In a digital landscape where cyber-attacks have grown from N$90 billion to an astonishing N$189 trillion over the past years, Namibian businesses find themselves increasingly vulnerable to threats that often go unreported.
The Inevitable Threat
In the case of cyber-attacks, it's not a question of 'if' you will be attacked, but rather when. You can only cover your bases, everything you have control over, such as software updates, strong passwords, and empowering your people to do the right thing, but it's never guaranteed.
This stark reality faces all Namibian organizations, regardless of size. While larger institutions can typically afford sophisticated cybersecurity systems, SME's,, the elderly, and youth remain particularly vulnerable.
Beyond Legislation
While cybersecurity legislation might deter some attackers, laws alone won't prevent breaches.
The Awareness Gap
Despite free Cybersecurity Awareness Sessions offered by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) and Salt, receiving support from corporate staff, public interest remains alarmingly low. This lack of awareness creates a dangerous vulnerability in Namibia's digital ecosystem.
Protect Your Business from Cyber Threats with Microsoft's Attack Simulator
Over the past few months, we have seen Namibian organizations crippled by cyberattacks. Microsoft's Attack Simulator can help you avoid such disasters by teaching your employees to recognize and handle phishing attacks.
From spear phishing to vishing, these simulations use real-world data to create realistic scenarios. Automation in the simulator reduces manual work, leveraging Microsoft's vast email database to craft authentic attack simulations.
Your Employees: The Last Line of Défense
The only way to protect yourself is to know what to do in those circumstances. By training your staff to recognize threats, you transform them from potential vulnerabilities into your strongest security asset.
While you cannot control every aspect of cybersecurity, keeping systems and software updated falls squarely within your control. Combined with proper training like the free Cybersecurity awareness sessions with MICT and through tools like Microsoft's Attack Simulator, these fundamental practices significantly improve your security posture.
Act Now
Sign up for a free 30-day trial today : Sign Up for a Free Trial of Attack Simulator and make your employees your strongest line of defence. Don't wait until it's too late—protect your business now!
Vanessa Maresch - Empowerment Specialist
In today's digital age, understanding your business' Technology Security Maturity (TSM) is not just a technical necessity but a strategic imperative. TSM refers to the level of sophistication and effectiveness of an organization's security measures and practices. It encompasses everything from the technology used to protect data to the policies and procedures in place to mitigate risks. One of the most critical aspects of TSM is recognizing that your first line of defense is your employees.
The Importance of Employee Awareness
Employees play a pivotal role in maintaining the security of your business. They are often the first to encounter potential threats, whether it's a suspicious email or an unusual request for information. Training employees to recognize and respond to these threats is essential. According to a report, 74% of all breaches include the human element[1]. This statistic underscores the importance of investing in comprehensive cybersecurity training for your team.
The Risks of Ignoring TSM
Failing to understand and address your TSM can have severe consequences. Without proper security measures, businesses are vulnerable to cyberattacks that can lead to significant financial and reputational damage. For instance, the average cost of a data breach reached an all-time high in 2024 of $4.88 million[1]. This figure includes costs related to legal fees, regulatory fines, loss of customer trust, and the operational disruptions caused by the breach.
Moreover, the global cost of cybercrime is projected to reach $10.5 trillion by 2025 (Yes, this year.), growing at a rate of 15 percent annually[1]. This staggering number highlights the escalating threat landscape and the urgent need for businesses to enhance their security measures.
Financial and Reputational Risks
The financial implications of a security breach are substantial. Beyond the immediate costs of addressing the breach, businesses may face long-term financial repercussions. These can include loss of revenue due to downtime, increased insurance premiums, and the cost of implementing new security measures. Additionally, businesses may suffer from a damaged reputation, leading to a loss of customers and a decline in market share.
Reputational damage can be particularly devastating. Customers trust businesses to protect their personal information, and a breach can shatter that trust. Nearly half (46%) of all breaches involve customer personal identifiable information, which can include bank account details, tax identification numbers, emails, phone numbers, and home addresses[1]. When this information is leaked or sold, it can lead to identity theft and other forms of fraud, further eroding customer confidence.
The Role of Salt Essential Information Technology
At Salt Essential Information Technology, we understand the critical importance of TSM. Our team, including experts like Johan Meyer and Johann van Rooyen, is dedicated to helping businesses enhance their security posture. Johan Meyer, a Cloud Systems Administrator, and Johann van Rooyen, a SOC & SIEM Manager, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our clients[2][3].
We offer a range of services designed to assess and improve your TSM, from vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to employee training and incident response planning. Our goal is to provide comprehensive security solutions that protect your business from the ever-evolving threat landscape.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
In conclusion, understanding and improving your business' TSM is essential for safeguarding your future. By investing in robust security measures and training your employees, you can mitigate the risks of cyberattacks and protect your financial and reputational assets. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Don't wait for a breach to take action. Contact Salt Essential Information Technology today to learn how we can help you enhance your TSM and secure your business.
Improving an organization's Technology Security Maturity (TSM) can significantly enhance its ability to manage and mitigate vulnerabilities. Here are some key ways Salt's TSM can help your organization:
Slogan: Prevention is Better Than Cure. #TopTechnologyChangingNamibia
References
[1] Threat and Vulnerability Management: Modern Best Practices
[1]: Secureframe Blog [2]: An external link was removed to protect your privacy. [3]: An external link was removed to protect your privacy.
Sonja Coetzer - Managing Director
In today’s fast-paced world, the success of any business hinges on the productivity and well-being of its workforce. A positive workplace culture fosters collaboration, enhances productivity, and supports employees' mental and emotional well-being. Creating an environment where employees feel valued and supported is key to building a thriving and sustainable organization.
Key Elements of a Strong Workplace Culture
A great workplace culture is built on several core elements that contribute to employee satisfaction and overall business success:
1. Employee Well-being
A healthy work-life balance is fundamental to maintaining a motivated and engaged workforce. Organizations that prioritize mental health and well-being create an atmosphere where employees can perform at their best. Encouraging flexible work arrangements, providing wellness resources, and fostering open communication contribute to a more balanced and satisfied team.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration
Strong teams are the foundation of any successful business. Encouraging teamwork helps create a sense of belonging and shared purpose among employees. A culture that values collaboration leads to increased innovation, problem-solving, and overall job satisfaction. Supporting employees with clear communication channels and team-building activities strengthens relationships and enhances productivity.
3. Adaptability and Growth
A dynamic workplace culture embraces change and encourages continuous learning. Organizations that invest in personal and professional development help employees stay motivated and resilient in an ever-evolving work environment. Providing opportunities for skill-building, mentorship, and career advancement fosters a culture of growth and adaptability.
Creating a Positive Work Environment
Building and maintaining a strong workplace culture requires intentional effort from leadership and employees alike. Open communication, recognition of achievements, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect are key components of a supportive work environment. When employees feel valued and connected, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
Workplace culture plays a crucial role in shaping the success and sustainability of any organization. By focusing on well-being, teamwork, and growth, businesses can create an environment where employees thrive and contribute to long-term success.
Grace Katjivena - Empowerment Specialist Support & Content creator
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, staying ahead of emerging threats is crucial. According to a recent article by Justin Rende on ISACA, several trends will shape the cyberlandscape in 2025. At our upcoming BrainFrame Thursday on February 6, 2025, from 14:15 to 15:15, we will showcase technologies designed to address these very threats.
Ransomware continues to be a significant threat, with over 150 ransomware families now in existence. To combat this, we will introduce AI-fueled systems that can identify and thwart sophisticated ransomware attacks. These tools leverage advanced machine learning algorithms to detect anomalies and respond in real-time, providing a robust defense against evolving ransomware tactics.
With 85% of organizations expected to be "cloud first" by 2025, cloud security is more critical than ever. We will demonstrate tools that implement Zero Trust Architecture and Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM). These technologies continuously monitor cloud infrastructure, identify security risks, and ensure that no user or device is trusted by default, thereby enhancing overall cloud security.
AI is a double-edged sword in cybersecurity, used by both attackers and defenders. At BrainFrame Thursday, we will showcase AI-powered threat detection systems, automated compliance monitoring, and behavioral analytics tools. These solutions help predict and mitigate potential attacks, ensuring your organization stays one step ahead of cybercriminals.
The burnout rate among cybersecurity professionals is alarming. To address this, we will discuss strategies and tools that support and appreciate security teams, such as workload distribution systems and recognition platforms. These solutions help retain top talent and maintain a motivated and effective cybersecurity workforce.
Johann van Rooyen - SOC & SIEM Manager
In the fast-paced world of 2025, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) have become integral parts of our daily work processes. These technologies are not just for tech enthusiasts; they are transforming the way we all work, making our lives easier, more efficient, and more creative. Let's dive into what these terms mean and how they benefit us in our day-to-day workflows.
