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The Cost Of Cyber Safety: Protecting Your Small Or Mid-Sized Business

September 16, 2024

Running a successful small or mid-sized business means keeping a close eye on key areas like operations, marketing, and customer satisfaction. But how often do you assess your cyber security?

In today’s digital world, your company handles sensitive data that could be at risk from cyber-attacks. A breach could cause not only financial losses but also serious damage to your business’s reputation.

At Tech Experts, we specialize in helping businesses like yours identify vulnerabilities and strengthen defenses to stay ahead of cyber threats. Our expert team conducts comprehensive cyber security assessments designed to protect your company from data breaches, improve efficiency, and help you stay compliant with industry regulations. Here’s a breakdown of what a typical cyber security assessment looks like:

Penetration testing

We simulate a real-world cyber-attack to identify weaknesses in your systems. This testing helps us view your company’s vulnerabilities from a hacker’s perspective, allowing us to recommend necessary improvements.

Information governance

Protecting your sensitive data means knowing exactly where it’s stored, how it’s accessed, and who controls it. We help you document this information and implement strong access controls to prevent unauthorized data exposure.

Security monitoring and employee training

Continuous system monitoring, paired with educating employees to spot threats, plays a critical role in maintaining a secure business environment. Training your team can prevent many cyber incidents caused by human error.

Patch management

Regularly updating software to fix vulnerabilities is crucial. We’ll evaluate your patch management procedures to ensure your business is up to date with the latest protections.

Business continuity and disaster recovery

Having a plan in place is essential if an attack does occur. We assist in developing strategies that minimize downtime and ensure your business can quickly recover.

Supply chain security

It’s not just your business that matters. Weaknesses in your partners’ systems can affect you too. We assess the security practices of your suppliers to make sure your entire network is secure.

Why cyber security matters for your business

Cyber security isn’t just about technology; it’s about trust. A breach could cost your business not just money but also the trust of your customers. By regularly assessing and improving your cyber defenses, you signal to your stakeholders that you take security seriously and are committed to protecting their information.

Staying on top of cyber security can provide your business with an edge. Companies that prioritize cyber security are less likely to experience downtime or disruptions due to breaches, which means more stability and productivity.

At Tech Experts, we use the latest tools and techniques to provide in-depth assessments tailored to your business’s needs. Whether it’s enhancing network performance, securing cloud services, or improving mobile operations, we help you build a stronger, more resilient organization.

The Day The Data Disappeared

August 14, 2024

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

It’s a bustling Monday morning, your business is humming with activity. Employees are logging in, meetings are being scheduled, and projects are in full swing.

Suddenly, chaos erupts.

The server has crashed, and with it, access to all your company’s crucial data vanishes. No one can get it started again. And then the harsh reality hits – there are no backups.

This is a real scenario many businesses have faced. The consequences are dire. Without access to client information, ongoing projects, and financial records, the company is paralyzed.

Deadlines are missed, clients are furious, and the financial loss can be staggering. What’s worse? All this could have been avoided with a solid data backup plan.
Data backup might sound like a dry topic, but it’s the unsung hero of modern business operations. Data is the lifeblood of any organization.

From customer information and financial records to proprietary business strategies, everything hinges on the availability and integrity of this data. Without it, businesses simply can’t function effectively.

Think of data backup as an insurance policy for your business. Just like you wouldn’t drive a car without insurance, you shouldn’t operate a business without a data backup strategy.

Backups provide a safety net, making sure that even if the worst happens – a cyber attack, hardware failure, or human error – your business can bounce back quickly. In this scenario, if you had regular backups, the crisis could have been a minor inconvenience instead of a catastrophe. With a backup in place, you could have restored your data swiftly, minimizing downtime and avoiding the loss of trust and revenue.

Let’s not forget about critical workstations, too. With more team members working from home or on the road, it is inevitable that important data will get stored on personal devices. Without a backup, if the device fails or is lost, so is the data.

Beyond crisis recovery, data backups are also crucial for compliance and legal reasons. Many industries have regulations requiring businesses to maintain data records for a certain period. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines and legal trouble.

