Why produce businesses should prioritize IT and cybersecurity in the new year

ZAG Technical Services said it’s important to be proactive in evaluating organizational preparedness and recovery capabilities to prevent major challenges if unaddressed.

cybersecurity
ZAG Technical Services says produce industry businesses that take manageable steps to address vulnerabilities today will be better positioned for long-term success.
(Photo: DMirty, Adobe Stock)

As the new year begins, ZAG Technical Services encourages businesses to make IT and cybersecurity a priority to ensure smooth and secure operations.

ZAG said many small and mid-sized businesses don’t realize the importance of IT in daily operations until issues arise. Tangible needs such as equipment upgrades or facility improvements frequently take precedence. However, a strategic IT plan delivers significant long-term benefits, including reduced costs, time savings and minimizing disruptions, the company says.

ZAG said produce industry businesses need to take a thorough evaluation of IT systems, organizational preparedness and recovery capabilities. Quick fixes, such as online scans or relying solely on cyber-insurance, may not address the full scope of risk, the company said, adding that, over time, even small gaps can evolve into major challenges if left unaddressed.

“Unaware employees are often the starting point for vulnerabilities,” said Thuan Ngo, chief operating officer at ZAG. “Whether it’s clicking on phishing emails, reusing weak passwords, or unintentionally approving fraudulent transactions, small missteps can lead to significant issues. Educating staff is a simple yet effective way to enhance company-wide protection as organizations grow and evolve.”

ZAG said proactive IT planning does more than safeguard systems — it protects teams, operations and financial performance. Produce industry businesses that take manageable steps to address vulnerabilities today will be better positioned for long-term success; with a clear understanding of current risks, organizations can confidently make decisions that support future growth, the company said.

ZAG said it offers cybersecurity assessments designed to identify risks and opportunities and managed support services tailored to businesses of all sizes, enabling internal teams to focus on core operations while cybersecurity experts handle risk mitigation and system management.

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