Tri-C’s David Mastny on Cyberattacks During COVID-19

Increased reliance on technology has exposed vulnerabilities in IT systems

By now, virtually everyone is aware of the threat posed by COVID-19. But along with it has come an increased threat from other types of viruses — ones that can destroy an organization’s entire IT system.

Safe distancing measures have forced millions of employees across the country to work from home for more than four months. With face-to-face contact either strongly discouraged or impossible, thousands of companies are now entirely reliant on technology to continue operating.

Unfortunately, when all communication and information exchange must take place via cloud-based services and other electronic means, there is an increased risk of exposure to viruses, hackers, malware and other online threats.

David Mastny, director of information security at Cuyahoga Community College, recently spoke with Crain’s Cleveland Business as part of an article outlining how companies and organizations can address technology vulnerabilities that have become apparent during the pandemic.

In addition to beefing up online security systems, Mastny said companies must continually educate employees on how to recognize suspicious emails, set strong passwords and protect sensitive information.

He called the work necessary to stay ahead of hackers and would-be data thieves “a never-ending battle.”

“It's not just about box-checking,” Mastny told Crain’s. “It's about keeping up with threats and making sure you don't move backward. With cloud services, every change introduces a new risk.”

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July 28, 2020

Erik Cassano, 216-987-3577 or erik.cassano@tri-c.edu