In an era where security concerns are at the forefront of priorities, investing in advanced technologies such as video surveillance has become imperative. Video surveillance has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing security measures, offering a wide range of benefits that extend beyond simple monitoring. Whether you are a homeowner or a business, security should be a pressing concern for your property. Those looking to strengthen their security measures should always consider video surveillance for multiple reasons we will explore in this article.
First and foremost, the mere presence of visible video surveillance cameras acts as a strong deterrent to criminal activity. Potential intruders, vandals, and trespassers are less likely to target a property that is equipped with surveillance systems, knowing that their actions are being recorded. The proactive nature of video surveillance helps prevent crimes before they occur, creating a safer environment for both physical assets and individuals. In cases like these, video surveillance acts as a preventative measure to any harm that could occur on your property.
In the unfortunate event of criminal activity, accidents, or disputes, video surveillance serves as a crucial tool for documentation and evidence collection. High-quality video footage can help law enforcement and legal authorities in investigating incidents, identifying culprits, and establishing the facts surrounding an event. This evidentiary support can be the key piece in resolving disputes and ensuring justice.
All of these advantages lead to another one which is the overall feeling of safety to those on the premises being secured. Video surveillance provides an extensive means of monitoring and safeguarding spaces, promoting a sense of safety among occupants. In the event of an emergency or security threat, real-time monitoring allows for swift responses, enabling security personnel or authorities to address situations promptly. Advancements in technology have promoted these quick responses with the integration of security systems with remote monitoring capabilities. This allows users to access live feeds and recorded footage from their smartphones, tablets, or computers, providing real-time visibility into their premises. Whether monitoring a business, residence, or public space, remote accessibility enhances situational awareness and enables timely decision-making, regardless of physical location.
Investing in video surveillance is an essential step toward reinforcing security measures and addressing the evolving challenges of today’s world. From deterring criminal activity and enhancing safety to providing documented evidence and supporting remote monitoring, video surveillance offers a well-rounded approach to security. As technology continues to advance, these systems will play an increasingly vital role in safeguarding assets, individuals, and the overall well-being of communities. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
The world of Information Technology (IT) is constantly evolving which makes staying on top of emerging technologies and trends crucial for businesses. Several new, groundbreaking innovations are reshaping IT every day and making advancements in many industries. It is important to stay updated on what these trends are in order to find out how they can be applied to your business and its operations. This article will cover five emerging technologies and trends that are just on the horizon for IT.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning continue to be at the forefront of technological advancements. These technologies enable machines to learn and make decisions, mimicking human intelligence. In the IT realm, AI and ML are being harnessed for data analytics, predictive modeling, and automation. From chatbots providing customer support to predictive maintenance in industries, the applications are vast and continually expanding.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Robotic Process Automation involves the use of software robots to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks. This technology streamlines business processes which improves efficiency and significantly reduces the risk of human error. From data entry to customer service, RPA is transforming how organizations handle routine tasks and making business easier for many.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR technologies are going beyond entertainment and gaming by finding applications in various industries. From virtual training environments to immersive customer experiences, AR and VR are transforming the way businesses engage with their audiences and employees. Using this technology for a variety of simulations is just the beginning of the many applications possible.
5G Technology
The rise of 5G networks is accelerating the connectivity of devices and systems. As a result, high-speed communication with little delay is more accessible to businesses. With faster and more reliable internet connections, 5G enables the widespread adoption of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, smart cities, and augmented reality applications, transforming the way we live and work.
Cybersecurity Advancements
With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, cybersecurity remains a top priority for IT professionals. Emerging technologies such as AI-driven threat detection, blockchain for secure transactions, and zero-trust architecture are fortifying organizations against evolving cyber risks, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information. These advancements should provide a sense of security that all business owners should be aware of and seek.
The world of IT is evolving at an unprecedented pace and being driven by the rise of emerging technologies. Businesses that embrace these trends stand to gain a competitive edge, unlocking new possibilities and efficiencies. As we navigate the future of IT, staying informed and adapting to these transformative technologies will be crucial for organizations and individuals alike. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, businesses face not only external threats but also internal dangers that put sensitive information at risk and compromise the security of the establishment. The importance of detecting and mitigating internal security threats cannot be overstated, as they are often overlooked due to the familiarity of the threat actors within the organization’s systems and operations. In this article, we will explore strategies to effectively identify and address internal security threats.
