Guest: Alan Ropes

Alan Ropes and Mark Ritter discuss information security, an essential topic for our listeners. Mark admits he is not a detail guy by nature, but fortunately, VyFi is a Credit Union Service Organization, and they do a great job keeping members’ information private. Tune in for valuable information on keeping your data secure.

IN THIS EPISODE:

  • [2:06] Alan shares the history of VyFi and how they partner with credit unions
  • [6:58] Alan describes what is involved in protecting members’ information
  • [12:14] Alan advises what a credit union should demand from third-party operators to safeguard data
  • [15:41] Discussion of how data breaches can occur, and Alan gives examples
  • [20:26] Discussion on how to determine the risk a credit union should take, and Alan explains how his job is to help a credit union and not be an adversary
  • [26:56] Alan explains what you should do immediately if you have a data breach

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Information security comes in many forms. VyFi dives deep into where you store your data, that you have the controls in place, are practicing them, and that they work
  • Good firewalls, perimeter security and passwords are critical. Employees must also follow the rules, and the right policies and procedures must be in place. If there is a breach, handle it immediately
  • VyFi operates as the pre-exam before the NCUA gets involved

RESOURCE LINKS:

Mark Ritter Website
Mark Ritter – LinkedIn
Alan Ropes – Email
VyFi – Website

BIO:

Mark Ritter is the CEO of MBFS and an expert in credit unions and business lending. His primary role at MBFS is overseeing the strategy of helping credit unions assist members with business needs and consulting with credit unions on planning the delivery of services to their membership.

Alan Ropes is currently the CEO of VyFi, LLC. VYFI is a Credit Union Service Organization (CUSO) with 100% ownership by Florida-based Launch Credit Union. We work to enable Credit Unions to meet their NCUA and state regulatory mandates in Information Security, Governance and Compliance.