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Cybersecurity in Co-Managed IT: A Powerful Duo for Enhanced Protection and Efficiency

Jul 20, 2023 | 4 minute READ

What is Co-Managed IT?

Cybersecurity. Ransomware. Phishing. These keywords are often the hot topic for news organizations due to unfortunate and increasing reasons. As our digital landscape continues to grow, so do the threats of a cyberattack landing at your digital door. However, there are many steps your Central Pennsylvania organization can take to mitigate a potential cyberattack. One great way is to partner with a local IT company for co-managed IT services.

Co-managed IT is a collaborative approach to IT support and management. Organizations partner with an external managed service provider (MSP) to complement and enhance its existing in-house IT capabilities. With this, the organization retains control over certain aspects of its IT infrastructure. The co-managed IT provider offers specialized expertise, resources, and support to address specific needs or fill knowledge gaps. This strategic partnership allows organizations to optimize their IT operations, improve cybersecurity, and achieve greater efficiency without the burden of full outsourcing.

Why You Need Co-Managed IT: Small Business Cyberattack Statics

Cybercriminals do not discriminate. In fact, small to medium sized businesses make up 43% of all cyberattacks, while only 27% target large businesses. One reason is small businesses often have fewer resources to invest in cybersecurity. This may be due to a too small IT team, a lack of budget, or understanding about co-managed IT services. Another reason is small businesses may be more likely to fall victim to social engineering attacks, such as phishing emails.

The impact of a cyberattack on a small business can be devastating. In some cases, businesses may be forced to close their doors. In other cases, businesses may suffer significant financial losses.

Here are some small business cyberattack statistics:

• • • 60% of small businesses that experience a cyberattack go out of business within six months.
    • The average cost of a data breach for a small business is $170,000.
    • Small businesses are more likely to be targeted by ransomware attacks than large businesses.
    • Businesses that do not have managed or co-managed IT support are 300% more likely to experience a cyberattack.

Cybercrime and Nonprofits

Businesses are not the only target. Nonprofits are 45% more likely to be targeted by cyberattacks over businesses, large or small. A recent report found that 70% of nonprofits have experienced a cyberattack in the past two years. Additionally, the average cost of a data breach for a nonprofit is much higher than for a small business, with the cost being around $2.5 million.

Cyberattacks happen frequently, and close to home. Back in January 2023, the Maternal & Family Health Services (MFHS) – a non-profit that serves women, children, and families of Northeastern Pennsylvania – announced it was hit by a ransomware attack. The attack affected the MFHS’s IT systems, potentially exposing the sensitive personal data of thousands of patients. MFHS has since announced its commitment to strengthening their IT systems to prevent another attack.

According to a study by NTEN, a nonprofit technology organization, 44% of nonprofits do not have IT support. This means that nearly half of all nonprofits are at a higher risk of cyberattacks. Nonprofits need to partner with a trusted MSP to increase their IT security. By partnering with a local MSP, nonprofits can tap into local expertise, leverage scalable and flexible support, and benefit from proactive monitoring and maintenance. This also will enhance their security posture and they will receive customized IT solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Prevent Cyberattacks with the Help of Co-managed IT Support

Unfortunately, it’s no longer a matter of if a cyberattack will happen, but when. Every 39 seconds, a new cyberattack is reported. While these statistics may seem daunting, there are many ways you can protect your organization. Help reduce the chance of a cyberattack by trusting a local MSP to deliver proactive co-managed IT services.

Here are some of the ways that co-managed IT services can help:

• • • Providing around-the-clock monitoring and support: Co-managed IT service providers can monitor your systems for signs of malicious activity. If they see anything suspicious, they can take immediate action to prevent a cyberattack.
    • Keeping software up to date: This helps to protect your systems from known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by ransomware attackers. Co-managed IT service providers can keep your software up to date with the latest security patches.
    • Providing user training: By providing user training, co-managed IT service providers can help users with how to identify and avoid phishing emails. This also includes other forms of social engineering attacks. As a result, this helps to reduce the risk of a cyberattack being successful.
    • Implementing security policies and procedures: Co-managed IT service providers can help you to implement strong security policies and procedures. Therefore, helping to create a more secure environment that is less likely to be targeted by cybercriminals.
    • Having a backup plan: This is essential for minimizing the impact of a cyberattack. Co-managed IT service providers can help you to create a backup plan that will allow you to recover your data in the event of a cyberattack.

Co-Managed IT Services by TREYSTA technology management

Cybersecurity threats will continue to grow. You need a reliable partner to ensure seamless operations, safeguard your valuable data, and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. With years of experience and a team of highly skilled professionals, TREYSTA offers a unique blend of collaborative IT support that complements your in-house capabilities. When you trust TREYSTA for all your co-managed IT needs, you gain access to a strategic ally that shares your vision, understands your challenges, and empowers your organization to thrive in the digital era.

Contact us today to discover how TREYSTA can elevate your IT infrastructure and streamline your business processes. Our dedicated team of experts is ready to tailor solutions that fit your specific requirements, ensuring maximum efficiency, security, and productivity. Partner with TREYSTA and take the first step towards a brighter, digitally secure future.

Learn more: Co-Managed IT Services by TREYSTA

Your Local IT Support Company

Don’t leave your cybersecurity to chance. Join forces with TREYSTA technology management and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your organization is fortified against cyber threats. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a more secure future.

Find out why businesses in Harrisburg, Hanover, York, and throughout Central PA and Northern MD trust TREYSTA as their technology experts.

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