One way to identify internal security threats is by monitoring user activities within the company’s system by employees and users. Regularly conducting comprehensive training sessions with employees can lower risks associated with inside threats. These sessions can cover the fundamentals of cybersecurity and the potential repercussions of negligent or malicious actions. Analyzing user behavior and activity to identify anomalies or unusual patterns that may indicate malicious intent is also a good practice in identifying internal risks. By spreading awareness and monitoring employees, organizations can recognize and report suspicious activities.
Conducting regular security audits is another method used to identify internal security risks within an organization. Regular security audits and assessments can evaluate the effectiveness of existing security measures. This includes reviewing access logs, analyzing network traffic, and assessing the overall security structure of the organization. Security audits can uncover vulnerabilities and weaknesses that may be exploited by insider threats. With the results from these audits, the proper adjustments and protocols can be put in place to minimize the risk of internal threats.
Lastly, implementing Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions and strong access controls is crucial for preventing the unauthorized transfer of sensitive data. These tools can aid in identifying and blocking attempts to access and share confidential information. DLP solutions also assist in monitoring and controlling the use of removable storage devices, minimizing the risk of data leakage through various channels. Employees should have access only to the resources essential for their specific roles and responsibilities. Businesses must regularly review and update user privileges to align with changing job functions, effectively minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and reducing the potential impact of insider threats.
In the world of cybersecurity, organizations must remain vigilant against internal security threats. By implementing a combination of these approaches, organizations can significantly enhance their ability to detect and mitigate the risks posed by insider threats. A proactive stance, coupled with continuous improvement and adaptation, will empower organizations to safeguard their information and maintain strong security in the face of evolving internal threats. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
In an era dominated by digital advancements and interconnected systems, having a stable security strategy for your business’s IT infrastructure is essential. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats require businesses to adopt strong and reliable IT security strategies even more. Choosing the right approach can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available. This article can help guide you on what to consider when selecting the best IT security strategy for your company.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for IT security. You must consider your company’s specific industry, size, and operational requirements when selecting security measures. For example, a strategy that works well for a financial institution may not be suitable for a creative agency. Defining your company is the first step in determining what IT security solution is best for your business.
It is also important to choose a strategy that can adapt to the evolving nature of cyber threats and accommodate the growth of your company. You must examine the current size of your company and future goals to ensure that the scale of your IT security plan covers all areas. Scalable and flexible solutions ensure that your security measures remain effective as your business expands. The technology of the world is constantly changing, so it is vital to have a security solution that can keep up with that change.
Looking into what risks your business is most prone to is also useful in selecting the best IT security solution for it. By conducting a thorough risk assessment, potential vulnerabilities are identified and can be prioritized based on potential impact and likelihood. This analysis provides a foundation for tailoring your security measures to the specific needs and risks faced by your company.
Selecting the best IT security strategy for your company requires careful consideration of the unique risks and requirements you face. Even after choosing a security solution, it is important to regularly reassess and update your IT security strategy to stay ahead of emerging threats and protect your company’s sensitive information in the ever-changing digital landscape. Learn about which of our IT services may suit your business’s needs the best. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Ransomware is a type of malicious software, also known as malware, designed to encrypt a victim’s files or entire computer system, making it inaccessible until a certain ransom is paid to the attacker. The attacker will typically demand payment in cryptocurrency, making it difficult to trace the destination of the transactions. Once the ransom is paid, the attacker claims that they will provide a decryption key or tool to unlock the victim’s data, allowing them to regain access. Both individuals and businesses should be able to identify ransomware attacks as early on as possible in order to take the best course of action in mitigating the attack minimizing its damages.
Identifying Ransomware Attacks Ransomware attacks should be identified as early as possible in order to minimize the damages and losses. Early tells of ransomware include out-of-the-ordinary file behavior as it typically changes the file extensions of encrypted files to something unusual. For example, your files might have “.locked,” “.encrypted,” or other unfamiliar extensions at the end or completely unrecognizable file names. When you attempt to open your files, you could also receive an error message or find that the contents have been scrambled and are inaccessible. These are just a couple of ways to identify a ransomware attack early on before the actual ransom note. It is essential to have strong cybersecurity measures in place to protect against ransomware attacks. Regularly updating software, implementing strong security practices, maintaining backups, and educating users about the dangers of phishing and malicious attachments are some of the best practices to prevent falling victim to ransomware.
