Nanaimo, BC · Vancouver Island · Remote across Canada
Cybersecurity for Small Businesses in Nanaimo
I'm Trevor Heshka, an IT specialist in Nanaimo, BC. I help homes and small businesses on Vancouver Island close the security gaps attackers use most: weak or reused passwords without MFA, unpatched computers, malware, open or default network settings, and old accounts that still have access. I hold the Google Cybersecurity Specialization and have done technical support since 1998.
What I do
- MFA/2FA and single sign-on for email, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
- Patching and updates for Windows, macOS, phones and routers
- Endpoint hardening: admin rights, disk encryption (BitLocker/FileVault), built-in antivirus and firewall settings
- Backup setup: automatic backups, an offline copy, and a tested restore
- Staff phishing awareness training: spotting fake emails, links and payment-change scams
- Malware removal and cleanup of compromised accounts
- Network review: router and firewall settings, Wi-Fi/WPA, VPN, guest networks
- Access review: who can get into which accounts, files and shared drives, and removing old users
- Security camera installation, kept on its own network where possible
- Plain-language write-up of what I found and what to fix next
What I don't do
I'm one person, not a managed security provider. I don't offer 24/7 monitoring, a SOC, managed EDR or formal penetration testing. If your insurer or a client requires those, I'll tell you and help you scope it.
A quick security checklist for Nanaimo small businesses
- Turn on MFA for email, banking, Microsoft 365/Google Workspace and any remote access.
- Keep every computer, phone and router updated; replace devices that no longer get security updates.
- Keep at least one backup that isn't always connected, and test a restore.
- Don't use admin accounts day to day; remove former staff the day they leave.
- Confirm any request to change payment details by phone, using a number you already have.
Not sure where you stand? I can go through this list with you on site in Nanaimo or remotely.
Background
- Google Cybersecurity Specialization and Google IT Support Professional Certificate (2024)
- Cisco Networking Academy: Introduction to Cybersecurity and Packet Tracer (2024)
- NPower Canada Junior IT Analyst Program (2024)
- Self-employed IT specialist in Nanaimo since 2020; Shaw Cable technical support analyst (2006–2011); Microsoft MSN support, Tier 3 and supervisor (2003–2006)
Full background on the About page.
Service area
Based in Nanaimo. On site by appointment in Nanaimo, Lantzville, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Ladysmith, Duncan and the Comox Valley; remote anywhere on Vancouver Island and in Canada.
How billing works
Monthly retainers are available for ongoing security upkeep, and I quote per job for one-off work like a security review, cleanup or backup setup.
Contact
Email trevor@trevorheshka.com with what you're worried about, how many devices and accounts you have, and where you are.
Related: IT support in Nanaimo · IT consulting in Nanaimo · All services
FAQ
Do you offer cybersecurity services in Nanaimo?
Yes. I'm Trevor Heshka, an IT specialist based in Nanaimo. I help homes and small businesses with practical security: MFA/2FA, patching, endpoint hardening, malware removal, and reviews of networks, firewalls, Wi-Fi and account access.
Are you a managed security provider or 24/7 SOC?
No. I don't run 24/7 monitoring or a security operations centre. I set up and fix the basics, explain them in plain language, and check them again when you ask. If you need round-the-clock monitoring, I'll say so and you can pair my work with a managed provider.
Can you clean up a hacked email account or malware infection?
Yes. I remove malware, reset and secure compromised accounts, turn on MFA and check sign-in and forwarding settings, on site in Nanaimo or remotely.
What training do you have in cybersecurity?
The Google Cybersecurity Specialization and Cisco Networking Academy Introduction to Cybersecurity (2024), on top of technical support work since 1998 at Videon, Microsoft MSN support and Shaw Cable.
Which areas do you cover?
On site in Nanaimo and the Mid-Island (Lantzville, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Ladysmith, Duncan and the Comox Valley). Remote anywhere on Vancouver Island and in Canada.
How much does it cost?
Quotes are on request and depend on the number of devices and accounts. Email trevor@trevorheshka.com.