How Your Internet Service Provider Protects Your Security

Are you looking for an Internet service provider? Are you concerned about the security of your business data?

Internet Service providers or ISPs provide software that allows businesses to connect to the internet. They also typically maintain web servers, provide user support, e-mail back-up, web file back-up etc. ISPs have been vilified for selling customer data and browsing information to third parties. They are now at pains to prove otherwise.

More and more ISPs are taking cyber security issues very seriously. More than just providing internet services, they are trying to show the customers that their data are in secure hands. How do they do this?

Restricted Access

Access to customer data by the SPs employees is restricted is through encryption.

Monitoring

Security conscious ISPs will monitor suspicious activity on their network, block suspicious traffic, and notify would-be victims. They may go further and notify security agents if they deem it fit, for example, if they suspect child abuse or trafficking.

Audits & Certifications

An audit of quality and control by a third party and third party certifications may assure customers that the ISP has put in place adequate controls to protect their own and customer information.

These audits and certifications also show that the ISP conforms to industry standards.

Own Products

When an ISP uses the same products it sells to protect its business, it is an assurance that the ISP has confidence in its own products. To a customer, that should be reassuring.

Privacy Policy

Does the ISP have a privacy policy? A written privacy policy shows that the ISP is committed to protecting customer data. It also shows that in case of violation, you can go to court based on documentary evidence.

Blocking Connection

As an additional security measure, some ISPs will block incoming connections from suspicious ports such as port 139, typically used for windows file sharing. They may also block suspicious outgoing connections.

Protection from Spam, Viruses, and Malware

As a basic service, some ISPs will protect customer e-mails from malware, spam, and viruses by blocking suspicious mail.

Own Infrastructure Protection

Most, if not all ISPs will protect their own infrastructure from cyber attacks. By doing so, they are also protecting customer data that's in their custody.

Choosing an Internet Service provider is no longer just a matter of internet connectivity, speed, and cost. Cybersecurity should be the concern of all businesses. Choose a cable provider that is concerned about your security. Be safe, protect your business or your home.