MSP Help Desk | West Coast IT Blog

Mobile Browser Privacy: How Much Data Are You Really Sharing?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:35:22 GMT

When you open a browser on your phone, it feels simple. You search, scroll, maybe check email or log into a few accounts.

But behind the scenes, your mobile browser may be collecting far more data than you realize.

From browsing history and search activity to location data and saved credentials, today’s most popular browsers gather a wide range of information—often in the name of convenience and performance. The question isn’t whether data is being collected. It’s how much, and what that means for your business.

Which Mobile Browsers Collect the Most Data?

Recent research analyzing privacy disclosures from major app stores found that leading browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are among the most data-intensive options available on mobile devices.

That doesn’t mean they’re unsafe. In fact, both are widely trusted and commonly used in business environments.

However, they do collect a significant amount of user data, including:

Browsing history
Location data
Payment information
Saved files and downloads
Media access (such as photos or audio, in some cases)

Most of this data collection is tied to legitimate functionality—things like syncing across devices, autofilling forms, fraud prevention, and personalizing your experience.

But the real concern lies in how much data is collected, how long it’s stored, and whether it’s shared with third parties.

Why Browser Privacy Matters More Than You Think

Your browsing activity isn’t just a list of websites—it’s a detailed digital footprint.

Over time, it can reveal:

Business operations and vendor relationships
Financial activity and transactions
Health or legal research
Internal company workflows and tools

For businesses, this creates a quiet but meaningful risk surface.

If a data breach occurs, browser-related identifiers and stored data can help attackers connect activity back to real users, accounts, and organizations. That’s why this type of data is becoming increasingly valuable—and increasingly targeted.

The Biggest Risk: Passive Acceptance

One of the more surprising findings from recent studies is how few users actively manage their privacy settings.

Most people:

Accept default permissions without review
Allow ongoing access to location or files
Rely on browsers to store passwords and sensitive data

It’s understandable—teams are busy, and convenience often wins.

But these small, passive decisions can compound into larger vulnerabilities over time.

How to Improve Mobile Browser Privacy

The good news is you don’t need to overhaul your tech stack or stop using familiar tools.

A few strategic adjustments can significantly reduce your exposure:

1. Review App Permissions
Check what your browser can access on your device. Disable anything that isn’t essential—especially location tracking, file access, and media permissions.

2. Limit Stored Data
Avoid letting your browser store sensitive information like passwords, payment details, or autofill data whenever possible.

3. Use a Password Manager
A dedicated password manager reduces reliance on browser-based storage and allows for stronger, unique passwords across all accounts.

4. Keep Your Browser Updated
Regular updates include security patches that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities.

5. Be Intentional About Logins
Only sign into accounts when necessary, and log out of sensitive platforms when you’re done—especially on shared or mobile devices.

A Smarter Approach to Everyday Security

You don’t need to stop using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to improve your privacy posture.

Instead, focus on reducing unnecessary data exposure and adding simple layers of protection where they matter most.

Your browser is one of the most frequently used tools in your business—and one of the easiest to overlook from a security standpoint.

A few small changes can go a long way in protecting your data, your team, and your operations.

Microsoft Edge introduces a new scam protection tool

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:38:23 GMT

Microsoft Edge Rolls Out New AI Tool to Stop Scareware Scams

When was the last time a pop-up suddenly took over your screen, warning that your computer was infected?

They’re hard to miss. Flashing red alerts. Alarming language. A phone number urging you to “call Microsoft support immediately.”

These messages aren’t real—but they’re effective.

This tactic, known as scareware , is designed to create panic and pressure users into handing over money or access to their devices. And despite what many people think, you don’t have to be careless to fall for it. These scams are increasingly polished, convincing, and timed to catch even cautious users off guard.

Microsoft Is Taking Aim at Scareware

To combat this growing threat, Microsoft has introduced a new AI-powered scam protection feature in its Edge browser. The update is part of a broader effort to make Edge one of the most secure browsers available on both Windows and Mac.

At the heart of the update is a new feature called Scareware Blocker , which is enabled by default on most newer devices.

Instead of relying solely on known threat lists, the tool uses artificial intelligence to recognize the visual patterns of scam pages—particularly full-screen alerts designed to look like legitimate system warnings. Messages claiming your device is infected or urging you to call “support” immediately are flagged and shut down before you have a chance to click anything.

How the New Protection Works

When Edge detects a scareware page, it closes it instantly, stopping the scam in its tracks. This proactive approach helps protect users even when the scam is brand new and hasn’t yet been widely reported.

If a user does report a scam, that information helps protect others as well. Microsoft’s Defender SmartScreen system learns from these reports and can block the same scam for additional users—sometimes hours or even days before it would normally appear on global threat databases. In testing, a single report prevented dozens of people from being exposed to the same attack.

Microsoft has also introduced a new scareware detection sensor in the latest version of Edge. This sensor helps identify emerging scams in real time, without collecting personal data or sending screenshots back to Microsoft. While it’s currently disabled, Microsoft says it will soon be automatically enabled for users who have SmartScreen turned on.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

Scams like these aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous.

One wrong click on a fake warning can lead to stolen passwords, drained bank accounts, identity theft, or even full-scale ransomware attacks. While individuals are frequent targets, small and midsize businesses are increasingly at risk. Cybercriminals know that it only takes one employee clicking the wrong thing to open the door.

Tools like Edge’s new scareware protection help close that gap. By using AI to react faster than a human ever could, they reduce risk without disrupting day-to-day work.

What You Should Do Next

If you use Microsoft Edge, make sure you’re running the latest version so these protections are active. It’s a simple step that could prevent serious trouble—and save you from more than a few heart-stopping moments.

And if you’re unsure how well your systems are protected against modern scams, it may be time to take a closer look. A security audit can help identify gaps before attackers do.

How to Help Your Team Be Confident Using AI

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:05:32 GMT

How does your team really feel about using AI at work? Excited? Nervous? Maybe a little of both?

AI has become widespread in the workplace, but people’s feelings about it remain mixed. A recent study shows:

Four in five workers use some form of AI daily.
More than half rely on AI assistants regularly to save time.

However, not everyone is comfortable using AI. Some employees worry that relying on it might make them look lazy or untrustworthy. Others fear being judged by colleagues. Essentially, while people trust AI to help them, they don’t always trust how others will react.

Why AI Should Be Seen as a Partner

The truth is, AI is here to support employees—not replace them. It’s a tool that can help people focus on what they do best: strategy, creativity, and problem-solving.

For employees to embrace AI, they need confidence in using it. Without that confidence, uncertainty and hesitation can hold teams back.

The Confidence Gap in the Workplace

Many employees are figuring out AI by trial and error. In fact, only one in three workers has received formal AI training.

Confidence also varies by role:

Around 70% of managers feel comfortable using AI.
Only about a third of junior staff feel the same way.

Without support, employees can make mistakes, feel unsure, or develop mistrust toward AI tools.

Building a Culture That Encourages AI

The solution starts with culture. Teams are more likely to adopt AI when experimenting with it is encouraged—not judged.

Managers and business leaders can foster confidence by:

Providing formal AI training programs
Hosting internal workshops or learning sessions
Organizing “show and tell” moments where employees share how AI helps them work smarter

The key is making AI feel like a partner , not a test or a threat.

The Benefits of AI Confidence

AI confidence doesn’t happen overnight, but when employees feel supported:

They are more likely to embrace AI tools.
Efficiency and productivity improve.
Creativity and problem-solving thrive.
The team becomes ready for whatever the future of work brings.

80% of malware is powered by AI

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 20:45:44 GMT

What if I told you that most of the cyberattacks happening right now aren’t being run by people at all, but by artificial intelligence?

That’s the reality of where we are today.

According to new research, 80% of ransomware attacks are now powered by AI. That’s four out of every five.

And it’s not just ransomware. AI is increasingly being used to:

Create more convincing phishing emails (messages designed to trick you into clicking a link or handing over sensitive details)
Crack passwords at lightning speed
Bypass CAPTCHAs (those little puzzles you solve online to prove you’re human)
Generate fake customer service calls using deepfakes (AI-generated audio or video that mimics a real person’s voice or face)

So why does this matter for SMBs?

The problem is speed and scale. Attackers using AI can try thousands of ways to break into a system in the time it would take a human to attempt just one.

And while a business needs to defend every possible entry point, an attacker only needs to succeed once.

That imbalance is what makes this such a big threat.

Traditional approaches to stopping malware, spotting it, removing it, and patching systems, are struggling to keep up. AI-driven attacks evolve faster than human teams can respond. That means businesses need to think differently about their defenses. It’s no longer enough to rely only on antivirus software or occasional updates.

The good news is that AI is also being used on the defensive side.

Security systems that monitor for suspicious behavior, predict likely attacks, and even set up traps for hackers are becoming more common.

But the real key is a layered approach. Strong security basics like patching and updates, combined with AI-powered defenses, human oversight, and clear governance.

The reality is that AI-powered cybercrime isn’t going away. In fact, it’s only expected to grow. But with the right mindset and proactive defenses, businesses don’t have to be easy targets. Acting now gives you the best chance of staying one step ahead of attackers who are relying on AI to do their dirty work.

If you need help checking your business is secure, get in touch.

FBI issues new ransomware warning

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:56:21 GMT

Understanding the Threat: Interlock Ransomware and How to Protect Your Business

The FBI has issued a warning about a new and aggressive ransomware group known as Interlock . Emerging in September 2024, Interlock has quickly targeted businesses and infrastructure across North America and Europe. Their primary goal is financial gain, using a method known as double extortion .

Interlock’s strategy involves breaking into systems, stealing sensitive data, and then encrypting files so they cannot be accessed. Victims typically receive a short deadline—around four days—to pay a ransom. If the demand is not met, Interlock threatens to release the stolen data online, exposing it to public or illicit use.

The group employs sophisticated tactics to gain access. They create fake browser and security updates, design booby-trapped websites, and use other deceptive methods to trick employees into clicking on malicious links. Once inside, Interlock deploys tools that can monitor activity, steal passwords, move laterally across networks, and lock down critical files. Both Windows and Linux systems are vulnerable, putting nearly every business at risk.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly targeted because attackers recognize that these companies often have smaller security budgets and weaker defenses. A successful ransomware attack can result in lost access to client files, financial information, and day-to-day operational systems. Even if systems are restored, the reputational impact can be significant and long-lasting.

The FBI provides several recommendations to reduce the risk of attack:

Keep software and systems updated: Patching known vulnerabilities prevents attackers from exploiting outdated systems.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA adds a critical layer of security beyond a simple password.
Use firewalls and web filtering: These tools block access to known malicious sites and suspicious traffic.
Segment networks: Isolating parts of a network prevents malware from spreading throughout the entire system.
Invest in proactive security tools: Detection and response solutions identify unusual behavior before it escalates into a full-blown attack.

