Stay secure in 2025: Cybersecurity resolutions you should keep this year
Cybercrime is more sophisticated and persistent than ever, putting small businesses at significant risk of attack. The new year offers a fresh start, and what better way to begin than by prioritizing your business’s cybersecurity? Below are seven actionable resolutions to help you protect your data, your customers, and your reputation in the coming year. Learn to use AI assistants securely AI assistants such as ChatGPT and Siri are powerful tools for small businesses. They can help with everything from drafting documents to scheduling tasks. However, using these tools can also introduce potential security risks, such as data leaks or exposure of sensitive information. To mitigate risks: Never process confidential business information through an AI assistant. Use secure networks when accessing AI assistants. Regularly monitor and restrict data sharing settings. Switch to passkeys Traditional passwords are becoming a thing of the past. Passkeys — a new, highly secure alternative — eliminate the need for memorizing passwords. They rely on advanced biometric or device-based authentication, which greatly reduces the risk of hacking. Switching to passkeys is simple. Platforms such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft now offer passkey options that sync across devices. Enable this feature wherever possible to level up your security. Find and replace outdated passwords Despite the rise of passkeys, passwords still play a vital role in online security. It’s important to audit and change old passwords regularly for maximum protection. Ensure your passwords are strong by following these best practices: Use a unique combination of letters, numbers, and special characters for each password. Avoid using dictionary words or easily guessed phrases. Enable multifactor authentication wherever possible. Learn how to spot deepfakes Deepfakes are AI-generated videos, audio, or images that are used to deceive individuals and organizations by convincingly replicating real people. From business scams to fake video calls, these tricks are on the rise, making awareness key. To spot deepfakes and avoid falling for related scams: Watch for unnatural blinking or poorly synced lip movements. Use reverse image searches or deepfake scanners to verify content. Stay skeptical of urgent requests delivered through videos or strange behavior in calls. Use encrypted messaging apps Not all communication apps are built with privacy in mind. Using platforms with end-to-end encryption ensures your conversations remain secure. Look for apps with robust privacy policies, and ensure they don’t store the content of your conversations. Set aside time for regular backups Data loss, from hard drive failures to ransomware, is an all-too-common scenario for small businesses. The solution? Regular backups. Dedicate some time every month to back up your critical business data. Use cloud-based services along with physical data storage options for redundancy. Remember the 3-2-1 backup strategy: Keep three copies of important files. Store them on two different types of media. Keep one copy off site or in the cloud. Enter your credit card number less often Each time you input your credit card details, there’s a risk it could be intercepted by hackers. Minimize exposure by: Using virtual card numbers provided by your bank or payment apps. Sticking to trusted payment portals such as PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay. Saving payment details only when absolutely necessary. These practical resolutions can help you stay ahead of evolving threats while protecting your business and reputation. Start small, pick two or three habits to implement today, and watch how your confidence grows in 2025. Get in touch with our cybersecurity experts for more specific guidance on protecting your digital assets.
