Modern businesses depend on third-party apps for everything from customer service and analytics to cloud storage and security. But this convenience comes with risk, every integration introduces a potential vulnerability. In fact, 35.5% of all recorded breaches in 2024 were linked to third-party vulnerabilities. 

The good news? These risks can be managed. This article highlights the hidden dangers of third-party API integrations and provides a practical checklist to help you evaluate any external app before adding it to your system.

Why Third-Party Apps Are Essential in Modern Business 

Simply put, third-party integrations boost efficiency, streamline operations, and improve overall productivity. Most businesses do not create each technology component from scratch. Instead, they rely on third-party apps and APIs to manage everything from payments to customer support, analytics, email automation, chatbots, and more. The aim is to speed up development, cut costs, and gain access to features that might take months to build internally. 

What Are the Hidden Risks of Integrating Third-Party Apps? 

Adding third-party apps to your systems invites several risks, including security, privacy, compliance, and operational and financial vulnerabilities.

Security Risks

Third-party integrations can introduce unexpected security risks into your business environment. A seemingly harmless plugin may contain malware or malicious code that activates upon installation, potentially corrupting data or allowing unauthorized access. Once an integration is compromised, hackers can use it as a gateway to infiltrate your systems, steal sensitive information, or cause operational disruptions.

Privacy and Compliance Risks

Even with strong contractual and technical controls, a compromised third-party app can still put your data at risk. Vendors may gain access to sensitive information and use it in ways you never authorized, such as storing it in different regions, sharing it with other partners, or analyzing it beyond the agreed purpose. For instance, misuse of a platform could lead to violations of data protection laws, exposing your organization to legal penalties and reputational damage.

Operational and Financial Risks

Third-party integrations can affect both operations and finances. If an API fails or underperforms, it can disrupt workflows, cause outages, and impact service quality. Weak credentials or insecure integrations can be exploited, potentially leading to unauthorized access or costly financial losses.

What to Review Before Integrating a Third-Party API 

Before you connect any app, take a moment to give it a careful check-up. Use the checklist below to make sure it’s safe, secure, and ready to work for you.

1. Check Security Credentials and Certifications: Make sure the app provider has solid, recognized security credentials, such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, or NIST compliance. Ask for audit or penetration test reports and see if they run a bug bounty program or have a formal vulnerability disclosure policy. These show the vendor actively looks for and addresses security issues before they become a problem.
2. Confirm Data Encryption: You might not be able to inspect a third-party app directly, but you can review their documentation, security policies, or certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC. Ask the vendor how they encrypt data both in transit and at rest, and make sure any data moving across networks uses strong protocols like TLS 1.3 or higher.
3. Review Authentication & Access: Make sure the app uses modern standards like OAuth2, OpenID Connect, or JWT tokens. Confirm it follows the principle of least privilege, giving users only the access they truly need. Credentials should be rotated regularly, tokens kept short-lived, and permissions strictly enforced.
4. Check Monitoring & Threat Detection: Look for apps that offer proper logging, alerting, and monitoring. Ask the vendor how they detect vulnerabilities and respond to threats. Once integrated, consider maintaining your own logs to keep a close eye on activity and spot potential issues early.
5. Verify Versioning & Deprecation Policies: Make sure the API provider maintains clear versioning, guarantees backward compatibility, and communicates when features are being retired.
6. Rate Limits & Quotas: Prevent abuse or system overload by confirming the provider supports safe throttling and request limits.
7. Right to Audit & Contracts: Protect yourself with contractual terms that allow you to audit security practices, request documentation, and enforce remediation timelines when needed.
8. Data Location & Jurisdiction: Know where your data is stored and processed, and ensure it complies with local regulations.
9. Failover & Resilience: Ask how the vendor handles downtime, redundancy, fallback mechanisms, and data recovery, because no one wants surprises when systems fail.
10. Check Dependencies & Supply Chain: Get a list of the libraries and dependencies the vendor uses, especially open-source ones. Assess them for known vulnerabilities to avoid hidden risks.

