“The victims are mostly small to midsize organizations using online bank accounts supplied by local community banks and credit unions, FBI analysis shows.” Small businesses are big targets! “The reason they’re going here is the controls are antiquated, and a smart program can often get the money out.” In other words, criminals and hackers know small businesses aren’t ready, can’t detect when something’s missing, and don’t see themselves are targets. So what’s the key? Getting them to at least understand they need to take a look. Assessing small business computers at a high level can be done quickly, and generally uncovers major problems. You’re looking for Malware. This is the key – these criminals are accessing systems using Trojan Horse technology, meaning all malware is suspect. So don’t go in and say, you have a virus…let them know their systems have been accessed from the outside. After all, any Trojan requires the computer to accept the installation of outside code in order to install. Read about SMB targets in USA Today
Archive for January, 2010
Albert goes down!
You won’t want to miss this – thanks Randy for sending this over! While you’re learning sound bites, having the final chapter on Albert Gonzalez can’t hurt…
” Albert Gonzalez has pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy for his role in the massive data breach that compromised millions of payment card accounts from the networks of Heartland Payment Systems, 7-Eleven, Hannaford Bros. and other retail and financial organizations. The terms of the plea agreement call for a sentence of not less than 17 years and not more than 25 years.” Read more here:
creating the opportunity
Here’s a rare clip where I explain how security works – this message has been central to helping management level people understand why their IT people cannot be the only one’s looking at security – creating an opportunity for consultants like those in your firm. Notice I don’t speak technical jargon in this presentation. There is no benefit to showing off your acronym vocabulary while selling.
© David Stelzl, 2010
What’s in store for 2010?
Growing up, on New Years Day, my father would always say, we’re starting at zero today. In other words, last year’s revenue doesn’t matter, what matters is, how will our business do in 2010. It’s often said, dwelling on past success sometimes leads to future failure. However, if you’ve taken some of the advice I’ve given over the past several years, you’re not starting at zero today.
- If you’re managed services business is thriving, you’re financial state should be healthy.
- If you’ve invested in security, Wall Street again predicts this to be in high demand in the coming year.
- If you’ve established your brand around the value you bring, rather than the product you sell, you have a firm foundation for success in 2010.
- If your team understands how to present solutions and value, you’ll do well in the coming year. Wall Street’s article on trends a few days ago not only mentioned security, but also stated the need for high tech professionals to be less geeky and more business relevant. This has been a core focus of mine since I started this business and it’s true – sales people must learn to meet with business people and develop peer relationships at the top.
- If you’ve taken time to plan and strategize, and your plans are sound, you’re ahead of your competition.
- If you have a solid team (right people in the right places) you’re way ahead of your competition.
- If you’re partnered with vendors who support you financially through marketing and lead generation, you have what you need to start building new business in 2010.
Let’s get started…
© David Stelzl, 2010
