Security Corner

By Jordan Neal - IT Security Engineer

It’s a new year, meaning the start of new projects/budgets and we want everyone to step into 2023 on the best foot possible. Due to recent trends, there are some methods that we would like to remind you about that can prevent you or your organization from being victimized. When working with financials, it always helps to make sure the person requesting money is who you think they are. When receiving account information in an email, take a few minutes and contact the other party to verify the numbers. This can protect against impersonation or even just errors in typing that can cause money to be lost or held up in transfers.

For example, you get an email claiming to be a utility company. In the email, it states that they will be receiving all future emails to a new account number. In this case, the expected email is from accounts@stateelectric.com; this time the email is accounts@ statelectric.com. If this slight change is made and no efforts are made to validate the change in accounting, you could end up seeing thousands lost to a phishing campaign, and still end up on the hook for your normal billing. Another example: You receive a call from “your” cellular provider. They tell you that you are late on your bill, and they would like to work with you to get it paid. They ask you to validate your SSN, and address before confirming the amount of your bill. After providing the amount “late on your bill” the caller requests your payment card information – In this case, consider all the information that you may have provided.

∙ Name . Address . SSN . CC information

Remember that Multi-Factor Authentication isn’t just software. The best way to protect yourself is to always verify who you are talking to. Here are some helpful tips:

Something you ARE.

∙ Individual contacting you is your main contact, i.e., company owner, technical director, HR, etc.

Something you HAVE.

∙ Known good phone numbers, mail from the correct address, and email from the correct domain.

∙ If it’s a bank, utility company, or broadband provider, feel free to call them back.

Something you KNOW.

∙ Passcode, pin, and even PII works.

∙ Check to make sure the “company” calling you is one of your providers. You wouldn’t want to pay T-Mobile for your AT&T bill.

Wispamerica

MARCH 6-9, 2023

LOUISVILLE, KY | Kentucky International Conv. Center

WISPAMERICA Louisville brings over 1,500 people together to learn, experience innovative technology and network with colleagues, all geared toward growing the vibrant and evolution WISP industry. Centrally located in the heartland of the country, the budget-conscious, four-day gathering features 90+ expert sessions and demonstrations, over exhibitors and access to more than 1,200 industry leaders.

Association of Business and Industry Business Day

MARCH 7, 2023

DES MOINES, IA | Embassy Suites by Hilton DSM

Join us for the first annual Business Day in Des Moines. This event will bring together business leaders from around the state. Attendees will hear updates on the 2023 Legislative Session from ABI and featured legislative leaders. Special Guest Governor Kim Reynolds has been invited. You will hear a geopolitical update from Kavi Chawla, Baton Global.

Iowa Hospital Association - Critical Access and Rural Hospital Forum

MARCH 9, 2023

DES MOINES, IA | Iowa Hospital Assoc. Conf. Room

One of Iowa’s largest annual rural health conferences, this event is designed for individuals involved in the strategic direction and operations of critical access and rural hospitals.

Iowa Bankers AssociationAg Bankers Conference

MARCH 20, 2023

AMES, IA | Gateway Hotel

This conference focuses on the unique needs of ag bankers and the need for quality information and training to better serve your customer base. With sessions on the ag economy, managing crop risks, the farm bill, and more. The conference includes two days of educational sessions led by experts in the business of banking and farming. Prepare yourself for the future with the best advice and most up-to-date knowledge available.

Iowa Communications Alliance Annual Meeting & Expo

MARCH 20 – 22, 2023

DES MOINES, IA | Community Choice Conv. Center

This event features a world-class Expo Hall, numerous educational sessions, and amazing networking opportunities. The Annual Meeting & Expo is held on March 20-22, 2023. Registered exhibitor personnel are invited to participate in all scheduled events, including education, food, and networking.

NTCA Telecom Executive Forum

APRIL 2 – 4, 2023

ST. PETERSBURG, FL | Vinoy Renaissance Resort

The annual Telecom Executive Forum (TEF) is the ultimate event for rural broadband executives to convene in a secluded setting and to bring topics including business growth, opportunities and leadership to the forefront.

Technology Association of Iowa Technology Summit

APRIL 3 – 4, 2023

DES MOINES, IA | Community Choice Conv. Center

The Iowa Technology Summit unites TAI members in an event that highlights Iowa’s Technology industry, educates, and connects current and future IT leaders in the state.

Fortinet Accelerate 2023

APRIL 3 – 6, 2023

ORLANDO, FL | Walt Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort

This is the only conference that promises Fortinet partners and customers an exclusive, in-depth experience like no other. Gain critical competencies to intensify your security expertise.

Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities

APRIL 5 – 6, 2023

JOHNSTON, IA | Stoney Creek Hotel & Conf. Center

Join us for the 2023 IAMU Spring Broadband Forum! Representatives of Iowa’s growing municipal broadband community gather for networking and learning, and to talk to YOU during our Expo.

Iowa Rural Summit

APRIL 11 – 12, 2023

AMES, IA | Gateway Hotel

Almost 400 rural leaders from every corner of the state descended on the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University April 12-13, 2022, for the 6th annual Iowa Rural Summit. In addition, the Summit was a chance to recognize a group of remarkable rural leaders, who were presented the inaugural Rand Fisher Rural Leadership Award, sponsored by IADG Community Foundation. The honor recognizes long-time IADG CEO and IRDC Vice-Chair Rand Fisher.

Association of Business and Industry Connecting Statewide Leaders

APRIL 13, 2023

SIOUX CITY, IA | Venue TBD

Join ABI members, Leadership Iowa alumni, community leaders and the Leadership Iowa class for an engaging conversation about Economic Development and Workforce. Plan to stay for our networking lunch to follow the programming.

EVENTS CONT.

NTCA Legislative & Policy Conference

APRIL 16 – 18, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. | Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill

The NTCA Legislative + Policy Conference contributes your voice to lawmakers in Washington, D.C. You will be trained how to advocate effectively when presenting your high priority items, hear directly from legislators and policy makers, and meet with NTCA’s influential advocacy team.

Global Insurance Symposium

APRIL 18 – 20, 2023

DES MOINES, IA | Community Choice Conv. Center

The Global Insurance Symposium offers an educational and networking opportunity that brings together over 500 insurance and financial services company executives, national and international regulators, state and federal government representatives, entrepreneurs, and tech firms.

Connect IT 2023

APRIL 24 – 27, 2023

LAS VEGAS, NV | MGM Grand Resort

Connect IT Global is designed for leaders and experts in the IT service industry looking to help build systems, evolve their companies, and help lead the industry into a stronger tomorrow.

NTCA Marketing & Sales Conference

APRIL 30 – MAY 3, 2023

AUSTIN, TX | Hyatt Regency Austin

The annual Marketing + Sales Conference is the only conference of its kind, combining all aspects of marketing and sales for the rural broadband industry into one robust, high-value event.