Vet Your Integrations Today 

No technology is ever completely risk-free, but the right safeguards can help you manage potential issues. Treat third-party vetting as an ongoing process rather than a one-time task. Continuous monitoring, regular reassessments, and well-defined safety controls are essential.

If you want to strengthen your vetting process and get guidance from experts with experience building secure systems, we can help. Our team has firsthand experience in cybersecurity, risk management, and business operations, and we provide practical solutions to help you protect your business and operate more safely.

Build your confidence, tighten your integrations, and ensure that every tool in your stack works for you rather than against you. Call us today and take your business to the next level.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Have you ever been concerned about your credit card or personal data getting stolen while shopping online? You’re not alone. Each holiday season, as millions of shoppers flock online for convenience, hackers ramp up their activity. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned that scammers often create fake shopping websites or phishing emails to steal consumers’ money and personal information, especially during the holidays.

If you’re planning to shop this holiday season, now is the perfect time to boost your online security. Two simple tools, password managers and virtual cards, can make a big difference. But how exactly? This article will show you how to use them to enjoy zero-risk online holiday shopping.

Why People Prefer Password Managers and Virtual Cards for Online Shopping

Shopping online is quick, easy, and often cheaper than going to physical stores. However, it is fraught with security risks. Many people now use password managers and virtual cards for safer transactions. 

A password manager creates and keeps complicated, distinct passwords for all accounts. This minimizes the chance of unauthorized access and theft. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends using password managers to reduce password reuse and protect sensitive data from hackers.

Virtual cards also add an extra layer of protection when shopping online. Although the card numbers are linked to your real credit or debit card account, the merchant never sees your card details. This helps prevent identity theft and financial fraud.

Tips for Using Password Managers and Virtual Cards for Zero-Risk Holiday Shopping

Before you start adding items to your cart, the safety of your money comes first. Here are smart ways to use these tools to improve online security during the holidays.

Choose a Reputable Password Manager

Select a trusted provider with strong encryption and a solid reputation. Popular options include 1Password, Dashlane, LastPass, and Bitwarden. Fake versions are everywhere, so make sure you only download from the official website or app store.

Create a Strong Master Password

Your master password protects all your other passwords and should be the most secure. “Secure” means making it unusual and not something that can be guessed. You can achieve this by combining letters, numbers, and special characters. 

Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds another protection step by requiring two verification steps. Besides your password, you can choose to receive a verification code on your phone. Even if hackers steal your password, they can’t access your account without your verification code.

Generate Virtual Cards for Each Store

Set up a separate virtual card for each online retailer, many banks and payment apps offer this feature. That way, if one store is compromised, only that temporary card is affected, your main account stays safe.

Track Expiration Dates and Spending Limits

Virtual cards often expire after a set time or after one purchase. This is good for security, but make sure your card is valid before placing an order. Set spending limits as well, as this helps with holiday budgeting and prevents unauthorized charges.

Shop Only on Secure Websites

Be sure to purchase only from websites you are familiar with. Don’t shop from any link in an advertisement or email. You may end up on phishing sites that target your information. The URL of a safe site starts with “https://.”

Also, pay attention to data encryption. Look for the padlock symbol on your browser address bar. This indicates that the site has employed SSL/TLS encryption, which encrypts data as it is passed between your device and the site.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Safer Online Shopping

Even with the best security tools, simple mistakes can put your data at risk. Developing strong security awareness is key to safer online habits. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when shopping:

Reusing Passwords

One hacked password can put all your accounts at risk. Keep them safe by using a different password for every site, your password manager makes it easy.to generate and store strong, distinct passwords for each one.

Using Public Wi-Fi for Shopping

Hackers can easily monitor public Wi-Fi networks, making them unsafe not just for shopping but for any online activity. To protect your data, avoid using Wi-Fi in coffee shops, hotels, or airports for online shopping. Instead, stick to your mobile data or a secure private network.