Mitigating Ransomware Attacks What do you do after you have identified the use of ransomware in your system? Generally speaking, it is not advisable to pay the ransom, as there is no guarantee of receiving a decryption key, and paying only fuels the criminal activity. Instead, victims should seek assistance from law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts to explore other potential solutions for data recovery. These are experts in the field and have the resources to either track the attack back to the attacker or provide potential data recovery options in the case of stolen information. Additionally, users should disconnect the device with ransomware from the network in order to prevent it from spreading even further to other devices. Isolating the affected system from the network, refraining from paying the ransom, and seeking assistance from cybersecurity experts are all parts of mitigating a ransomware attack.
Ransomware attacks can be highly disruptive and damaging, affecting individuals, businesses, and even critical infrastructure. The motivations behind these attacks vary; some attackers are financially motivated, while others may have political, ideological, or malicious intentions. Make sure your technology is always up to date and secure to protect your data. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Spoofing attacks are a type of cyberattack in which a cybercriminal will hide their identity by disguising themselves as a trustworthy source in order to gain highly sensitive and valuable information from their victims. There are multiple methods of spoofing attacks such as email, IP, and caller ID spoofing that put victims at high risk of their cybersecurity. Being able to detect and prevent these attacks are skills that all internet users should have to protect both themselves and their organizations.
Detecting Spoofing Attacks
Early detection is key to combating the consequences of spoofing attacks. Implementing extra layers of security to all of one’s systems and accounts through methods such as Multi-Factor Authentication and Anti-spoofing Software are effective ways to detect suspicious activities before it is too late. Additionally, installing certain protocols or digital signatures on forms of digital communication such as emails allows users to have security when sharing valuable information as they feel assured that it is going to a source that they trust. A combination of multiple methods of spoofing attack detection will increase the amount of protection that one has against them. It will also allow time for one to develop a response plan whenever an attack is detected by discovering and tackling the issue from its source.
Preventing Spoofing Attacks
There are also multiple methods to prevent attacks from occurring in the first place. Practicing habits such as updating software regularly, undergoing phishing awareness training, and installing intrusion detection systems are all recommended to avert falling victim to spoofing attacks. These are all methods that create more obstacles for spoofers to overcome to gain the important information they seek. By having a team with individuals who are all aware of the threat that spoofing attacks pose to cyber security, the attacks and their consequences can be averted before the damage is already done. Being able to prevent the attacks also increases the amount of trust that someone may have in the company or organization as it demonstrates the measures taken to ensure the cybersecurity of their data and information.
The detection and prevention of spoofing attacks are vital to ensure consequences such as data breaches, financial losses, and damage to an organization’s reputation are avoided at all costs. In the age of evolving technology, it is important to also evolve in cybersecurity methods as well. This is only one of many examples of digital corruption, and an awareness of how to detect and prevent them can restore trust in digital systems. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Have you ever got the feeling that someone is watching you? That feeling might not be completely out of pocket. Whoever is watching you may not be outside your window or monitoring your physical movements, but are viewing your activity on your electronic devices. Anyone is vulnerable to spyware, and can be a victim of theft or hacking at any moment. Here’s how to detect it and what to do to protect yourself.
What is Spyware?
Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to secretly gather information from a user’s computer or device without their knowledge or consent. This information can include sensitive personal data, such as login credentials, financial information, browsing habits, and more. This malware is hidden from the user’s naked eye and is used without their awareness. This is then followed by sending the collected data to a remote server or third party. Types can vary, but can derive from email attachments, downloading pirated software, and clicking on questionable links.
Detection & Prevention
Detecting spyware on your computer or device can be challenging because it is designed to operate discreetly. However, there are several signs and methods you can use to detect the presence of spyware such as installing antivirus softwares. These programs are designed to detect and remove spyware and other malware, ridding your device of potential threats. Run regular scans to check for any infections and be sure to keep them updated. Be vigilant for any unusual behavior on your device such as sluggish performance, crashing, freezing, pop-ups, or suspicious browser settings.