Taking these steps now is far less costly than dealing with the aftermath of a ransomware incident. Interlock is persistent, and businesses that delay implementing strong security measures increase their risk of becoming a target.

For companies concerned about their cybersecurity posture, consulting with experts is highly recommended. Proactive monitoring, system updates, and network protections can safeguard sensitive information, maintain operational continuity, and protect a business’s reputation.

Protecting your business from ransomware is an ongoing effort. Get in touch today to ensure your systems are secure and resilient against emerging threats like Interlock.

Cyber Attacks Are Rising: How Concerned Should Your Business Be?

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 19:17:28 GMT

If it feels like cyber attacks are dominating the headlines more than ever, you're not imagining things. Cybersecurity threats have surged in recent years, overtaking many traditional risks to become a top concern for businesses across the globe. From ransomware and data breaches to IT disruptions that grind operations to a halt, these digital threats are keeping business leaders on high alert—and with good reason.

The Real-World Impact of Cyber Incidents

A single cyber attack can cause devastating consequences. Imagine being locked out of your systems, losing access to customer records, or having sensitive data leaked online. These aren’t hypothetical scenarios—they’re daily realities for businesses of all sizes.

The fallout from a cyber attack often includes:

Significant financial loss
Reputational damage
Operational downtime
Legal and compliance complications

Even brief interruptions can result in missed revenue, frustrated customers, and costly recovery efforts.

Technology Advancements Are a Double-Edged Sword

While advancements in technology—especially artificial intelligence (AI)—are empowering businesses to work smarter and faster, they’re also giving cybercriminals more sophisticated tools to exploit. AI can now be used to automate attacks, mimic legitimate communications, and uncover vulnerabilities faster than ever before.

Cyber incidents have become a leading cause of business interruption , where operations are unexpectedly halted due to system failures or cyber attacks. As businesses grow more reliant on digital infrastructure, protecting those systems becomes not just a best practice, but a necessity.

AI and Human Vigilance: A Powerful Defense

Fortunately, the same AI advancements being used by attackers are also being deployed to defend against them. AI-powered cybersecurity tools can:

Analyze threats in real time
Detect anomalies before they cause harm
Automate response protocols for faster containment

However, technology alone isn't enough. The human element remains critical to effective cybersecurity. Employees must be trained to identify red flags—such as suspicious emails, unusual login activity, or unfamiliar software behavior. Without awareness and education, even the best systems can be compromised.

Awareness Is the First Step Toward Protection

So, how seriously should you take the threat of cyber attacks? Very. But awareness is a strength—not a weakness. The more you understand the risks, the more proactive you can be in defending your business.

Key steps include:

Staying informed about emerging threats
Investing in robust cybersecurity tools
Implementing regular employee training
Building a workplace culture focused on security

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Navigating the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it on your own. With the right guidance, you can strengthen your systems, educate your team, and reduce your risk of attack.

If you're ready to protect your business from today’s cyber threats, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about strengthening your cybersecurity strategy.

Overconfidence in Cybersecurity: Why It Puts Your Business at Risk

Tue, 20 May 2025 19:09:01 GMT

Your team is smart, capable, and tech-savvy. They know not to click suspicious links or open strange attachments. They’ve heard of phishing emails and understand how scammers operate. So, it’s easy to assume they’d never fall for a scam.

But that assumption can be dangerous.

The False Sense of Security

Just because someone feels confident in spotting a phishing attack doesn’t mean they actually can. In fact, a recent study found that 86% of employees believe they can confidently identify phishing emails —yet more than half have fallen for a scam at some point. These are people who knew what phishing was and still got tricked.

That’s because phishing tactics have become much more advanced. Scammers no longer rely on obvious or poorly written messages. Today’s phishing attempts are designed to look completely legitimate, often mimicking:

Bank or supplier communications
Fake but professional-looking invoices
Messages that appear to come from colleagues

The more realistic these emails appear, the harder they are to spot—especially when someone is overconfident in their ability to detect threats.

The Dunning-Kruger Effect in Action

This misplaced confidence is a textbook example of the Dunning-Kruger effect , a psychological phenomenon where individuals overestimate their knowledge or skills. In the workplace, it can lead employees to skip basic precautions like double-checking links, verifying unexpected messages, or reporting anything suspicious.

When employees assume they’re immune to scams, they often behave as though the risks don’t apply to them—creating dangerous gaps in your cybersecurity defenses.

Awareness Is Your First Line of Defense

The good news? This risk can be reduced with the right training and mindset. Phishing awareness training is one of the most effective ways to help employees recognize both traditional and modern scams. Regular sessions keep security top of mind and help employees stay alert to evolving threats.

However, training alone isn’t enough. To be truly effective, it must be supported by a workplace culture that encourages reporting . Employees should feel comfortable flagging suspicious emails without fear of embarrassment or reprimand. Otherwise, potential threats may go unreported—and unaddressed.

Vigilance Over Confidence

Cybersecurity isn’t about how smart your employees are—it’s about how cautious they are. Even your most tech-literate team member can fall victim to a well-executed phishing email. The key is to remain skeptical, question unexpected messages, and never assume that awareness alone is enough.

The reality is, the moment someone thinks “I’d never fall for that,” is often the moment they do.

Why Weak Passwords Are One of Your Business’s Biggest Security Risks

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:43:18 GMT

Weak passwords remain one of the most common—and preventable—cybersecurity threats facing businesses today.

Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and even one compromised password can lead to serious consequences. Once inside, attackers can access sensitive data, financial records, or even take control of your systems.

Many hackers use automated tools to launch what's known as brute-force attacks, rapidly testing millions of password combinations in seconds. If your password is something like “Password123” or “CompanyName2025,” you're making it alarmingly easy for attackers to break in.

What Can Happen When a Password is Compromised?

Data breaches
Financial loss
Identity theft
Reputation damage

Creating Strong Passwords Without the Headache

A strong password acts like a secret formula—known only to you—and should be complex enough to withstand cracking tools. Here’s what a secure password should include:

At least 14 characters (longer is better)
A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
Numbers and symbols (like @, %, or &)
No common words or easily guessed details (names, birthdays, the word “password”)

Rather than relying on a single word, consider using a passphrase—a short, memorable sentence that’s difficult to guess but easy to recall. For example, instead of “Sailing2025,” a more secure choice would be “Coffee&CloudsAreGreat9!”

Common Password Mistakes to Avoid

Using personal information (names, birthdays, company names)
Reusing the same password across multiple accounts
Relying on simple sequences like “123456” or “abcdef”
Writing passwords down where others can find them (e.g., sticky notes)

Simplify with a Password Manager

If the idea of remembering a unique password for every account feels overwhelming, consider using a password manager. These tools:

Generate strong, unique passwords
Store them securely in encrypted vaults
Autofill login credentials when needed

You only need to remember one strong master password—the manager handles the rest.

Don’t Forget Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Even the strongest password isn’t enough on its own. That’s why multi-factor authentication (MFA) is essential. MFA adds a second layer of protection—typically a one-time code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app—to verify your identity.

Build a Strong Password Policy for Your Team

If your employees have access to business systems, having a formal password policy in place is a smart move. It should cover:

Unique passwords for each account or system
Regular employee training on password best practices
Mandatory MFA for sensitive accounts
Routine scans for compromised credentials

Final Thoughts

Password security isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a critical part of your business’s overall risk management. By implementing strong practices and educating your team, you significantly reduce the chance of a cyberattack.

Need help securing your systems or building a company-wide password policy? We’re here to help.

Ransomware Attacks: Why Modern Backup Systems Are Essential

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 22:52:33 GMT

Ransomware is one of the most significant cyber threats facing businesses today. This type of attack occurs when cybercriminals infiltrate a system, encrypt critical files, and demand a ransom—often in cryptocurrency—in exchange for the decryption key. However, even if a business pays the ransom, there is no guarantee that the data will be restored.

A robust backup system is one of the most effective defenses against ransomware, ensuring that businesses can recover their data without having to negotiate with cybercriminals. However, not all backup solutions provide the same level of protection, and many companies are unknowingly relying on outdated or vulnerable systems.

Why Traditional Backups May Not Be Enough

Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and many older backup solutions were not designed to withstand modern ransomware threats. Businesses relying on legacy backup systems face three key risks:

1. Targeted Backup Attacks

Attackers know that backups are a company’s last line of defense, making them a primary target . If a backup system lacks the necessary security measures, hackers can encrypt or delete backup files, leaving businesses with no recovery options.

2. Lack of Encryption

Encryption is a crucial security measure that protects data by making it unreadable to unauthorized users. Without encryption, backup files are vulnerable to tampering , which can compromise data integrity. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of businesses report that their backup data remains unencrypted.

3. Backup Failures

Outdated backup systems often fail at the worst possible moment —during data restoration. If a backup system is unreliable, businesses may face extended downtime, costly data recovery efforts, or even permanent data loss following an attack.

Strengthening Your Backup Strategy Against Ransomware

To effectively combat ransomware threats, businesses must adopt modern backup solutions that offer advanced security features. One of the most effective strategies is implementing immutable storage , which prevents backup data from being altered or deleted—regardless of whether an attacker gains system access.

Immutable backups are built on a Zero Trust security model, which assumes that no user or system should be trusted by default. Every access request is verified, and permissions are strictly controlled, ensuring that critical data remains secure even in the event of a breach.

Ransomware Attacks Are Evolving—Is Your Backup System Keeping Up?

As ransomware tactics become more advanced, businesses must ensure their backup strategies evolve accordingly. A strong, modern backup system is no longer optional—it is a critical component of cybersecurity.

If you're unsure whether your current backup system is providing adequate protection, we can help. Contact us today to assess your backup strategy and implement the most effective solutions for your business.

The Hidden Threat of Corrupted Email Attachments

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 22:47:25 GMT

Cybercriminals are constantly refining their tactics to bypass security measures, and a new phishing technique involving corrupted Microsoft Word files is now on the rise. Even the most advanced email security filters can struggle to detect these threats, making it easier for malicious attachments to reach unsuspecting users.

How the Scam Works

Phishing scams are designed to trick users into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details. These attacks often arrive in the form of emails that appear to be from trusted sources , such as colleagues, suppliers, or financial institutions.

A common phishing tactic involves sending an email with an attachment—often a Word document—that appears to be an invoice, a contract, or a legitimate business request. However, these corrupted files are intentionally structured in a way that prevents security filters from scanning them effectively. Once opened, Microsoft Word attempts to "repair" the document, displaying what looks like a normal file.

Hidden within the document, however, is a malicious QR code or link that redirects users to a phishing site—frequently a fake Microsoft 365 login page. Entering login credentials on this site gives hackers access to business accounts, potentially exposing sensitive customer data, financial records, or internal communications.

