Essential mobile security practices every business must implement
Discover essential best practices for effectively securing your mobile devices, from using strong passwords to using virtual private networks (VPNs) and keeping apps up to date. These simple steps can prevent costly data breaches and keep your company’s sensitive information safe from cybercriminals. Strengthen device security with strong authentication A strong password, a PIN, or biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition) serves as the first line of defense for your mobile devices. Without these, unauthorized users can easily access personal and business-related information if a device is lost or stolen. Creating a unique password for each app or account can minimize your risk, as reusing passwords increases the chance of a security breach if one account is compromised. Use a password manager to securely store passwords and autofill login details, letting you focus on your business while it handles security. Enhance security with two-factor authentication (2FA) By requiring two verification methods, 2FA significantly boosts account security. Beyond your password, it might use a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint, or an authentication app to confirm your identity. With this extra step, it becomes much harder for hackers to access sensitive data, even with the correct login credentials. Regularly update devices and apps Hackers often exploit outdated operating systems and applications for known vulnerabilities, making it essential to keep software updated. For even greater convenience and security, enable automatic updates so you never have to worry about forgetting to install them manually. This ensures your device is always up to date without any extra effort. Avoid unsecured Wi-Fi networks Connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi in places such as airports may lead to data interception. To mitigate this risk, establish a policy against using public Wi-Fi for important business activities. If employees need to connect to one, require them to use a VPN to encrypt their data and secure their privacy. Be cautious of malicious links and downloads Phishing and malicious apps are common tactics cybercriminals use to access mobile devices. These scams trick users into downloading harmful software or clicking links to fake websites that steal personal or financial information. Always download apps exclusively from reliable sources and check ratings and reviews carefully before installing them. Stay vigilant with emails, texts, or social media messages from unfamiliar contacts, and don’t click on links or open attachments unless you’re confident they’re safe. Opt for privacy-focused apps Many apps collect personal data without the user’s knowledge or consent, which can lead to privacy violations or targeted attacks. To reduce this risk, choose privacy-conscious apps that limit the amount of personal information they access. Also, regularly review the privacy policies and settings of your apps to make sure they align with your security and privacy preferences. Empower employees to be security-conscious Human error can undermine the security of even the most advanced mobile devices. Educate employees on mobile security essentials, such as recognizing phishing attempts, steering clear of unsecured networks, and implementing strong authentication methods. Regular security training can greatly reduce mistakes that risk your business’s data. Implementing these strategies will help your company protect its mobile devices and sensitive data from modern, evolving threats. Interested in how to better secure your IT infrastructure? Contact us.
EP 281 Securing the Stack with Todyl
In this live episode of MSP Unplugged, we catch up with Ken Patterson from Todyl, recorded on-site at PAX8 Beyond. Ken shares how Todyl is helping MSPs simplify and strengthen their security stack through an all-in-one platform approach—empowering providers to deliver enterprise-grade protection with ease and efficiency. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/ECzLuUeyAw4 ————————————————— Connect with us! ————————————————— MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks Email: paco@mspunplugged.com Rick Smith from Renactus Technology Email: rick@mspnplugged.com Corey L Kirkendoll from 5K Technical Services https://linkedin.com/in/coreykirkendoll/ Ken Patterson from Todyl https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenpatterson16/
Safeguarding mobile devices: A guide for modern businesses
Mobile devices have become essential business tools, keeping employees connected and productive wherever they may be. However, if a mobile device is misplaced, stolen, or accessed by the wrong person, sensitive company data could be at risk. Below are practical steps to help secure your organization’s mobile devices. Set strong passwords and use a password manager A solid password, PIN, or biometric lock is the first defense against unauthorized access. These measures help keep information safe if a device is lost or stolen. Avoid reusing the same password across accounts. Each account should have its own password so a single breach doesn’t endanger everything else. Because remembering complex passwords can be difficult, consider using a password manager. It can securely store and autofill your login details and even generate unique, strong passwords for each account. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) 2FA strengthens account security by adding an extra step. After entering your password, you must further confirm your identity with a second factor, such as a code sent to your phone or a biometric check. Even if someone has your password or device, this extra security step makes it more difficult for them to access your accounts. Keep devices and apps up to date Outdated operating systems and apps can contain security flaws that may be exploited by criminals. To minimize risks, always install the latest updates and security patches. Turn on automatic updates to make sure you never miss important patches. Avoid connecting to risky Wi-Fi networks Public Wi-Fi at hotels, airports, and cafes often lacks encryption, leaving your activity exposed to others on the same network. To reduce this risk, steer clear of unsecured Wi-Fi or use a virtual private network that encrypts your data and shields your online activity. Be cautious with downloads and links Hackers often lure people into installing harmful apps or opening phishing links. That’s why you should always download apps from trusted stores and review ratings before installation. Also, be careful when opening links in emails, texts, or social media posts from unfamiliar sources. Suspicious attachments and links can lead to fake sites or malware infections. Choose privacy-conscious apps Not all apps respect user data. Some collect more information than necessary, putting user privacy at risk. Opt for apps with transparent privacy practices and review their permissions regularly. Adjust app settings to align with your preferences and limit unnecessary data access. By implementing these measures, your business can better protect mobile devices and safeguard sensitive data. For more strategies, connect with our security experts today.
VoIP vs. VoLTE: Which communication solution best fits your needs?
Selecting the ideal communication system is essential for business collaboration. In this article, we dive into two popular options for modern communication: VoIP and VoLTE. We’ll explore the benefits, features, and differences between the two, helping you decide which technology is best suited to your company’s needs. Explaining VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) revolutionizes how we communicate by using the internet to make voice calls. It converts voice and audio signals into digital packets, which are transmitted over the web instead of traditional phone lines. This allows for cheaper and more efficient communication, as well as the ability to integrate other forms of media such as video and messaging. Understanding VoLTE Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a technology that enables voice calls to be made over an LTE (Long-Term Evolution) network. Unlike traditional cellular networks that use circuit-switched technology for voice calls, VoLTE uses packet-switched data networks to deliver high-quality voice services. VoLTE is primarily used in mobile communications, offering seamless integration with 4G and 5G networks. VoIP and VoLTE features head to head When choosing between VoIP and VoLTE, there are three important criteria to consider:CostVoIP is a cost-effective option for businesses, especially those making frequent long-distance or international calls. It eliminates traditional phone line charges and typically offers flat-rate pricing, requiring only an internet connection and minimal equipment such as an IP phone. Most businesses even forgo the use of specialized office phones, opting for VoIP software and making calls through their computer or mobile device. This significantly reduces hardware and maintenance costs. VoLTE, while included in many mobile phone plans, can be costly for businesses relying on cellular networks. Per-minute or data-based charges can quickly add up, especially for long calls or frequent travel, making monthly costs less predictable. Call qualityVoIP call quality is largely dependent on the strength and reliability of the internet connection. In an ideal scenario, where a business has access to a fast and stable internet connection, VoIP can deliver high-quality voice calls with minimal interruptions. However, when the network is slow or unstable, it can lead to call drops, latency, or poor audio quality, which can negatively affect communication. VoLTE, on the other hand, generally offers superior call quality because it uses dedicated 4G or 5G cellular networks optimized for high-speed data transfer. The use of LTE networks means that VoLTE can deliver clearer voice calls with less delay, making it a preferred choice for users who need high-quality voice communications on the go.Businesses that rely on consistent, high-quality calls — such as customer service or sales teams — might find VoLTE to be the more reliable option. MobilityWhen it comes to mobility, both VoIP and VoLTE offer unique advantages, but the key difference lies in how they operate. VoIP is highly versatile, allowing users to make and receive calls from nearly any location with a stable internet connection. This makes it a great choice for remote workers or businesses with employees spread across different locations. However, its performance is directly tied to the internet, so call quality can be unreliable in areas with poor or inconsistent connectivity. In contrast, VoLTE is more seamless for mobile communication. Since it operates over cellular networks, employees with mobile devices don’t need to worry about internet availability to maintain call quality. VoLTE’s integration with 4G and 5G networks provides users with constant, high-quality connectivity, especially for businesses that require on-the-go communication in urban or rural areas. Which is the best option for your business? Deciding between VoIP and VoLTE comes down to the unique requirements and setup of your business. If cost savings and flexibility for remote work are your top priorities, VoIP may be the ideal choice. But if you require high-quality mobile calls with minimal latency and have access to a robust 4G/5G network, VoLTE may serve your needs better. If you’re still unsure about which system would work best for your company or if you need expert advice on setting up a tailored communication strategy, contact us today. Our team will help you make the best technology decisions.
EP 284 Get Your Stuff Together with Better Tracker
In this episode of MSP Unplugged, we sit down with Kevin Lancaster from Channel Program to explore a game-changing new tool designed to streamline operations for MSPs — Better Tracker. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by vendor chaos, missed follow-ups, or scattered data, this episode is your wake-up call. Kevin breaks down why traditional tracking systems aren’t cutting it anymore and how Better Tracker was built specifically with MSP pain points in mind. From simplifying your vendor stack to reclaiming your time, this conversation delivers actionable insight on taking back control. If you’re ready to “get your s#!t together” and upgrade how your MSP runs, don’t miss this one. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/vgcoywUoM8Q ————————————————— Connect with us! ————————————————— MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks Email: paco@mspunplugged.com Rick Smith from Renactus Technology Email: rick@mspnplugged.com Corey L Kirkendoll from 5K Technical Services https://linkedin.com/in/coreykirkendoll/ Kevin Lancaster from Better Tracker https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinlancaster/
UCaaS-CCaaS convergence: Unifying business communications
Integrating internal communication tools such as Unified Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) with customer-facing systems like Contact Center-as-a-Service (CCaaS) is rapidly gaining traction among businesses. This blog explores the key advantages of UCaaS-CCaaS integration for businesses and provides a guide to help companies successfully implement it. Why combining UCaaS and CCaaS makes sense Think about all the ways your business communicates: desk phones, mobile devices, video calls, team chats, emails, and social media messages. Too often, the tools your team uses to communicate internally (i.e., UCaaS) are completely separate from the tools used to engage with customers (i.e., CCaaS). Such disconnect leads to: Lost productivity: Employees waste time searching for information and switching between multiple platforms just to resolve a single customer issue. Inconsistent customer experiences: Customers are often frustrated by having to repeat themselves because the person assisting them doesn’t have a complete view of past interactions. Higher costs: Paying for multiple, disconnected software subscriptions drives up expenses and complicates your budgeting process. Integrating UCaaS and CCaaS systems bridges the gap between your internal teams and customers, creating a smoother, more efficient communication flow. This unified approach enhances collaboration, increases productivity, and ensures a more professional customer experience. It also allows your team to work from anywhere, on any device. A 3-step guide to UCaaS and CCaaS convergence Streamline your communication systems with these three simple steps: Step 1: Assess your current tools Identify the communication tools your business relies on by asking the questions: Which tools are effective, and which ones cause frustration? Are there communication gaps between your teams (e.g., sales, support, field workers)? Is your communication data centralized or scattered across multiple apps? Compile a list of challenges you aim to address, which will help guide your search for a unified communication solution. Step 2: Choose a truly all-in-one solution The real value of UCaaS and CCaaS convergence lies in complete integration. It’s more than just linking phones and chat tools; it’s about building a unified ecosystem where everything works together effortlessly. When choosing a platform, prioritize one that integrates with: Customer relationship management systems Productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft 365, Google Workspace) Marketing tools With everything in one place, your business gains a centralized command center that enables easier scalability, faster AI adoption, and smoother workflow automation. Step 3: Partner with the right provider Look for a partner who understands your specific challenges and tailors their solution to meet your goals. Other key qualities to consider include: Compatibility: The integrated communication solution should work with the devices and software you already use. True mobile support: Your team should have seamless access to the integrated UCaaS-CCaaS system, whether they’re at their desk or on their smartphone. User-friendly platform: The system should be intuitive and easy for employees to manage. Scalability: The solution should be able to grow with your business, allowing you to add new features or users as your needs evolve. Expert support: A great IT partner doesn’t just sell you software; they provide training, guidance, and ongoing support to help you get the most from your investment. Ready to simplify your business communication tools? Contact our IT experts to discover how UCaaS-CCaaS integration and other IT solutions can help your business thrive.
8 Signs your company’s IT systems need an upgrade
As technology evolves, so must your business systems. If your IT infrastructure is showing signs of strain — whether through constant breakdowns, security vulnerabilities, or diminished capabilities — it’s time to act. This article outlines eight critical warning signs that your IT systems need an upgrade. Business IT systems are foundational to success. Yet, many companies continue to rely on aging infrastructure that hinders growth, increases risks, and limits operational efficiency. By recognizing the signs early, businesses can take proactive steps to upgrade their systems and avoid the risks associated with legacy IT. Here are eight critical warning signs that outdated IT systems could be sabotaging your business: 1. Frequent breakdowns and system failures Outdated systems tend to break down more often, causing workflow disruptions and a decline in employee morale. Constant downtime caused by repairs or temporary fixes can severely affect productivity and diminish customer trust. To prevent these costly interruptions, regular IT assessments and system upgrades are necessary. 2. Frustrating user experience As employees and customers interact with more modern, intuitive technologies in their personal lives, the gap between their expectations and your company’s legacy systems becomes glaringly obvious. The result? Rising dissatisfaction, slower processes, and increased costs. When your tech is no longer competitive, it’s time to act. 3. Slow access to information Aging systems often trap valuable data in silos, preventing teams from getting real-time data and making timely, strategic decisions. Modernizing your tech systems in a timely manner helps guarantee that the right information is always available at the right time. 4. Endless workarounds Are your employees frequently using shortcuts or third-party tools to compensate for your IT system’s limitations? This behavior is a clear sign that your systems are outdated and no longer support the needs of the business. Worse, tech workarounds may leave your system vulnerable to cyberthreats. 5. Increased cybersecurity risks Older systems often fail to keep up with evolving cyberthreats since they no longer have regular updates and patches, putting your business at risk of breaches, data loss, and cyberattacks. 6. Decreased employee productivity When employees are forced to work with inefficient, slow systems, productivity takes a hit. Whether it’s an old application, outdated hardware, or slow data processing, these issues can create bottlenecks, delaying projects and increasing frustration across departments. 7. Increasing maintenance and repair costs As IT systems become older, the costs for maintenance and repairs increase. These growing expenses drain resources that could otherwise be invested in key areas such as innovation and business growth. Instead of sinking money into keeping old systems running, businesses should consider investing in modern solutions that drive long-term value. 8. Manual processes and knowledge silos Legacy systems often require more manual intervention to perform tasks that could be automated by modern technology. This inefficiency not only burdens your team but can also result in knowledge silos, where only a few individuals are familiar with key systems. Modernizing IT infrastructure can improve collaboration, automate manual tasks, and ensure business continuity even when key staff members are unavailable. The bottom line Outdated IT systems create hidden costs that erode your business’s growth potential. To remain competitive and adaptable, it’s essential to identify when your systems require an upgrade. Regularly evaluating and modernizing your IT infrastructure keeps your company resilient, secure, and prepared for future challenges. Is it time to upgrade your IT systems? Get in touch with us today to book a comprehensive IT assessment and explore how our modern solutions can propel your business forward.
EP 283 Summer Recap & What’s Next for MSP Unplugged
We’re back in the studio! After a summer packed with live recordings, travel, and behind-the-scenes hustle, we’re kicking things off with a full recap episode. In this laid-back session, we catch you up on everything we’ve been working on—both personally and professionally. From summer takeaways to future goals, hear what’s on deck for MSP Unplugged, upcoming events, content plans, and what to expect from the podcast as we roll into the rest of the year. Whether you’ve been with us all summer or are just tuning back in, this is your chance to get reconnected with the show and the mission behind it. Full Video Podcast Link: https://youtu.be/M-mvpo1vrtg ————————————————— Connect with us! ————————————————— MSP Unplugged https://mspunplugged.com/ Paco Lebron from ProdigyTeks Email: paco@mspunplugged.com Rick Smith from Renactus Technology Email: rick@mspnplugged.com Corey L Kirkendoll from 5K Technical Services https://linkedin.com/in/coreykirkendoll/
Office devices are becoming tools for scams: What you need to know
Cybercriminals are now using innocuous office devices such as printers and scanners to launch phishing attacks without needing to hack into your email account. Learn how to spot and stop this new trick to keep your workplace safe from phishing scams. How do hackers use office devices to send fake phishing emails? Microsoft 365’s Direct Send feature was originally designed to simplify internal email communication within organizations. However, hackers have discovered a way to use it to send phishing messages that appear to have come from within the company, all without ever accessing a single email account. Because these messages are disguised as internal communications, they can easily bypass security filters that typically block suspicious messages. Also, these emails often mimic normal document alerts or voicemail notifications, so they appear trustworthy to employees. Since employees are used to receiving such emails, they are more likely to open them without hesitation. Once a link is clicked or an attachment is opened, hackers can steal personal information, capture login credentials, or install harmful software on your network. Why office devices are the perfect tool for cybercriminals While printers and other office devices are often used in handling documents with sensitive information, they are often overlooked in security plans, creating a vulnerability that hackers are eager to exploit. Without robust security measures in place, printers, scanners, and smart office equipment can become gateways for phishing schemes and other malicious activities. Tips to protect your business against phishing Safeguarding your organization requires integrating all office devices into your cybersecurity strategy. This means ensuring they are regularly updated, securely configured, and continuously monitored for potential vulnerabilities. You can start with the following steps: Check your email settings: Make sure your email system is equipped with robust security measures to guard against fraudulent emails, including tools that verify authentication and detect spoofing. Consider all devices equally important: Keep an eye on printers, scanners, and other network-connected devices, as they are potential targets for hackers. Patch security updates as soon as they become available, and observe printers, scanners, and fax machines for any unusual beeping, flashing lights, or printing. Train your employees: Train your staff to identify suspicious emails, particularly those that appear to come from within the company. Additionally, make it mandatory to double-check any email that asks for sensitive information. Monitor email activity: Watch out for unusual email activity, such as messages being sent from strange devices or to unusual places. Setting up alerts for abnormal behaviors can help catch issues early. The bottom line: Staying proactive and vigilant is key Cybercriminals will try to take advantage of any potential access point to your system. A good rule to remember is that if a device is connected to your network, it is automatically a potential weakness. For more help with securing your organization against phishing attacks and other cybersecurity threats, reach out to our IT team today.
Fortify your Mac: Top picks for anti-malware software
Cyberthreats are everywhere, and Macs are common targets. To keep your device and data safe, you need to choose the right anti-malware software. In this quick guide, we walk you through the most important features of antivirus solutions and provide recommendations on the top software options for 2025. Do Macs need anti-malware software? Macs are typically targeted less than other devices because macOS is built on a Unix-based system, which inherently offers robust security features. The macOS architecture includes strong protections such as sandboxing, which isolates apps to limit their ability to access system resources, and app vetting through the App Store, which ensures that only trusted software is installed. These built-in security measures make it more difficult for malicious software to infiltrate and spread within the system. However, as Macs have grown in popularity, particularly in business and creative industries, they have become more attractive to cybercriminals. The misconception that Macs are immune to malware can lead to complacency, leaving devices more vulnerable to evolving threats such as adware, spyware, and ransomware. While macOS remains a relatively secure platform, the increasing sophistication of attacks means that relying solely on built-in protections is no longer sufficient. To fully safeguard a Mac, additional layers of defense through anti-malware software are essential. Key features to look for in anti-malware software When selecting anti-malware software for your Mac, focus on features that provide comprehensive protection without compromising performance. Here are the key features to consider: Real-time protection: Continuously monitors your system for threats and blocks malware as soon as it is detected, preventing it from causing damage Complete system scans: Checks all files and applications on your Mac to find hidden malware and remove it before it can affect your system Web browsing protection: Blocks dangerous websites and warns you about phishing attempts, helping you avoid malicious online threats Quarantine and removal: Isolates detected malware to prevent it from spreading and lets you safely remove it from your system Email scanning: Scans incoming and outgoing emails for harmful attachments or links that could compromise your Mac’s security Low footprint on performance: Runs in the background without slowing down your system, keeping your Mac fast and responsive Automatic updates: Keeps the software up to date with the latest virus definitions, protecting your Mac from new threats automatically Simple user interface: Provides an easy-to-use interface, so you can manage your Mac’s security without technical expertise Performance cleanup and optimization: Removes unnecessary files to free up storage space and helps your Mac run efficiently Integrity monitoring: Watches key system files for unauthorized changes and alerts you if something attempts to tamper with your Mac Top anti-malware software for Macs in 2025 Choosing the best anti-malware software for your Mac involves considering several standout options. These tools provide robust protection, performance optimization, and a user-friendly experience. McAfee Total Protection McAfee’s Total Protection suite for Mac comes with real-time threat monitoring, email safety checks, web browsing protection, and a robust firewall. There’s also the option for automatic updates to keep your device protected from the latest threats. Plus, its intuitive user interface makes it easy to configure security settings and check the health of your device.Norton 360 Deluxe Norton 360 is a feature-packed security solution for Mac users. Beyond malware protection, it offers a built-in VPN for privacy, cloud backup for file recovery, and dark web monitoring to track any signs of your personal data being sold. Avast Premium Security Avast Premium Security is a budget-friendly option for protecting Macs. It features real-time scanning, phishing protection, and an intelligent firewall. One standout feature is its advanced webcam protection, which prevents unauthorized access to your camera, a growing concern as cybercriminals are able to stealthily tap into your webcam and peripheral devices. Avast’s performance optimization tools also ensure that your Mac stays fast and secure. Bitdefender Total Security Bitdefender offers one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac users. It includes real-time protection, web browsing security, and an excellent anti-theft feature for tracking lost or stolen devices. Bitdefender’s minimal impact on system performance makes it ideal for users who want solid protection without compromising on speed. Protecting Macs from various cyberthreats can be incredibly difficult without the right tools. For personalized recommendations or more information on keeping your Mac secure, contact us today.