MP Hacking Incident Highlights Cyber Threat

Firms may need IT support services in Essex for many reasons, but the issue of cyber security can never be underestimated, for attacks can happen unexpectedly.

Often those targeted might not have anticipated that they might have been vulnerable, but the motives of attackers can vary from simple attempts at extortion through ransomware to spyware that can steal important data.

Member of Parliament Stewart McDonald has revealed that he has become one of the latest victims, through a spear-phishing act believed to have been carried out by a Russian-backed group.

Mr McDonald, the member for Glasgow South, found his details compromised after clicking on an email to his private account from one of his staff – except it turned out it wasn’t. Moreover, the message was blank, which aroused suspicions. He then contacted the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which has already warned of active Russian and Iranian hacking groups.

Although as a Scottish National Party member he is not part of the UK government. The MP has links to Ukraine and has received the Order of Merit from the Ukrainian government. 

He told the BBC: “If it is indeed a malicious state-backed group, then, in line with what I’ve seen elsewhere, I expect them to dump some of the information online,” adding that he expects his words to be manipulated in an attempt to discredit him. 

Companies, particularly any with links to Ukraine, the defence sector or anything else that may be regarded as significant by Russian operators, could find they are targeted. The NCSC has recently warned about two groups in particular, SEABORGIUM and TA453. 

However, firms should note that organised criminals do not just include Russian organisations aiming to attack those they see as allies of Ukraine. Often firms will be targeted by more basic criminal operators simply trying to make money.

Virus Warning Alert On Computer Screen Detected Modish Cyber Thr

Let’s have a chat

Whether you want a complete shake-up of your current IT services or an answer to simple question, SYS3 are always happy to help. Contact us today for a free, no obligation chat about your requirements.

  • Simplify your IT
  • Reduce your spending
  • Increase reliability
  • Enjoy no-contract, unrivalled support across Essex and Suffolk

We know moving IT services can be a daunting task but we promise it’s much easier than you think. When you’re ready to talk, we’re here, happy to help

0345 313 1919
askus@sys3.com

Get in touch

    Our Other Services

    Backing up is VITAL!

    Backing up should be everyones top priority. All too often we see businesses decide to start backing up the wrong side of a costly hard drive disaster or data breach.

    With viruses and malware now capable of causing so much, often irreversible, damage, a substantial backup is imperative. If you’re infected with ransomware, a recent backup often the only way to get you back up and running.

    Why offsite backup and not a removable hard drive?

    Preferably both! But never just a hard drive. Why? Hard drives can fail. It’s as simple as that. Ransomware infections can also creep onto hard drives if they’re left plugged into an infected machine. 

    ​SYS3 use the most reliable and intelligent backup solutions on the market to ensure that our customers’ data is kept secure.

    Why buy your hardware from SYS3?

    Years ago, SYS3 started out by building and supplying custom computer hardware. We know our stuff.

    We keep up with the latest in technology so we are able to provide our customers with the best possible equipment without breaking the bank. Whether you need a new server, laptop, printer or network switch, we’ll always provide you with a variety of options and recommendations to suit your business needs.

    The more advanced technology becomes, the more advanced the bad guys become. Gone are the days when attackers were easy to spot in a badly worded email.

    ​Did you know you can get an infection just by hovering your mouse over a dodgy website banner? Worse? Traditional antivirus products cannot protect you against everything.

    ​Human error is still largely responsible for infections and viruses but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have the best protection possible to safeguard your employees and ultimately, your business.

    ​Partnered with Heimdal, SYS3 provide market-leading protection that is proactive, not reactive like traditional antivirus.

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Spam email makes up 70% of ALL email traffic across the world and social engineering means scammers can directly target key employees. Is your job title on social media?

    Over 60% of breaches are caused by human error. Are you confident that your staff are fully trained to spot email-borne threats and avoid falling victim?

    How SYS3 can help

    Just one click has the potential to grind your entire business to a halt and generate a costly bill to put right. What makes things worse is that email viruses are now incredibly clever, highly convincing, and can be very difficult to spot.

    ​Our priority is to make sure our customers are supported and protected as much as possible. 99% of our customers have adopted our mail filtering service and it comes highly recommended. It’s the first line of defence and a vital tool.

    Testimonials

    Proud To Be Working With