The Consequences of a Single Compromise

Once cybercriminals gain access to just one employee’s account, the risks escalate rapidly:

Data breaches – Sensitive company and customer data may be exposed or stolen.
Business disruption – Attackers can lock employees out of essential files and cloud systems.
Further phishing attacks – Hackers can send deceptive emails from a compromised account, targeting colleagues or business contacts.
Financial and legal repercussions – Data theft or ransomware attacks can result in significant financial losses and regulatory penalties.

The impact of a successful phishing attack can be devastating, not only in terms of immediate financial harm but also in long-term damage to a company’s reputation.

How to Stay Protected

Cyber threats are evolving, but businesses can mitigate risk by fostering a security-first culture . The most effective defense against phishing is awareness and caution . Here are key steps to protect your organization:

Pause before opening attachments or clicking links – Verify the source before taking action.
Be wary of urgent requests – Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt impulsive decisions.
Confirm legitimacy – If an email seems suspicious, contact the sender directly to verify its authenticity.
Never assume legitimacy based on appearance – Phishing emails often mimic professional branding and formatting.
Educate employees on cybersecurity best practices – Regular training sessions help staff recognize and respond to phishing attempts effectively.

Proactive measures, combined with employee awareness, are essential for safeguarding business data and operations. If you need expert guidance on phishing prevention and cybersecurity training, reach out to us today.

Are Your Employees Your Biggest Cybersecurity Risk?

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 22:42:37 GMT

Cybersecurity is a critical component of protecting your business, but even the most advanced security measures can be compromised if employees unknowingly create vulnerabilities. While many organizations invest in strong passwords, firewalls, and software updates, human error remains one of the most significant threats to data security.

The Risks of Employee Cybersecurity Practices

With the rise of remote work, employees frequently use personal devices—phones, tablets, and laptops—for business purposes. Research indicates that four out of five employees rely on their personal devices for work-related tasks. However, these devices often lack the security protocols found on company-managed systems, leaving them exposed to cyber threats such as weak passwords, outdated software, and unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Further compounding the issue, two out of five employees admit to downloading customer data onto personal devices , creating additional risks of data exposure. Even more concerning, more than 65% of employees report that they only follow cybersecurity guidelines “sometimes” or “never.” This includes behaviors such as:

Forwarding work emails to personal accounts
Using personal devices as Wi-Fi hotspots for work
Ignoring guidelines when handling sensitive data with AI tools

Password management is another widespread issue. Nearly half of employees use the same passwords across multiple work accounts , and over a third use identical passwords for both personal and professional accounts. If a hacker gains access to an employee’s personal social media account, they may be able to infiltrate business systems using the same credentials.

Strengthening Cybersecurity Through Employee Education

To mitigate these risks, organizations must prioritize cybersecurity awareness and education. Most security breaches occur not because of intentional rule-breaking, but due to a lack of understanding. Employees must be made aware that small habits—such as reusing passwords or working over public Wi-Fi—can significantly compromise business security.

Key strategies to enhance employee cybersecurity practices include:

Implementing password managers to generate strong, unique passwords for each work account
Requiring access to company systems only on approved, secure devices
Prohibiting the forwarding of work emails to personal accounts
Providing regular cybersecurity training to reinforce best practices and keep employees informed about emerging threats

Encouraging employees to actively participate in cybersecurity efforts can turn them into the organization’s first line of defense rather than its weakest link. Recognizing and rewarding employees who adhere to security protocols—such as identifying phishing attempts or safeguarding sensitive information—can help foster a security-conscious workplace culture.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By equipping employees with the right knowledge and tools, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches and protect their sensitive information from cyber threats.

For expert guidance on employee cybersecurity training and risk management, contact us today.

Unlocking Your Potential with Microsoft Copilot

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:59:33 GMT

In today's fast-paced business environment, efficiency and productivity are paramount. Imagine having an assistant that never gets tired, never misses a detail, and can help with everything from drafting emails to organizing meetings. This is the promise of Microsoft Copilot, a smart, AI-driven tool integrated into the Microsoft apps you already use.

What Is Microsoft Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is an AI-powered assistant embedded within the Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, Teams, and more. It's designed to handle time-consuming tasks that often slow down teams, allowing you to focus on more important aspects of your work. The best part is that you don't need to be tech-savvy to use it—if you're familiar with Microsoft Office applications, you can seamlessly incorporate Copilot into your workflow.

How Does Copilot Work?

Copilot operates within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem to provide real-time assistance as you work. Here's how it enhances your productivity:

In Word: Assists in drafting reports, creating outlines, and suggesting edits to improve your writing.
In Excel: Helps analyze data, generate charts, and even create complex formulas.
In Teams: Summarizes meeting discussions, highlights key decisions, and notes action items.
In Outlook: Summarizes lengthy email threads and suggests responses to streamline communication.

Benefits of Using Copilot

Seamless Integration

One of the standout features of Copilot is its seamless integration into software you're already using. There's no need for complicated installations or extensive training sessions. Because it's built into Microsoft 365, your team can start using it immediately with minimal disruption. It works across devices, so whether you're in the office or on the go, Copilot is readily accessible.

Simplifying Daily Tasks

Routine tasks like sorting through emails or organizing meetings can consume a significant portion of your day. Copilot automates these tasks by summarizing long email chains, suggesting responses, and helping organize your schedule. This allows you to focus on tasks that truly require your attention and expertise.

Enhancing Collaboration

During collaborative efforts, especially meetings, keeping track of everything can be challenging. Copilot addresses this by summarizing entire meetings in Teams, capturing key points, decisions, and tasks. It ensures that everyone stays on the same page and helps in planning the next steps without missing any critical details.

Boosting Creativity

Starting a new document or presentation can sometimes be daunting. Copilot assists by generating first drafts or outlines based on your prompts. This feature helps overcome writer's block, allowing you to quickly move forward with your projects and add your personal touch during the refinement process.

Making a Difference in Your Business

By integrating Copilot into your daily operations, you can create a more productive, efficient, and creative workplace. It not only handles administrative tasks but also empowers you and your team to unlock your full potential. With Copilot handling the groundwork, you can dedicate more time to strategic thinking and innovation.

Conclusion

Microsoft Copilot represents a significant advancement in how we interact with technology in the workplace. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with familiar tools and simplify complex tasks makes it a valuable asset for any business looking to enhance productivity and collaboration. By leveraging Copilot, you can focus on what truly matters—driving your business forward.

Cyber extortion: What is it and what’s the risk to your business?

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 22:04:23 GMT

Cyber extortion is a topic that's been making headlines and causing sleepless nights for many. Is it something that's on your radar? It should be, because it could affect your business one day.

So, what is cyber extortion? It's a type of cybercrime where criminals threaten to harm your business by compromising its data and digital assets unless a ransom is paid. These threats often involve ransomware, a malicious software that encrypts your data, making it inaccessible until you pay the ransom. Sometimes, cyber criminals go a step further by stealing data and threatening to release it publicly on dark web leak sites if their demands aren't met, a dual threat known as double extortion.

According to a 2024 report, the number of victims of cyber extortion scams has skyrocketed by 77% over the past year. What’s more, small businesses are four times more likely to be targeted compared to larger counterparts. This is a worrying trend, especially since smaller businesses often have fewer resources to defend against these attacks. In the first quarter of this year alone, 1,046 businesses fell victim to double extortion. While that number may not seem huge, the actual figure is likely much higher since many cases go unreported, hiding in the shadows of what experts call the “dark number.”

The truth is, all businesses, regardless of size or industry, are potential targets. However, certain sectors are more frequently attacked. Manufacturing, professional, scientific, and technical services, as well as wholesale trade, top the list. Alarmingly, the healthcare and social assistance sectors are also seeing a significant rise in attacks, despite the potential societal and political repercussions. Cyber criminals are opportunistic and strategic, targeting regions with strong economic growth and shared languages. For instance, cyber extortion attacks in the US have increased by 108%.

While the rise in cyber extortion is concerning, there are steps you can take to protect your business. Here are some key strategies:

Back up your data: Ensure you have a robust backup plan, keeping your critical data in an offline or offsite location, and regularly test your backup restoration process.
Keep software updated: Make sure all your devices use the latest software, especially those connected to the internet.
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen your access controls with MFA, adding an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification before access is granted. Also, limit user access to only the systems they need for their job.
Patch and vulnerability management: Regularly update your systems to fix any security vulnerabilities. Cyber criminals often exploit known weaknesses, so staying on top of patches can prevent many attacks.

By understanding what cyber extortion is and how it works, you can better prepare your business to defend against it. The key is to be proactive. If we can help prepare your business and keep it safe, get in touch.

Ransomware threats are surging – here’s how to protect your business

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 16:30:00 GMT

Imagine waking up one morning, turning on your computer, and finding that all your important files—customer data, financial records, and more—are completely inaccessible. Then, a menacing message appears, demanding a ransom to unlock your data. This is ransomware, a type of malicious software that seizes your data and holds it hostage. It often begins with an innocent-looking email or link, luring you into a trap.

This deceptive tactic is known as a phishing email, where the sender seems legitimate but is actually a cybercriminal. Once you click on the link or open the attachment, malicious software is silently installed on your system, and the attackers swiftly begin their work.

They encrypt your files, rendering them inaccessible, and then demand a ransom in exchange for a decryption key. Paying the ransom is highly risky because there's no guarantee you'll regain access to your data, and it only encourages further attacks.

The year 2023 saw a significant surge in ransomware attacks, following a two-year decline. Reports indicate a dramatic increase in ransomware incidents, breaking a six-year record.

One major factor behind this spike is the emergence of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), a model that allows cybercriminals to "rent" ransomware tools, making it easier than ever to launch attacks.

Consequently, more businesses are finding themselves listed on data leak sites, with a 75% increase in victims between 2022 and 2023.

To make matters worse, attackers are becoming more sophisticated. They develop new variants of existing ransomware, share resources, and exploit legitimate tools for malicious purposes. They also act quickly, often deploying ransomware within 48 hours of gaining access to a network, and tend to strike outside of work hours to avoid detection.

A ransomware attack can have devastating consequences for your business. The financial losses can be substantial, not just from the ransom itself but also from downtime and recovery costs. You risk losing critical data if decryption is not possible, and your reputation could suffer if customers learn their information was compromised. Additionally, your business operations could be severely disrupted, impacting your ability to serve clients.

So, how can you protect your business from this growing threat?

Educate Your Team: Ensure everyone knows how to recognize phishing emails and avoid suspicious links and attachments.
Regular Backups: Frequently back up your critical data and store those backups securely offline.
Keep Systems Updated: Maintain up-to-date software and systems with the latest security patches, and invest in robust security tools.
Limit Data Access: Only grant employees access to the information necessary for their jobs.
Monitor Network Activity: Keep an eye on your network for unusual activity and have a rapid response plan for incidents.