Stay connected anywhere: How iPhone’s satellite texting feature works
In situations where cell towers are out of reach, the iPhone’s satellite texting capability ensures you’re never completely disconnected. Designed for emergencies or remote locations, this feature allows users to send critical messages without traditional cellular coverage. Discover how this groundbreaking technology works and how it could be a lifesaver. How satellite messaging works on iPhones Apple’s satellite texting feature ensures communication even when you’re outside cellular or Wi-Fi range by utilizing both iMessage and SMS. When possible, messages to other iPhone users are sent via iMessage over the satellite network. If the recipient doesn’t have iMessage, the system automatically switches to SMS via satellite, ensuring the message can still reach any mobile phone. To use the satellite messaging feature, you’ll need an iPhone 14 or later running iOS 18 or newer. The service is currently available only in the US and Canada, and requires an active SIM card. While the feature is free for the first two years after activation, charges may apply afterward, depending on future updates or your carrier’s terms. Make sure iMessage is enabled before heading outside cellular or Wi-Fi coverage to ensure seamless communication. Setting up your phone for satellite texting Before venturing into areas without cellular or Wi-Fi service, follow these steps to ensure your iPhone is ready: Turn on iMessage: Enable iMessage in your settings to use satellite messaging seamlessly. Check SIM activation: Make sure your SIM card is activated. Prepare emergency contacts: Add emergency contacts or set up a Family Sharing group to simplify initiating satellite communication. How to send and receive messages via satellite When you find yourself without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, your iPhone will guide you to connect to the nearest satellite to send messages. Simply open the Messages app, and if prompted, tap Use Messages via Satellite. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect, ensuring you’re outdoors with a clear view of the sky for optimal connectivity. Then, simply compose your message and hit send. Messages transmitted via satellite will display a green send button, indicating SMS delivery. Once connected, a green dot and satellite icon appear at the top of your screen. If the signal weakens, the dot turns orange, and directional arrows help you reposition for better connectivity. Additional features Satellite messaging isn’t limited to standard text communication. Other features include: Emergency SOS: Contact emergency services when you’re in distress Find My: Share your location with trusted contacts Roadside assistance: Request help when stranded in remote areas Curious about Apple’s innovative features or want to explore how they can enhance your communication and safety? Contact us today to learn more about Apple’s cutting-edge technology. We’re here to help you make the most of your iPhone experience.
Google Cloud vs. Microsoft Azure: A head-to-head comparison
Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are two dominant forces shaping today’s cloud computing landscape. Both platforms offer a robust suite of services, cutting-edge technology, and global infrastructure — but which one truly stands out? This head-to-head comparison explores key features, pricing, and performance to help you decide which cloud solution fits your business needs best. Services and features Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure both offer a comprehensive suite of cloud services, including virtual machines, data storage, and AI-driven tools. However, Azure has a slight edge when it comes to hybrid cloud capabilities, thanks to tools such as Azure Arc that enable seamless integration with on-premises systems. On the other hand, Google Cloud excels in data analytics and machine learning, with industry-leading tools such as BigQuery that appeal to data-heavy organizations. Pricing and cost management Pricing is often a deciding factor for businesses, and both providers offer flexible pay-as-you-go models. Google Cloud offers simpler pricing and generous discounts for sustained usage, making it appealing to cost-conscious organizations. Azure, meanwhile, provides strong incentives for businesses already using Microsoft products, such as discounts for customers with existing Windows Server or SQL Server licenses. Performance and reliability Azure boasts a broader global presence with more data centers, which can result in lower latency and improved reliability for businesses operating in multiple regions. Google Cloud leans on its history of powering the brand’s own products to deliver impressive performance and uptime. Both platforms provide robust service level agreements, but businesses should evaluate data center locations and latency needs before making a choice. Security and compliance Google Cloud and Azure are highly secure, adhering to global standards such as ISO certifications, GDPR, and HIPAA. Still, Microsoft Azure stands out for its enterprise-friendly compliance offerings, especially for industries such as healthcare and finance. Google Cloud, with its zero trust security model, is a great choice for businesses that prioritize innovation in cloud security practices. User experience and ecosystem Microsoft Azure seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it a natural fit for businesses already relying on Office 365 or Windows Server. On the other hand, Google Cloud is praised for its user-friendly interfaces and developer-centric tools, which appeal to startups and tech-savvy organizations. The bottomline Choosing between Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure ultimately depends on your business priorities. If your organization values seamless hybrid cloud solutions or relies heavily on Microsoft products, Azure may be a better fit. But if you’re focused on data analytics, machine learning, or straightforward pricing, Google Cloud is worth exploring. Both platforms are powerful, but understanding your specific needs will ensure you select the right cloud provider to drive your business forward. Still unsure which cloud platform is right for your business? Talk to our team today for expert guidance. We can assess your needs, recommend the ideal solution, and even manage the transition, ensuring a seamless and cost-effective deployment. Take the guesswork out of choosing your cloud provider — contact us today.