Better still, the cost of data backup solutions has become increasingly affordable. Cloud-based backup services, for instance, offer scalable options that can grow with your business. They provide automated, regular backups, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to manually save your data.

And of course, investing in a robust backup strategy also contributes to peace of mind. Knowing that your data is safe and recoverable allows you to focus on growing your business without the constant fear of data loss. It’s a small investment with potentially huge returns.

If we can help you implement data backup or check that your current backup still suits your business as it is today, get in touch.

Unlock These Productivity Gems In Windows 11

August 14, 2024

Since its launch in 2021, Windows 11 has been continuously updated, bringing new features and improvements to make your life easier.

While big announcements like the AI assistant Copilot and expanded hardware support grab headlines, there are some lesser-known features that deserve your attention too.

These hidden gems can make your Windows 11 experience quicker and easier, helping you stay productive and organized.

One of the most helpful features in Windows 11 is Focus mode. Picture this: You’re deep into an important project, and suddenly, notifications start popping up – emails, instant messages, reminders. It’s hard to maintain focus with all these interruptions. Focus mode comes to the rescue by silencing them.

To activate it, click the bell icon at the bottom right of your screen and select “Focus” from the menu. This will give you a 20-minute period with no interruptions, which you can pause anytime. It’s your digital “Do Not Disturb” sign.

Another great feature is Live captions. Imagine you’re in a noisy office or maybe you have some difficulty hearing.

Understanding audio and video files can be challenging. Windows 11 has built-in live captioning that automatically generates captions for your content.

You can activate it from the Accessibility settings (go to Settings > Accessibility > Captions) or by pressing Windows Key + Ctrl + L. The first time you use it, you’ll need to agree to Microsoft’s voice processing terms and download a speech pack. After that, captions will appear at the top of your screen, making it easier to follow along with any audio or video.

If you find typing tedious, you’ll love Voice typing. This lets you dictate text instead of typing it. To start, press Windows Key + H. Make sure you have a microphone connected (your webcam mic works fine). Click the mic button that appears, and you’re ready to go. You can even set it up to automatically punctuate your sentences.

Voice commands like “stop listening” or “ignore that” help you control the flow of dictation. It’s a real time-saver for writing emails or documents.

And if you want a tidy and efficient desktop, Start menu folders are a game-changer. To create a folder, right-click an app and select “Pin to start.” Then drag another app over it, and they’ll combine into a folder.

You can rename the folder and move it to the top of your Start menu for quick access to your most-used apps. It’s a simple way to keep things organized and within reach.

Finally, there’s the Snapping bar. If you’re a multitasker, this feature is a lifesaver. It lets you snap windows into various layouts on your screen. Drag a window to the top of the screen, and a set of layout options will appear.

You can place windows in different positions, making the most of your screen space. You can also use the Windows key + arrow keys to snap windows into place. If you don’t see the snapping options, you can turn them on in Settings > System > Multi-tasking.

These features might not make headlines, but they can really enhance your Windows 11 experience and productivity. Try them out and see how much time you can save.

Tech-savvy Workspaces: How Tech Drives Office Productivity

August 14, 2024

Gone are the days of paper-laden desks and rows of filing cabinets.

The modern office is a hub of innovation. Technology plays a starring role in this transformation.

Is your company leveraging technology as well as it could? This article dives into the ways technology fuels office productivity.

Boosting Efficiency: Technology as a Time-Saving Ally. The core benefit of technology in the office is its ability to save valuable time. Here are some key ways tech streamlines workflows:

Automation Powerhouse. Automating repetitive tasks frees up your team’s time for creative thinking, strategic planning and complex problem-solving.

Cloud-Based Collaboration. Cloud storage platforms allow teams to access and share documents seamlessly, ensuring everyone is working on the latest iteration.

Communication Revolution. Messaging platforms and video conferencing tools provide instant communication. This enables brainstorming sessions and remote team collaboration.
Enhancing Accuracy: Technology Mitigates Errors. Technology saves time. It also reduces errors that can derail projects and waste valuable resources.

