How is cybersecurity training provided by Focus Cfo?
Focus_Cfo Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Franchisees are required to complete online cybersecurity training that we provide to you during your initial training program. This training should be completed within one (1) week of receiving a link to the training. In addition, all franchisees are subject to phishing testing campaigns conducted by Focus CFO's IT provider. If you fail the testing, you will be required to complete additional online cybersecurity training provided by us.
Source: Item 11 — Franchisor's Assistance, Advertising, Computer Systems, and Training (FDD pages 17–23)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to the 2025 Focus Cfo Franchise Disclosure Document, cybersecurity training is provided online during the initial training program. Franchisees must complete this training within one week of receiving the training link. This initial training is mandatory. Focus Cfo's IT vendor also conducts phishing testing campaigns, and franchisees who fail the test must complete additional online cybersecurity training provided by Focus Cfo.
Focus Cfo requires all franchisees to purchase a package of IT services from their approved IT vendor, currently C-Forward. This package includes a security monitoring service for the franchisee's business computer and IT support services. The IT vendor installs an agent on the business computer to monitor for malware and viruses, with the right to access non-password protected files to provide IT support and security monitoring.
Focus Cfo emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity by making it a mandatory part of the initial training and by continuously testing franchisees through phishing campaigns. This approach ensures that franchisees are aware of potential threats and are trained to protect sensitive information. By outsourcing the IT services and security monitoring to a vendor, Focus Cfo aims to maintain a secure and consistent IT environment across all franchise locations.