Orlando firm has tips to fortify digital defense for hurricane season

With the 2025 hurricane season underway, Central Florida cybersecurity experts are urging local businesses to prioritize their digital defenses.

Orlando-based cybersecurity and IT provider Aurora InfoTech cautions that IT disruptions can be as damaging as physical ones following severe weather.

The company has more than 25 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity and telecommunications.

Roy Richardson, chief security officer at the company, highlighted the necessity of integrating cybersecurity and IT continuity into overall hurricane preparedness.

“Preparedness isn’t just about supplies and boarding up buildings,” Richardson said. “We help businesses stay operational by securing their data, enabling remote access, and making sure recovery plans are in place before they’re needed.”

Aurora InfoTech leaders provided key recommendations for businesses:

  • Back up data in multiple secure locations, including cloud and off-site solutions, and confirm accessibility.
  • Test secure remote access using VPN and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for employees.
  • Audit emergency IT plans, defining response roles and documenting recovery steps.
  • Unplug non-essential hardware before a storm to prevent power-related damage.
  • Train employees to identify phishing attempts, which often increase during emergencies.

In the context of Orlando’s rapidly expanding technology sector, characterized by significant job growth in areas like aerospace, defense, and tourism, cybersecurity is not merely an optional protective measure but a fundamental necessity, especially as hurricane season approaches.

The region’s increasing reliance on cloud environments, interconnected digital platforms, and the prevalence of remote work exposes businesses to sophisticated threats.

During hurricane season, these risks are compounded by potential power outages, network disruptions, and a heightened vulnerability to opportunistic cyberattacks.

“Our goal is to make preparedness manageable. Simple steps now can prevent long hours of recovery and costly downtime later,” Richardson said.

Aurora InfoTech offers managed Cybersecurity, data recovery planning, and virtual chief security officer services.

The company states its mission is to deliver secure systems that support business operations throughout all seasons. Aurora InfoTech is based out of UCF’s Incubation Program.

The firm has received recognition for its security service multiple times, including in 2021, 2023 and 2024.