CPA firms have made great strides in protecting their data with modern technical advances, but the reality is, it is not enough. Federal and state laws continue to change, and they are requiring stricter protocols to ensure privacy is top priority. Client information is constantly getting hacked, and contacting an expert managed service provider, like TOSS C3, is your best option.

Playing by the Rules

Not only is it harder to protect client information, the laws are bearing down on those companies that do not take every safety measure to ensure client data does not get into the wrong hands. According to the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), “The AICPA and the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) have formed the AICPA/CICA Privacy Task Force, which has developed the Generally Accepted Privacy Principles (GAPP). This document supersedes the AICPA and CICA Privacy Framework. Using GAPP, CPAs can help organizations design and implement sound privacy practices and policies.” These are not laws, but they do help companies create solid protocols when securing their data.

Can the Cloud Work for CPA Firms?

The cloud is no longer an unknown entity. It is used by enterprise-sized companies, as well as small businesses all over the world. As for securing information, the AICPA states, that “cloud computing has increasingly become a solution for organizations. It’s an innovative and increasingly popular model of software deployment that offers enterprise-class software function without traditional up-front infrastructure costs or the unpredictable support and maintenance costs of on-site software and hardware.”

A good managed service provider can allocate the needed essentials for your business based on your business model and size. Many options are available for the security of your data, and can be setup in a minimal amount of time. Learn the 5 facts every business executive must know before moving to the cloud.

Types of Security Breaches

We have all heard about email scams, keylogging, and other types of software hacks that are used against corporations. But the list of potential threats is not limited to a basic software level. Hardware complications are also a concern. Some of the breaches that concern most companies are:

• Server Security – The location of where data is installed, and the accessibility of that data to outside sources.

• Password Security – Discussing threats with your employees is just the first step. Ask TOSS C3 about MXDefense and SecureMail, and how they can help your company.

• BYOD – The Bring Your Own Device concept is great, but it also creates opportunities for data to be attacked from outside the workplace.

• Firewalls – These are great to have, but they must be updated continuously. Contact a reliable managed service provider to get information on firewall automated updates.

• Websites – This only affects those firms that have login information for their clients. These areas are sitting on the Internet waiting for hackers to break through. A cloud service can create extra obstacles to prevent hackers from accessing your information.

Contact TOSS C3 for information about how to block all of these security threats and more. Remember, firms are considered liable for any data lost. This can lead to claims for damages, fees with state of federal legislature, reputation damage, loss of clients, and in some cases, possible network damage.