In this issue: October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month - Protect your data with multifactor authentication, Cybersecurity bulletin; also Claims 101: how to mitigate claims costs, Importance of performing safety inspections and more!
Keys to the Kingdom – Protect your data by implementing multifactor authentication
The past two years have seen record-breaking levels of cyber crime and related losses. As technology becomes ever more integrated in society and criminals become more sophisticated, this trend can only be expected to continue. The common denominator in many successful attacks often boils down to one thing: human error. Whether it’s clicking the wrong link, failing to install updates, sharing a password, or even leaving an electronic device where it can be easily stolen, when it comes to cyber crime, we are often our own worst enemy. In fact, an estimated 95 percent of cybersecurity breaches are due to human error, and these errors are costly. Don’t give up the keys to your kingdom – protect your data by implementing multifactor authentication whenever possible.
Local governments face significant financial loss when a cyber attack occurs. In recent years there has been a sharp increase in the number of reported cyber attacks that target local governments using stolen logins and passwords. Cybercriminals often rely on human error such as employees failing to install software upgrades or clicking on malicious links to gain access to computer systems. Once access is gained, the absence of proper backup systems for data can cause an organization to become paralyzed. Best practices to avoid the devasting effects of a cyber attack include:
Safely manage your password and email account
Secure your computer and mobile devices – institute Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
Avoid risky online behavior – operate on a known, safe and secure network
Protect your data – utilize adequate backup systems
Equip yourself with the knowledge of cybersecurity guidelines, policies, and procedures.
To assist our members with their cybersecurity exposures, Preferred offers valuable services and support to members at no cost.
The Preferred Risk Management Resource Center (PRMRC) is available to members who have their EPLI coverage with Preferred. The Resource Center is an employment law, cyber security, ADA compliance and safety-focused resource designed to control costs, save time and complement the valuable services that Preferred provides.
Claims 101: How Preferred Members Can Mitigate Claims Costs
By Monika Coleman, Liability Claims Supervisor, PGCS
Position yourself to minimize the impacts of claims by building a physical incident response plan into your culture of safety and security. The first steps you take after an incident can significantly reduce the negative financial and reputational impacts of incidents and claims.
Why is it important to perform safety inspections?
The purpose of safety inspections is to identify and correct unsafe conditions and work practices before an injury occurs. Identifying unsafe conditions relates to the physical environment hazards that may be present in the facility while unsafe work practices address human behavior, which can be influenced through effective training.
Mobile stormwater pumps help South Broward Drainage District protect homes and properties
There are multiple ways to keep people safe, prevent damages and limit loss of property. Preferred member, South Broward Drainage District (SBDD), is showing its commitment to doing just that. SBDD recently purchased two high-capacity, mobile stormwater pumps to assist in emergency operations before, during and after major storm events such as tropical storms and hurricanes.
