INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Enterprise Security
Obsidian Systems highlights and brings email best practices under spotlight
names can easily trick unsuspecting users into believing an email has been sent from a legitimate source . For example , zimbra . co . za instead of zimbra . com . These often go unnoticed and could result in significant security breaches .
“ These instances have reached a level where the emails may seem extremely genuine , even appearing to come from known contacts . We had a client who , due to an oversight in not confirming banking details in-person , ended up with a significant financial loss .”
Fortunately , AI-based threat detection solutions can assist in this regard but should never be seen as the only defence . So , even though companies need to use the latest cybersecurity technologies , they should never replace enterprise-ready , proven solutions in the fight against email malware .
Deon Lottering , Senior Consultant , Obsidian Systems
Virtually every organisation in the world relies on email . And yet , securing this mission-critical platform is often not treated with the diligence that is required . One of the best ways to mitigate against the threat of compromise is a combination of user education , vigilant practices , and the adoption of next-gen technology . This is according to Obsidian Systems , a supplier of open-source software solutions .
“ While email systems continue to evolve and can further be enhanced using more sophisticated technologies , the real gatekeeper is the end-user ,” says Deon Lottering , Senior Consultant at Obsidian Systems .
“ It is therefore essential for people to scrutinise the authenticity of an email before clicking on embedded links , replying to the mail , or downloading any files . Companies need to educate employees and make them aware that they are the last line of defence .”
One of the first things any person must do is to double-check the sender details , especially the from address . Minor changes to domain
For individual users , Lottering recommends using strong passwords combined with two-factor authentication . Furthermore , he says that it is essential for companies to embark on continual education drives regarding potential cyber threats while also adhering to safe email practices . Of course , using reputable antivirus software specifically tailored to scan emails is vitally important .
On the server side , Lottering suggests that all incoming emails should be scanned against known blacklists , checked thoroughly for spam , and inspected for potential viruses and malware . He also suggests that companies enforce strict password policies to further strengthen their security .
“ The blend of technology and human intervention will be the future of email security . While technology provides the tools , it is the users who must adopt them . At Obsidian , we aim to make this approach as seamless as possible .
Obsidian Systems is an established supplier of Open Source software solutions . The company was started in 1995 as a modest services provider targeting businesses and organisations looking to integrate and leverage off Linux infrastructure . Subsequently , the organisation has expanded by partnering with Autumn Leaf and RadixTrie .
The expansion of skills has seen the establishment of a team finding smarter ways to align expertise for Enterprise Open Source solutions . This includes retail and subscription services ; support and observability for managed services ; consulting , architecting and software services across hybrid IT models for your business . p
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