Imagine this: while your team is hard at work, a hidden threat is quietly creeping through your business network—completely unnoticed. It's not a virus, and it's not a hacker (yet). It's the unsecured devices connected to your network—silent, overlooked, and dangerously vulnerable.
Your network is the backbone of your business operations. But here's the terrifying truth—many companies have no idea what's actually connected to their networks at any given time. From unauthorized smart devices to shadow IT tools and outdated firmware, these unsecured devices are silently opening the door to cyber threats that can cost your company thousands, if not millions.
The Growing Problem of Shadow Devices
The term "shadow devices" refers to hardware connected to your network without your knowledge or proper oversight. This could be anything from a personal smartphone accessing company Wi-Fi to a forgotten smart TV in the breakroom still linked to the internet.
Each one of these devices can be a potential vulnerability.
According to a recent report by Armis, over 74% of businesses had at least one unauthorized or unknown device on their network. Even more alarming, many of these devices operate with outdated security protocols—or none at all—making them easy targets for cybercriminals.
The Risks of Unsecured Devices on Your Network
Unsecured devices pose serious risks to your business. Here are just a few of the dangers:
1. Data Breaches
Hackers can gain access to sensitive customer data, financial records, or proprietary business information through unsecured devices. A single weak link in your network can lead to a full-blown breach.
2. Ransomware Infections
Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerable devices to inject ransomware into networks. Once inside, they can lock down your data and demand large payouts for its return—crippling operations in the process.
3. Network Slowdowns and Downtime
Unmanaged devices can hog bandwidth, interfere with other systems, or even crash your network entirely. That leads to downtime, frustrated employees, and lost revenue.
4. Compliance Violations
Industries bound by regulations like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or GDPR can face steep fines for failing to secure their digital environments—especially when data leaks occur through unsecured endpoints.
The Most Common Offenders on Your Network
You might be surprised by how many devices could be flying under your radar. Here are some of the most commonly overlooked offenders:
- Smart TVs or speakers in conference rooms
- Old or unused printers and copiers
- Employee personal laptops and phones
- IoT devices like thermostats or security cameras
- Unpatched servers and workstations
- Guest network connections
If you're not actively managing and monitoring every single connected device, you're leaving the door open for threats.
How TotalBC Helps You Take Control
At TotalBC, we specialize in helping businesses of all sizes secure their networks, monitor connected devices, and protect their operations from the inside out.
- Scout Monitor and Respond: Our Scout Monitor and Scout Monitor and Respond services offer real-time visibility into every device on your network. We proactively detect unknown or suspicious devices, monitor for vulnerabilities, and respond swiftly to potential threats—before they escalate.
- Managed IT Services: With our Managed IT Services, TotalBC becomes your dedicated partner in maintaining a secure and efficient network environment. From regular patching and updates to endpoint protection and device auditing, we keep your tech ecosystem tight and tidy.
- Microsoft Management + Cloud Services: Many shadow IT issues arise when employees install unauthorized software or cloud tools. TotalBC helps you lock down your Microsoft environments, secure user access, and implement policies that prevent data sprawl and security gaps.
- Cybersecurity Solutions: Cybersecurity isn't just a checkbox—it's a commitment. We offer full-spectrum protection, including firewall management, antivirus, intrusion detection, and employee training to help you build a strong security-first culture.
Take Action Before It's Too Late
The time to investigate what's lurking on your network isn't after a breach—it's right now.
The longer you wait to secure your devices and gain full network visibility, the more vulnerable your business becomes. TotalBC is here to help you uncover the hidden risks, clean up your network, and keep your operations running securely and smoothly.
Ready to Lock Down Your Network?
Contact TotalBC today to schedule your free network risk assessment. Let's shine a light on what's really happening behind the scenes—before it becomes a nightmare.
Call us at 866-673-8682 or visit www.TotalBC.com to get started.