Stay secure this holiday season: Strategies for safer online shopping
During the holiday season, skipping the crowds and shopping from your computer or phone is undeniably convenient, but this ease of access comes with potential pitfalls. Cybercriminals ramp up their tactics, preying on unsuspecting shoppers with scams, fake deals, and phishing attempts. The good news is staying secure while shopping online is simpler than you think. By following a few straightforward strategies, you can outsmart cyberattackers, keep your personal information safe, and focus on spreading holiday cheer.Shop only on trusted websites and retailers Where you shop online is vital to your online security. Stick to well-known retailers or trusted sellers, and always look for “https” in the URL to confirm a secure connection. A legitimate website will also display clear contact information and customer support options, making it easy for you to reach out to them directly. If you’re considering shopping with a new or an unfamiliar seller, take the time to verify their authenticity. Read customer reviews for possible red flags or outright warnings that it’s a scam (such as the lack of encryption or contact information). Furthermore, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is, so it’s best to just walk away and shop somewhere else. Protect your personal information Your personal information is a valuable target for cybercriminals, so it’s essential to be mindful of what you share online. Reputable retailers only ask for necessary details, such as your payment information and delivery address, and most of them will detail in their privacy policies that they do not store this kind of information. Be cautious of websites that request sensitive information such as your Social Security number, as this is rarely needed for online purchases. Recognizing phishing attempts — emails and ads disguised as legitimate messages to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials — is also critical to protecting your data. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails or messages, especially those asking you to verify your account or payment details. Instead, visit the retailer’s official website directly to check for any issues. To improve security, craft unique, robust passwords for every shopping account, or consider using a password manager to create and securely save them. Keep your devices and networks secure Before making any purchases, check that your computer, tablet, or smartphone is updated with the latest software. These updates typically contain security fixes that address recently identified vulnerabilities. Equally important is the network you use. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping, as these networks are often unsecured and vulnerable to cyberattacks. If you must shop on the go, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to add a layer of encryption to your connection, keeping your data safe from the prying eyes of cybercriminals. Use payment methods with discretion How you pay online can make a big difference in protecting your finances. For instance, credit cards offer a higher level of protection against fraud and unauthorized transactions, with features such as chargeback and separate account liability. Likewise, using secure payment services such as PayPal or Apple Pay enhances safety by keeping your financial information hidden from retailers. Furthermore, stay vigilant by reviewing your bank and credit card statements regularly. Set up transaction alerts to monitor your purchases in real time and quickly catch any unauthorized activity. Taking these small steps can help you act fast if something seems off and keep your finances secure during the busy holiday season. Take advantage of online security features Many retail websites and payment platforms offer built-in security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds a second layer of security to your account. When enabled, 2FA requires you to confirm your identity via a secondary method, whether that’s a text message or authentication app, alongside your password. If available, biometric options such as fingerprint or facial recognition offer another simple, secure way to access your accounts. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the convenience of online shopping without compromising your security. If you need expert guidance to strengthen your tech defenses, contact us today — we’re here to help!