Spyware can be unpredictable at times, but it’s important to stay aware and look for any signs of malicious behavior. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Cyber attacks have become a large issue and concern for many businesses. Since technology continues to change and develop everyday, it has revealed vulnerability in protective digital software. The result of this being the significant rise of security breaches, with any and all industries being at risk. However, there are those who are at a greater risk than others, and are commonly targeted by cyber attackers. Here are the 4 most vulnerable industries to cyber attacks, and why they require higher level security.
Healthcare
The healthcare industry is specifically targeted based on the amount of sensitive and personal data they handle. Ransomware poses a great threat to healthcare companies, with cybercriminals making their data inaccessible unless a payment has been made. With healthcare industries possessing multiple patient files, personal information, and payment statements, the attackers are aware that the organization cannot bear the expense of losing data.
Government Agencies
When it comes to government data, there’s no surprise as to why cyber criminals would desire access. Government agencies contain personal identifying information, classified documents, and military secrets. These agencies face threats such as cyber espionage, which is the spying and installation of spyware to government devices. They also must look out for insider threats, which is the leaking of confidential information through their own employees. This can be both accidental and deliberate. Phishing can also trick employees into sending sensitive information to the wrong recipient.
Financial Institutions
Due to the large amount of money and financial information banks and other financial services manage, cybercriminals have all the reason to target them. Money has become extremely digital, which has created new ways to exploit any weaknesses in the system. Thieves will phish, use mobile malware, and hack into banking accounts and commit fraudulent transactions.
Retail
Shops in-store and online are vulnerable to the theft of valuable data. They struggle with the issue of credit card fraud, online data breaches, and identity theft. Credit card fraud can cause all kinds of unwanted trouble for retailers, and can lose profit at the hands of fraudulent purchases. Identity theft poses a threat because of thieves that steal other user information to create credit card accounts to make purchases. Customer credentials are at risk at the expense of data breaches, so security software should always be stable and secure.
These industries might be commonly targeted, but any company of any size can be at a risk of cyberattacks. Taking preventative measures will protect your company, your employees, and those who keep you in business. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
The purpose of VPN security is to protect and encrypt sensitive data by masking IP addresses. VPN stands for “virtual private network”, and they are used to conceal browsing activity, personal identity, and current location. VPN’s make users typically feel safer and more secure, but are they capable of posing potential threats? Learn how and why VPNs can strengthen your company’s security and how to avoid a potential breach.
Why Use a VPN?
The benefits of using a VPN can apply to anyone wishing to protect their digital privacy from cyber attackers. It adds an extra layer of security when using public Wi-Fi, which can be dangerous if making online purchases or answering emails. A VPN will hide your banking information and confidential passwords from those who prey on such information. Working remotely has become a popular method of employment, but it can increase the risks of cyber threats when working outside of the designated office. When you are not under the protection of your employer’s provided Wi-Fi or protected network, it can put your company’s data at risk. The use of a VPN can help secure your work-related material when utilizing work devices outside of the office.
VPN Risks
While VPN’s are known to help keep data safer, there are also security risks to consider when choosing to use one. The idea that using a basic consumer VPN will retain complete anonymity is a huge misconception that will make you a more vulnerable user. With a VPN or not, no one is likely completely anonymous when using the internet. It’s important to bring this to the attention of your employees to deter them from using social media on work devices or accepting cookies on flimsy websites. Make this known to avoid cyber breaches from occurring and harmful malware from being downloaded. Investing in a secure and specialized VPN can improve security among your company, so avoid using basic consumer VPNs that might feel safe, but are not enough for business level security.
Using a VPN can help protect your users from base-line threats, but it’s crucial to understand that the internet is a dangerous place. Suspicious activity will continue to arise no matter how secure we feel. Awareness is key to limiting harmful threats and keeping your sensitive information safe. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
Human errors can happen, and can be the cause of up to 95% of cybersecurity related breaches. With that being said, the best way to prevent these mistakes would be to implement solid training to your employees. The purpose of training is to strengthen your team’s knowledge and awareness of modern threats and how to combat them properly. Regular training will keep your employees up to date, helping your company steer clear of most errors. To achieve this, here are some of the best awareness training topics to consider.
Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks impersonate the company or professional you work for, luring users to click on suspicious links. Many attempts in the past have been easier to recognize, but phishing attacks have become more intelligent overtime. They pose a great threat due to how believable they can be, and can cause a cyber attack if fallen for. Train your employees on this subject to help them identify suspicious activity, messages, or attachments.