Ignoring Security Alerts

Many people overlook alerts about unusual activity but ignoring them can be risky. If your bank, password manager, or virtual card provider alerts you to suspicious activity, act immediately. Follow their instructions to protect your data, for example, changing your password and reviewing recent transactions for any signs of fraud.

Saving Card Details in Your Browser

While browsers allow card information to be saved, it is less secure than virtual cards. If hackers access your browser, your saved cards are compromised.

Shop Smarter and Safer This Holiday Season

The holidays should be about celebration, not about worrying over hacked accounts or stolen card details. Using tools like password managers and virtual cards lets you take control of your online shopping security. These tools make password management easier, protect you from phishing scams, and add extra protection against cybercriminals. As you look for the best holiday deals, include security in your shopping checklist. Peace of mind is the best gift you can give yourself.

Need help improving your cybersecurity before the holiday rush? We can help you protect your data with smarter, easy-to-use security solutions. Stay safe, stay secure, and shop online with confidence this season. Contact us today to get started.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Your office thermostat, conference room speaker, and smart badge reader are convenient, but they’re also doors into your network. With more devices than ever in play, keeping track can be tough, and it only takes one weak link to put your entire system at risk.

That’s why smart IT solutions matter now more than ever. A trusted IT partner can help you connect smart devices safely, keep data secure, and manage your whole setup without stress.

Here’s a practical guide designed for small teams getting ready to work with connected tech.

What is IoT?

IoT, or the Internet of Things, is all about physical devices, like sensors, appliances, gadgets, or machines, being connected to the internet. These smart tools can collect and share data, and even act on their own, all without needing someone to constantly manage them. IoT helps boost efficiency, automate tasks, and provide useful data that leads to smarter decisions for both businesses and individuals. But it also comes with challenges, like keeping data secure, protecting privacy, and keeping track of all those connected devices.

Steps To Manage IoT Security Risks for Small Businesses

1. Know What You’ve Got

Begin with all of your network’s smart devices, such as cameras, speakers, printers, and thermostats. If you are not aware of a gadget, you cannot keep it safe.

• Walk through the office and note each gadget
  
• Record model names and who uses them

With a clear inventory, you’ll have the visibility you need to stay in control during updates or when responding to issues.

2. Change Default Passwords Immediately

Most smart devices come with weak, shared passwords. If you’re still using the default password, you’re inviting trouble.

• Change every password to something strong and unique
  
• Store passwords securely where your team can consistently access them

It takes just a minute, and it helps you avoid one of the most common rookie mistakes: weak passwords.

3. Segment Your Network

Let your smart printer talk, but don’t let it talk to everything. Use network segmentation to give each IoT device space while keeping your main systems secure.

• Create separate Wi-Fi or VLAN sections for IoT gear
  
• Block IoT devices from accessing sensitive servers
  
• Use guest networks where possible

Segmented networks reduce risk and make monitoring easy.

4. Keep Firmware and Software Updated

Security flaws are found all the time, and updates fix them. If your devices are out of date, you’re wide open to cyberattacks.

• Check for updates monthly
  
• Automate updates when possible
  
• Replace devices that are no longer supported

Even older gadgets can be secure if they keep receiving patches.

5. Monitor Traffic and Logs

Once your devices are in place, watch how they talk. Unexpected activity could signal trouble.

• Use basic network tools to track how often and where devices connect
  
• Set alerts for strange activity, like a badge reader suddenly reaching the internet
  
• Review logs regularly for odd patterns

You don’t need an army of security experts, just something as simple as a nightly check-in.

6. Set Up a Response Plan

Incidents happen; devices can fail or malfunction. Without a plan, every problem turns into a major headache. Your response plan should include:

• Who to contact when devices act weird
  
• How you’ll isolate a problematic device
  
• Available standby tools or firmware 

A strong response plan lets you respond quickly and keep calm when things go wrong.

7. Limit What Each Device Can Do

Not every device needs full network access. The key is permission controls.

• Turn off unused features and remote access
  
• Block internet access where not needed
  
• Restrict device functions to exact roles only

Less access means less risk, yet your tools can still get the job done.

