When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your data. It happens all too often today.Data breaches happen at banks, online sites like Facebook, and ecommerce stores. Not only that, but governments are also victims. This leaves things like your address, SSN, and credit card details exposed to thieves. A business getting hacked is something you have little control over. But you can take important steps afterwards. We’ve outlined the most important things to do below. These steps can help you mitigate the financial losses.Change Your PasswordsThe very first thing you should do is change your passwords. Change the password for the service that sent you the breach notification first. Then, change it for any logins using the same password. This is one of the reasons it’s a best practice to use unique logins for every site. Many people get in the habit of using the same password in several places. This leaves more than the single…
Nicholas SalemDecember 20, 2024
There are many types of malware. One of the most common is called “malvertising.” It crops up everywhere. Including social media sites and websites. You can also see these malicious ads on Google searches.Two things are making malvertising even more dangerous. One is that hackers use AI to make it very believable. The other is that it’s on the rise, according to Malwarebytes. In the fall of 2023, malvertising increased by 42% (month over month).It’s important to inform yourself about this online threat. Knowledge is the power to protect yourself. Especially when it comes to malicious cybercriminals. Below, we’ll help you understand malvertising. We’ll also give you tips on identifying and avoiding it.What Is “Malvertising?”Malvertising is the use of online ads for malicious activities. One example is when the PlayStation 5 was first released. It was very hard to get, which created the perfect environment for hackers. Several malicious ads cropped up on Google searches. The ads made it look like someone was going to…
Nicholas SalemDecember 10, 2024
Your guide to the new email and calendar experience starting April 2026. Starting in April 2026, Microsoft will begin transitioning users with Microsoft 365 for Enterprise licenses from the classic Outlook for Windows to the new Outlook for Windows. This initiative aims to provide users with a modernized email and calendar experience, incorporating advanced features and improved integration within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Key Highlights of the New Outlook for Windows: Enhanced User Interface: The new Outlook offers a streamlined and simplified design, enhancing user experience and productivity. Microsoft Support Advanced Features: Inclusion of intelligent capabilities such as Microsoft Copilot, which assists in drafting emails and summarizing conversations. Microsoft Tech Community Improved Integration: Seamless connectivity with Microsoft 365 apps, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, facilitating efficient workflows. Microsoft Productivity Tools: Features like pinning and snoozing emails allow for better inbox management and prioritization. Microsoft Support Migration Timeline: April 2026: Initiation of user transition to the new Outlook. Users will have the option to revert to…
Nicholas SalemDecember 6, 2024
Today’s businesses are no stranger to the word cybersecurity. They are facing a growing wave of cyberattacks. These come from ransomware to sophisticated phishing schemes. How do you stand ahead of these threats? A strong cybersecurity strategy is essential. One crucial component of this strategy is event logging. It’s one that not every business owner is aware of.Think of event logging as a digital detective. What does tracking activities and events across your IT systems do? It helps you spot potential security breaches and respond swiftly. As your managed IT service provider, we're committed to helping you. We can help you understand the importance of event logging as well as how to put in place best practices to safeguard your network.What Is Event Logging?Event logging is the act of tracking all events that happen within your IT systems. “Event” can be many different things, such as:Login attemptsFile accessSoftware installsNetwork trafficDenial of accessSystem changesAnd many othersEvent logging means to track all these and add a time…
Nicholas SalemDecember 5, 2024
Customer service is at the heart of any successful business. Customer expectations continue to evolve. Companies must evolve strategies and tools used to meet those expectations. 55% of customers like self-serve customer service over speaking to a representative.Technology has become a game-changer in this regard. It offers innovative solutions that improve efficiency, personalization, and satisfaction. So, what kinds of technology can boost your customer experience? Below, we’ll explore several options transforming customer service today as well as explain how they can help your company stay competitive.1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine LearningAI and Machine Learning are leading the charge in revolutionizing customer service. These technologies are enhancing everything from customer interactions to backend processes. They’re making service more efficient and personalized.AI-Powered Chatbots: Chatbots have become a staple in customer service. AI-powered chatbots can understand and respond to natural language. They make interactions feel more human-like. They can also handle a wide range of tasks.Predictive Analytics: Machine Learning enables businesses to predict customer behavior and needs. ML…
Nicholas SalemNovember 25, 2024
Data breaches are an unfortunate reality for businesses of all sizes. When a breach occurs, the immediate response is critical. How a company manages the aftermath can significantly impact its reputation. As well as financial stability and legal standing.The average cost of a data breach has reached 4.88 million USD.Effective damage control requires a well-planned approach. But there are common pitfalls that can exacerbate the situation. This article will guide you through the key steps of data breach damage control. As well as highlight the pitfalls you should steer clear of to reduce the impact.Pitfall #1: Delayed ResponseOne of the most critical mistakes a company can make after a data breach is delaying the response. The longer it takes to respond, the more damage can happen. A delayed response increases the risk of further data loss. It also erodes customer trust.Act QuicklyThe first step in damage control is to act quickly. As soon as you detect a breach, start your incident response plan. This should…
Nicholas SalemNovember 20, 2024