Passwords and Authentication
Passwords can seem like a simple log-in element, but they are what protects your company’s security. If you use a common or easily guessed password, you are putting yourself at risk for a cyber attack. Cyber criminals will attempt to log into your accounts in hopes of gaining access to your sensitive information. Bring this to your employees’s attention through complex training, reminding them of the importance of updating their work passwords. Authentication methods can be made more secure by adding questions that the employee will only know the answer to. Express the significance of passwords and why you should always keep them confidential.
Remote Work
Working remotely is a great way to meet a well balanced lifestyle between work and social life. However, utilizing personal devices can increase the risk of a security breach. Make sure your remote employees are trained to understand the importance of installing antivirus software to home laptops to prevent cyber attacks. It is also important to never leave your device unattended when containing important company files. To successfully work remotely without risking data security, educate your staff to be aware of these dangers.
Your security is to be protected, so administering training will improve standards of the company as a whole. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
It’s common to jump on a website and immediately see a pop-up regarding accepting cookies, and can even be mandatory if you wish to continue to the site. But have you ever truly understood what exactly you’re accepting? Cookies and privacy terms can vary website to website, but here’s what you should know before you make the click.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies allow websites to remember and store information when you use their site. This information can include your name, your login, your purchase history, and more. Depending on what site you visit, it may or may not be wise to accept cookies. Some sites enforce the use of cookies to produce a better experience for the user. This can include personalizing the site based on your preferences and to save your desired items for later. Some cookies are placed by advertisers, which is considered a third party to the site. In this instance, you may want to install safety software to prevent private information from being stolen. The privacy terms you are accepting are there to let you know that the site is transparent about data tracking. So if this concerns you, be sure to read over the conditions before allowing cookie usage.
When To Say No
While most websites use cookies to create a better experience, there are plenty of reasons to be cautious. If you notice a website is not encrypted, it means there is very little protection for your information. If you are able to catch that the cookie agreement is for third parties, refrain from accepting them. This can allow your data to be stolen, sold, and more vulnerable to hackers. Finally, if you are entering in personal or banking information, do not allow cookies to be used. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your data.
It can be hard to differentiate between a trustworthy or an untrustworthy site, so always pay attention to what terms you accept. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
As cybercriminals become more evolved, cybersecurity must always be a few steps ahead to prevent potential challenges. In order to achieve this, companies are beginning to utilize the power of artificial intelligence to better protect data. How will this improve or disrupt cybersecurity? It is up for discussion but could possibly become the best strategy against cyber threats.
How AI Can Contribute
As a trending tool, the world has reacted both positively and negatively to the increased use in AI devices. Many fear the capabilities of AI and many also doubt it, but it has become a hot topic either way. AI has the potential to make interferences humans may not catch, and they can prevent online threats with faster, proactive, actions. Since it is a machine, it can handle large amounts of data while simultaneously searching through threats. This means AI can catch more potential threats at once while not letting any slip through the cracks. AI can also assist human analysts flag malicious activities so that preventative measures can be taken quicker. This saves time and can prevent multiple security incidents before they happen.
The Issue
While AI can greatly benefit the cybersecurity industry, machines will never completely replace the accuracy of a human analyst. Organizations should never fully rely on AI and should invest in other forms of security as well. AI can also be vulnerable to cyber threats, so it’s important to continuously monitor its system to better protect data. Cyber Attackers can manipulate the AI input data installed, which can lead to cyber data breaches. Using AI systems is also very costly, and human oversight will always be required no matter what system you implement.
To include AI in your security system is based on preference, since it can be both helpful but not foolproof. The decision is yours to make, but cyber security must always be evolving to ensure data safety. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today! Follow us on Facebook to keep up with our latest blogs!
USB flash drives have been a practical and reliable way to transport valuable files to and from different computers. Since the year of 2000, they have been a viable trinket to businesses and students when needing to back up data. Over the years, their storage capacity has reached a whooping 512GB, when it only started at 8 MB. For something so small to become so powerful is a huge deal, which is how it came to getting its own national holiday.
Benefits of the Flash Drive
In respect to the flash drive’s infamous reputation, let start by noting reasons why they come in handy when storing data. A flash drive is very simple to use, and can be easily stowed away because of its size and weight. It is a relatively fast way to transfer files over to different devices, as well as having plenty of storage options. While all these things make the flash drive great, security should remain the biggest concern and priority.
