Data Security
How we protect you
Data security has never been a bigger issue. While we realize there is no such thing as impenetrable data security, it's an issue we take very seriously.
Our core systems provide enterprise-grade data security, underpinned by numerous leading-edge technologies and data management practices. We back them up with steps to help ensure physical security - because neither one on its own is enough.
We work hard to establish secure connections to trusted sources; encrypt all data whenever and wherever possible; adopt enterprise grade software platforms; and implement responsible on-site security measures such as a fireproof safe for critical documents, a security camera system, and when our mascot is on site a canine warning system (yes, we are dog people).
Secure Connections
Firewall:
We use a FortiGate 61F firewall by Fortinet, supplier to many S&P 500 and Fortune 100 organizations. Named in several Gartner Magic Quadrants, you can read more about Fortinet and their recognition as Microsoft's 2020 Commercial Marketplace Partner of the Year here.
VPN:
When not connected to our trusted network at home, virtually all of our connections (no pun intended) are via VPN (Virtual Private Network).
Antivirus, Web Protection and Anti-Ransomware:
Our local "software police" is one of the top-rated antivirus providers, Bitdefender.
Encrypted Data
We run our practice using software we've custom designed specifically for the fiduciary and daily money management worlds... but we built that software on one of the most secure platforms available. Our implementation includes Platform Encryption, allowing us to natively encrypt our most sensitive data at rest. That's tech-speak, and we don't mean to snow you.. or pretend that we are technology geeks ourselves. The point is this: the platform we use offers such a high level of security that it is also used by large hospitals (for patient data) and financial institutions (for client financial data). We also encrypt all data stored locally.
Enterprise-class Software Platforms
There are plenty of technology consultants, local programmers, or teenage tech wizards working out of their parents' basement down the street. Considering the rate of technological change, though, we feel only the strongest tech companies can make the kind of ongoing investment necessary to keep up. That's why we built our business system on the Salesforce platform, the world's #1 enterprise cloud. Our encrypted email solution is provided by Microsoft and includes their Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). And the only hardware we use to store any data runs the latest operating system from Apple (we even run Windows on our Macs), with local encryption enabled.
On-Site Fireproof Safe
Where security is concerned, we don't mess around. This is our American-made AMSEC CF1814 Burglary & Fire Security safe, which we use for any highly sensitive documents we store for clients or trusts. Our "doomsday" lock provides a changeable digital code for employees, with the physical code stored securely in a location only known to the company president.
Modern Security System
These days even physical security measures have a digital component. We use an array of the latest security equipment, ranging from our dual-mode Yale lock (below) that is additional to the building lock to our 4k night-vision security cameras (also below). Even our filing cabinet is upgraded, an American-made Fireking with Medeco locks - the same brand we understand is used by the White House - that lock all drawers and has a UL 1-hour fire rating.
Criminal Background Checks
All employees must undergo a thorough background check, which includes:
- Social Security Verification
- Address History Trace
- County Criminal History Check
- Federal Criminal History Check
- National Criminal History Check
- National Sex Offender Search
- Global WatchList (OFAC)
- Monthly Monitoring
Perimeter Security
Our Arlo 4K HDR camera system with enhanced night vision and an integrated spotlight records a clear view of activity around security entrances, and can be viewed in real time from our office or our smartphones.
Redundant Systems
Our Yale Assure lock guards access to our office door, offering a second layer of protection in addition to the lock on the main entry door. The keypad can be easily reprogrammed in the event of any personnel turnover, while the president retains the deadbolt key in a secure location.