Automation is the use of technology to make processes run on their own with minimal human intervention. Think of it as having a smart assistant that handles repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on more important work.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines. These machines are designed to think and learn like humans, enabling them to perform tasks such as decision-making, problem-solving, and even understanding natural language.
Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI that involves training algorithms to learn from data and make predictions or decisions without being explicitly programmed. It's like teaching a computer to recognize patterns and make informed decisions based on those patterns.
In 2025, the global AI market is expected to reach $190 billion, reflecting a 38% growth rate from previous years. AI is projected to boost global GDP by 26%, contributing an estimated $15.7 trillion to the economy by 2030. These statistics highlight the transformative power of AI and its potential to revolutionize various industries.
Moreover, AI is not just about efficiency; it's also about enhancing the quality of work. AI-driven sentiment analysis can gauge employee morale, allowing leaders to address concerns proactively and maintain a positive work environment. This holistic approach ensures that businesses not only thrive but also foster a supportive and engaging workplace culture.
As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of work in 2025, embracing automation, AI, and ML is no longer optional—it's essential. These technologies are reshaping our workflows, boosting our creativity, and driving profitability. By understanding and leveraging these tools, we can unlock new opportunities and achieve greater success in our professional lives.
So, let's welcome this technological revolution with open arms and harness the power of automation, AI, and ML to create a brighter and more efficient future. If you want to learn more about how to use these tools smartly, sig up for our free
Presley van Neel - Technology Centre Manager
Let's face it – we've all been there. Staring at our screens, wondering why that fancy new software everyone's raving about feels more like solving a Rubik's cube blindfolded. Or maybe you're the office hero who's mastered the art of turning it off and on again (kudos to you, by the way).
But what if there was a better way? What if your team could actually harness the full potential of your tech investment instead of using that expensive software suite just for basic emails and the occasional spreadsheet?
Enter Salt Essential IT's Empowerment Services – because we believe in teaching you to fish, not just serving you sushi (though sushi is great, and we won't judge if that's your preference).
Here's the deal: We're not about throwing fancy tech at you and wishing you good luck. We're about making sure you and your team become the tech-savvy champions you were meant to be. Think of us as your personal tech fitness trainers, minus the intimidating workout gear and protein shake recommendations.
Our approach? We start where you are. Whether that's "help, I just accidentally deleted the internet" or "I need to optimize our cloud infrastructure," we've got your back. We create custom adoption plans, run engaging awareness sessions (no snoring allowed), and even set up a Champions Programme for those eager beavers who want to become your in-house tech gurus.
The best part? We speak human. No tech jargon, no condescending sighs, just plain talk about getting the most out of your technology investment. Because at the end of the day, empowerment isn't about knowing every technical term in the book – it's about confidently using tools that make your work life better.
Ready to level up your tech game? Let's chat about how we can help your team go from "how do I even?" to "watch me work this magic!" Contact us today, and let's start your journey to tech enlightenment.
P.S. We promise not to judge your current desktop background. Even if it is still that default Windows XP hill.
Vanessa Maresch - Empowerment Specialist
Ensuring Secure Business Processes in the Cloud Era
In today's digital landscape, the integration of cloud technologies has become pivotal for businesses striving for agility, scalability, and innovation. Microsoft Azure, a leading cloud service platform, offers a comprehensive suite of services that support business transformation. However, with the integration of such technologies come significant cybersecurity risks. This blog delves into how Microsoft Azure facilitates secure business transformation, highlights potential risks, and provides top recommendations for customers to enhance their cybersecurity measures.
Microsoft Azure offers a robust platform that supports a myriad of business operations, from data storage and computing to artificial intelligence and machine learning. Its flexibility allows businesses to scale resources according to their needs, thus optimizing costs and improving efficiency. However, the shift to cloud-based operations necessitates stringent cybersecurity measures.
Continuous monitoring is essential in detecting and responding to potential threats in real-time. Azure Security Center provides a unified infrastructure security management system that strengthens the security posture of data centers and provides advanced threat protection. By leveraging continuous monitoring, businesses can quickly identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, ensuring the integrity of their operations.
External security scans are vital for verifying the robustness of security measures in place. Azure's integration with various third-party scanning tools allows for comprehensive vulnerability assessments. These scans help identify weaknesses that internal audits might overlook, providing an additional layer of security assurance.
Deploying updates promptly is crucial in defending against emerging threats. Azure automates the deployment of patches and updates, ensuring that systems remain secure and compliant. By maintaining up-to-date software and hardware, businesses can protect themselves from exploits that target outdated systems.
