Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your role at TGM?
My name is Viet. I am from Vietnam and I’m the IT Director at TGM Research. Given the size of our IT team, which includes just myself and our busy CEO, Greg, I handle most of the IT responsibilities. I oversee the entire IT infrastructure of the organization, which includes developing and implementing policies, ensuring data security, managing projects, and leading consulting and service desk activities. Additionally, I’m responsible for budgeting and forecasting IT costs, as well as staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends to ensure our company stays competitive.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
My typical day begins with checking the internet connection, networking devices, and applying updates or patches where needed. I then review quarantined emails from M365 Defender and update our Allowlist and Blocklist, followed by monitoring alerts and logs from MS Intune, LastPass, BitDefender, and PowerDMARC, addressing any issues that arise. After handling incoming emails, I spend my afternoons supporting end users, updating TGM's asset information, and working on ongoing IT projects. In the evenings, I focus on responding to emails from staff outside of Vietnam and dedicating time to learning new technologies.
What are your top three essential tips to enhance cybersecurity in today’s world?
Use Strong, Unique Passwords:
Create passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and use a password manager to securely store them.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds a second layer of security, like a temporary code sent to your phone, making it harder for hackers to access your accounts.
Keep Everything Updated: Regularly update software, your operating system, and antivirus programs to stay protected from new threats.