Is it Secure?
Flash drives can be secure if they have advanced enough features. Some are equipped with a passcode, preventing users from accessing private material if your flash drive becomes lost or stolen. The problem is that hackers utilize this nifty object to help invade your personal information to spread attacks. It’s important to be aware of what you insert into your computer, considering that a flash drive is capable of carrying dangerous malware. This kind of threat can rupture your IT infrastructure, creating various amounts of issues. These threats can be so serious that in certain situations, the damage is irreversible. Plugging a drive into the USB port can record and gather the information it needs. This information could include access passcodes, sensitive data, and business owned files. Attackers can also use flash drives to maliciously damage your PC all together, completely destroying anything it’s electronically attached to.
Conclusion
While it may seem far-fetched to assume something as tiny as a flash drive can wreak all this havoc, you must consider the importance of your or your business’s data to ensure proper security. Backing up digital data can be simple and secure with the right form of integrated security. If you have any questions about our IT services, contact us today!
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Something as simple as sending an email may seem like normal task, but every email sent out holds precious information that thieves prey upon. Whether it’s for personal or company use, any information can be utilized to expose any confidential details you may not wish to share. These details can be used to perform cyberattacks, which is more than ideal to avoid. With the use of email security, your or your company’s cloud can be protected from potential cyber threats.
Why is it Important?
Having cloud-based email security is important for a number of reasons, especially since email is the most vulnerable line of communication. This is because hundreds of emails go out each day depending on the size of your company, raising the overall probability of getting attacked. Since most employees are busy working, the chances of them noticing a suspicious link attached to an email may be slim. Clicking on this link could result in attackers collecting precious credentials or installing viruses to employee computers. To prevent this from happening takes a lot less exertion than trying to reverse it, so consider taking action before it’s too late.
Potential Threats
Companies and personal users of email face potential consequences everyday when without cybersecurity. But what types of threats are there to look out for? Phishing emails take a hefty 90% of the blame for attacks for their talent of deception. These emails are sent to employees and usually consist of believable scenarios such as:
Changing payment methods for certain services (Netflix, Amazon, ect.)
Changing a password for an account under their name or company’s name
Alarming notices regarding unwarranted purchases
There are other ways for phishing emails to trick your employees, and they continue to evolve every single day. Phishing emails are the starting point of cloud-email exploitation, which happens through the use of document sharing. Many companies rely on Google Drive and other document sharing tools, so a recognizable email may not strike anyone as suspicious. Without proper cybersecurity, attackers can access these private documents and other data found in the cloud.
How Can I Improve it?
Applying integrated security to protect company data is the best way to prevent cyber attacks. Email encryption prevents data leaks wherever there is vulnerability in the server. Adding this extra step to ensure security between emails will definitely help. It is also beneficial to educate employees of these scams and how to identify them before moving forward. Thieves become more intelligent with every passing day, so learning how to specify what to avoid will benefit you or your business greatly.
Conclusion
As a company, it is a great responsibility to make sure your data is protected. As it’s been said before, prevention is a lot easier than finding a cure. Preparing for the worst scenario and staying aware of cyber threats will save you a lot of time and concern.
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Ransomware is a type of malware (malicious software) that takes your files, data or computer hostage until you pay money. When a ransomware attack happens, your computer or browser may lock up and you may see a ransomware note or your files will be encrypted, leaving you not being able to access them.
How does your computer get it?
There are a few ways ransomware and other types of malware can infect your computer.
Opening links on emails from unknown sources
If you get an email from an unknown email address with a link attached, it’s better not to open it. It could be disguised as a coworker or trusted company. If something about the email seems off, check to see if there are typos in the name or email address. This can be an indicator that the email is fake. These types of emails are called phishing.
Opening links or websites from social media messages
Like the messages that come to your email with a malware virus in them, these are often sent by people you don’t recognize or fake accounts. If a link looks suspicious, do not open it, even if it is from a family member or friend. Their accounts could have been hacked. It is better to check with them to make sure the file is safe.
Using unsecure sites
Sites have their own protection on them. If this has been breached or it is a site set up for malicious purposes, it could put your data and computer at risk. Your browser will usually give you a warning before entering the site. If this happens, it is best to back out of the site.