If your business does fall victim to a ransomware attack, stay calm and seek assistance from cybersecurity experts like us to resolve the issue.

Remember, it’s best not to pay the ransom, as it only fuels further criminal activity.

Our team specializes in helping businesses take proactive measures to safeguard their data. If you need assistance, please get in touch with West Coast IT.

Now Copilot’s going to make your team work better together

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:24:18 GMT

Have you heard about Team Copilot yet? It’s the latest addition to Microsoft’s suite of AI tools and should be available later this year.

Think of Team Copilot as an advanced, AI-powered assistant designed to help your team work better together. While Microsoft’s 365 Copilot has been a personal assistant for individual tasks like drafting emails or recapping missed meetings, Team Copilot takes it to the next level by focusing on group activities.

There are three main ways Team Copilot can help your team:

1. Meeting facilitator

During a Teams video call, Team Copilot can take notes that everyone in the meeting can see and edit. It can also create follow-up tasks, track time for each agenda item, and assist with in-person or hybrid meetings when used with Teams Rooms.

2. Group text chat assistant

In group text chats within Teams, Copilot can summarize lengthy conversations to highlight the most important information. It can also answer questions from the group, making it easier to stay on track and informed without wading through pages (and pages and pages) of chat history.

3. Project manager

Team Copilot can help manage projects by creating tasks and goals within Microsoft’s Planner app. It can assign these tasks to team members and even complete some tasks itself, like drafting a blog post. It will notify team members when their input is needed.

You know that productivity isn’t just about individual work. It’s also about effective teamwork. So, by helping with group-oriented tasks, Team Copilot can make big improvements to your overall productivity. It’s important to note that while Team Copilot is incredibly helpful, it doesn’t replace the role of a human meeting facilitator. It won’t lead meetings or ensure inclusivity, but it will create agendas, track time, take notes, and share files. It’s more of a business insights assistant, helping with group interactions and meetings rather than censoring comments or keeping people in line. But hey, who knows what’s to come in future!

Team Copilot will be available in preview later this year for Microsoft 365 customers with a Copilot subscription. While it’s a work in progress, the potential it has to transform team productivity is huge.

Keep an eye out for its release and think about how it could fit into your workflow to boost your team’s productivity. If you have any questions or need further assistance in understanding how Copilot can benefit your business, get in touch.

Cyber security training once a year isn’t working

Wed, 08 May 2024 17:33:21 GMT

We all know how important it is to keep our people up-to-date on the latest cyber threats. After all, with cyber attacks on the rise, staying one step ahead is crucial to protect your business from potential breaches.

But here’s the thing – annual cyber security training just isn’t cutting it anymore.

Sure, it’s become a routine part of the calendar for many organizations. And it’s great that it’s happening at all. But ask any security leader, and they’ll tell you… employees find it time-consuming and uninspiring. From clicking through slides to skimming through videos at double-speed, it’s usually seen as just another box to check.

And let’s be honest, even for those who do engage with the training, there’s little evidence it leads to real behavior change.

That’s because the traditional approach lacks interactivity and doesn’t connect with employees on a personal level. It’s more about checking boxes than building a culture of cyber security vigilance.

Guess what? There’s a better way. It’s all about small, regular, human-centric interventions. Think of it like the speed signs you see when you’re driving. They remind people to stop and think before they engage in risky behavior. Just as the signs work for driving, this kind of training makes your employees more aware of what they’re clicking.

By nudging employees toward safer decisions in real-time, we can help them develop better cyber hygiene habits without overwhelming them with information overload. It’s about empowering them to make smarter choices every day.

And with the amount of Generative AI and third-party tools we’re surrounded with right now, it’s more important than ever to give employees the guidance they need to navigate potential risks. Whether it’s through real-time coaching or policy reminders, we can help employees understand the importance of safeguarding sensitive data.

So, while there may be a place for annual training, it’s time to think about using a more proactive approach to cyber security education.

This is something we can help you with. If you want to learn more, get in touch.

Why you’re better in a contract with your IT company

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:15:00 GMT

Imagine you're driving down a winding road in the middle of nowhere. Suddenly, your car breaks down. You're stuck, miles from assistance. You feel helpless. Frantically searching for a solution.

This scenario isn't too different from the world of IT support when you rely on what’s known as a break/fix relationship with your provider (when your IT is broken, they fix it. And that’s it; there’s no proactive work).

But what if there was a way to ensure a smoother journey?

That's where the magic of having a contract with your IT support provider comes in. Think of it as having a trusted mechanic who not only fixes your car but actually prevents breakdowns in the first place.

Whether you run a bustling corporation or a small startup, entering into a contract with your IT support provider is the smart, cost-effective way to ensure a smoother tech journey.

The break/fix conundrum

When your computers crash, your network goes haywire, or your software refuses to cooperate, it's not just a minor inconvenience – it's a potential storm on the horizon that could disrupt everything you do.

For many business owners, the traditional "break/fix" model has been their long-term go-to solution. This approach involves calling in IT support only when something goes wrong – when you're already in trouble.

While the break/fix approach may have served its purpose in the past, tech needs have grown more complex. We’re facing more cyber threats, software vulnerabilities, and rapidly evolving technologies than ever before. Relying on a 100% reactive strategy can leave you vulnerable to costly downtime, data breaches, and customer dissatisfaction.

Let's take a closer look at the pitfalls of the break/fix approach.

Downtime

When a critical IT issue arises, you're forced to wait for help to kick in, often leading to significant downtime. Every minute your systems are down, your business is losing money and potentially damaging its reputation.

unpredictable costs

Break/fix support comes with unpredictable costs. You can't anticipate when problems will occur or how much they’ll cost to fix. This unpredictability can wreak havoc on your budget.

Data loss

Data loss is a nightmare for any business. Relying on break/fix means you're at risk of losing valuable data if a problem escalates before anyone can start helping .

No familiarity

In this model, your IT support provider is like a distant relative you only hear from when things go south. They may not fully understand your business needs and goals or even be up to date on your current setup, which can really hold back effective problem-solving .

Security Vulnerabilities

Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Relying on a reactive approach may leave your systems vulnerable to attacks, as you may not get timely security updates or patches.

A contracted Partnership

Now, imagine a different scenario: one where your IT support partner is more than just a trouble shooter. They are your trusted ally, always vigilant and prepared for the storm before it hits. This is the essence of contracted IT support, and it's achieved through a structured agreement that allows a close, ongoing relationship with your IT partner.

In a contracted IT support model, your IT support partner isn’t just waiting for problems to surface; they are actively monitoring your IT infrastructure, looking for the first signs of trouble.

Here's how this contracted approach works in your favor.

Early problem detection

With a contract in place, your IT support partner actively monitors your systems and networks. They use advanced tools and technology to spot irregularities, potential vulnerabilities, and signs of impending trouble.

Swift intervention

When a potential issue is detected, your IT support partner jumps into action immediately. They don't wait for you to report a problem; they proactively address it, often before you're even aware it exists.

Reduced downtime

By addressing issues early, proactive IT support significantly reduces downtime. You no longer have to wait for a major problem to disrupt your operations before seeking help.

Cost savings

While proactive IT support comes with a contract and a regular fee, it can save you money in the long run. By preventing major IT disasters, you avoid the hefty costs associated with extensive repairs and data recovery.

Enhanced security

Cyber threats are getting more sophisticated. Cyber criminals are constantly devising new ways to breach your defenses. Proactive IT support ensures that your systems are up to date with the latest security patches and that your network is actively monitored for potential threats.

In a contract, your IT support partner becomes intimately familiar with your business. They take the time to understand your specific needs, goals, and operational processes. This deep knowledge enables them to provide personalized support that aligns with your objectives.

Your IT support partner can tailor solutions to your unique requirements, enhancing your efficiency and productivity.

With a clear understanding of your business goals, they can help you strategize for the future, recommending technology investments and improvements that fit with your long-term vision.

And as your business grows, your IT support partner can easily scale your technology infrastructure to accommodate increased demands, making sure your systems keep pace with your expansion.

They don't just wait for problems to arise; they actively consult with you to identify opportunities for improvement and optimization.

Move beyond a transactional relationship

With the break/fix model, your interactions with IT support can often feel transactional. It's a "call when you need help" scenario, with little room for developing a deeper understanding of your business's unique needs and goals.

In contrast, a contract-based IT support model creates a partnership where your IT team becomes an extension of your business.

Your IT support partner takes the time to get to know your business inside and out. They learn about your processes, workflows, and objectives, allowing them to offer solutions that are tailor-made for your specific requirements.

With a contract in place, you have a direct line to your IT experts. There's no need to navigate through a maze of automated systems or wait for hours on hold. Your IT partner is just a phone call or email away, ready to assist you promptly.

Your IT experts become your trusted advisors. They can guide you on technology decisions, help you stay ahead of industry trends, and recommend answers that are cost effective and fit with your business's growth strategy.

Instead of waiting for IT issues to arise, your IT support partner actively collaborates with you. They seek opportunities to optimize your technology infrastructure, improve efficiency, and ensure that your systems are always performing at their best.

Stay one step ahead

One of the greatest benefits of a partnership with your IT support is the ability to engage in predictive maintenance. This means addressing potential issues before they have a chance to disrupt your operations.

Imagine your IT support partner as your business's healthcare provider. They conduct regular check-ups (system assessments) and provide preventive care (software updates, security patches) to keep your business in peak condition. This proactive approach minimizes downtime, reduces the risk of data loss, and ensures your technology is always running smoothly.

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, becoming more sophisticated and pervasive. In this environment, a reactive approach to security can leave you vulnerable to potentially devastating breaches.

With a contract-based IT support model, you gain access to a robust security shield that can safeguard your digital fortress in several ways:

Updates and patches

Your IT support partner keeps your systems up to date with the latest security patches and software updates. This reduces vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.

Threat monitoring

Continuous network monitoring is a hallmark of proactive IT support. Suspicious activities are identified and addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of a breach.

Security awareness

Your IT experts educate your team about best practices for security. This empowers your employees to recognize and respond to potential threats, such as phishing attempts.

Incident response

In the unfortunate event of a security breach, your IT support partner is well-prepared to respond swiftly, minimizing damage and aiding in recovery.

Compliance with regulations

For many businesses, compliance with industry regulations and data protection laws is also important. Non-compliance can result in severe financial penalties and reputational damage. A contract-based IT support model can help you stay compliant by sticking to appropriate standards, encrypting data, and even carrying out audits.

The bottom linE

One of the primary challenges of the break/fix approach is the unpredictability of costs. When you rely on calling IT support only when things go wrong, you're essentially playing a financial guessing game. You can never be sure when a major issue will strike or how much it will cost to resolve.

With a contract-based IT support model, you say farewell to these financial uncertainties. You pay a fixed, monthly fee that covers all your IT support including the routine proactive work and fixes. This predictability allows you to budget effectively, allocate resources wisely, and avoid unpleasant financial surprises.

