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Making the most of WiFi wherever you are

Free WiFi is used by all kinds of businesses to help attract visitors and improve their experience when they are with you. But do you use it to its full potential?

wifi Coffee CupWhilst the focus is often on providing WiFi for visitors and customers, have you thought about how staff can use it?

Staff WiFi

These days staff expect to be able to use their laptop or tablet device from anywhere in your building. Have you got full coverage in the right locations and is it managed? MBM’s Managed WiFi for your Business delivers WiFi access points to cover a single office or your entire site.

Bring Your Own Device (BOYD)

Some companies allow staff to use their own devices on company networks and use your Internet Connection. Allowing unmanaged devices to connect to your business network can be risky as you don’t know if they are infected and pose a danger to your network. So separate them from your business network by using the MBM Managed WiFi Visitor Service so they won’t impact on your critical business connection.

Customer WiFi

Turn anonymous users of your WiFi into known potential customers.

By simple use of registration forms, you can capture email addresses and add them to your mailing list.

Want to find out more?

Call us on 01902 32 44 94 for a chat about WiFi or visit https://www.mbmltd.co.uk/ManagedWiFi.aspx

Data Backup , Tip

Why is Malware written?

Carrying on from last weeks Blog the answer to the “what is malware?” question cannot be complete without exploring the ‘why’ of its creation. By now, you should have a pretty clear idea of what type of damage can be done as a result of malware, but you might be wondering – why do programmers create malware in the first place?
Student Hackers and Cyber-crooks

MBM_42Emails_Blog_smallIn the early days of software, programmers wrote malware mostly to prank one another, or to show off their technical skills. These programmers, who were usually students had a great sense of humour but did not have much business sense. These students eventually graduated and got jobs. Their new motivation was now money, and how to make more of it using their skills. Some of these programmers learned that they can make thousands a day if they successfully exploit malware to their advantage.

These people went on to become cyber-crooks, defrauding individuals and organizations for financial gain. These criminals steal personal banking information to transfer money out of users’ bank accounts and into their own. They also launch distributed denial of service attacks against corporations and ask for money in exchange for an end to the attack.

Worms, zombies and distributed denial of service attacks are a good way to inflict mass damage on a global scale and are therefore very appealing to cyber-activists. These people want to get a message across and are ready to do so by utilizing any means necessary and this includes writing malware that causes damage, gets them noticed, and enables them to announce their messages and beliefs to a large audience.

Governments are also part of the game. A cyber-war between countries is raging. Some countries such as China, Syria, and America are rumoured to be state-sponsoring cyber-gangs whose only purpose is to research and develop new malware techniques capable of infiltrating government agencies and infrastructures. Malware has recently been spotted in the wild that was designed to infect SCADA systems with the scope of shutting down nuclear reactors. Some reports suggest that this worm, which might have been created by the Americans, was successful in shutting down several Iranian nuclear power plant coolers.

The malware problem is huge and is growing fast. By the end of 2010 the counter for unique malware programs stood at 14 million, with a staggering 60,000 pieces of new malicious code detected every day. Recently a worm called Koobface — which targeted people on social networks — netted its creators over 2 million dollars in just 12 months. Another worm, the Mariposa is said to have created the biggest network of zombie machines in the world. Experts could never determine its exact size, but estimated that over 12 million computers were infected. This worm dropped spyware capable of stealing sensitive information from victims, such as bank account numbers and credit card details. All this was created by a single hacker in Spain who fortunately made a mistake which exposed him and got him arrested.

The industry is fighting back. Numerous security solutions are available from many vendors that help stop malware infections. The threat however is a moving target. Hackers keep finding new ways to write bigger and better malware, the incentives are all there and the waging war is showing no signs of slowing down.

Worried that you might be exposed ? Speak to MBM

Cloud , Tip

Do you know what Malware is ?

So what is Malware? Short for malicious software, malware is as old as software itself, and  programmers have been authoring it for as long as they have been authoring legitimate software. There are many reasons why a programmer might create malware. These reasons vary from simple pranks and experiments to serious organized Internet crime. Malware exists in many forms, most of which you’ve probably already heard of. The most common types of malware are viruses, trojans, worms, spyware and zombies.

SOSThis article will cover the inner workings of the most common types of malware, and will also explain why malware is created and the kind of damage that it can inflict on individuals, corporations and governments.

Virus

Malware manifests itself in different forms; the most well-known is the virus.

Computer viruses are similar to their biological counterparts because they are capable of self-replication. The prime motivation of a virus is not to cause damage, but to clone itself onto another host so that it can spread further. If a virus causes damage it is more likely to be detected, and for this reason virus authors employ stealth techniques to keep it unnoticed. A good virus has a very small footprint and can remain undetected for a very long time.