Steps to protecting your computer against ransomware
– Making sure your computer and software is up to date
– Check emails addresses and look for signs that a website could be fake before downloading anything
– Backup your files and data
The number one way to make sure your data is secure and protected is by having a good backup system in place. If a ransomware attack does happen, you don’t want to pay the money to get your files back, because there is no guarantee that you will get the data back. When you have a good backup system in place, you know that even if something does happen, your data is secure and can be redownloaded onto your computer.
If you need help setting up a backup system for your company, contact us and one of our WesTec reps can go over the options and help you decide what is best for your company. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!
Think of how much of your company’s work is done on a computer and all of the programs, files and information that is stored. If your company does not have a data backup system, you’re at risk of losing it all. That could be detrimental to your business.
So what could cause your systems to go down and experience data loss? There are a few different scenarios where your company could be at risk.
Hardware, Software or System Malfunctions
If you work on a computer, you know they’re not always perfect. Sometimes systems fail or malfunction. If this happens and your data is not backed up, you lose all of your files. If you had a data backup system in place, you could simply load up the backup and restore your information that was lost.
Human error
We’ve all made the mistake of accidentally deleting something we weren’t supposed to. It could be that an employee thought the file was something else or accidentally clicked the delete button. Without data backup, those files would be lost forever and the work would have to be redone. With backups, you’ll be able to restore the file and continue the workday.
Malware or Ransomware
Malicious Software, malware for short, is what people refer to as computer viruses. There are different types of malware, with some having the ability to delete everything on your computer system. Ransomware is a type of virus that holds your data captive unless you pay a dollar amount. If you have a good backup system in place, you won’t have to pay the ransom and you will still have access to your data.
Natural disasters
In Houston, there are many things that could happen, in particular, flooding. If your computer and hard drive were to be destroyed in a flood or fire, you could lose your data.
While many things could happen, the risk associated with losing your data and files can be mitigated by properly backing up your data. There are different types of backups and data protection. If you would like to start protecting your company’s data, contact us and one of our WesTec reps can go over the options and help you decide what is best for your company. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!
Phone technology is constantly evolving. Although new tech toys are fun and functional, there are always underlying dangers. Here are 5 smartphone security risks and how to prevent them.
Risks:
Unintentional Disclosure of Data
Malicious disclosure of sensitive or private information.
Phishing Attacks
Scams made by actors pretending to be a trusted source or individual.
Spyware Attacks
Type of malicious malware or software downloaded without the consent or knowledge of a victim.
Diallware Attacks
Stealing money from a designated user through malware that uses hidden message service or numbers.
Network Congestion
Network is overloaded with links and malware, causing lots of traffic.
Preventions:
Encrypt Mobile Devices
Encrypting is the process of converting information into secret codes which prohibits unknown users from accessing.
Update All Apps and Operating Systems
Updating apps and operation systems with frequency lowers the chances of your information being compromised – sometimes through improved bug fixes.
Set Strong Passwords
Strong passwords often include:
A minimum of 8 characters
At least one capitalized letter
The use of special characters such as, @!#
At least one numeric character
Consider Deactivating Smartphone Functionalities Such as Siri, Cortana, and Others
Smartphone functions such as Siri and Cortana save all data for future use. Make sure that if these functions are being utilized, no private information is shared — or do not use them at all.
Don’t Ignore Error Messages About The Validity of Certificates
A variety of websites do a proper job of calling out accounts or messages that are unsafe. Always read any error messages for certificates or accounts.
Remember: There are thousands of other smartphone security risks, but if you take the proper precautions the chances of any data leakage are slim.
Have any more concerns about smartphone technology? WesTec Services can help! Contact us with any questions you may have and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
With holiday’s right around the corner, this makes for a scammer’s perfect opportunity to conduct phishing scams. Researchers have stated that this year, phishing scams are going to increase significantly. More phishing scams are done via mobile devices, making it easier than ever to have your information stolen. But how do we protect ourselves during this vulnerable time?
Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are intensified during the holiday season due to the high traffic of online shoppers and the urge for people to look for deals. One popular way scammers do this is by sending emails or text messages about an offer that is too good to be passed up. For example, they list a popular technology device for cheap. Most people would just look at the price and proceed with the scam. Another scam is when they mimic bigger companies online to get credit card information or being able to log onto the device when a certain URL is clicked. These mainly happen through emails. They might send an email about a recent fake purchase to get you to click on the URL. These scams are going unnoticed and can do lots of harm. It is important to know how to prevent these scams and protect your information.
