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, hackers are directing their focus on breaching the security of these websites. They are continually looking for ways to use these platforms as hosts to carry out their malicious activities.

How Does ImageGate Work?

According to the security researchers, ImageGate works by embedding malicious code into the image files and posting them on ‘white listed’ social media websites. The targeted image files usually have extensions other than ‘.jpg’ or ‘.jpeg’. The malware aims at manipulating the misconfigurations in the social media platforms to purposely compel the users to click on the image. Once the file has been downloaded and the user clicks to open it, all the files on the computer system are encrypted. In order to regain access to the locked files, the user is required to pay the hackers a certain amount as ransom in bitcoins.

Tips To Protect Against ImageGate Ransomware

• Make sure you do not click on any unidentified file downloaded to your computer system.
• If a file gets forcibly downloaded, do not open or execute it. You should carefully delete the file so that the ransomware is not able to infect the files stored on the device.
• You should avoid clicking and downloading images as well as graphic files from social media websites.
• Do not open image files that have unknown file extensions, particularly ‘.svg’, ‘.hta’ and ‘.js’.
• The anti-virus and anti-malware software on your computer should be regularly updated to stay protected against latest forms of ransomware.
• It is recommended to be vigilant while accessing your social networking accounts. Even a single malicious download can make you lose access to your device and all the files stored within it.

Centex Technologies provides complete cyber security solutions to the business organizations in Dallas, TX. For more information on ImageGate and other forms of malware, feel free to contact us at (972) 375 – 9654.

Wearable devices have provided a tremendous opportunity for business organizations to keep the employees connected to work and improve their efficiency. The use of smart glasses, watches, headgear etc. facilitate better data collection and better customer service abilities. However, just like every other technology, security risks are bound to come along. The extensive functionality served by these devices can sometimes magnify the threat surface, thereby introducing many new ways in which data can be compromised.

Here are some of the common security risks posed by wearable devices:

Lack Of Data Encryption

Wearable devices do not use encryption protocols to store the information securely. There is no sophisticated PIN or password required to gain access to the data. They also do not have any biometric or other authentication methods to validate the identity of the users. As a result, there is a serious risk of data theft if the device is lost or stolen.

Difficulty In Patch Management

Most wearable devices function on a completely different operating system and run several third party applications. Hence, frequent software updates and patches are not readily available for these devices. This makes them an easy target for the hackers to carry out malicious attacks in order to exploit the vulnerabilities and intercept information shared through the wireless networks.

Insecure Wireless Connectivity

In order to function efficiently, wearable devices need to be connected to your mobile device through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) technologies. However, when you keep the connectivity options enabled, you may inadvertently allow hackers to download malware or malicious programs to your device. They may also launch a brute force attack to breach the password of your device’s wireless network.

Recording Sensitive Information Through Photos, Videos and Audio

Wearable devices come along with a very discreet ability to record the important information about your company in the form of audio, video and images. Smartwatches and smart glasses can easily be used to capture and transmit confidential data to the hackers, without leaving any trace. This type of data breach cannot be prevented by anti-malware, anti-spyware and any other form of security software.

We, at Centex Technologies, can help to improve the IT security of your business firm in Dallas, TX. For more information on protecting the wearable devices at your workplace, feel free to call us at (972) 375 – 9654.

Identity theft is a quite prevalent form of online crime that has become more sophisticated and complex these days. When a hacker gets access to your personal information, such as name, password, social security number (SSN), credit card or bank account details, he can use it for a myriad of malicious purposes. These may include breaching your online banking account, committing online frauds in your name or selling your credentials further.

In order to protect yourself from identity theft, it is important to understand the different ways in which the attack is generally carried out.

• Keylogging: This type of identity theft involves installing a malware on the target user’s computer system. Whenever the user logs into an online account or carries out financial transactions, the malware records the keystrokes and transmits them to the hacker.
• Phishing: The hacker may send a fake email to the user or display pop-up advertizements while browsing the internet. The email is spoofed to have come from a credible organization, such as a bank, and requires the user to take an immediate action. This may include downloading a software, visiting a website or filling out an online form.
• Data Breach: Identity theft may also occur when hacker gains unauthorized access to the sensitive information while it is being shared over the internet, particularly unsecure networks. Packet sniffers may be used to view and steal the user’s financial information. Apart from this, spying, denial-of-service attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks and other such techniques may be used. 

Tips To Prevent Identity Theft

• Install Security Software: Make sure you install anti-malware, anti-spyware and other security software in your computer as well as mobile devices. These will help to identify and delete the malicious programs or files from the system. You should also enable firewall to monitor and block any suspicious traffic from accessing your network.
• Follow Proper Security Measures: You should follow the best security practices while accessing the internet, particularly on public Wi-Fi networks. Do not log in to your banking and email accounts or shop online when connected to an unsecure network.
• Guard Against Phishing Attempts: Do not open or download attachments from emails that come from an unknown sender. Also, you should not share your personal or financial information or click on a link embedded in such emails.

For more tips on protecting yourself against online identity theft, you can contact Centex Technologies at (972) 375 – 9654.