Databook Labs, a pioneering company in AI, has revolutionized the enterprise sales landscape. Their exceptional ability to interpret vast financial and market data arrays has notably enhanced global strategic relationships for sales teams.
With users across 104 countries, the platform ingests and interprets billions of financial and market data signals to generate actionable sales strategies that connect the seller’s solutions to a buyer’s financial pain and urgency.
A successful product led to rapid expansion and a distributed workforce across 8 countries. Anne Simpson, Head of Privacy, Security, and Compliance at Databook Labs, walked us through how the company faced the pressing challenge of ensuring robust cybersecurity in a hybrid work environment.
The challenge
Scaling up securely in a global landscape
Databook Labs experienced accelerated growth, scaling from 12 to 100 employees and expanding to three global offices.
First, starting at the founder’s house basement, the company grew and got its first office before the pandemic. Changing team location and scale required an established security mindset.
Besides, this rapid development and a primarily remote workforce presented significant cybersecurity challenges.
“With a mostly remote workforce, Databook needed a way to secure data while working away from our known networks.”
Their primary concern was safeguarding data across numerous unknown networks, a critical issue given their large enterprise customer base with stringent security expectations.
The solution
Choosing NordLayer for comprehensive security
When Anne Simpson, Head of Privacy and Security, joined Databook Labs, she recognized the need for a robust VPN solution to protect their global, remote workforce.
“The majority of our customers are large enterprises that want to see high-security standards in place.”
Besides securing a remote workforce, Anne was also responsible for developing, maintaining, and enforcing Databook’s information security policies to meet client expectations.
“We encourage people to get out there and explore the world while working. When they appear on an unknown network, I can’t guarantee the data transmission’s security, so we had to get a VPN.”
The integration of NordLayer allowed the company to maintain a high level of security without the need for extensive in-house resources.
“We are a very small team, so we don’t have the resources to build a VPN and maintain one in the house. And that’s what we love about NordLayer.”
Compatibility, security, and simplicity are the key characteristics NordLayer solution proved to be the top pick.
Why choose NordLayer
After thorough research and peer consultations, NordLayer emerged as the ideal choice. Its ease of implementation, excellent customer support, and compatibility with non-technical users made it a perfect fit for Databook Labs.
The company already had SOC 2 certification, so adding NordLayer to our policies and procedures made it all about privacy and security at Databook Labs.
“After the demo, we felt that NordLayer was the easiest to implement. It gave us everything we needed, and the team was really helpful. We’ve never had a problem with any customer service support issues.”
As Anne Simpson claims, the tool doesn’t require manual handling, and the security manager doesn’t need to worry about it.
How NordLayer helps manage the expectations of different parties
Overall, NordLayer simplifies the experience of enabling and using a remote network access security tool. It’s designed to be user-friendly for non-tech-savvy employees while meeting the high standards expected by clients and stakeholders.
The outcome
Enhanced security and operational efficiency
Implementing NordLayer had a profound impact on Databook Labs. Anne Simpson and her team found peace of mind in knowing that their data was secure and that they were in compliance with global regulations.
“NordLayer is very user-friendly. During onboarding, our team members receive training on using the VPN, and the Okta integration plays a crucial role. They are well-versed in when it is most beneficial to be connected to the VPN.”
NordLayer’s solution, with its simplicity, allowed the team to dedicate more time to strategic objectives. It also made it easy for non-technical employees, eliminating the need to manage VPN complexities.
“I would recommend NordLayer VPN as it is simple to use and does not incur any upfront costs, such as setting up our own VPN and needing on-premises hardware.”
Additionally, NordLayer’s performance causes any issues with the company’s operations, easing initial concerns about potential slowdowns.
Pro cybersecurity tips
Everyday cybersecurity rules should become a mantra of every tech user in the modern world. But sometimes, it’s not that obvious where to start. Thus, here are the main recommendations from the Head of Privacy, Security & Compliance at Databook Labs, where it’s worth concentrating your focus to begin with.
Databook Labs’ experience using NordLayer proves that being accountable for data security is challenging with remote teams yet achievable using the right solutions. Discover how compatible your cybersecurity strategy is with the NordLayer tool and enjoy the peace of mind it brings to every IT manager who uses it.
IoT Malware Attacks Hit a 400% Increase
So, what’s the problem with these handy IoT devices? In short: they can be hacked – easily. Designed with functionality and convenience in mind, security has taken a back seat. This low level of protection leaves users vulnerable to attack, and IoT devices have become prime targets for cyberattacks. In fact, the Zscaler ThreatLabz research team found that IoT malware attacks increased 400% in the first half of 2023 compared to 2022.
EU Cyber Resilience Act
On a legislative level, the EU is taking this seriously. The upcoming Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) is already striking fear into the hearts of device manufacturers the world over. But for consumers, the future of IoT looks bright, or at least more secure.
If passed, the CRA “would see inadequate security features become a thing of the past with the introduction of mandatory cybersecurity requirements for manufacturers and retailers of such products, with this protection extending throughout the product lifecycle.”
This is a huge development: Device makers will have to ensure the security of their products past sale. That means regular updates, security patches, and consumer safety being higher on the priority list than ever before. It’s a big shift towards a more secure digital landscape. Smart and secure homes are the future.
US Cyber Trust Mark
While the EU is laying down the law, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is planning to roll out its new “labeling program for smart devices” in 2024. The Cyber Trust Mark will be the shiny new seal of approval for cyber-secure products.
Jessica Rosenworcel, FCC Chairwoman says: “The Cyber Trust Mark will help consumers make more informed decisions about what kind of devices they bring into their homes and businesses. So when you need a baby monitor, or a new appliance, you’ll be able to look for a Cyber Trust Mark… device manufacturers are going to be able to showcase privacy and security in the marketplace by displaying this mark”.
Manufacturers will be permitted to place the seal on products only after official assessment. And though this is still a voluntary seal, i.e. manufacturers aren’t legally obliged to earn it, it’s a step in the right direction for IoT cybersecurity. If you’re in the US, keep an eye out for this logo when making future device purchases.
IoT vulnerabilities & security tips
While most IoT malware attacks are aimed at businesses (manufacturing and education are among the most targeted sectors), consumers should stay vigilant as well. There are several avenues through which attackers can infiltrate your home networks using IoT devices. Here are a few ways that you can protect yourself.
Default logins – ISPs and modem/router companies tend to distribute network devices with default logins. These credentials are easily accessible online. A typical username is “admin”, passwords might be basic codes like 1234 or 0000. Easy pickings for hackers – and easy for you to change.
Auto-update – If this feature is turned off and you miss security updates, your device will stay open to vulnerabilities longer. Turn on auto-update to avoid this. Smart devices with legacy firmware are the bread and butter of IoT hackers.
Separate network for IoT – Keep your devices insulated from your main home network. This acts as an effective layer of security if one of your devices is compromised.
Principle of least privilege – Turn off certain “smart” features that you don’t use. Why does your toaster have a camera anyway?
With new regulations taking effect this year and our own proactive security measures at home, a safer cyber future is possible for all.
About Version 2 Digital
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.
Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.
About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.
About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.
