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Case Study

Gaining a Trusted IT Partner Who Understands Community Banking

A proactive technology partnership with Locknet helped a rural community bank stay secure, audit-ready, and confidently focused on serving customers.

 

About the Bank of Stronghurst

Founded in 1846, the Bank of Stronghurst is a locally owned, independent community bank with three branches serving Henderson and Hancock Counties in Illinois. With deep roots in its rural communities, the bank prides itself on personalized service, strong customer relationships, and its commitment to operational and regulatory excellence.

Financial advisor sitting in her office with clients

  • The Challenge

    As regulatory requirements intensified and cybersecurity threats evolved, the Bank of Stronghurst faced increasing pressure to maintain compliance and keep pace with security best practices. Managing these demands was challenging for its small internal IT team, particularly as they also shouldered responsibility for day-to-day troubleshooting, compliance coordination, and communication across all branches.

    The bank also struggled with the limitations of a previous IT provider whose responsiveness and communication did not meet the needs of a rural community bank. Employees often required patience and hands-on guidance which was something their prior partner lacked.

    "We didn’t feel fully supported as a small bank before, and Locknet has done that,” said Sandra Ford, Vice President - IT, HR & Compliance Officer.

    Additionally, the bank needed IT leadership that could anticipate future security needs, recommend timely technology updates, and assist with audit preparedness. Without dedicated internal IT specialists, staying ahead of emerging threats and documenting compliance requirements became increasingly time-consuming.

  • The Solution

    Locknet delivered a comprehensive managed services model that immediately improved communication, responsiveness, and strategic planning. High-priority issues are now resolved by phone with immediate support, while other requests are addressed within appropriate, predictable timeframes.

    Quarterly strategic meetings and dedicated technical account management brought clarity and long-term planning to the bank’s IT roadmap. Locknet’s team consistently provided insight into emerging threats and new technologies which are key for a bank aiming to stay a step ahead in security.

    “Locknet keeps us ahead of the curve with technologies and emerging threats. We feel secure knowing they're watching out for us,” said Ford.

    Locknet also implemented password management tools, KnowBe4 security awareness training, and ongoing phishing simulations to strengthen employee readiness. For complex projects, the bank benefitted from high-level engineering support that demonstrated deep commitment and persistence.

    Together, these solutions created an IT environment that is both more secure and easier for the bank’s staff to navigate.

    “Locknet understands our employee culture. We are a small community bank in a rural area. All our employees aren't IT experts, but Locknet will take the time to make sure we understand everything,” said Ford. 

Results & Impact

A Trusted Extension of the Bank’s IT Team

With Locknet, the Bank of Stronghurst has gained a reliable partner that drives efficiency, enhances security, and simplifies compliance demands. The IT team can now focus on strategic initiatives while Locknet provides the support, documentation, and expertise needed to excel in a heavily regulated industry.

  • Audit-Ready Documentation

    Easily downloadable reports and fast support for additional audit materials ensure the bank stays fully prepared for exams and saves significant time and effort.

  • Reduced Staffing Costs & Increased Efficiency

    By avoiding the need to hire full-time IT employees, the bank eliminates salary and benefits costs while gaining access to a deeper, more specialized team.

  • Enhanced Security Posture

    Proactive monitoring, password management, and security training help employees stay informed and protected against emerging cyber threats.

  • Reliable, Immediate Support

    High-priority issues are addressed in real time, and overall communication has significantly improved, creating a support experience far superior to the bank’s previous provider.

“I would absolutely recommend Locknet. From managed services to communication and cybersecurity guidance, they’ve been an extension of our team and consistently go above and beyond.”

Sandra
Vice President - IT, HR & Compliance Officer, Bank of Stronghurst

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