Optimizing your workspace: Selecting the ideal monitor for enhanced productivity
For remote workers, creating an efficient and ergonomic home office is paramount. While a dedicated workspace is essential, the monitor plays a pivotal role in determining overall productivity and comfort levels. Choosing the right monitor can significantly impact visual experience, reduce eye strain, and ultimately, enhance workflow and overall job satisfaction. Read these tips to learn more. Screen size The ideal screen size depends on individual needs and workspace limitations. Here’s a breakdown of common screen sizes and their suitability for various tasks: 24–27 inches – These monitors are popular choices for basic office tasks, web browsing, and document editing. They offer a good balance of screen real estate without sacrificing valuable desk space. 32 inches – This size provides a wider viewing experience, ideal for multitasking, working with spreadsheets, or running multiple applications simultaneously. However, it may require adjusting your viewing distance for optimal comfort. 34 inches and above – These ultrawide monitors offer an expansive viewing experience, making them perfect for designers, programmers, and content creators who need to display multiple windows side by side. However, their large footprint demands ample desk space. Consider these factors when choosing screen size: The types of tasks you perform – Larger screens are beneficial for design, video editing, and tasks requiring a broader view. Your viewing distance – Ensure the screen size allows for comfortable viewing without constant head movement or neck strain. Available desk space – A spacious desk can accommodate larger monitors without compromising ergonomics. Resolution Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on a monitor, defining image sharpness and clarity. Common monitor resolutions include: Full HD (1920 x 1080) – This is the standard resolution for most home and office monitors, offering good image quality for basic tasks. Quad HD (2560 x 1440) – Providing a noticeable improvement in sharpness and detail, quad HD (QHD) is ideal for content creation and working with high-resolution documents. Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) – Offering exceptional detail and clarity, and truest to life color gamuts, ultra HD (UHD) monitors are perfect for tasks demanding pristine visuals, like video editing or design. Here are factors to consider regarding resolution: Your budget – UHD monitors are typically more expensive than Full HD or QHD options. Content consumption – UHD offers the best experience for high-resolution videos and games. Display scaling – Ensure your computer can handle the higher resolution for optimized text clarity and application compatibility. Panel technology The type of panel technology significantly impacts a monitor’s performance and viewing experience. Here are the main options: Twisted nematic (TN) – Affordable and offering fast response times, TN panels are common in budget-friendly monitors. However, they tend to have poorer viewing angles and color accuracy compared to other panels. In-plane switching (IPS) – IPS panels offer excellent viewing angles, vibrant colors, and good color accuracy, making them ideal for professionals who prioritize color fidelity, such as graphic designers or photographers. Vertical alignment (VA) – VA panels are known for their high contrast ratios, providing deeper blacks and excellent image quality for watching movies or gaming. However, they may have slightly slower response times compared to TN panels. Here are the key considerations regarding panel technology: Your primary work – For tasks like graphic design or photo editing, prioritize IPS panels for accurate color reproduction. Viewing angle – If you frequently share your screen with colleagues, choose IPS for a consistent viewing experience from various angles. Content consumption – VA panels excel in displaying dark scenes in videos and games. Ergonomics Prolonged sitting at a desk can negatively impact your posture and lead to musculoskeletal issues. Here’s how your monitor can contribute to an ergonomic setup: Adjustable stand – Look for monitors with adjustable stands offering height, tilt, and swivel options, allowing you to customize your viewing position for optimal comfort. Eye level placement – Ideally, the top of your monitor should be at eye level to minimize neck strain. Consider monitor risers if your current stand doesn’t allow for sufficient height adjustment. Blue light filter – Many monitors offer built-in blue light filters designed to reduce eye strain. This makes it particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours in front of a screen. Boost your productivity and protect your eyes. With the right monitor, you can experience reduced eye strain and improved focus. Let us help you find the perfect fit for your home office.
The essential 2025 VoIP systems readiness checklist for your business
Is your Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system ready to meet the demands of 2025? With advancements in communication technologies and the increasing need for seamless collaboration, businesses like yours must keep their VoIP infrastructure in peak condition. This readiness checklist outlines the critical steps to optimize your system, from upgrading hardware and software to enhancing security and scalability, so your business can thrive in the year ahead. Start with a comprehensive audit The first step to preparing your VoIP system for 2025 is understanding where it currently stands. Perform a thorough audit of your existing VoIP infrastructure, evaluating both hardware and software. Outdated phones, routers, or switches might no longer be compatible with the increasing demands of modern communication. Similarly, if your VoIP platform or PBX software is no longer supported by current operating systems, you risk encountering performance issues and security vulnerabilities. Network capacity is another critical factor to review. As your business transitions to more data-intensive communication methods, such as high-definition video conferencing, it’s crucial to have sufficient bandwidth to maintain a seamless user experience. Adopt emerging VoIP trends To stay ahead in a competitive market, consider integrating key trends shaping the future of VoIP. AI-powered tools, such as speech analytics, real-time transcription, and virtual assistants, can greatly enhance productivity and improve customer interactions. Unified communications (UC) is another game-changer. By providing a single platform that integrates voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools, UC helps streamline workflows and support the flexible communication needs of modern teams. Additionally, the rise of 5G promises faster, more reliable connectivity, enabling businesses to enjoy reduced latency, improved call quality, and a more consistent VoIP experience. Strengthen VoIP security Cybersecurity should be a top priority when preparing for 2025. Safeguard call data from hackers by using end-to-end encryption, requiring strong, unique passwords, and enabling multifactor authentication for all accounts. Keeping your software and firmware up to date is another essential step since outdated systems often have vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. For an additional layer of protection, consider deploying a session border controller, which serves as a firewall for your VoIP system, securing call traffic and blocking unauthorized access. Prepare for remote and hybrid work The hybrid and remote work revolution shows no signs of slowing down, so your VoIP system must be ready to support distributed teams. Cloud-based VoIP solutions offer flexibility and scalability, letting employees work from anywhere. Equip your team with softphones and mobile apps to allow them to seamlessly access VoIP features such as call forwarding and virtual extensions. However, providing tools alone isn’t enough. You should also conduct regular training sessions on VoIP features and troubleshooting techniques to empower your staff to maximize the system’s potential. Plan for future growth Your communication needs will change as your business grows, making it essential to future-proof your VoIP infrastructure. Choose a VoIP system that can accommodate more users or locations so you can avoid costly upgrades and disruptions to your business operations as your company expands. Partnering with a managed IT services provider (MSP) can further help you prepare for the future. An MSP can assess your current needs, recommend future-ready solutions, and ensure your VoIP system is secure, scalable, and reliable. With an MSP managing and maintaining your VoIP infrastructure, you can focus all your energy and attention on core business operations. Need expert guidance on VoIP or business technology in general? Our team of IT experts is always on standby. For questions or inquiries, contact us today.
AI assistants showdown: Copilot Pro vs. Microsoft 365 Copilot
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the modern workplace. With the rise of powerful AI assistants such as Copilot Pro and Microsoft 365 Copilot, individuals and businesses can further streamline tasks and boost productivity. But which tool is the right fit for you? Let’s explore both options to help you make an informed decision. What is Microsoft Copilot? Microsoft Copilot is a free AI tool that enhances user experiences on Windows 10 and 11 by automating tasks in system apps such as Photos and Snipping Tool. It’s also available as a mobile app and web-based tool for generating images, writing content, or conducting quick research. The free version of Microsoft Copilot includes features such as: Access to GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo during nonpeak hours Use of pictures, voice, and text for conversational searches AI image generation, up to 15 daily boosts Specialized GPTs such as Cooking Assistant and Vacation Planner Unfortunately, the free version doesn’t integrate with Microsoft 365 apps, such as Word, PowerPoint, or Outlook, limiting its usefulness for business tasks. What is Copilot Pro? Introduced in early 2024, Copilot Pro builds on the free version by expanding its capabilities for users subscribed to the Microsoft 365 Family and Personal plans. It’s ideal for those seeking enhanced AI tools for writing, coding, and image creation. Key features of Copilot Pro include: Enhanced access to GPT models – available during peak hours with up to 100 daily boosts for image creation 365 app integration – assists with tasks performed in Microsoft 365 apps, such as summarizing email threads in Outlook, comparing documents in Word, and simplifying data analysis in Excel Custom GPT creation – allows users to create personalized AI assistants with simple prompts Copilot Pro is easy to deploy, even for those who do not have advanced technical skills. However, it doesn’t integrate with Teams, making it less suitable for businesses needing team collaboration tools. What is Microsoft 365 Copilot? Microsoft 365 Copilot offers comprehensive integration with productivity apps and organizational data through Microsoft Graph, enabling team collaboration and automation at an enterprise level. The following are some of the features of Microsoft 365 Copilot: Email and meeting summaries – summarizes emails in Teams and Outlook and extracts key points from meetings Document and presentation creation – streamlines drafting Word documents and designing PowerPoint presentations Graph-grounded chat – synchronizes apps and data for seamless project updates and workflow management Security and compliance – ensures data safety with advanced security features and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance Copilot Studio – enables businesses to create custom GPTs, automate workflows, and pull information from multiple sources This tool is available as an add-on for Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise plans, making it a better fit for organizations looking to enhance productivity across teams. Choosing the right AI assistant To determine the best AI assistant for your needs, consider the following factors: User role and needs If you’re an individual or a freelancer, Copilot Pro can be a valuable tool for boosting personal productivity. It can help you with tasks such as creating content, coding, or designing presentations. If you’re a business owner or leader looking to streamline team workflows, manage projects, and boost overall organizational productivity, Microsoft 365 Copilot is a better fit. Integration needs If you need deep integration with Teams, Microsoft Graph, and all 365 apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot is the way to go. However, if you only require integration with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, Copilot Pro will suffice. Customization options Microsoft 365 Copilot offers advanced customization options for developing organization-specific GPTs and workflows. Copilot Pro provides more basic customization options. Security and compliance Microsoft 365 Copilot offers enterprise-grade security features and compliance with GDPR and other regulatory standards, making it a safer choice for handling sensitive business data. In contrast, Copilot Pro provides standard security measures suitable for individual users. Technical expertise Copilot Pro doesn’t require extensive technical knowledge to set up and use. Microsoft 365 Copilot, on the other hand, requires more advanced configuration and technical expertise. Budget Copilot Pro is affordable for personal use at $19 per month with no annual commitment. Microsoft 365 Copilot, costing $296 annually per user, is better suited for businesses that can justify the investment. By carefully considering your specific needs, you can choose the right AI assistant. If you need more help, our IT experts can provide personalized guidance in choosing and implementing the best solution for your specific needs.
The benefits of managed IT for businesses this holiday season
The holidays are often the busiest time of year for businesses, so when IT issues arise during this period, they can be particularly disruptive and stressful. Managed IT services can ease this burden by ensuring your technology supports your operations instead of obstructing them. But what exactly are managed IT services, and why are they especially valuable during the holidays? Read on to find out. What are managed IT services? Managed IT services involve outsourcing your business’s technology needs to a dedicated team of IT experts who will monitor, maintain, and secure your IT systems to optimize performance. These professionals resolve technical issues, implement proactive cybersecurity measures, and manage your IT infrastructure so you can focus on achieving your business’s goals. Why are managed IT services essential during the holidays? Without proper IT support, the unique challenges the holiday season brings can frustrate customers, damage your reputation, and lead to lost revenue. An MSP can help you address the common issues that arise during the holidays, which include: System overloads: Spikes in online traffic or transactions can overwhelm your infrastructure, causing slow performance, crashes, or downtime during critical sales periods. Cybersecurity threats: Cybercriminals often take advantage of the increased online activity and distractions during the holidays to launch cyberattacks, such as phishing and ransomware, targeting vulnerabilities in systems and networks. Limited resources: The holiday rush can leave your IT team stretched thin and unable to address IT emergencies promptly, which can lead to costly downtime and serious business disruptions. Increased risk of data loss: The fast-paced and high-pressure environment of holiday operations can lead to increased chances of system failures and accidental data loss, particularly for businesses without robust backup and recovery plans in place. Key benefits of having managed IT services this holiday season Fortunately, for all the tech-related problems that come with the holidays, managed IT services can ensure you have a smooth holiday season, free from IT worries. With the right MSP, you can count on the following benefits: Scalability: Managed IT services allow you to quickly scale up IT resources, such as server capacity and network bandwidth, to meet increased demand without investing in costly in-house infrastructure. Simplified IT: With their expert IT support, MSPs can manage your IT infrastructure for you, alleviating the stress during this busy time so you can focus on your year-end business goals. Enhanced cybersecurity: To counter the surge in holiday cyberthreats, MSPs offer robust protection such as regular updates to prevent vulnerabilities and constant monitoring to detect unauthorized activity. This helps keep your business and customers secure throughout the season. Cost savings: Hiring and equipping a full-time IT team can be costly. MSPs provide access to a team of experienced IT professionals at a significantly lower cost. Additionally, with an MSP’s predictable monthly service fees, IT budgeting becomes more predictable, helping you avoid unexpected technology expenses during the holiday rush. Business continuity: MSPs offer 24/7 monitoring to keep your systems running smoothly. They also help you create robust disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime in case of unexpected failures. How to select the right managed IT services provider Partnering with the right MSP is vital to experiencing smooth operations during the busy holiday season. When choosing an MSP, the first step is assessing the provider’s experience and proficiency in supporting businesses like yours, particularly during periods of high demand. It’s imperative to check that they offer tailored solutions and that their services can align with your specific business needs. You should also prioritize providers that deliver 24/7 support and quick issue resolution to minimize downtime. Additionally, inquire about their disaster recovery plans, cybersecurity measures, and ability to scale resources for holiday traffic. Lastly, consider their pricing structure to guarantee it fits your budget while still meeting your technology needs. Discover all the ways managed IT services can make a difference for your business, not just during the holidays, but all year round. Reach out to our experts today to explore tailored solutions for your needs!
Unwrapping the truth about cyberthreats: A holiday security guide for retailers
The holiday season brings tons of opportunities for retailers to thrive, but it also opens the door to increased cyber risks. With so many people shopping and transactions spiking, cybercriminals see this period as a perfect chance to strike. From sneaky phishing attempts to full-blown ransomware attacks, your business could be at risk. But don’t worry, here’s a breakdown of some common holiday cyberthreats and how to steer clear of them. The danger of ransomware Ransomware is a major headache, especially when your store is bustling with holiday shoppers. These attacks involve hackers locking down critical files and demanding payment in exchange for restored access. If affected, your business could face lost sales, stolen data, and reputational damage. One way to defend against ransomware is to regularly back up your key data and store them offline. This ensures your files are safe even if hackers infiltrate your system. It’s also smart to keep your software up to date, and train your team to identify suspicious emails, as many ransomware attacks sneak in through shady links or attachments in emails from unknown sources. Phishing tactics to watch out for Phishing scams spike during the holidays. Cybercriminals might pose as popular brands, sending fake emails or messages to trick employees into revealing passwords or customers into sharing their payment info. These scams could lead to stolen data or unauthorized transactions, jeopardizing your business operations during the busiest season of the year. Combat phishing by educating employees and customers about red flags such as fake login pages or emails that evoke a sense of urgency. Advanced spam filters can catch many of these scams before they even reach inboxes. Enabling multifactor authentication on accounts is another way to keep phishers at bay. Securing your point-of-sale (POS) systems POS malware is a sneaky tactic that lets cybercriminals steal payment information during checkout. It’s a serious issue that not only hurts your bottom line but also damages customer trust. To keep your POS systems safe, ensure they’re updated and patched with the latest security updates. Using a secure payment system with encryption and tokenization adds extra layers of protection. Additionally, train your staff to look out for skimming devices, which are small gadgets attached to card readers that steal card details. Defending against bots Retail websites are often targeted by bots during the holidays. These automated programs can cause all kinds of chaos, from scooping up limited-edition products to overwhelming your system with fake accounts and slowing down operations. The best way to handle bots is by using tools that identify and filter automated traffic, ensuring real customers have a smooth shopping experience. Setting limits on purchases of popular items and keeping a close eye on unusual web traffic patterns can also help prevent problems. If you notice a sudden surge in activity from one IP address, for example, it might be a sign of bot activity. Keeping insider threats in check Not all cyber risks come from outside your organization. Insider threats, whether intentional or accidental, are a big concern, especially when you bring on temporary staff during the holidays. These can range from an employee stealing customer data to simple mistakes such as leaving a computer unlocked. The key to addressing this? Start with strong security policies. Limit access to sensitive data and monitor for unusual employee behavior. Training all team members, including temp workers, about security best practices is essential. Doing background checks for new hires can also help you avoid potential issues. By being proactive and implementing the tips above, you can better protect your retail operations from cyberattacks. If you need expert help, contact us today, and we’ll help you secure your store and give you peace of mind during this busy time of year.
Safeguard your data with Android’s new features for combating theft
Our smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, containing personal and sensitive information that we can’t afford to lose. Losing your smartphone or having it stolen can be a nightmare, especially if you don’t have proper security measures in place. Fortunately, Google is introducing a suite of innovative features designed to safeguard your Android device and data before, during, and after a theft. Before the theft: Proactive protection Google is enhancing device security with these protection features designed to deter theft and keep your personal data safe: Factory reset upgrade – Some criminals aim to quickly reset stolen devices for resale. With this upgrade, however, forcing a reset on a stolen device becomes futile. Without your Google account credentials, the thief cannot set up the device again. Private space – This new feature enables you to create a secure, hidden space within your phone to store sensitive apps, such as banking and health apps. With this extra layer of protection, your critical data remains safe even if your device is compromised. Strengthened security settings – Google has implemented additional safeguards to prevent unauthorized changes to sensitive device settings. Actions like disabling Find My Device or extending screen timeout require PIN, password, or biometric authentication, making it more difficult for thieves to manipulate your device. Enhanced authentication – When enabled, enhanced authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring biometrics for accessing and modifying critical Google account and device settings from untrusted locations. Factory reset protection updates and the introduction of private space are set to launch with Android 15. Meanwhile, enhanced authentication will roll out to select devices in December 2024. During the theft: Automatic defense These features are designed to automatically detect suspicious activity and proactively safeguard your device’s data: AI-powered screen lock – Theft Detection Lock utilizes Google AI to detect suspicious movement, such as your phone being snatched, and quickly locks the screen, preventing unauthorized access. Offline Device Lock – If someone attempts to disconnect your phone from the internet for an extended period, the feature automatically locks your screen to safeguard your information. Android also detects other suspicious behaviors, such as multiple failed authentication attempts, and responds by locking your device to keep it out of the wrong hands. Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock are set to roll out to Android 10+ devices later this year via a Google Play services update. After the theft: Rapid response Find My Device allows you to remotely lock or wipe a lost or stolen phone, and now it even lets you mark the device as lost for easier tracking. However, when a phone goes missing, many users find themselves overwhelmed with stress and unable to remember their Google account password, making it difficult to access Find My Device. Remote Lock – With just your phone number and a quick security challenge, you can lock your device remotely from any other device. This gives you precious time to secure your account and explore additional options through Find My Device, such as initiating a full factory reset to completely wipe your phone’s data. Find My Device is compatible with Android devices running version 5 or higher. Later this year, a Google Play services update will bring the Remote Lock feature to devices running Android 10 and above. Google’s commitment to user security is evident in these new features. By staying vigilant and utilizing these advanced protections, you can safeguard your data and ease the stress of a potential theft or loss. Reach out to our experts for further guidance on protecting your Android device and data, and stay tuned for more updates.