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Don’t Ignore the BroadWorks ECCR Deadline: Top 5 Security Risks
ECCR
September 4, 2024
With less than a month until the end of maintenance for Cisco BroadWorks ECCR, you may be tempted to just ignore the 30th September deadline as something of little importance. However, ignoring this imminent change could lead to significant repercussions on your operations, security and ultimately, service capabilities.
In this blog, we want to focus in on the security risks presented by ignoring the ECCR end of maintenance deadline, and educate you on why it is crucial to be prepared for the potential fallout of doing nothing.
The increasing security concerns
As the deadline looms, concern among service providers is starting to rise as more realize the security vulnerabilities of retaining ECCR within their infrastructure when it becomes unsupported by Cisco, and by not having a replacement solution ready to provide to their customers.
End customers will soon start to become aware of the security implications of this upcoming change, and they will quickly turn to their service providers for a solution.
Customers are very risk-averse when it comes to potential security vulnerabilities they have within their eco-systems and ensuring they are protecting their data, so service providers need to be prepared to address concerns quickly.
This, as well as concerns that they will be losing reporting capabilities they rely on as part of their business operations, means it’s imperative that service providers have a plan to address the ECCR end of maintenance on or very soon after 30th September.
The Top 5 Security Risks
So, what are the biggest security risks for service providers who do nothing? We delve into them here to show why it's essential to act now, before it’s too late:
1. Increased Vulnerability to Cyber Attacks
Without regular maintenance and security updates of ECCR, systems become more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Hackers often exploit outdated software to gain unauthorized access, potentially leading to significant security breaches.
By replacing ECCR, service providers can ensure systems remain up to date and protected against continually evolving security threats.
Regular updates and patches are crucial in closing security gaps that cyber criminals could exploit, something that will no longer be provided for ECCR.
2. Data Breaches and Loss of Sensitive Information
Outdated systems are prime targets for data breaches. The lack of security patches and updates means vulnerabilities remain unaddressed, making it easier for cyber criminals to infiltrate your networks.
This can result in the loss of sensitive information, including customer data, payment information and other legally protected data. This could result in serious legal and financial repercussions.
Ensuring you are protecting customer data is not just a regulatory requirement but also a trust-building measure with your customers.
3. Service Disruptions and Downtime
Security breaches can lead to large scale service disruption for you, your channel partners, and your end customers.
Breaches can lead to serious downtime, and many cyber-attacks aim to do this so they can hold your service to ransom. If anyone within your ecosystem is targeted with this type of attack, it could have serious and ongoing implications, leading to financial and reputational damage.
Replacing ECCR now ensures everyone within your ecosystem remains as secure as possible.
4. Compliance Issues with Industry Regulations
Many industries have strict regulations regarding data security and system maintenance. Using unsupported software can lead to non-compliance, resulting in hefty fines and legal issues.
Transitioning away from ECCR will mean you remain compliant and aligned with industry standards and avoid regulatory penalties.
Compliance is not just about avoiding fines; it’s about maintaining a high standard of service excellence in your operations.
5. Potential Financial Losses and Reputational Damage
The combined impact of cyber-attacks, data breaches, service disruptions, and non-compliance can lead to significant financial losses. Additionally, the loss of sensitive data can result in direct financial theft or fraud, further exacerbating the financial strain on your organization.
Beyond the immediate financial implications, these issues can severely damage your reputation. A tarnished reputation can erode customer trust and loyalty, which are critical to maintaining a competitive edge in the market.
Customers who lose trust in your ability to protect their data may choose to take their business elsewhere, leading to a decline in revenue and market share. Furthermore, negative publicity surrounding security incidents can have a long-lasting impact on your brand image, making it challenging to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
What’s the solution?
It’s simple. Replacing ECCR with a like for like, or enhanced solution, that remains maintained offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your security and service capabilities.
Here are some key advantages:
- Enhanced Security: A new solution will receive regular security updates and patches, ensuring that your systems are protected against the latest threats. This proactive approach helps to close vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cyber criminals.
- Improved Reliability and Performance: With ongoing support and maintenance, you can minimize service disruptions and downtime, ensuring that your customers receive a reliable and consistent service.
- Compliance and Regulatory Alignment: Modern solutions are built to comply with the latest industry standards and regulations, helping you avoid legal issues and fines associated with non-compliance.
- Cost Efficiency: Supported solutions typically require less maintenance and troubleshooting, reducing the overall cost of ownership.
- Customer Trust and Satisfaction: Reliable and secure services lead to a better overall customer experience, fostering loyalty and long-term relationships.
Put a plan in place now
The risks involved with the end of maintenance for Broadworks ECCR now need to be addressed as soon as possible.
By understanding and addressing the associated security risks, you can ensure the continued safety and reliability of your services. Implementing a replacement solution not only mitigates these risks but also provides numerous benefits that can enhance your service delivery, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
We have created a dedicated education page to help service providers navigate ECCR end of maintenance, take a look for more information.
If you would like to discuss the security risks, or discuss your options, please get in touch below: