If you rely on an IT provider, you probably assume your systems are safe, secure, and up-to-date. But what if there are hidden gaps in your technology stack that could leave your business vulnerable, and you wouldn’t even know it?
Here are seven common IT vulnerabilities that even well-meaning providers can overlook and what you can do about them.
1. Weak Email Security Settings (SPF, DKIM, DMARC)
Many small businesses don’t have proper email authentication in place. Without these protections, cybercriminals can spoof your domain and send fake emails that look like they came from your company. This is a favorite trick in phishing scams and most business owners never realize it’s happening. Without proper email settings your emails might be landing in your client’s junk or spam folder.
Ask your provider:
“Do we have SPF, DKIM, and DMARC properly configured for all our email domains?”
2. Unmonitored Cloud Storage Access
Tools like Microsoft OneDrive, SharePoint, and Google Drive are powerful — but who has access to what can spiral out of control. If former employees, vendors, or even unknown users still have access to your cloud, your sensitive data could be at risk.
Ask your provider:
“How often do we audit who has access to our cloud files?”
3. Outdated Backup Strategies
Many providers say, “we back up your data”, but they don’t test those backups. Worse, some only back up your files (not full systems), or don’t store backups securely offsite. In a ransomware attack, that backup may be your last lifeline, if it even works.
Ask your provider:
“When was the last time you tested a full restore from our backups?”
4. Incomplete Endpoint Protection
You might have antivirus on your computers, but is that enough? Advanced threats today require EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) or MDR (Managed Detection & Response), proactive tools that monitor, isolate, and respond to threats before damage is done. If someone access’s your account at 2am who is taking action?
Ask your provider:
“What are you using to monitor and contain threats on our devices in real-time and are these systems monitored 24/7?”
5. Lack of MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)
If your employees can access email or systems with just a password, that’s a problem. MFA adds a second layer of security, like a code from your phone, and blocks most unauthorized access attempts.
Ask your provider:
“Is MFA turned on for every critical system, including email, cloud, and remote access?”
6. Overlooked Patching and Updates
Unpatched software is one of the most common causes of cyberattacks. Some IT providers only patch the basics, missing vulnerable third-party apps like Adobe, Zoom, or printer drivers.
Ask your provider:
“Do you patch third-party applications as well as Windows updates?”
7. Poor Compliance Controls
Does your provide assist you with your industry compliance? Do you have all the policies and procedures required by law for your industry?
Ask your provider:
“Are you familiar with the compliance needs of our industry?”
The Takeaway
Your business might already have some of these protections — or maybe none at all. But one thing is clear: assumptions are dangerous in cybersecurity.
At Plus 1 Technology, we help business owners uncover these hidden risks and create a clear, proactive plan to eliminate them.
Ready for a second opinion?
We offer a no-pressure IT risk review we’ll tell you what’s secure, what isn’t, and where your provider may be falling short.
No jargon. Just clarity. Reach out to Plus1 Technology today.