Damage is not always a side-effect of infection. Sometimes damage has been purposely built-in by the programmer. Some viruses are time activated; they silently spread for a number of days, months or years and will suddenly activate and do damage on one particular date. Other viruses are event driven. They will activate when something particular happens on a host, or when a command is sent to them via a covert Internet channel.

Worms

Worms are very similar to viruses in many ways. The biggest difference between a worm and a virus is that worms are network-aware. A virus finds it very easy to replicate itself amongst files on the same computer, however it has a hard time jumping from one computer to another. A worm overcomes this computer-to-computer hurdle by seeking new hosts on the network and attempting to infect them.

This is an important difference: in the past viruses could take years before moving from one corporation to another, or from one country to another. Worms are capable of going global in a matter of seconds. This makes it very hard for them to be controlled and stopped.

Spyware

The primary function of spyware is to snoop on a user’s activity and send back the information it gathers to a hacker. Spyware does not have any infection mechanisms. It is usually dropped by trojans (and also by viruses and worms). Once dropped, it installs itself on the victim’s computer and sits there silently to avoid detection.

Once spyware is successfully installed it will begin collecting information. It is very common for spyware to log all the keys that the user types. This type of spyware is called a keylogger and can capture interesting information such as user names, passwords, credit card numbers and email addresses. Keyloggers capture every key stroke, so entire emails, documents and chats can be read by the malicious hacker.

There are more sophisticated forms of spyware that hook themselves to the network interface and siphon off all network data that enters or leaves the infected computer. This allows the hacker to capture entire network sessions giving them access to files, digital certificates, encryption keys and other sensitive information.

If you would like to know more from guys who don’t speak Geek – call MBM

Cloud , Tip

Microsoft action interupts innocent users

Microsoft has obtained a court order to halt traffic to servers in order to halt the Cyber-criminal activity of some users. This has had the effect of interupting millions of innocent users. The giant has been accused of being’heavy-handed as in stopping the criminals it also interupted data to legitimate sites.

In a blogpost, Microsoft lawyer Richard Boscovich said it had taken the action against domain administration firm No-IP.com for its “roles in creating, controlling, and assisting in infecting millions of computers with malicious software”.

He said No-IP’s infrastructure had been used to spread the Bladabindi and Jenxcus family of malicious programs in 93% of the cases it had seen. Over the past 12 months, he said, Microsoft had detected variants of the two viruses more than 7.4 million times.

The thieves behind the malware could steal data from infected machines, record keystrokes and listen to any sounds taking place around a computer, he said.

officeMicrosoft had taken the legal step of making itself the controller of the 23 domains because No-IP had not done enough to police them, wrote Mr Boscovich. A federal court in Nevada granted Microsoft the right to take over the No-IP domains.

Once it had had control of the suspect domains, he said, Microsoft had applied filters so only “clean” data had got through and that helping the malware spread had been caught and discarded.

In response, No-IP said Microsoft’s action had been “draconian” and had wrongly “affected millions of innocent internet users”.

No-IP speculated that Microsoft had underestimated the amount of data traffic flowing towards the domains it was now administering, which had caused service disruptions for many legitimate customers.

“Millions of innocent users are experiencing outages to their services because of Microsoft’s attempt to remediate hostnames associated with a few bad actors,” wrote No-IP in a statement posted on its site.

Having problems – Call us at MBM and we will be happy to take a look

Office , Tip

How does your computer become infected ?

There are literally dozens of different ways a computer can become infected with spyware, viruses, and other malware. Below is a list of the most common ways a computer can contract these infections listed in the order we believe are most commonly done.

Please be aware –  everyone  who uses the computer should be aware of how to properly use it  and protect it from malicious software.

NIgel_Mills_MBMAccepting without reading

By far one of the most common ways a computer becomes infected is the user accepts what he or she sees on the screen without reading the prompt or understand what it’s asking.

Some common examples:

  1. Whilst browsing the Internet, an Internet advertisement or window appears that says your computer is infected or that a unique plug-in is required. Without fully understanding what it is you’re getting, you accept the prompt.
  2. When installing or updating a program, you’re prompted (often checkboxes already checked) if it’s ok to install additional programs that you may not want or are designed to monitor your usage of the program.

Opening e-mail attachments

Another very common way people become infected with viruses and other spyware is by opening e-mail attachments, even when from a colleague, friend, or family member. E-mail addresses can be made up and even when genuine your acquaintance may unsuspectingly be forwarding you an infected file.