At first glance, a contract might appear more expensive than the occasional break/fix bill. But it’s not. Think of the bigger picture:

Preventive maintenance

By addressing issues proactively, your IT support team helps you avoid costly emergency repairs and data recovery expenses.

Reduced downtime

Less downtime translates to more productive work hours, ultimately increasing your revenue potential.

Extended hardware lifespan

Predictive maintenance extends the life of your hardware, reducing the frequency of expensive replacements.

Security savings

Timely security measures and threat prevention can save you from the financial and reputational costs of a data breach.

When you add up these factors, a contract-based model is always the more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Running a successful business requires your undivided attention. Dealing with IT issues on a case-by-case basis can be a distraction. A big one. Choosing a contract-based IT support model allows you to focus on your core business activities while your IT experts handle the technical aspects for you.

This increased focus can lead to greater efficiency, growth, and profitability, as you're no longer bogged down by IT-related interruptions and headaches.

So, are you ready to:
• Better protect your data
• Make things run more smoothly
• And save money… at the same time?

We’d love to talk. Get in touch.

The little things that make a big difference

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 17:18:16 GMT

Microsoft’s made another update to Windows 11, and while it’s a small one, it could make a big impact. We have all the details of what’s changing.

Microsoft's latest Windows 11 update has dropped, and it's got a small change that could make a big difference to you and your team.

Microsoft has given Copilot, its handy AI assistant, a new place on the taskbar. No more hunting around for the button. Now it sits on the far right of the taskbar, in what we tech folks call the ‘system tray area’.

If Copilot isn't your thing, no worries. You can easily remove it from the taskbar altogether. But having an AI assistant at your fingertips can be a real boost for productivity, so we’d recommend you give it a chance before giving it the boot.

Before you rush to check if your Copilot button has relocated, let's talk details.

First off, this update has been rolling out over the last few weeks.

It’s known as Patch KB5034765 (catchy name) and isn't just about moving buttons around. It's also packed with important security and bug fixes, including a crucial one for Explorer.exe. This was causing some PCs to freeze up when restarting with a game controller attached.

Probably not an issue in your business, but you never know…

There was also a problem with slow announcements from Narrator, the screen reading tool. That’s been fixed.

While this Windows 11 update may seem like small fry, it's these little tweaks that can really streamline your workflow and stop your team from being interrupted by problems while they work.

Has your business switched over to Windows 11 yet? Our team can look at your setup and advise whether you’d benefit from upgrading, or you should stay on Windows 10.

Get in touch and ask us for a tech audit.

Wouldn’t it be great if…

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:57:03 GMT

How to start planning a big IT project.

All good things must come to an end.

Desktop machines that were once shiny and new are now bulky, outdated and slow.

That system that revolutionized your office when it was first installed, now feels like it’s fighting you at every turn. It’s been tinkered with, had extra bits stuck onto it and it’s been modified to do things it was never designed to do. And in this interconnected world, where all your systems should be talking to each other? It just won’t play nicely with others.

It’s time.

But a major change to your IT infrastructure isn’t something to be planned in a hurry. So if you’re starting to think about ending it with your current systems and bringing your business into the 2020s, there’s plenty to think about before you commit to another long-term relationship.

We’ve written this guide to be your friend as you start the process of planning for a change.

How do you determine your needs?
Who should you involve?
What haven’t you thought of?
Where do you even start?

That bit, at least, is easy. You start right here…

Understand. Define. Think ahead

You’re thinking about making a major investment – of time, money, effort and headspace. So take proper time now to understand how you got to this point. Is it solely about IT, or are there issues around process or workflow? Are there even steps in your workflow that only exist as a workaround for something your current system can’t do?

You need to define everything you’d like the upgrade to achieve. And think beyond solving the immediate problem to what your ideal solution could deliver. Write down all your “Wouldn’t it be great if…” questions.

Upgrading your IT isn’t necessarily about buying a newer, more powerful version of what you’ve already got.

It might well be that simple. But this could also be an opportunity to align your thinking with your wider plans for the business. If one department has outgrown an old system, think how a new solution could scale for where you want to be in two, three, five years’ time. Could several different databases be merged into a single 'source of truth’ allowing every department to be connected and processes to be streamlined?

This may not be a today thing. But what happens as you grow? If departments merge, offices close? Will more people be working from home? Will they need access from different places? What devices will they be using? How much more data will you be processing? And where will it be stored? Can your systems cope then?

Should you move to the cloud?

Modern cloud-based solutions mean you won’t be paying for a bunch of unused capacity straight away – you pay for what you need and then step up as you grow.

This can introduce new ways of buying software and systems, often by regular subscription. Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS) are becoming the norm in many industries, and remove a lot of in-house management.

But that also means thinking differently – and more seriously – about your security and your wider processes. How do your people communicate with each other? How easily can they access the information they need? How secure is it?

What if you go under a bus?

It might be your end goal to exit the business, or to be less involved in day-to-day operations. So what would happen if you weren’t here? If everything currently falls apart when you’re not around, look at systems and workflows that keep running when you’re not there to sort things out – for any reason.

Keep it simple, document everything

It's quite common for businesses to want to over-customize their infrastructure. Many businesses really do need something fully bespoke. Others end up with a setup that’s far too complex because they want to shoe-horn a new system into a familiar way of doing things. Often, the latest solutions offer surprising productivity benefits – but you may need to be prepared to flex the way you work to get the best out of them.

Use this opportunity to embed logical process improvements. And document everything. This will help save time and resource as you work through any teething issues, and it can form the basis of staff training.

Research, research, research

There's a vast range of possibilities on the market. The rise of SaaS (Software as a Service) is adding even more choice, and finding the right solution can be overwhelming.

This is where expert advice and contacts in your network come into their own. Listen to recommendations and speak to an IT professional with wide expertise. How well is the software supported and routinely updated? How easily does it integrate with other solutions? Is there an alternative option that you haven’t even considered?

Many software solutions offer a free trial period. This allows you to see how it works in practice, but will also give you a good idea of the support and communication you’ll receive before making a long-term commitment. Because if you do find that a solution doesn’t do everything you’d hoped, you’ll start to introduce those clunky workarounds again and eventually end up back at square one.

Plan your data migration

If you’re switching from an old system to a new one, plan for how you will transfer your existing data – it’s usually not a simple export/import. Make sure your backups are intact, and have an emergency roll-back plan so that you can quickly get back to where you were and keep working if an implementation doesn’t go smoothly.

Have an implementation and training plan

Have training sessions with your new applications, and make sure everyone understands why the change is happening. It’s common for people to be resistant to new ways of working.

You could have a trainer come to your premises, or use online sessions via video call or interactive training courses.

Choose the right experts from the get-go

Whether you know exactly what you need, or you don’t know where to start, the right experts will support you all the way.

A professional who does this every day won’t see this as the daunting prospect it might feel like to you. They’ll foresee issues before they arise and take the weight of responsibility off your shoulders.

Look for a provider who’s done this before with similar-sized businesses. Someone who’ll take the time to understand the level of customization and personalization required, and will think about your overall needs.

And find somebody you like.

Every provider will tell you how great they are, but there may be many different ways of answering the same question. So explore your options. Get to know them, and ask to speak to their current clients.

If they do a standout job, they could become an IT partner you’ll be working with for a long time. If they leave you feeling let down, you’re unlikely to want to work with them again.

Talk to us

If you’re considering any IT project and want to speak to a professional, talk to us first.

We specialize in lots of areas and work across a whole range of different solutions.

And if we think you need a specialist who’s not on our team? We have access to a whole network of experts, so we can introduce people who’ll deliver the best outcome for you.

Get in touch today.

3 Important reasons to use MFA in your business

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 15:56:24 GMT

All businesses should adopt MFA. Now

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 15:05:36 GMT

If you haven’t upgraded your security, you could be making life far too easy for an intruder.

If a criminal knew where you lived, and could easily steal the keys from your pocket, it wouldn’t be a lot of work for them to steal things from your home.

But imagine if you kept your keys in a massive locked safe. And not just any safe…

A safe that can only be accessed with a security code
A code that changes all the time
You can only access the code from a secure phone app
Which needs your fingerprint or face to verify that it’s really you

You’ve now put your keys behind layers of extra security, making that criminal’s life a whole lot harder.

What you’ve used here is called Multi-Factor Authentication, also known as MFA. And it has become the standard way to protect your business’s data.

Cyber criminals use increasingly sophisticated techniques to bypass security. So the more barriers you put in their way, the harder you make it for them to break into your systems.

A cyber attack on a small business can be devastating. What would the consequences be for your business if your customers’ private information was stolen and held to ransom?

Can you imagine making that phone call to tell them what’s happened?

That’s why it’s vital to think seriously about how best to protect the information you hold, and about the data your team members are able to access. Along with good staff training, MFA is one of the strongest security tools available.

But how does MFA work in practice? And what does it actually mean for your business?

Here’s everything you need to know.

Single-Factor Authentication is not enough. An application, account, or system requires you to authenticate your identity using just one piece of ‘evidence’. Usually, this is your password.

Two-Factor Authentication, also called 2-step verification, is better. 2FA requires you to identify yourself using two different factors, such as a password plus a single-use code that’s sent to your phone. 2FA is a form of MFA.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is similar to 2FA, but requires two or more identifiers, with a view to providing the greatest security.

MFA might use three types of authentication factor:

Knowledge Something you know, like a password or the answer to a question
Possession Something you have, like a USB key or token
Inherence Something you are, like your biometrics (this could be facial recognition or a fingerprint)

Which is the right solution for you?

Theoretically MFA is the most secure solution, especially for a business. However, MFA is still only as strong as the authentication methods you choose. And if it’s not implemented in the right way, it can create unintended issues.

For instance, MFA’s layered approach to security is what makes it strong. But too many layers can add ‘friction’ to the log in process. Make your people jump through too many hoops to do what they need to do, and there’s a chance that they’ll just stop using it. And if people start using their personal email addresses because it’s too much of a pain to log in at work? That’s the opposite of solid security.

So a good MFA solution should be unobtrusive and will adapt to different situations. For instance it could be set up to apply different levels of authentication depending on the nature of each login attempt. So it may link team members to their trusted devices. If that matches what’s usual, great. Only if it’s an unrecognized device, or it seems suspicious, will it ask for further information.

Why is it so important for you?

Many small businesses simply don’t survive a successful cyber attack. In particular, the impact, disruption and cost of ransomware attacks can devastate your chances of survival.

But implementing MFA can prevent the vast majority of these attacks.

According to Microsoft, MFA prevents 99.9% of automated assaults on its platforms, websites, and online services. It also found that MFA wasn’t implemented by 99.9% of accounts that had been hacked.

Those numbers speak for themselves. Here are our top 6 reasons to adopt MFA in your business today.