Secure tunneling is critical for protecting data transmitted between on-premises environments and the cloud. Ensuring that tunneling equipment is always up-to-date is a key aspect of maintaining secure communication channels. Azure supports encrypted VPN tunnels, safeguarding data against interception and tampering.
To further fortify their cybersecurity posture, customers should consider the following recommendations:
Investing in cybersecurity may seem expensive, but the cost of recovering from a security breach is exponentially higher. Azure provides various cost-effective security solutions that can be customized to meet specific business needs, ensuring that security is not sacrificed for budgetary constraints.
Human error is one of the most significant vulnerabilities in any cybersecurity framework. Regular training ensures that staff can identify potential security breaches and respond appropriately. Azure offers resources and training modules that help employees stay informed about the latest security practices and threats.
Keeping systems updated with the latest patches is a fundamental practice in cybersecurity. Azure's automated patch management system helps businesses maintain secure environments by ensuring that all applications and infrastructure components are regularly updated.
In conclusion, Microsoft Azure offers a powerful platform that supports business transformation while maintaining robust cybersecurity measures. By leveraging continuous monitoring, external security scans, timely updates, and up-to-date tunneling equipment, businesses can significantly mitigate potential risks. Adopting best practices, such as prioritizing security investments, providing staff training, and ensuring timely patch installations, further strengthens an organization's defense against cyber threats. Embracing these strategies enables businesses to confidently navigate the digital landscape, harnessing the full potential of cloud technologies while safeguarding their assets.
Vanessa Maresch
Empowerment Specialist
As an Empowerment Specialist at Salt Essential IT, I am regularly invited to be a speaker at events or as part of a panel discussion in multiple sectors and platforms. I therefore make it my mission to not only use AI but research the different model's policies as well as attending training sessions on the importance of ethics and responsible use of AI. These experiences have supported my understanding of how AI can be an enabler for us and future generations, rather than a replacement.
Understanding Responsible AI
Responsible AI is about developing and using AI technologies in a way that is ethical, inclusive, fair, transparent, and aligned with societal needs. At Salt Essential IT, we are committed to these principles, ensuring that our AI systems used are designed and deployed with the highest ethical standards in mind.
Core Principles of Responsible AI
There are eight core principles that guide the responsible development and use of AI-enabled technologies: accountability, privacy and security, reliability and safety, transparency and explainability, fairness and non-discrimination, professional responsibility, human control, and the promotion of human values like civil and human rights.
Implementing Responsible AI at Salt Essential IT
At Salt Essential IT, we work closely with diverse stakeholders to ensure that our AI systems are inclusive and beneficial to all. One notable example is our collaboration with the Ministry of Information and
Communication Technology in creating awareness of cybersecurity. This partnership led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to collaboratively undertake a joint National Cybersecurity Strategy and Awareness, and we have incorporated ethical AI use into our Awareness content, as well as the results of the not so ethical uses.
Empowering Citizens through AI
We believe that AI can significantly enhance various sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture by providing innovative solutions tailored to local needs. For instance, implementing AI in agriculture can optimize crop yields and manage resources efficiently, while ensuring that the technology is accessible to small-scale farmers.
Challenges and Opportunities
While there are immense potentials, there are also challenges in developing responsible AI. Limited technological infrastructure and the need for more trained professionals in AI and related fields are some of the hurdles we face. However, by fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, we can overcome these challenges and ensure that AI technologies truly serve the needs of Namibian citizens.
Conclusion
As we continue to develop and integrate AI technologies into various aspects of society, it is crucial to instill ethical principles and responsible practices today. By doing so, we can ensure that AI grows to be a
force for good in the future. At Salt Essential IT, we are committed to this vision, empowering citizens and promoting a more inclusive and equitable digital future.
Vanessa Maresch
Empowerment Specialist
Harnessing Hybrid Systems and Cloud Solutions for Optimal Performance
In the contemporary business landscape, a robust and well-implemented technical architecture is paramount to achieving strategic goals and objectives. This blog explores how a carefully crafted technical architecture, incorporating hybrid systems and cloud solutions, can revolutionize business operations, enhance efficiency, and drive growth.
As businesses strive to remain competitive and agile, the integration of cloud services with on-premise devices becomes essential. Hybrid systems, when configured correctly, offer the flexibility and security needed to adapt to changing business environments. This blog delves into the specific steps and considerations involved in transitioning a business to a hybrid technical architecture and highlights the benefits of such a transformation.