8. Watch for Devices That Creep In

It’s easy to bring in new devices without thinking of security risks, like smart coffee makers or guest speakers.

• Have a simple approval step for new devices
  
• Ask questions: “Does it need office Wi-Fi? Does it store data?”
  
• Reject or block any gear that can’t be secured

Catching these risks early keeps your network strong.

9. Encrypt Sensitive Data

If your smart devices transmit data, ensure that data is encrypted both during transmission and while stored.

• Check device settings for encryption options
  
• Use encrypted storage systems on your network
  

Encryption adds a layer of protection without slowing things down.

10. Reevaluate Regularly

It’s easy to secure your office tech once and assume it stays that way. But tech changes fast, and so do threats.

• Do a full check-in every six months
  
• Reassess passwords, network segments, and firmware
  
• Replace devices that don’t meet today’s standards

With a regular schedule, you keep ahead without overthinking it.

Why This Actually Matters

Smart devices simplify work but can pose risks if not properly secured. More businesses are experiencing cyberattacks through their IoT devices than ever before, and these attacks are rising rapidly. Protecting your systems isn’t about expensive high-tech solutions, it’s about taking simple, smart steps like updating passwords, keeping devices up to date, and knowing what’s connected.

These simple steps can protect your business without getting in the way. Plus, with the right IT support, staying ahead of threats is simpler than you might expect.

Your Office Is Smart, Your Security Should Be Too

You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect your small office. As more smart devices like printers, thermostats, and security cameras connect to your network, hackers have more opportunities to get in. The good news? Keeping your space secure doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.

With the right IT partner who understands the unique challenges small businesses face, you can take simple steps to protect what matters. Ready to get serious about IoT security? Contact us today and partner with a team that protects small offices, without the big-business complexity.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Picture this: your business’s front door is locked tight, alarm systems are humming, and firewalls are up, but someone sneaks in through the back door, via a trusted vendor. Sound like a nightmare? It’s happening more often than you think. Cybercriminals aren’t always hacking directly into your systems anymore. Instead, they exploit the vulnerabilities in the software, services, and suppliers you rely on every day. For small businesses, this can feel like an impossible puzzle. How do you secure every link in a complex chain when resources are tight?

That’s where reliable IT solutions come in. They help you gain visibility and control over your entire supply chain, providing the tools to spot risks early and keep your business safe without breaking the bank.

A report shows that 2023 supply chain cyberattacks in the U.S. affected 2,769 entities, a 58% increase from the previous year and the highest number reported since 2017.

The good news is you don’t have to leave your business exposed. With the right mindset and practical steps, securing your supply chain can become manageable. This article walks you through easy-to-understand strategies that even the smallest business can implement to turn suppliers from a risk into a security asset.

Why Your Supply Chain Might Be Your Weakest Link

Here’s the harsh truth: many businesses put a lot of effort into protecting their internal networks but overlook the security risks lurking in their supply chain. Every vendor, software provider, or cloud service that has access to your data or systems is a potential entry point for attackers. And what’s scarier? Most businesses don’t even have a clear picture of who all their suppliers are or what risks they carry.

A recent study showed that over 60% of organizations faced a breach through a third party, but only about a third trusted those vendors to tell them if something went wrong. That means many companies find out about breaches when it’s already too late, after the damage is done.

Step 1: Get a Clear Picture: Map Your Vendors and Partners

You might think you know your suppliers well, but chances are you’re missing a few. Start by creating a “living” inventory of every third party with access to your systems, whether it’s a cloud service, a software app, or a supplier that handles sensitive information.

• List everyone: Track every vendor who touches your data or systems.
  
• Go deeper: Look beyond your direct vendors to their suppliers, sometimes risks come from those hidden layers.
  
• Keep it current: Don’t treat this as a one-time job. Vendor relationships change, and so do their risks. Review your inventory regularly.

Step 2: Know Your Risk: Profile Your Vendors

Not all vendors carry the same weight in terms of risk. For example, a software provider with access to your customer data deserves more scrutiny than your office supplies vendor.

