Press Release & Expert Advisory

Craig Petronella Announces Vital Steps
To Take Against Computer Thieves

Raleigh-based cybersecurity expert and founder of Petronella Technology Group issues comprehensive guidance for businesses and individuals on how to protect themselves from the rapidly escalating threat of cybercriminals, data thieves, and digital extortionists targeting organizations across the Triangle NC region and nationwide.

By Craig Petronella, CEO & Founder Petronella Technology Group Raleigh, NC
The Growing Threat

Computer Thieves Are Targeting Businesses and Individuals at Record Rates

The threat of computer theft extends far beyond someone physically stealing your laptop. Today's computer thieves operate remotely, silently, and with devastating efficiency. They are organized criminal enterprises, state-sponsored hacking groups, and lone-wolf hackers who target businesses and individuals through sophisticated digital attacks designed to steal sensitive data, financial assets, intellectual property, and personal identities. The scale and frequency of these attacks have reached levels that demand immediate, proactive action from every organization and individual in the Raleigh-Durham area and across North Carolina.

Ransomware attacks now occur with alarming regularity, with cybercriminals encrypting entire business networks and demanding payments that can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. Business email compromise schemes trick employees into wiring funds to fraudulent accounts, resulting in losses that average hundreds of thousands of dollars per incident. Credential theft through phishing campaigns and data breaches gives attackers access to corporate systems, banking accounts, email platforms, and cloud storage where they can exfiltrate data over days or weeks before detection. Identity theft affects millions of individuals annually, with stolen personal information used to open fraudulent accounts, file false tax returns, and commit insurance fraud that can take years to untangle.

The Research Triangle Park area, with its concentration of technology companies, healthcare organizations, financial firms, and research institutions, represents a particularly attractive target for cybercriminals. The volume of intellectual property, medical records, financial data, and proprietary research stored across Triangle businesses creates an exceptionally rich environment for data theft, and many organizations remain significantly under-prepared to defend against the sophisticated attack methods being deployed against them every day.

Expert Guidance

Craig Petronella's Vital Steps To Protect Against Computer Thieves

"After more than 22 years of protecting businesses from cybercriminals and helping organizations recover from attacks, I have identified the essential steps that every business and individual must take to meaningfully reduce their exposure to computer theft," says Craig Petronella, founder and CEO of Petronella Technology Group. "These are not theoretical recommendations. These are proven, practical measures that have protected more than 2,500 of our clients with zero breaches among clients following our security program. If you implement nothing else, implement these steps, and you will dramatically reduce the probability that a computer thief will successfully target your business or personal digital assets."

"The single greatest misconception about cybersecurity is that it requires a massive budget or deep technical expertise to be effective. The truth is that the most impactful defenses are straightforward, affordable, and available to every business and individual right now. The problem is not access to the right tools. The problem is the failure to implement them consistently." — Craig Petronella

Petronella emphasizes that cybersecurity is not a one-time project but an ongoing discipline that requires consistent attention and regular updates. The threat landscape evolves continuously, with new attack methods, vulnerabilities, and criminal tactics emerging daily. The vital steps he outlines are designed to create a layered defense that remains effective even as specific threats change, because they address the fundamental principles of security rather than chasing individual threats in isolation.

"Every business in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and the Research Triangle Park needs to treat cybersecurity as a core business function, not as an IT afterthought," Petronella states. "The companies that get breached are almost always the ones that viewed security as a checkbox to complete rather than a discipline to practice. The companies that stay safe, including all 2,500 clients we have served over the past 22 years, are the ones that take these vital steps seriously and execute them consistently, day after day, month after month."

The Vital Steps

Six Critical Defenses Every Business and Individual Must Implement

Craig Petronella has distilled his 22 years of cybersecurity expertise into six vital steps that form the foundation of effective protection against computer thieves, data criminals, and digital extortionists.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication Everywhere

Multi-factor authentication, commonly known as MFA or two-factor authentication, is the single most effective defense against credential theft and unauthorized access. Craig Petronella identifies this as the number one vital step because it neutralizes the most common attack vector used by computer thieves: stolen passwords. Even if an attacker obtains your password through phishing, a data breach, or brute force, MFA prevents them from accessing your accounts without the second authentication factor. Petronella recommends enabling MFA on every account that supports it, including email, banking, cloud services, social media, and business applications. He specifically recommends hardware security keys or authenticator apps over SMS-based verification, as SMS codes can be intercepted through SIM swapping attacks. For businesses in the Triangle NC area, PTG can implement organization-wide MFA policies that protect every user and every system across your entire infrastructure.