It can protect your business from weak passwords

We talk about this all the time – weak employee passwords simply won’t cut it.

But a recent study showed that still, passwords like ‘123456’ and ‘Passw0rd’ are amongst the most commonly used. Aargh!

Weak passwords open the door to all kinds of data breaches. ‘Password-dumper’ malware, which steals login credentials from victims’ devices, was involved in a third of malware-related data breaches in 2020. And 80% of hacking-related breaches involved passwords in some way.

MFA prevents this. Because while cyber criminals may still try to steal your password, they are less likely to have access to your second and third factors of authentication – such as your fingerprint.

It prevents other methods of password theft

Even if a criminal can't break into your network to steal passwords, they have other methods that are equally successful. ‘Phishing’ attacks trick victims into giving away sensitive information using scam emails, SMS, or phone calls. And ‘pharming’ involves redirecting a website’s traffic to a fake site, run by the criminals, where they steal data or install malware.

So even if you're tricked into entering credentials in this way, the fraudsters still won't be able to access your accounts without another form of authentication. And you'll be alerted to the fact you've been scammed a lot sooner, as you won't be presented with the authentication stage of the login process.

It makes using unmanaged devices more secure

Ideally, all your remote and hybrid workers will be working on secure devices and internet connections, using security that’s managed by your IT professional. But be honest – how many times have you logged into your email account at the weekend using your personal laptop?

It might feel harmless, but it could allow an intruder to not only access your unmanaged device, but also your router, and eventually the company network.

If you use MFA you can be less concerned about a cyber criminal gaining access in this way, thanks to the additional layers of security.

It allows your other security tools to perform properly

If a criminal steals over-simple login credentials, they can bypass antivirus software and firewalls in the same way that an authorized employee could – with a bit of knowledge. This allows them to disarm your security and wreak havoc, all without you noticing anything is amiss.

With MFA in place, this can't happen. Cyber criminals can't use stolen credentials to access your network, because they don't have the ability to pass these second and even third identity checks.

MFA can also act as an alert that your accounts are at risk. If someone attempts to log in, you'll receive a secondary authorization prompt that you didn't request. This can be immediately reported to ensure everything is safe and sound.

It keeps you compliant

When you handle and store sensitive data, your business must comply with local laws that state you need strong authentication processes in place. MFA is a strong tool to keep the private data of customers, suppliers, and employees out of the wrong hands.

It can save a lot of stress

There's always something to worry about as a business owner. Putting strong security measures like MFA in place can take a lot of weight off your shoulders. You can stop worrying about cyber scams, unauthorized devices connecting to your network, and weak passwords.

Better still, there’s less chance of an employee making an innocent mistake and revealing their credentials to a fake login site (we still highly recommend regular cyber security awareness training though!)

You can worry less about downtime caused by a cyber incident, as well as the huge costs involved with dealing with it.

And you can relax about safely offering your people the flexibility to work remotely.

MFA isn't the answer to all your cyber security prayers. But it slams the door on the majority of today’s cyber crimes. So if you don't already have it enabled across your network and its systems, you might be leaving that door open to a cyber attack at any time.

MFA solutions are just one of the services we provide to our clients every day. If you’re worried about protecting your business, get in touch now.

The 3 most important areas to discuss with your technology partner

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 15:45:15 GMT

Learn to talk tech with our IT Jargon Buster

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 16:13:00 GMT

A few words of a foreign language can get you a long way in a strange land.

We know that IT jargon is an alien language to a lot of people, and we do our best to keep the tech talk to a minimum when we’re working with our clients.

In any case, you probably have enough of your own office jargon to start worrying about ours.

But in a tech-led world, a lot of IT terms are cropping up more and more in everyday conversation. And if you do have a problem you need help with – or just a question you’d like to ask us about your business IT – it’ll save a lot of time if you have a few words of lingo in your locker.

Our new guide is a great place to start. It won’t tell you everything, but if you need an easy A-Z of some of the most common terms you’ll hear when you’re talking with an IT expert, then you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s start at the beginning…

A

Adware

Software that automatically downloads adverts when you’re online, such as banner ads and pop-ups

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Systems and devices that simulate human behaviors and decisions. This can include creating systems, language processing, speech recognition and machine vision

Antivirus

Software that identifies and removes viruses from your device. Also known as anti-malware

API (Application Programming Interface)

Software that allows two or more applications or programs to communicate with each other and share information

B

Backdoor

A vulnerability in a security system that allows unwanted access to files and data

Bandwidth

The maximum amount of data you can send and receive in a given amount of time, over an internet connection. Imagine a big pipe compared with a small pipe

Botnet

A network of private computers infected with malware and controlled as a group to spread the virus further

C

Cache

A temporary file that stores information on your device to speed things up. For instance a web cache might remember the last thing you were doing so it can reload a page where you left off

(The) Cloud

Data storage and computing power that lives on remote servers, which are accessed via the internet

Corrupted

An unusable data file

Cyber security

Any and all security measures put in place to protect your devices, systems and network from cyber attack

D

Dark web

A hidden part of the internet, accessed using special software. It’s rife with criminal activity. This is where stolen data, such as credit card details, is often sold

Data breach

A security incident where private data is viewed or stolen by unauthorized persons

DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service)

A type of cyber attack that harms or stops a network by flooding it with data from numerous other devices

Downtime

The period of time a network or systems are offline (or ‘down’), preventing the normal running of a business

E

Encryption

The process of encoding data to make it unreadable without the right access information – usually a password, passkey or authentication app

F

Firewall

A security measure that controls what data can come in and out of your network

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

Protocol (see below) used for transferring files from a server to a computer across a network. This is usually authenticated with usernames and passwords

G

GIF (Graphic Interchange Format)

A type of image file than can be either animated or static

Gigabyte (GB)

Unit of data equal to one thousand million bytes. A typical movie download might be between 1 and 4 GB

H

Hardware

The physical devices in your IT world – computers, printers, phones, tablets

Hotspot (Wi-Fi)

A physical location where you can gain internet access via Wi-Fi

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)

The universal language of the internet, used to structure web pages, tell your web browser how to display them and create links between them

I

Infrastructure

Your entire system – your network, servers, and all your devices

iOS

Operating software manufactured by Apple and used exclusively on its hardware

IP address

A unique number that identifies a device connected to the internet

J

Java

A widely used programming language used in millions of applications and devices around the world

Javascript

Unrelated to Java, Javascript is used everywhere on the internet. It’s a programming language used within all web browsers to perform a whole range of functions

K

Keylogger

Software used by cybercriminals to record the keys pressed on a keyboard. This information can be used to access login credentials and other sensitive information

L

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network of connected devices that spans a small area, such as your office or home

M

Malware

Malicious software, a type of virus, designed to infect your system and disrupt, damage, or gain access to your device, server or network. This can lead to the unauthorized access or theft of data and private information

Megabyte

Unit of data equal to one million forty-eight thousand, five hundred and seventy bytes

N

NOS (Network Operating System)

A specialized operating system for a network device, like a router or firewall

NTFS (Network Transfer File System)

A file system used by Windows for storing and retrieving files on a hard disk

O

OS (Operating System)

Software that manages a computer’s basic functions, and provides common services for computer programs

P

Phishing

Scam emails that pretend to be from a credible source and aim to steal personal information and/or login credentials

Protocol

The set of rules that allows different devices to communicate with each other

Proxy server

A server that sits between a device requesting information, and the server providing that information. For example, it could be a gateway between your laptop and the internet, that stops hackers from reaching your network

R

RAM (Random Access Memory)

A form of temporary computer memory that’s usually used to store working data

Ransomware

Malware that encrypts sensitive data and demands a ransom for its release (ransoms should never be paid – data is often never properly released, or is only partially returned)

Router

A device that directs data to the right places in a network

S

Server

A computer or program that manages access to a network and holds data in one location for multiple users to access

Software

Programs and apps that make devices work

Spyware

Malware (see above) that spies on the actions you take on your device. This can be used to steal data or passwords, or listen in to conversations

T

Troubleshoot

To analyze a problem with a view to solving it (something we do a lot of!)

Trojan

A form of malware that looks harmless but conceals a virus

U

UAC (User Account Control)

A feature that only allows authorized users to make changes to a system or device

USB

A type of widely used cable that connects or charges devices. This could be a keyboard connecting to a computer, or a flash drive transferring data

V

Virus

A malicious computer program or code that can copy itself and spread throughout a network, corrupting or damaging data and systems

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A more secure way of connecting to a company’s network remotely, or using the internet over a public Wi-Fi connection

W

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A network of devices that are connected across a wider area than a LAN, and allows you to connect to smaller networks

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

A wireless network that connects two or more devices, creating a LAN

Worm

A type of malware that replicates itself to spread to other devices across a network without human activation

Z

Zip file

A file that compresses its contents to create a smaller file that’s easier to share or store

We hope this has helped.

Yes, we operate in a technical world with some jargon that can be
off-putting if it’s not something you’re used to talking about.

But your business IT is there to make your life easier and more efficient. We take a lot of pride in our ability to work with our clients, helping them to understand their systems without sending their heads into a spin.

So if your current IT support provider can’t do that – or you don’t have support you can call on for help and advice whenever you need them – we’d love to have a chat to find out how we can help you.

Get in touch anytime to arrange a no obligation conversation. You’re guaranteed it will be jargon-free.

3 ways to protect your business email

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 16:37:58 GMT

Getting to grips with email security

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 16:17:08 GMT

It goes like this.

Everyone in the company gets an email at 6am. It comes from the head of IT and instructs everyone to follow a link to install an update.

Some people don’t spot that the head of IT’s name is spelt slightly wrong – a simple spoofing technique straight out of the cyber crime textbook.

By 9am people start losing access to their files. They’ve been encrypted. The link installed ransomware that’s making its way through the network. Customer data, employee information and other vital files are skimmed, ready to be sold on the dark web. The criminals demand $75,000 to release the data back to the company.

The company tries for more than a week to remove the ransomware, but eventually they give in and pay the money. It takes another two days to get the decryption key, and when they open their files, half of the data is corrupt.

This happens a lot.

Owners of small and medium-sized businesses often make the mistake of thinking that they aren’t on the criminals’ radar. In reality, more than 40% of cyber attacks are aimed at small businesses – precisely because they often don’t take the same security precautions that larger companies do, and they’re more likely to pay a ransom.

So it’s vital that smaller businesses take email security seriously – because the cost of a cyber attack can’t just be measured in financial terms. It comes with a loss of productivity and loss of customer trust.

Studies show that 60% of small businesses that suffer a data breach close their doors within six months of the attack.

Research by Deloitte found that 91% of all cyber attacks begin with a phishing email (an email that looks like it’s from someone you know, but is actually from criminals).

