Recognizing and responding to growing online threats and information security breaches, WGM Associates, a Scottsdale-based information technology consulting, security and application development firm, has expanded its information security services and added key talent to manage the increased demand for cyber-related management and IT services.
WGM Managed Information Security Services will enhance WGM’s focus on intelligence-driven security programs aimed at reducing cyber liability risks which have become commonplace in today’s business environment. To lead the team, WGM has hired industry technology veteran, Scott Shedd as Practice Leader. Shedd brings high-level certifications and security technology skill sets to help WGM clients understand and assess risks, mitigate vulnerabilities and defend against ongoing technology threats.
“As larger organizations continually fortify their security defenses, small- and medium-sized businesses are increasingly being targeted by cybercriminals, cyber-spies and hacktivists,” said Chuck Matthews, CEO of Scottsdale-based WGM Associates. “Unlike larger organizations, smaller businesses typically lack adequate in-house security defenses, knowledgeable resources and the expertise and ability to effectively protect confidential and valuable data residing on their networks.”
WGM’s Security Services division will provide security program assessments, policy development, response readiness planning, vulnerability management, gap assessments and remediation services in addition to managed networking security, application security, web and mail security, mobile device management and client administration portals. Targeted industries include financial services, health care, nonprofits, legal firms, education, real estate and other businesses handling sensitive client or customer information.
Founded in 2011, WGM Associates is a local provider of consulting, security, managed IT services and application development for small- and medium-sized businesses. WGM’s leadership team works with clients and businesses to play an integral role in all IT decisions including technology platforms, information governance, regulatory compliance, strategic initiatives, future requirements and budgetary planning.
A huge benefit afforded by Managed Information Security Services, WGM will remotely monitor and manage critical systems 24/7 throughout the Southwest via its secured network operations center. The new WGM division will help bridge the gap between risk and limited internal resources, which can leave sensitive customer and employee records and intellectual property inadequately protected and at risk for theft or exploitation.
“Every organization must comply with a host of security and privacy issues surrounding the sharing of sensitive information. They need an increasingly fortified process to manage security and privacy more effectively,” Matthews added. “Our new division makes the development and administration of a security program seamless by providing the business with a keen understanding for security expertise and technology to minimize the risk.”
Matthews observed that many small- to mid-sized businesses feel immune to attacks, but instead face a multitude of destructive threats. Another common tactic involves hackers who target smaller businesses to obtain entry to their larger business partners and weaknesses in their cyber security as well.
“Currently, there is a huge void in the market for this service and WGM has the expertise and solution-set knowledge to help businesses handle these ongoing changes,” said Matthews.