A successful hybrid system begins with the configuration of on-premise devices to operate in hybrid mode. Ensuring that these devices run the latest updates is critical for compatibility with cloud services. This approach allows businesses to leverage the best of both worlds: the control and security of on-premise systems coupled with the scalability and accessibility of cloud solutions.
To protect on-premise devices, they must be seated behind a secured environment. This involves implementing firewalls to filter incoming and outgoing internet traffic and deploying antivirus software on corporate devices. By restricting access for users on corporate devices, businesses can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
One of the core components of the transition to a hybrid architecture is migrating the client's file server to SharePoint Online. This move not only enhances data accessibility but also ensures that files are securely stored in the cloud. SharePoint Online provides a centralized platform for storing and managing documents, making it easier for users to collaborate and access information from any location.
Once the file server is migrated to SharePoint Online, the next step is to create libraries within Microsoft Teams that link to the SharePoint Online data. This integration allows users to access and share data seamlessly through a familiar interface. By using Teams for data access, communication, and sharing purposes, businesses can streamline their operations and reduce the reliance on email for internal communication.
To maximize the benefits of the hybrid architecture, it is crucial to adhere to best practices recommended by Microsoft Azure. The Azure score comparison report provides a benchmark for evaluating an organization's configuration against industry standards. By configuring the organization to align with these best practices, businesses can achieve a higher score and ensure optimal performance and security.
The journey to achieving strategic goals through technical architecture is ongoing. Continuous monitoring and improvement of the system are essential to maintain compatibility and security. Regular updates and assessments help identify potential vulnerabilities and areas for enhancement, ensuring that the architecture remains robust and efficient.
A client sought to enable remote work capabilities for their employees well before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. They wanted users to access files on the file server from anywhere, reduce the number of internal emails, and track conversations effectively. The solution involved integrating SharePoint Online, Planner, and Microsoft Teams.
By migrating to SharePoint Online, users could access company data securely on any internet-connected device. This flexibility was crucial for remote work, allowing employees to work from any location without compromising data security. SharePoint Online's robust security features ensured that sensitive information remained protected.
Microsoft Teams played a pivotal role in reducing internal email traffic and improving communication efficiency. Teams provided a centralized platform for tracking conversations on live projects, enabling users to collaborate in real-time. The integration of Teams with SharePoint Online ensured that project-related documents were readily accessible, further enhancing collaboration.
To manage projects effectively, the client utilized Microsoft Planner. This tool allowed project managers to assign tasks to individuals, set deadlines, and track progress. The visual interface of Planner made it easy to monitor project timelines and ensure that tasks were completed on schedule. This level of organization and oversight was instrumental in achieving project goals.
One of the challenges the client faced was sharing large files with external clients. OneDrive provided a seamless solution by allowing users to share files via links rather than email attachments. This not only reduced the need for USB drives but also ensured that files were easily accessible and up-to-date.
The integration of hybrid systems and cloud solutions is a game-changer for businesses aiming to achieve their strategic goals and objectives. By configuring on-premise devices in hybrid mode, migrating file servers to SharePoint Online, and leveraging tools like Microsoft Teams, Planner, and OneDrive, businesses can enhance data accessibility, streamline communication, and improve project management.
Embracing a hybrid technical architecture ensures that businesses remain agile and competitive in an ever-evolving landscape. As technology continues to advance, the importance of a robust and adaptable architecture cannot be overstated. By following best practices and continuously monitoring and improving the system, businesses can achieve remarkable success and drive growth.
Presley van Neel
Technology Centre Manager
In today's digital landscape, a robust Technology Security (TS) strategy is essential for protecting an organization's assets and ensuring business continuity. A comprehensive TS strategy encompasses various components, including Information Security, Cybersecurity, and Physical Security, all of which are guided by frameworks such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework and other best practices.
Information Security:
Information Security focuses on protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. Key practices include:
Cybersecurity:
Cybersecurity involves protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. Key practices include:
Physical Security:
Physical Security focuses on protecting the physical assets of an organization, such as buildings, equipment, and personnel. Key practices include:
NIST Framework and Best Practices:
The NIST framework provides a comprehensive approach to managing and reducing cybersecurity risk. It includes five core functions:
At Salt Essential IT, we are committed to helping organizations enhance their Technology Security strategies. Contact us today to verify if you qualify for a free Cybersecurity Assessment of your business or to schedule a free consultation with our TS Engineers. Reach out to us at marketing@salt.na to learn more.
Johann van Rooyen
SOC & SEIM Manager
