ARI Provides Clients with Multi-Layered Data Security

If I outsource with ARI, how can I be sure my financial data is protected?

Protecting our clients’ financial data is our highest priority. To accomplish this, we store client data on a secure SharePoint site. SharePoint is Microsoft’s cloud-based collaboration and content platform.

By storing data on SharePoint, we eliminate dependency on local office servers and power supply companies.

How will we transfer financial data?

We transfer data in a variety of ways. We strive to find the most efficient, most secure method that works for both your organization and ARI. This includes using ShareFile, or having direct access to your bank statements, credit cards, and/or payroll service.

What is Duo multifactor authentication, and why is it important?

Research shows that 80 percent of security breaches involve compromised passwords. When logging in to their remote desktop, we require our clients use Cisco’s Duo multi-factor authentication tool to access financial data. Duo protects data by requiring a second source of validation, like phone or token, to verify user identity before allowing access. It is designed to provide a simple, streamlined login experience for everyone.

What is encryption?

Encryption is the process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.

We encrypt all data. In fact, our server will not allow employees to send unencrypted data if it detects any sensitive information.

Can I get my data back if I leave ARI?

ARI’s clients engagement blog addresses this issue in depth but, to summarize, if a client no longer requires ARI’s services, all records, data files, and other information related to the business will be promptly returned. We allow clients to transfer data and files for up to 90 days, at which point we delete them entirely from our network.

What support is available if I encounter IT issues?

To help manage its IT infrastructure, ARI partners with ADNET Technologies, a preeminent technology service provider. ADNET is an independently audited and review SOC II; Type 2 Compliant service provider with offices in Farmington, Connecticut, and Albany, New York. This means your financial information will comply with all cybersecurity audit requirements – both now and in the future.

There is always a knowledgeable ADNET professional on hand to assist clients with IT issues. Their support team is available from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Our clients typically contact ADNET to resolve issues related directly to accessing their accounting files; however, should support be required for issues outside this scope, ADNET is available to assist, and ARI will bill the client for ADNET’s time.

Does ARI recommend additional cybersecurity best practices to clients?

As general guidance, we remind clients about personal computing best practices, including:

1. Using multifactor authentication.
2. Using a reliable anti-virus software.
3. Regularly updating all desktop and mobile devices and software.
4. Utilizing a reliable, secure internet connection.
5. Practicing strong password hygiene and using a password vault such as LastPass.
6. Never sending unencrypted or unsecured data, especially passwords or bank information.

Protecting sensitive information is crucial to ARI and its many clients. If you have additional questions related to client data security, don’t hesitate to contact us.