Prevention
It is inevitable that these scams will make their way to you. One way to identify a scam is to check the grammar of the message. Usually scams will be misspelled or the message came from a third party source. This is the easiest way to quickly identify the scam.
Be cautious about providing personal information such as phone numbers or credit card numbers. Make sure before you provide information that it is a reliable and trustworthy source.
If a phishing scam is sent to you, it is best to not respond. A response to these scams lets the scammer know you are a ‘real’ person and will likely be targeted again. If this does happen, there is an option to report the scam to the Spam Reporting Service.
Holidays make for a great time to buy gifts for loved ones, but this also means it is more likely to come across a phishing scam. It is important to know how to identify the scam and how to prevent and protect yourself.
Scams can be irritating and hard to effectively prevent them. WesTec services can help you in any way. We offer skilled expertise in all technologies and are ready to help. Contact us for any further information on phishing and how to protect yourself.
As our society leans more on technology, the opportunities for threats to interfere continue to increase. Safe computing requires more user awareness than ever before as well as maintenance of passwords and data security.
Here are a few tips on how you can keep your information safe online:
Secure your passwords.
Password hacking is the easiest way for anyone to access your information and cause damage. Switch up your password on each website you use, store them in a safe place, and be sure to change them frequently for the most security. Include both uppercase and lowercase, symbols, and numbers for the most difficult-to-guess passwords.
Automatically download important updates.
Updates such as MacOS are critical to the integrity of your computer and should therefore be completed as soon as they become available. Adjust your updates in settings to download automatically.
Never access sensitive websites on public WiFi.
Your data could be easily copied or stolen on a sensitive network. In addition, do not access or share sensitive data on unreliable networks.
Be aware of phishing attempts.
Never open an email from someone you do not know. If there is a link or document attached in the email, absolutely do not open it. Hackers often use this to automatically download malware onto your computer when opened and to access your information or ruin it altogether.
Back up your important information onto an external drive.
Whether it be a full backup hard drive or a flash drive, secure sensitive data onto a protected drive in case of emergency and for extra protection.
Don’t let yourself become the next hacked credit card or identity theft. Practice safe computing and protect your valuable information with the security it deserves. WesTec Services is a trusted and experienced IT services provider located in the Houston area. Allow us to keep your data safe by giving us a call today or visiting our website.
A Password meter is an indicator of the strength of a password entered by a user on a website. In most cases, meters estimate the amount of tries necessary for your password to be guessed by an attacker by factoring in password length and complexity. A University of Plymouth study tested 16 of the most encountered password meters on the internet to test their effectiveness. Based on the results, here are a few tips on how to keep your passwords secure, regardless of an “approval” given by the password meter:
Do not always trust the password meter
Just because a password meter says “strong password” does not mean it is. The meters can be helpful but are also extremely flawed, giving you a sense of false security. When deciding on a password, do not base it solely on the rating given by the website.
Avoid using keyboard patterns
On many password meters, passwords such as “querty”, “abc123”, and “Password” sometimes cannot be detected as problematic. Common letter combinations, such as going down a row of the keyword or commonly used words, are easily guessed and not always flagged on the meters.
Make passwords complicated and personal
The most secure passwords are those with a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Choose combinations that seem difficult to guess by an outside person or computer. The more complicated and seemingly random the password, the stronger it will be.In addition to character variation, do not use the same password for all of your accounts. Change up your passwords so that if one is discovered, not all of your information is at risk. Secure your valuable data with the protection it deserves. Do you part to protect your information with a strong password, WesTec is here to do the rest. WesTec Services is dedicated to providing the highest quality of IT consulting as well as backup disaster and recovery planning. Give WesTecCall a call today to discover more about our available services.
Mission: WesTec will be a “turn-key” solution for all of its clients’ business connectivity needs. It will offer efficient and effective solutions, directly and with strategic partners, that create tangible value for its clients at every point of contact. Westec will serve all people and entities with a servant’s heart.
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Suite 104
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While many things could happen, the risk associated with losing your data and files can be mitigated by properly backing up your data. There are different types of backups and data protection. If you would like to start protecting your company’s data, 
2916 West TC Jester Blvd.,
Suite 104