Outsourcing your day-to-day IT operations can be a wise strategic move for many small businesses. However, it must be done securely. In this article, we'll discuss outsourcing IT capabilities to an IT Managed Service Provider (MSP) securely.
It's important that organizations remember that outsourcing their data or services does not absolve them from any of the data security responsibilities they had previously. The organization must ensure that the security of the data and services they outsource is maintained, despite the use of a third-party.
When hiring an MSP, the organization is handing over a lot of control to the MSP. The security of the MSP themselves becomes extremely important and relevant. For example, most MSPs will install software to remotely administer and monitor computers inside the organization. If those tools are not securely configured, a third-party compromise could (and often does) lead to a breach of the organizations network. It is up to the organization to ensure that the MSP is secure BEFORE signing a contract.
While an organization hires an MSP so they don't have to worry about the day-to-day management of your networks and systems, security is still of concern and cannot be completely delegated to the MSP. Organizations must do their due-dilligence on the MSP prior to signing contracts and handing over access. To help our insureds know what questions to ask, we developed a third party risk assessment questionnaire that you can send to your provider before considering their services. This is free for all our insureds - contact us for a copy of the document!
As always, please reach out for more information on this topic or any other!