That’s how web giant Yahoo was targeted a few years ago, exposing the contents of half a billion user accounts to criminals. And though we often only hear about these high-profile cases, small and medium-sized businesses are prime targets for these attacks.

Your business email needs to be as secure as it can possibly be.

Here’s what you need to know

First things first. If you don’t already use business email, you should. It looks more professional to have your business name after the @, and you get additional benefits too. Things like an integrated calendar, notes app, document cloud, and chat and video call facilities. But you’ll also benefit from a higher level of security than you’ll get with your personal email account.

Using business email also gives you the ability to control employee accounts. So when someone leaves you can block their access immediately.

There are several aspects to email security: secure gateways, encryption, multi-factor authentication, malware protection, and further authentication protocols. If this sounds like so much jargon, don’t worry. We’re experts at this stuff and we’re here to help all the way.

What is a phishing attack?

Phishing emails try to trick you into clicking a link, opening a file, or taking any action that causes harm. Attacks take several forms, each with a different way of trying to achieve a similar result.

Most phishing emails are sent to thousands of people at random. It might look like it’s from Amazon asking you to update your details, but the criminals have just thrown a lot of mud, hoping that some of it will stick. There’s no personal greeting, and it’ll often look ‘wrong’ compared to a genuine email from the company.

Look carefully and you’ll see that the address it’s sent from isn’t Amazon’s standard email address. The link will take you to a spoof page that will steal your credentials as soon as you enter them.

Spear phishing is more targeted. It might include your name in the greeting, or it may be a more sophisticated Business Email Compromise attack. BEC attacks are usually targeted at a senior employee, or even the business owner, and try to trick them into transferring money or handing over sensitive information.

CEO fraud happens where a company executive or the business owner is impersonated in emails to colleagues. This can involve email address impersonation – or spoofing – and they often request funds to be transferred. Attackers take time to study emails to get the right language and tone to convince the recipient that it’s a genuine email.

What’s the damage?

The impact of phishing attacks can vary, but the criminals have three main objectives:

Data theft – scammers will use ‘credential phishing’ to steal your customers’ personal information.

Malware – some attacks will install malicious software onto your device, which can potentially spread through your network. This could include spyware, which can log your keystrokes and track you online; or ransomware, which encrypts your data and demands a ransom to get it back.

Wire transfer fraud – CEO fraud and BEC attacks in particular attempt to persuade a target to transfer money to an account controlled by the attacker.

It’s a people problem

All email attacks rely on someone in your business falling for the con. So it’s important to create a culture of security within your business to reduce the chances that a ‘social engineering attack’ – a scam that convinces someone to take action – will succeed.

Everyone should know what to look out for, and what to do if they think an incident has occurred, including who to report it to and what immediate action to take.

Have an email use policy that sets out how your people should use their business email account, and the importance of following the rules.

And consider putting your team to the test from time to time… maybe by simulating a phishing attack, or holding refresher sessions where you quiz them on their knowledge.

Failure to make your whole team aware of the importance of good cyber security can be a costly mistake.

How we can help

Staff training will be one of the strongest tools in your arsenal, but we can also help by putting a raft of technical measures in place to lessen the chances of an attack, and to reduce the impact if it does happen.

We can create a gateway to block or quarantine suspicious emails, scanning both incoming and outgoing email for malicious content.

We can install software to help protect you from email spoofing, and from your email being used in BEC attacks, phishing scams, and spam email.

And we can deploy end-to-end encryption, which stops anyone from reading the content of your email unless they have the correct encryption key. That means your email is only ever received by the intended person and data can’t be tampered with.

Better password management

You already know the drill here. Long, strong randomly generated passwords all the way.

Probably the easiest way to do this is by using a password manager. Not only will it create impossible-to-guess passwords, but you won’t have to remember them (or write them down on a Post-it note). Your password manager will keep your passwords secure and autofill them for you when required. This also stops the problem of passwords being reused for other online accounts, which is a huge security risk.

You should enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), too. As a second line of security, this sends you a single-use password or PIN via your mobile device or a USB key each time you log in. Biometrics are another form of MFA, where you provide a fingerprint or retinal scan in addition to your password.

All this may make logging in a little more time consuming, but it can go a long way towards keeping your accounts secure.

And we always advise that updates and patches should be installed immediately to keep you protected against new threats.

It’s a lot to think about, but email attacks are one of the biggest security threats to small businesses. They need to be taken seriously.

So if you think you need expert support, or you’re worried that making these changes might cause disruption, just get in touch. We do this every day.

3 Steps To Better Cloud Security

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 16:29:56 GMT

Your need-to-know guide to cloud security

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:23:05 GMT

Everything You Need To Know

The growth of cloud computing has completely changed how we work. Zoom, Microsoft 365 – the whole array of collaboration tools that have become part of daily life over the past couple of years – these are all cloud-based applications that many of us wouldn’t want to do without.

Storing data in the cloud has become standard for many businesses, thanks in part to its ability to grow as your business grows. You never pay for more storage than you need; you have access to more facilities than you would if you kept your data in-house; and you have no need to maintain bulky servers.

But security in a cloud environment can create challenges.

Cloud security encompasses all the policies, systems and services that protect your business from criminals. And since data is crucial to most businesses, protecting it should be taken seriously.

In the past, we mostly connected to our company networks from inside the office. That made it easier to protect the data within our own four walls. But we now access applications, documents, and services from anywhere, and that requires a very different approach to security.

In many ways, the move to the cloud has created an open invitation to cyber criminals. All they need to do is get hold of your login credentials and they’re in – relatively simple phishing emails or brute force cyber-attacks are all it takes.

This provides the attacker with genuine credentials, making it even more difficult to detect unauthorized access to your systems – especially now that many of us are working flexible hours and may access systems at any hour of the day or night.

Scarier still, once inside, cyber criminals can spend weeks, even months, digging around in your network before they launch an attack. That’s to allow them time to plan, find your security flaws, and prepare to do the most damage.

So it’s vital for you to have the right security tools and protocols in place when using cloud services. They should secure your data, no matter where your people are working from, but also be smooth, intuitive, and easy to use so there is no change in the way you work.

Cloud environments nearly always offer some security, but that doesn’t mean they’re not vulnerable to attack. They need to be correctly configured for security to be effective.

By mid-2021, almost 98% of businesses had experienced at least one security breach. The levels of crime are rising, and the number of affected businesses is growing...

Planning is key.

That means keeping up with cloud security trends and being aware of the evolving challenges and threats.

In this essential guide, we look at the most effective ways to protect your cloud services. Some are simple to implement yourself, others may need more expertise. So buckle up for a few long words, and if you do feel that you need the support of a trusted IT expert, just get in touch. It’s what we do.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

The most obvious way to keep your data protected is to introduce stronger security to your cloud login procedure. That’s where MFA comes in. It’s the equivalent of adding an electronic lock to the front door, and only giving the keycode to people with the right ID.

Multi-factor authentication requires a second-stage, single-use password to make the login process more secure. This second password is usually sent to a smartphone or generated via a secure USB key, so that only the intended person is able to use it.

According to Microsoft, MFA protects against 99.9% of fraudulent sign-in attempts.

The other good thing about MFA is that the second stage notification can act as an extra security alert. If, say, you receive a text with a single-use password, but you haven’t attempted to log in to the application, you’ll know that someone is trying to access your account. That allows you to take action to make sure they’re not successful.

Use encryption

Storing, sharing and transferring data is a major benefit of cloud applications. But instead of taking these actions and thinking nothing of it, try adding encryption into the mix.

This means that your data is encoded the moment it leaves your device and stays that way in the cloud until you use it again, or share it with a privileged co-worker, for example. When it stays encrypted for the duration, this is called end-to-end encryption. It stops cyber criminals being able to hijack your data once it leaves your device or network. It also means that, should your cloud provider suffer a breach, any data that’s stolen will be useless without a decryption key – which only you have.

Many cloud services will provide this service as part of your package. But it’s good practice to make 100% sure, instead of assuming it’s being done.

Cloud Security Posture Management

This isn’t about taking care of your back. CSPM constantly monitors the services you use, which allows you to spot and fix security issues before they become a problem.

If you use one cloud service, chances are you use several of them, and keeping track of every app and server is a job in itself. Your data can be exposed if you inadvertently leave a cloud service open.

An expert IT service partner will be able to deploy CSPM monitoring for you across all your systems and applications.

Manage your user accounts

As with any of your sensitive data, you need to actively manage who is able to access what kinds of information.

Some members of your team, especially in IT, may have high-level admin accounts with full access to your entire system. As you may imagine, unauthorized access to this could be extremely detrimental. For that reason, admin-level devices should not be able to browse the web or read emails because of the increased risk if an account was compromised.

Make sure that employees who don’t need admin access don’t have it. The more people who have higher level access, the greater the opportunity for cyber criminals to gain entry to your cloud services.

Install the update

As with all applications, cloud services receive regular software updates to keep them working optimally, and to patch any new vulnerabilities.

It’s important that these patches are applied immediately to prevent cyber criminals from taking advantage and entering your network.

Alerts are often issued about newly discovered vulnerabilities and it’s important that you follow the alert’s advice and apply any new updates.

Zero trust

The basic principle of zero trust is to never trust and always verify. That means you should always confirm the identity of anyone trying to access your cloud services, whether they are from within or outside of your network.

Zero trust also supports the ‘least privilege’ principle – that means that people are only given access to the things they need to perform their job, and nothing more.

Zero trust principles extend deep into the way chunks of data speak to each other in the cloud, so if you work with a lot of personal or business-critical information, you should definitely seek expert guidance on keeping it secure.

You still need to back up

You have a backup, right? Just because your data is in the cloud, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be backing it up.

No network is impossible to breach. Your cloud security strategy – and indeed your entire security strategy – should always include storing offline backups of data. So if something happened that left your cloud services unavailable (like your provider suffering a major disaster of its own), your business wouldn’t be thrown into chaos.

It also means that in the event of a ransomware attack, you still have all your data to work with. You do still have to worry about where stolen data could end up, but you can at least continue working.

Keep it simple

Cloud services should make things easier for everyone in a business, and your security should feel simple too.

Make sure you’re using the right tools, that are effective, but also accessible and intuitive. If they’re not, you risk your employees not using them at all.

If your processes are overcomplicated, employees will bypass security measures or save their work elsewhere – often within personal accounts – which is the complete opposite of security.

So for the best chance of keeping your cloud services secure, make tools easy to use and your rules simple to follow, to encourage people to work with them.

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to the security of your cloud services. Some of these protections will already be offered by your cloud service provider, but if you’re unsure, it’s worth checking your set-up to understand if you could be at risk.

If you find that your cloud services aren’t as secure as you’d like, or you simply don’t know where to start, call on the experts.

That’s us.

Get in touch today to find out what we can do to help keep your data more secure.

