Assessing Your Needs
Computers have revolutionized the way companies conduct business. The speed and accuracy of an automated system has reduced costs and minimized expensive errors. Even though today’s technology offers many advantages, a company must consider the associated risks. Computer forensic analysts and security auditors have identified problems that corporations encounter when dealing with technology issues.
The following can create costly litigation and production loss if not dealt with correctly:
Unauthorized access to company information — Investigators recently discovered that a large corporation did not have proper log-in protocols in place. This resulted in employees being able to access anyone’s e-mail account from any workstation. Access included all executive e-mail accounts — which were compromised several times.
Personal use of Internet and e-mail — Investigators found that a secretary was planning a wedding, shopping for shoes, chatting with relatives and browsing for patio furniture on company time. An audit of her activities revealed that she completed approximately 2.5 hours of work in a 40-hour work week. Further, investigators consistently find personal legal and financial information drafted on company time. These documents are usually regarding an employee’s divorce or other personal legal matter.
Digital piracy — Computers from several corporations were analyzed and found to contain illegal copies of music and movies downloaded from the Internet. Because these copies are on equipment owned by the corporation, the company can be held liable for damages associated with civil prosecution.
Identity theft — A company recently attempted to track an employee who was using company computers to apply for credit cards using another person’s identity. The company was unsuccessful in attempting to identify the e-crook because of inadequate security protocols.
Unauthorized online product sales — Investigators were able to recently identify and successfully prosecute an employee who was stealing product and selling it on eBay. During the investigation, it was found that multiple individuals across the country were also engaged in the unauthorized sale and resale of equipment.
Corporate espionage and intellectual property theft — Any information circulated via computers throughout a company is subject to be released. Tiny memory drives can be connected in seconds and company information can be leaked. This is also easily accomplished by unrestricted e-mail accounts and network access. Simple security audits can help a company keep its secrets protected.
Viral meltdowns — Companies that allow employees unrestricted Internet access increase their risk of developing network viruses. A malicious virus can totally disable a company, erasing important records, crashing systems and halting production for extended periods of time.
Sexual harassment and pornography — Most businesses have not included electronic items in their sexual harassment policy. Inappropriate material is circulated via e-mail and the Internet at an alarming rate. One offended individual may spell disaster for the company’s reputation and draw them into lengthy legal entanglements.
One of these issues will most likely affect your company at one time or another. In the event that one or more of these problems arise, companies need to be prepared to conduct a proper investigation to minimize expense, litigation and possible embarrassment.
Call 440.546.7545 or e-mail inquiries@ddforensicsgroup.com for further inquiries or to schedule a meeting. All inquiries are kept strictly confidential.