Maintain Encrypted, Tested Backups

Ransomware is one of the most devastating tools in a computer thief's arsenal, and the most effective defense against it is maintaining comprehensive, encrypted backup systems that are regularly tested for successful restoration. Craig Petronella stresses that backups must follow the 3-2-1 rule: three copies of your data, on two different types of storage media, with one copy stored offsite or in the cloud. Critically, backups must be tested regularly to verify they can actually be restored. Petronella's team has encountered numerous businesses in the Raleigh-Durham area that believed they had adequate backups only to discover during a crisis that their backup data was corrupted, incomplete, or incompatible with their current systems. Additionally, backup encryption is essential because unencrypted backup data can be stolen by attackers just as easily as live data, giving them leverage to demand ransom payments even if you can restore your systems from backup.

Keep All Software Updated and Patched

Computer thieves routinely exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain unauthorized access to systems and data. Craig Petronella identifies prompt patching as a vital step because the window between a vulnerability being publicly disclosed and attackers developing automated exploits for it has shrunk to hours rather than days or weeks. Every unpatched system in your environment is an open invitation for attackers. This vital step requires implementing a formal patch management process that covers operating systems, business applications, web browsers, browser plugins, firmware on network devices, and any other software component in your technology ecosystem. For businesses across the Research Triangle Park region, PTG provides managed patch management services that ensure every system is updated within defined service level windows, eliminating the human error and scheduling conflicts that cause critical patches to be delayed or missed entirely.

Train Employees to Recognize Social Engineering

The most sophisticated technical defenses in the world can be bypassed by a single employee who clicks a malicious link, opens a weaponized email attachment, or provides credentials to a convincing phishing page. Craig Petronella identifies employee security awareness training as a vital step because human error remains the primary entry point for the majority of successful cyberattacks. Effective training goes beyond annual compliance presentations and involves continuous, engaging education programs that include simulated phishing exercises, real-world case studies, clear reporting procedures for suspicious communications, and regular updates on emerging threat tactics. Petronella recommends that Triangle NC businesses implement monthly security awareness touchpoints rather than relying on annual training events, because threat tactics evolve faster than annual training cycles can address and regular reinforcement builds lasting behavioral changes that reduce organizational risk.

Deploy Endpoint Detection and Response

Traditional antivirus software is no longer sufficient to protect against modern computer thieves who use fileless malware, living-off-the-land techniques, and polymorphic threats that evade signature-based detection. Craig Petronella's vital step for endpoint security is deploying endpoint detection and response technology, known as EDR, which provides continuous monitoring of endpoint activity, behavioral analysis of running processes, automated threat containment, and rapid incident response capabilities. EDR solutions detect and stop sophisticated attacks that traditional antivirus misses by analyzing the behavior of programs and processes rather than relying solely on known malware signatures. For Raleigh-Durham businesses, PTG deploys and manages enterprise-grade EDR solutions that provide around-the-clock protection with expert analysts monitoring alerts and responding to threats in real time, ensuring that if a computer thief attempts to compromise an endpoint, the attack is detected and contained before data can be stolen.

Implement Network Segmentation and Zero Trust

If a computer thief does manage to breach your perimeter defenses, network segmentation and zero trust architecture ensure they cannot move freely through your entire network to access your most sensitive data. Craig Petronella identifies this as a vital step because flat networks where every system can communicate with every other system allow attackers to escalate a single compromised endpoint into a full organizational breach. Network segmentation divides your infrastructure into isolated zones so that a breach in one area cannot spread to others. Zero trust architecture requires verification of every user and device at every access point, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network perimeter. Together, these approaches dramatically limit the damage a computer thief can inflict even in a worst-case scenario where they gain initial access. PTG designs and implements segmented network architectures and zero trust frameworks for businesses across the Triangle region that are tailored to each organization's specific risk profile and operational requirements.

Additional Protection Measures

Craig Petronella's Extended Recommendations for Individuals and Businesses

Beyond the six vital steps, Craig Petronella provides additional recommendations that strengthen your overall defense posture against computer thieves and data criminals. These measures complement the foundational steps and address specific scenarios that businesses and individuals in the Raleigh-Durham market frequently encounter.

Immediate Actions for Personal Protection

Craig Petronella recommends that every individual in the Triangle NC area take the following personal security measures immediately: freeze your credit with all three major credit bureaus to prevent identity thieves from opening accounts in your name; use a password manager to generate and store unique, complex passwords for every account; enable multi-factor authentication on all personal email, banking, and social media accounts; review your privacy settings on all social media platforms and limit publicly visible personal information; and monitor your financial accounts and credit reports regularly for unauthorized activity. These steps cost nothing or very little to implement and provide substantial protection against the most common forms of personal data theft and identity fraud.

