Essential IT Security Practices for Tulsa Financial Businesses: Protecting Data & Preventing Cyber Threats

Tulsa’s financial businesses—banks, credit unions, investment firms, and accounting offices—are prime targets for cybercriminals due to the sensitive data they handle. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, robust IT security measures are essential to prevent data breaches, fraud, and regulatory non-compliance. Implementing best IT security practices ensures customer trust, regulatory adherence, and operational resilience for financial businesses in Tulsa.

The Growing Cybersecurity Threat to Tulsa’s Financial Sector

The financial sector remains one of the most heavily targeted industries for cyberattacks. In recent years, cyber threats have escalated dramatically. For example, attacks on web applications and APIs targeting financial firms surged by 257% in a single year, highlighting the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals. Additionally, financial institutions experience some of the highest data breach costs, with an average incident totaling $5.97 million, exceeding the overall industry average by more than $1 million. Data breaches, ransomware, and phishing schemes cost businesses millions each year.

Financial firms in Tulsa face:

• Increased Cybercrime – Hackers use advanced tactics like AI-driven attacks and credential stuffing to infiltrate systems.
• Regulatory Pressure – Compliance with PCI-DSS, FINRA, SEC, and FFIEC is mandatory for financial institutions.
• Customer Trust Risks – A security breach can irreparably damage a financial firm’s reputation and lead to loss of clients.
• Rise in Financial Fraud – Online banking and digital transactions expose businesses to fraud and identity theft risks.

To stay ahead of cyber threats, Tulsa financial institutions must integrate layered IT security strategies into their operations.

Best IT Security Practices for Tulsa Financial Businesses

Implementing comprehensive security strategies can reduce cyber risks and keep financial institutions compliant with industry regulations.

1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Passwords alone are not enough to secure financial data. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step, such as a mobile authentication app or biometric scan.

• Enforce MFA for all employee and customer logins.
• Require MFA for access to banking systems, financial records, and email accounts.
• Use hardware security keys for high-risk accounts.

2. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit

Encryption ensures that financial transactions and customer data remain secure, even if intercepted by cybercriminals.

• Encrypt sensitive data stored on servers, databases, and cloud environments.
• Use end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for emails and digital communications.
• Implement secure SSL/TLS protocols for online banking portals and payment systems.

3. Conduct Regular Security Audits & Penetration Testing

Routine security assessments help financial businesses identify vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them.

• Perform quarterly penetration testing to simulate real-world cyberattacks.
• Conduct internal security audits to review compliance with regulatory standards.

Utilize managed security services to continuously monitor IT environments for risks.

4. Strengthen Network Security with Firewalls & Intrusion Detection

A strong network defense is crucial for financial businesses to prevent unauthorized access.

• Deploy Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) to filter malicious traffic.
• Implement Intrusion Detection & Prevention Systems (IDPS) for real-time threat monitoring.
• Segment networks using Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) to limit access to sensitive data.

5. Train Employees on Cybersecurity Awareness

Human error is one of the leading causes of data breaches in the financial industry. Ongoing security training helps prevent phishing, social engineering, and insider threats.

• Conduct monthly phishing simulation tests to educate employees on recognizing scams.
• Implement mandatory cybersecurity awareness training for all staff.
• Establish clear incident response protocols to handle security breaches effectively.

6. Secure Cloud-Based Financial Applications

Many Tulsa financial businesses use cloud-based platforms for online banking, accounting, and document management. Ensuring cloud security is critical.

• Use trusted cloud service providers with financial-grade security.
• Enable role-based access controls (RBAC) to limit user permissions.
• Implement automated cloud monitoring tools to detect suspicious activities.

7. Ensure Compliance with Financial Regulations

Regulatory compliance is non-negotiable for financial businesses. Failing to meet security requirements can result in hefty fines and legal consequences.

• Maintain compliance with PCI-DSS, GLBA, SOX, and SEC cybersecurity rules.
• Regularly update incident response plans to align with evolving regulations.
• Use compliance automation software to track and document security policies.

8. Deploy Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) Solutions

Advanced Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) tools protect financial institutions from malware and ransomware attacks.

• Install AI-powered EDR solutions to detect and block suspicious activities.
• Implement automated threat response mechanisms to isolate infected endpoints.
• Use secure remote access tools to protect employees working offsite.

9. Backup Data & Implement Disaster Recovery Plans

A comprehensive data backup and disaster recovery strategy protects financial businesses from data loss due to cyberattacks, hardware failures, or natural disasters.

• Automate daily data backups stored in secure, offsite locations.
• Establish a Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery (BCDR) plan.
• Test data restoration processes quarterly to ensure fast recovery after a breach.

10. Partner with a Managed IT Security Provider

Tulsa financial businesses need 24/7 security monitoring, IT support, and compliance management to stay ahead of cyber threats. A Managed IT Security Provider offers:

• Real-time threat detection & response to mitigate security risks.
• Advanced endpoint and network security solutions tailored for financial institutions.
• Continuous compliance management to meet financial industry regulations.

How Combined Technology Helps Tulsa Financial Businesses Stay Secure

At Combined Technology, we specialize in IT security solutions for financial businesses in Tulsa. Our managed IT services ensure that financial institutions remain secure, compliant, and resilient against cyber threats. We provide:

• 24/7 Cybersecurity Monitoring & Threat Response
• Cloud & Data Encryption Solutions for Secure Transactions
• Regulatory Compliance Management for Financial Firms
• Advanced Endpoint Security & Ransomware Protection
• IT Risk Assessments & Penetration Testing

Tulsa’s financial businesses must adopt robust IT security practices to protect customer data, maintain compliance, and prevent financial fraud. Implementing multi-layered security strategies, employee training, and real-time monitoring ensures resilience against cyber threats. By partnering with a trusted IT security provider like Combined Technology, financial institutions can strengthen their security posture and safeguard their operations in 2025 and beyond.