When receiving an e-mail with an attachment, if the e-mail was not expected or from someone you don’t know delete it. If the e-mail is from someone you know still be cautious when opening the attachment.

Not running the latest updates

Many of the updates, especially those associated with Microsoft Windows and other operating systems and programs, are security updates. Running a program or operating system that is not up-to-date with the latest updates can be a big security risk and can be a way your computer becomes infected.

In addition to running operating system updates, the plugins associated with your browser can often contain security vulnerabilities. Make sure you have the latest versions of plugins. Contact MBM for details of the latest updates.

Pirating software, music, or movies

If you or someone on your computer is participating in underground places on the Internet where you’re downloading copyrighted music, movies, software, etc. for free, often many of the files can contain viruses, spyware or malicious software. This is a highly dangerous practice and you should have procedures in place to stop users doing this.

No antivirus spyware scanner

If you’re running a computer with Microsoft Windows it’s highly recommended you have some form of antivirus and spyware protection on that computer to help clean it from any infections currently on the computer and to help prevent any future infections.

Downloading infected software

Finally, downloading any other software from the Internet can also contain viruses and other malware. When downloading any software (programs, utilities, games, updates, demos, etc.), make sure you’re downloading the software from a reliable source and while installing it you’re reading all prompts about what the program is putting on your computer.

Where can I find out more?

We are happy to advise on your business protection at MBM. We are your IT department at the end of a phone – keeping your business – in business.

Tip

Protected against the latest viruses ?

You may have heard or seen the news coverage about a computer virus called ‘Gameover Zeus’. The FBI and National Crime Agency (NCA) in the USA managed to take control of a network of infected computers (known as a botnet) in an attempt to stop the network growing any larger.

MBM_42Emails_Blog_smallThe botnet is used to send annoying Emails with attached zip files that pretend to be from organisations you are familiar with (ie your bank, utility company etc). However, if you open the file attachments, the malware it contains will install on your computer and it too then becomes part of the infected network of computers.

Once on your computer the virus searches for private information such as bank account details and sends the data back to the hackers.

The press are reporting that it will take the hackers two weeks to regain control of the network and recommence. Therefore there is a small window for users to ensure their anti virus software is up to date and perform a scan.

MBM Customers Protected

If you are an MBM customer, you will be using our Panda Cloud Protection anti-virus software which we ensure is updated. Our centralised management tool tells us that our clients with this software are up to date and protected from Gameover Zeus.

Own anti-virus?

But what about customers or businesses who use their own anti-virus tools?

Jason Timmins, Technical Director at MBM, suggests that you first ensure that you have anti-virus software, second that the anti-virus sofware you use has the latest updates and thirdly, that you perform an up to date scan of your computer and remove any infections it finds.

For further information about the virus visit:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-27681236 

http://www.getsafeonline.org/nca 

For further information about IT Security visit our website: http://www.mbmltd.co.uk/IT-Security.aspx

MBM can ensure you have the best anti-virus software and ensure your business is secure. Call us on 01902 32 44 94

Data Backup , Tip

What are Trojans ?

Looking at common terms within the IT world we look today at Trojans.

Trojans are malicious programs that perform actions that have not been authorised by the user. These actions can include:

Blocking data deleting data modifying data copying data disrupting the performance of computers or computer networks

Unlike computer viruses and worms, Trojans are not able to self-replicate.

How Trojans can impact you

Trojans are classified according to the type of actions that they can perform on your computer:

  • Backdoor
    A backdoor Trojan gives malicious users remote control over the infected computer. They enable the author to do anything they wish on the infected computer – including sending, receiving, launching and deleting files, displaying data and rebooting the computer. Backdoor Trojans are often used to unite a group of victim computers to form a botnet or zombie network that can be used for criminal purposes.
  • Exploit
    Exploits are programs that contain data or code that takes advantage of a vulnerability within application software that’s running on your computer.
  • Rootkit
    Rootkits are designed to conceal certain objects or activities in your system. Often their main purpose is to prevent malicious programs being detected – in order to extend the period in which programs can run on an infected computer.
  • Trojan-Banker
    Trojan-Banker programs are designed to steal your account data for online banking systems, e-payment systems and credit or debit cards.
  • Trojan-DDoS
    These programs conduct DoS (Denial of Service) attacks against a targeted web address. By sending multiple requests – from your computer and several other infected computers – the attack can overwhelm the target address… leading to a denial of service.
  • Trojan-Downloader
    Trojan-Downloaders can download and install new versions of malicious programs onto your computer – including Trojans and adware.
  • Trojan-Dropper
    These programs are used by hackers in order to install Trojans and / or viruses – or to prevent the detection of malicious programs. Not all antivirus programs are capable of scanning all of the components inside this type of Trojan.
  • Trojan-FakeAV
    Trojan-FakeAV programs simulate the activity of antivirus software. They are designed to extort money from you – in return for the detection and removal of threats… even though the threats that they report are actually non-existent.
  • Trojan-GameThief
    This type of program steals user account information from online gamers.
  • Trojan-IM
    Trojan-IM programs steal your logins and passwords for instant messaging programs – such as ICQ, MSN Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Pager, Skype and many more.
  • Trojan-Ransom
    This type of Trojan can modify data on your computer – so that your computer doesn’t run correctly or you can no longer use specific data. The criminal will only restore your computer’s performance or unblock your data, after you have paid them the ransom money that they demand.
  • Trojan-SMS
    These programs can cost you money – by sending text messages from your mobile device to premium rate phone numbers.
  • Trojan-Spy
    Trojan-Spy programs can spy on how you’re using your computer – for example, by tracking the data you enter via your keyboard, taking screen shots or getting a list of running applications.
  • Trojan-Mailfinder
    These programs can harvest email addresses from your computer.
  • Other types of Trojans include:
    • Trojan-ArcBomb
    • Trojan-Clicker
    • Trojan-Notifier
    • Trojan-Proxy
    • Trojan-PSW

How to protect yourself against Trojans

SOSBy installing effective anti-malware software, you can defend your devices – including PCs, laptops, Macs, tablets and smartphones – against Trojans. A rigorous anti-malware solution will detect and prevent Trojan attacks on your PC anti-malware products that defend the following devices against Trojans:

  • Windows PCs
  • Linux computers
  • Apple Macs
  • Smartphones
  • Tablets

We can advise on and install anti-malware products at MBM

Cloud , Tip

New labelling System helps IT Support Customers

MBM is rolling out a new system for managing customers’ devices which are included in their IT Support contract with MBM. The new labels, which are easily identifiable, will be placed on all equipment covered by MBM.

MBM

 

 

 

 

 

 

The labels include a unique QR Code which provides MBM with all the information we need about the hardware including: device type, age, owner, location and support history.

Jason Timmins, technical director at MBM, explains: “It’s important for both our customers and our support team that we can easily identify a device when there is a problem. The new asset labels will help to provide us with a more streamlined process for repair, maintenance and inventory.”

The new labels will be rolled out during planned site visits. For more information contact jason@mbmltd.co.uk

Cloud , Tip

Free guest wifi is more important than Coffee!

So says one of our Facebook Fans – so think about the total service that you offer visitors to your premises.

Offering your customers the ability to connect their mobile devices to your wireless internet can be highly beneficial, especially if you work in a retail or leisure environment.

Businesses can also offer guest wireless access from a private office which is ideal for contractors or associates working on-site.

NIgel_Mills_MBMNigel Mills, managing director of MBM, advises businesses to keep their business WiFi separate from guest and visitor WiFi and encrypt it to ensure customers don’t inadvertently access your wireless traffic. He suggests businesses might also want to consider guest users accepting Terms of Service before allowing access to the Internet or impose time limits or bandwidth limits. The guest gateway can also be used to capture useful information such as name and Email address which can be used for marketing purposes at a later date.

Need reliable WiFi for your business?

Want secure WiFi for guests & visitors?

Unsure how to set it up & manage it?

MBM can guide you through the WiFi maze and ensure your business is set up securely and has the right hardware for your needs and provide ongoing support. Call us on 01902 32 44 94

Cloud , Tip

Are you just putting up with a slow broadband connection ?

If you’ve ever experienced a slow internet connection or the loss of your connection for an hour or two, you’ll understand just how frustrating it can be.

MBM_42Emails_Blog_smallWe use the Internet so frequently during our working day to send and receive emails, for research and information, to access documents or software within the Cloud and so on; that we forget what it would be like to work if we didn’t have it at all.

So why do so many businesses whose core activity is so dependent on a good internet connection, put up with a slow one that can’t cope with their business’s usage or one that’s intermittently up and down?

MBM’s Business Broadband Service

MBM’s Business Broadband service is supplied using four of the best broadband networks in the UK: BT, TalkTalk, Cable & Wireless an Opal Telecom. Using four networks means that we can offer our customers the best broadband service that is available in their location.

If reliability is key, we offer a pair of broadband services supplied over different networks so if one service goes down, the second service steps in thereby minimising disruption to your business.

And if you have a problem, you don’t wait in a call queue – you simply ring MBM.

Want to talk through the options available to you and your business? Call us on 01902 32 44 94

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