For businesses specifically, Petronella recommends implementing a formal incident response plan that defines exactly who does what when a security event occurs. "The worst time to figure out your response to a cyberattack is during the attack itself," Petronella explains. "Every business should have a documented, tested incident response plan that identifies key team members and their roles, communication protocols, containment procedures, evidence preservation steps, regulatory notification requirements, and recovery procedures. We recommend conducting tabletop exercises at least twice a year to ensure your team can execute the plan under pressure."

Petronella also emphasizes the importance of regular cybersecurity assessments. "You cannot defend against threats you do not know about," he says. "A comprehensive security assessment conducted by qualified professionals will identify vulnerabilities in your network, gaps in your policies, weaknesses in your employee awareness, and deficiencies in your technical controls that you are not aware of. Our free cybersecurity assessment for Triangle NC businesses is designed to give you exactly this visibility without any cost or obligation. Once you understand your actual risk posture, you can make informed decisions about where to invest your security resources for maximum impact."

Physical security also remains critical in the fight against computer thieves. Petronella notes that stolen laptops, unauthorized access to server rooms, and USB-based attacks are still viable threat vectors. He recommends full disk encryption on all laptops and mobile devices, strong physical access controls for areas where sensitive systems are located, policies governing the use of removable media, and remote wipe capabilities for all mobile devices that access corporate data.

Proven Protection

Craig Petronella's Track Record of Defending Against Computer Thieves

22+
Years Fighting Cybercrime
2,500+
Businesses Defended
0
Client Breaches
24/7
Security Monitoring

Ready to see what PTG can do for your business? Schedule a free consultation and join the businesses across the Triangle that trust us with their technology.

919-348-4912
Related Resources

More Expert Guidance From Petronella Technology Group

Explore additional cybersecurity insights, services, and resources from Craig Petronella and the PTG team to strengthen your defenses against computer thieves and cybercriminals.

Free Security Assessment

Request your complimentary cybersecurity assessment to identify vulnerabilities that computer thieves could exploit in your environment.

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Craig Petronella's warning about the hidden cybersecurity risks in unvetted software and services that open the door to computer thieves.

Cybersecurity Services

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Meet Our Security Team

Get to know the certified security professionals who have maintained a zero-breach (for managed security clients) record protecting 2,500+ businesses for over 22 years.

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Security-first digital marketing services built on the same cybersecurity foundation that protects our IT and security clients.
Why Choose PTG

Let the Experts Protect You From Computer Thieves

Proven zero-breach (for managed security clients) Methodology

The vital steps Craig Petronella outlines are not theoretical advice. They are the same foundational security principles that PTG has implemented for more than 2,500 businesses over 22 years without a single breach. When you engage PTG, you benefit from a methodology that has been tested and proven in the real world against the same computer thieves and cybercriminals that threaten your organization today. No other cybersecurity firm in the Triangle NC region can match this track record.

Local Expertise, Enterprise Capabilities

Headquartered in Raleigh, NC, PTG combines the personal attention and responsiveness of a local partner with the technical depth and resource capabilities of an enterprise security firm. We understand the specific threats targeting Triangle NC businesses, the regulatory landscape affecting Raleigh-Durham organizations, and the business culture that makes our community unique. Our on-site capabilities mean that when you need hands-on assistance, we are minutes away rather than time zones away.

Comprehensive Protection Platform

PTG does not just advise on cybersecurity; we implement, manage, and monitor the full spectrum of defenses that Craig Petronella recommends. From MFA deployment and EDR management to network segmentation design and incident response coordination, we provide end-to-end protection that leaves no gaps for computer thieves to exploit. Our integrated approach means you get a single, accountable partner for your entire security posture rather than juggling multiple vendors with overlapping responsibilities and coverage gaps.

Rapid Response When It Matters Most

If a computer thief does attempt to breach your defenses, response speed is the difference between a contained incident and a catastrophic breach. PTG provides 24/7 security monitoring with defined response time SLAs that ensure expert analysts are investigating and responding to threats within minutes rather than hours. Our incident response team has extensive experience managing active security incidents for Raleigh-Durham businesses, containing threats quickly, preserving forensic evidence, and coordinating recovery efforts that minimize business disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Protecting Against Computer Thieves FAQ

What are computer thieves and how do they target businesses?
Computer thieves are cybercriminals who use digital means to steal data, financial assets, intellectual property, and personal identities from businesses and individuals. They target organizations through methods including phishing emails, ransomware attacks, business email compromise schemes, credential theft, social engineering, software vulnerabilities, and insider threats. Businesses in the Raleigh-Durham and Research Triangle Park area are particularly targeted due to the concentration of technology, healthcare, financial, and research organizations in the region.
What is the most important step to protect against computer thieves?
Craig Petronella identifies multi-factor authentication as the single most impactful defense against computer thieves because it addresses the most common attack vector: stolen or compromised passwords. Even if a thief obtains your password through phishing or a data breach, MFA prevents them from accessing your accounts without the second factor. Implementing MFA across all accounts and systems should be the first priority for any business or individual serious about cybersecurity.
How do ransomware attacks work and how can I prevent them?
Ransomware attacks encrypt your files and systems, making them inaccessible until you pay a ransom to the attacker. Prevention requires a multi-layered approach: maintain tested encrypted backups following the 3-2-1 rule, deploy endpoint detection and response technology, keep all software patched and updated, train employees to recognize phishing attempts, implement network segmentation to limit the spread of an infection, and use email security solutions that detect and block malicious attachments and links.
How can I protect my business from phishing attacks?
Protecting against phishing requires both technical and human defenses. On the technical side, implement email security solutions with advanced threat protection, deploy DMARC, DKIM, and SPF authentication, and use web filtering to block access to known malicious sites. On the human side, conduct regular employee security awareness training with simulated phishing exercises, establish clear reporting procedures for suspicious emails, and create a culture where employees feel empowered to question unexpected requests, even from apparent authority figures.
What should I do if I think my business has been breached by computer thieves?
If you suspect a breach, act immediately. Activate your incident response plan if you have one. Do not turn off affected systems, as this can destroy forensic evidence. Isolate compromised systems from the network to prevent further spread. Contact a professional incident response team like PTG at 919-348-4912. Document everything you observe. Do not communicate about the breach over potentially compromised channels. Notify relevant stakeholders and prepare for regulatory notification requirements based on the type of data involved.
How much does it cost to implement Craig Petronella's vital steps?
The cost varies based on the size of your organization, the complexity of your IT environment, and your current security posture. Some vital steps like enabling MFA and implementing strong password policies are low-cost or free. Others like deploying EDR and implementing network segmentation require investment in technology and management. PTG offers flexible service packages that make enterprise-grade security accessible to businesses of all sizes in the Triangle NC area. We recommend starting with our free security assessment to get a clear picture of your current needs and associated costs.
Are individuals also at risk from computer thieves, or is this just a business concern?
Individuals are absolutely at risk. Computer thieves target individuals for identity theft, financial fraud, credit card theft, tax fraud, and personal data exploitation. Many of the vital steps Craig Petronella recommends apply equally to individuals: use multi-factor authentication on all personal accounts, use a password manager, keep your devices updated, be cautious of phishing emails and suspicious links, freeze your credit with all three bureaus, and monitor your financial accounts regularly for unauthorized activity.
How does PTG help businesses implement these vital security steps?
Petronella Technology Group provides end-to-end implementation and management of every vital step Craig Petronella recommends. This includes MFA deployment and management, backup system design and monitoring, patch management, employee security awareness training, EDR deployment and 24/7 monitoring, network segmentation design and implementation, incident response planning, and ongoing vulnerability management. We offer these services as part of comprehensive managed security packages or as individual engagements tailored to your specific needs and budget.
Why should Triangle NC businesses specifically be concerned about computer thieves?
The Raleigh-Durham-Research Triangle Park corridor is a particularly attractive target for computer thieves due to its concentration of technology companies, healthcare organizations, financial services firms, government contractors, and research institutions. The volume of valuable data, including intellectual property, medical records, financial information, and defense-related data, makes the region a high-priority target. Additionally, the region's rapid business growth means many organizations are scaling their IT infrastructure quickly, often outpacing their security capabilities in the process.
How can I get started with improving my cybersecurity today?
The fastest way to get started is to request PTG's free cybersecurity assessment, which will give you a clear baseline of your current security posture and a prioritized roadmap for improvement. You can also begin implementing Craig Petronella's vital steps on your own by enabling MFA on all accounts, verifying your backup systems, updating all software, and scheduling security awareness training for your team. Call PTG at 919-348-4912 for immediate expert guidance or to schedule your complimentary assessment.
Take Action Now

Do Not Become the Next Victim of Computer Thieves

Every day you delay implementing the vital steps Craig Petronella recommends is another day your business and personal data remain vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated cybercriminals. Petronella Technology Group has protected over 2,500 businesses across the Triangle NC region for more than 22 years with zero breaches among clients following our security program. Let our team assess your current security posture, identify your most critical vulnerabilities, and build the defenses that keep computer thieves locked out permanently. The assessment is free. The protection is proven. The time to act is now.

Ready to get started? Call us at 919-348-4912 or contact us online for a free consultation.