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Back up data daily to offline storage systems. Update software immediately when patches become available. Restrict user permissions to essential functions only.
Consider this scenario: A flooring contractor receives an email from a tile supplier. The message requests payment to a new bank account due to “banking changes.” The contractor sends $75,000 to criminals instead of the legitimate supplier. Cargo theft through cybercrime also threatens the floor covering industry. Hackers breach logistics systems to reroute shipments. Your expensive hardwood flooring gets diverted to criminal warehouses. Implement zero trust for payments: • Call suppliers directly to verify any payment changes. • Use established, trusted phone numbers, not those in suspicious emails. • Require dual authorization for payments over set amounts. • Monitor shipments closely through independent tracking systems. • Never change payment details based on email requests alone. Always verify through separate communication channels. 5. IT support doesn’t equal cybersecurity Many flooring businesses assume their IT vendor handles cybersecurity. This dangerous misconception can leave critical gaps in protection. IT focuses on system functionality. Cybersecurity addresses threats and vulnerabilities. Your IT provider might maintain computers and networks without monitoring for attacks. They may install software updates but ignore security patches. These oversights create exploitable weaknesses. Clarify responsibilities in vendor contracts: • Who monitors systems for suspicious activity 24/7? • What cybersecurity measures are included in monthly fees? • How quickly are security patches applied to all systems? • What happens when breaches occur and who responds? • Who provides employee cybersecurity training and how often? Get written answers to these questions. Verbal assurances provide no legal protection when breaches occur. Consider hiring specialized cybersecurity
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• Test backup restoration monthly to ensure functionality. Prevention costs far less than recovery. Invest in protection before criminals strike. 3. Smart devices create security vulnerabilities Floor covering showrooms increasingly use IoT (Internet of Things) devices. For example, smart thermostats control climate. Security cameras monitor premises. Digital displays showcase products. Each device creates potential entry points for hackers. Criminals exploit weak default passwords and poor configurations. For instance, hackers recently breached a retail store through smart lighting controls. They accessed the payment system and stole credit card numbers. Secure your IoT devices: • Change default passwords immediately after installation. • Update device firmware regularly through manufacturer portals. • Create separate networks for IoT devices and business systems. • Monitor device activity for unusual data transmission patterns. • Smart devices offer convenience but require constant vigilance. Treat each device as a potential security risk. 4. Supply chain attacks put your balance sheet at risk Cybercriminals increasingly target supply chains to reach multiple victims. They compromise legitimate suppliers and distributors. Then they use trusted relationships to steal money and data. Business email compromise (BEC) attacks cost businesses millions annually. Here’s how they work: Criminals hack your supplier’s email system. They monitor communications and payment patterns. When you place a large order, they send fake payment instructions from the compromised account.
Premier Flooring Retailer tise | 2026 09
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