To prioritize, classify vendors by:

• Access level: Who can reach your sensitive data or core infrastructure?
  
• Security history: Has this vendor been breached before? Past problems often predict future ones.
  
• Certifications: Look for security certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC 2, but remember, certification isn’t a guarantee, dig deeper if you can.

Step 3: Don’t Set and Forget: Continuous Due Diligence

Treating vendor security like a box to check once during onboarding is a recipe for disaster. Cyber threats are evolving, and a vendor who was safe last year might be compromised now.

Here’s how to keep your guard up:

• Go beyond self-reports: Don’t rely only on questionnaires from vendors, they often hide problems. Request independent security audits or penetration testing results.
  
• Enforce security in contracts: Make sure contracts include clear security requirements, breach notification timelines, and consequences if those terms aren’t met.
  
• Monitor continuously: Use tools or services that alert you to any suspicious activity, leaked credentials, or new vulnerabilities in your vendor’s systems.

Step 4: Hold Vendors Accountable Without Blind Trust

Trusting vendors to keep your business safe without verification is a gamble no one should take. Yet, many businesses do just that.

To prevent surprises:

• Make security mandatory: Require vendors to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), data encryption, and timely breach notifications.
  
• Limit access: Vendors should only have access to the systems and data necessary for their job, not everything.
  
• Request proof: Ask for evidence of security compliance, such as audit reports, and don’t stop at certificates.

Step 5: Embrace Zero-Trust Principles

Zero-Trust means never assuming any user or device is safe, inside or outside your network. This is especially important for third parties.

Key steps include:

• Strict authentication: Enforce MFA for any vendor access and block outdated login methods.
  
• Segment your network: Make sure vendor access is isolated, preventing them from moving freely across your entire system.
  
• Verify constantly: Recheck vendor credentials and permissions regularly to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Businesses adopting Zero-Trust models have seen a huge drop in the impact of vendor-related breaches, often cutting damage in half.

Step 6: Detect and Respond Quickly

Even the best defenses can’t guarantee no breach. Early detection and rapid response make all the difference.

Practical actions include:

• Monitoring vendor software: Watch for suspicious code changes or unusual activity in updates and integrations.
  
• Sharing threat info: Collaborate with industry groups or security services to stay ahead of emerging risks.
  
• Testing your defenses: Conduct simulated attacks to expose weak points before cybercriminals find them.

Step 7: Consider Managed Security Services

Keeping up with all of this can be overwhelming, especially for small businesses. That’s where managed IT and security services come in.

They offer:

• 24/7 monitoring: Experts watch your entire supply chain non-stop.
  
• Proactive threat detection: Spotting risks before they escalate.
  
• Faster incident response: When something does happen, they act quickly to limit damage.

Outsourcing these tasks helps your business stay secure without stretching your internal resources thin.

Ignoring supply chain security can be costly. The average breach involving a third party now tops $4 million, not to mention the damage to reputation and customer trust.

On the flip side, investing in proactive supply chain security is an investment in your company’s future resilience. It protects your data, your customers, and your bottom line.

Taking Action Now: Your Supply Chain Security Checklist

• Map all vendors and their suppliers.
• Classify vendors by risk and access level.
• Require and verify vendor security certifications and audits.
• Make security mandatory in contracts with clear breach notification policies.
• Implement Zero-Trust access controls.
• Monitor vendor activity continuously.
• Consider managed security services for ongoing protection.

Stay One Step Ahead

Cyber attackers are not waiting for a perfect moment, they are scanning for vulnerabilities right now, especially those hidden in your vendor ecosystem. Small businesses that take a proactive, strategic approach to supply chain security will be the ones that avoid disaster.

Your suppliers shouldn’t be the weakest link. By taking control and staying vigilant, you can turn your supply chain into a shield, not a doorway for attackers. The choice is yours: act today to protect your business or risk being the next headline.

Contact us to learn how our IT solutions can help safeguard your supply chain.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.