Businesses Are Spending More on IT This Year

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 18:56:53 GMT

Investing in IT for the future - and the unexpected.

As a business owner or manager, you know how important good IT is. As an experienced west coast group of IT professionals, we know your business can’t function without it.

Your IT isn’t just about computers and data. It’s everything from your phone system to your printers, to where you access your documents.

And that’s without going into the measures you must take to keep your data and infrastructure safe and secure from cyber criminals.

So, we weren’t surprised by a new forecast from IT research and consultancy firm, Gartner, which predicts businesses will spend more on technology this year.

In fact, the global IT spend could reach an enormous $4.4 trillion. That’s despite rising inflation, the Russian invasion, and shortages in both chips and IT talent.

We believe there’s been a fundamental shift in the way businesses view their technology.

Two years ago, at the beginning of the pandemic, companies were forced to take unexpected urgent action to help employees work from home. In many cases that meant a large investment in devices, rapid changes to systems, and the adoption of new technology.

And it’s worked out well for most. Businesses have adapted quickly, and many have embraced the changes on a more permanent basis.

But it’s also made business leaders realize they need to be better prepared to respond to future potential disruption.

According to IDC, a renowned IT consulting firm, the costs of data loss and downtime can severely set back small to mid-sized businesses. Their findings indicate that 80% of small businesses have experienced a downtime event, resulting in an average cost of $137 to $427 per minute of downtime.

With numbers like that, you can’t be caught unprepared. This is the difference between a flexible and agile business… and one that stumbles at the first hurdle.

Many businesses no longer see IT as a cost. They embrace it as an investment. They can see the direct correlation between creating robust, safe, and flexible systems – and their teams’ abilities to achieve more.

Owners and managers are also placing more value on excellent, proactive technology support from a trusted partner.

To not only plan and execute big development projects. But also, to help reduce downtime and ensure systems are secure and running as they should be.

The Trusted San Diego IT Consulting Firm

If you’re reviewing your spend on technology and support, West Coast IT Solutions can help determine which tools your business can benefit from. With a free 60-minute Security scan, our IT professionals can check the current status of your business and identify areas that can be improved so your business runs better – and safer! Reach out to our knowledgeable staff to get started.

Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.

Never Use Your Browser’s Password Manager

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 18:52:39 GMT

Never Use Your Browser’s Password Manager

Microsoft is always introducing new features and services to keep your employees safe online, and your data secure. Nonetheless, Microsoft’s core products are operating systems. They’re not a computer security company.

As a business owner or manager, you should already know that weak or reused passwords are one of the biggest risks to a company’s data security.

A new update coming soon to Microsoft Edge will give you access to a new and improved password management feature. This will allow you to store all your passwords within your browser automatically, giving you a cost-effective way to avoid password-based cyber attacks.

Although this new feature is more secure than using the same login details across multiple applications, West Coast IT’s advice would be to avoid browser-based password managers in your business.

Why?

Browser-based password managers are not flexible enough, and don’t give enough control to you, the boss – especially when a staff member leaves.

When you use a dedicated password manager, you can remove someone’s access to all their applications with the push of a button. You can also access their login details after they depart if needed.

You still benefit from secure encryption, but it also works across all devices, including different browsers.

A separate password manager is also a lot more secure, which is really important when you have multiple people using your applications, each with their own login details.

And as a bonus, your password manager will generate strong random passwords for you, remember each one when logging in, and auto complete login boxes. That means you’ll have even better protection from brute force attacks, where cyber criminals try to guess your passwords.

If you don’t already use a password manager in your business, it’s time you did. It’s an extra layer of data security that you shouldn’t do business without. Luckily, our MSP services can be adapted to your company’s unique security needs.

Oceanside Computer Help

There are lots of password managers out there, and you have enough to worry about when running your business. As the IT support Carlsbad trusts, we recommend our Managed Defender subscription service. Our team will keep your computer safe and give you access to support whenever you need it. Without Managed Defender, your next browser search could be “ransomware removal near me”.

Monitoring the many viruses can be nonstop work, so leave it to us, and avoid the panic when your computers get hacked. Protecting your network is more than one thing and it's constantly changing. Stay updated with the Managed Defender: a multi-level strategic, dynamic package designed to protect you on several fronts from whatever is out there.

It’s hard for a small business to recover from a cyber attack. We'll protect your network against ransomware, viruses, malware and data breaches. To request a consultation, reach out to West Coast IT Group today.

Is Working From Home Really Good For Your Business?

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 17:18:57 GMT

Working from home or remote working is very quickly becoming commonplace in this post-COVID market.

Some people love it, being able to work where they want, when they want.

Lots of companies say this makes employees more productive and less likely to leave.

But have you stopped to consider the downside to remote working? The negative elements for your business and your people?

Why You May Need Computer Security Services For Your Remote Workers

While many employees are happy to work from home using video calls and collaborative software to stay connected, there’s a small percentage who find the whole experience isolating.

And when that happens, it can quickly lead to a drop in motivation and happiness. It can even change the culture within your business.

In turn, this can lead to performance issues which may be trickier to spot.

At the other extreme, some employees will become more susceptible to burnout as they struggle to draw a line between work and personal time. That change in environment can be so important for some.

Hire An MSP Company To Handle Your Cyber Security

And while you want your team to be happy and fulfilled in their roles, there are also some practical considerations you need to make for your business.

One is the cost of remote working. Does everyone have the right tools for the job – laptops, phones, office equipment? Maybe even a desk and chair, or an internet upgrade?

Do you need to spend twice – giving them an at home setup and investing in hot desks in the office?

Most importantly, you must put in place full cyber security protection wherever someone is working.

Here’s how we can help you stay safe and potentially save you money:

IT Support In San Diego Areas Including: Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar And La Jolla

West Coast IT has multiple protection packages and tools to help you better manage remote work, including tools that can monitor the internet applications (SaaS) that an employee uses. We’ll help make sure your employees aren’t creating a bigger security problem for your business. We also provide backups to make sure that even if an employee is careless with their equipment, your company data stays safe.

We have a Zero Trust Application Whitelisting service to ensure only the programs that are allowed by the business are on the machine as well.

Check out our Managed Defender Program too – a monthly subscription plan that offers three tiers of services, so you can choose the right one for your business. Data backups, Cloud management, secure password managers, malware removal and more, we truly provide the best deal you’ll find in the market, from a trusted, experienced team of IT professionals.

We are the premier computer security company along the coastline!

Would you like us to audit your current setup and suggest some options? This is what we do every day. Just get in touch.

Most Ransomware Victims Would Pay Up If Attacked Again

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 22:39:10 GMT

Ransomware is one of the fastest growing cyber-crimes in the world. Last year, 37% of businesses were victim to an attack.

In case you didn’t know, a ransomware attack is where cyber criminals infiltrate your network (or device) and steal your data by encrypting it. The data is still there, but you can’t access it.

Then they demand you pay a large ransom fee for the encryption key.

If you don’t pay the demand of tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars, they will delete your data. Even worse, sometimes they will receive the money from a company and still delete the data.

It’s not just the cost of the ransom fee to worry about. There’s the stress, reputational damage and downtime that goes with it. In 2021, the average downtime suffered after a ransomware attack was 22 days.

The typical advice you’ll get from an MSP company is to not pay any ransomware demands.

However, a new survey has shown that a massive 97% of business leaders who’ve experienced a ransomware attack in the past would pay up quickly if they were attacked again.

A third of them would pay instantly. What does that say about how this is a nightmare situation for a business of any size?

On average, only 65% of data is restored once a fee is paid, and a company is still vulnerable to further extortion. By letting cyber criminals know that your business pays ransom fees, it’s likely that you’ll face subsequent attacks in the future.

So, what’s the best way to deal with ransomware?

First, you should put in place the right security measures to try to prevent an attack:

Educate your people on cyber security and best practice
Invest in a good anti ransomware service
Implement multi-factor authorization across all your applications
Use a password manager
Make sure all updates are installed quickly
And you should always have a working backup in place – ideally one where older data is retained and cannot be changed

Protect Your Business With West Coast IT

At West Coast IT Group, we highly suggest creating a response and recovery plan that will help in the event of a ransomware attack. Investing in a package that suits your business needs will ensure you get the protection that’s right for you – so you don’t have to suffer the downtime in the event of a ransomware attack.

This is what we do. We help businesses increase their cyber security to reduce their chances of being affected. That’s why the team at West Coast IT is ready to help. We are here for everything from IT support in Oceanside, computer services in Carlsbad, Del Mar recovery solutions, and repair for laptops and beyond in Encinitas. We are your one-stop shop for everything IT and MSP, so you can get back to running your business worry-free.

Phishing is The Top Reason for Breaches of Businesses in 2022

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 20:55:28 GMT

A new survey confirmed that phishing attacks remain the greatest cybersecurity threat to businesses if they don’t work with a computer security company.

Phishing is when an attacker sends a spoofed and deceptive message designed to trick the recipient into sending sensitive information or releasing malicious software.

When you click a link in the email, you’re taken to a page which looks similar to your bank’s login page.

But it’s not. It’s a fake page set up to steal your information. The criminals hope you’ll enter your real login details, so they can access your business bank accounts.

Other threats from phishing emails include fake PDFs – with names such as “invoice”. Often clicking these can allow the hacker to install malicious software, or malware, on your computer.

Dark Reading, a cybersecurity news website, compiles an annual Strategic Security Survey every year.

In the recently released 2021 survey, 53% of businesses that reported a breach this year said it happened primarily because of a phishing attack.

Forty-one percent blamed malware for playing a part in their breach, and seventeen percent experienced a Denial of Service attack. This is where hackers send a flood of traffic to a network or website, hoping to overwhelm it and force it to shut down.

What’s important to remember is that none of these attacks were specifically targeted at these businesses.

Everyday hackers email thousands of people, waiting to see who opens and clicks on the emails.

Even the largest workplaces are susceptible to phishing attacks, such as the information breach at UC San Diego in 2021. Ports and maritime systems along the coasts have especially seen these organized attacks. When these ports and shipping stakeholders become victims of cyber-attacks, they lose data and profits.

That’s why the primary protection against phishing is training your people well. Software can help to protect your business, but not as much as training or an MSP help desk can.

Overall, make sure that valuable information at your business stays protected, as these attacks truly can happen anywhere to anyone. If you need help with phishing awareness training, or believe your business is at imminent risk, please contact us immediately.

Implement Security Procedures in Your Business Today

Our Managed Defender Program is one of our most popular packages to keep your computer safe and give you access to around the clock support. A secure password manager, scheduled network scans and necessary patching for software or operating systems are just a few benefits to what our team can do.

At West Coast IT Group, our team works diligently to provide fast IT solutions and computer security services such as support and consultation. Our company understands technology, and we have been designing, implementing and supporting systems for over 30 years. We offer network protection for businesses located from Del Mar to Oceanside.