Data Accuracy Champions. Spreadsheet formulas eliminate the risk of human error in manual data entry. Project management software tracks deadlines and dependencies. These tools provide a single source of truth for project information.

Data Analytics for Informed Decisions. Data analytics tools provide insights that promote a data-driven approach, allowing teams to make informed decisions based on real-time information.

Fostering Teamwork: Technology Bridges the Communication Gap. Technology empowers effective communication and collaboration, essential for a productive team environment.

Here’s how it can do that:

Remote Work Enablement. Cloud-based tools and video conferencing apps allow teams to collaborate regardless of location, fostering a diverse workforce.

Knowledge Sharing Made Easy. Internal wikis and knowledge-sharing platforms allow teams to create a repository of company knowledge. This reduces the time spent reinventing the wheel.

Project Management Made Simple. Collaborative project management tools have many features that ensures everyone is on the same page.

Choose the Right Tools. Choose tools that integrate seamlessly with your systems and workflows.

Cybersecurity is Paramount. As your reliance on technology increases, so does the need for robust cybersecurity.

Digital Divide Awareness. Ensure technology adoption doesn’t leave anyone behind. It should not create barriers.

Change Management. Prepare to manage change within your team. The extra help getting over road bumps makes a world of difference.

Phishing 2.0: How AI Is Amplifying The Danger And What You Can Do

August 14, 2024

As technology advances, so do the threats that come with it. One of the most significant emerging threats in cybersecurity is AI-enhanced phishing. Unlike traditional phishing attempts, which are often easy to spot due to generic messages and poor grammar, AI-enhanced phishing uses sophisticated algorithms to create highly personalized and convincing attacks.

The potential damage from these attacks can be immense, leading to significant data breaches and severe consequences for individuals and organizations alike. To protect yourself and your organization, it’s crucial to adopt a proactive approach to cybersecurity.

Understanding the threat

AI-enhanced phishing leverages artificial intelligence to craft personalized emails that appear to come from trusted sources. These emails are designed to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. The consequences of falling victim to such attacks can be devastating, ranging from financial loss to identity theft.

How to protect yourself

Protecting yourself from AI-enhanced phishing requires vigilance and the implementation of several key security measures:

Be skeptical

Always be skeptical of unsolicited messages, especially if they ask for personal information or prompt you to click on a link or download an attachment. Cybercriminals often use urgent language to create a sense of urgency or appeal to curiosity.

Check for red flags

Even the most sophisticated phishing attempts can contain subtle red flags. Be cautious if an email seems too good to be true or if it contains slight variations in email addresses, unexpected attachments, or unusual requests. Look for inconsistencies in the sender’s address, the tone of the message, and the formatting.

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring more than one form of verification to access your accounts. This could include a combination of something you know (a password), something you have (a smartphone), and something you are (a fingerprint). MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.

Educate yourself and others

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against phishing. Learn about the latest AI phishing tactics and share this knowledge with your colleagues, friends, and family. Regular training sessions and updates on the latest phishing techniques can help everyone stay vigilant.

Use advanced security tools

Invest in advanced security tools that can help detect and prevent phishing attempts. These tools often include email filters, anti-phishing software, and AI-based threat detection systems. Regularly update and configure these tools for maximum protection.

Report phishing attempts

If you receive a suspicious email, report it to your IT team or email provider immediately. Reporting phishing attempts helps improve security measures and prevents other potential victims from falling prey to the same scam. Your vigilance contributes to a safer digital environment.

Enable email authentication

Implement email authentication protocols such as SPF (Sender Policy Framework), DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail), and DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance). These protocols help verify the authenticity of the sender’s email address.

Conduct regular security audits

Regular security audits are essential to identify vulnerabilities in your systems and ensure that all security measures are up to date. These audits can uncover weaknesses that might be exploited by cybercriminals and provide an opportunity to strengthen your defenses.

In an era where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive about cybersecurity. By understanding the nature of AI-enhanced phishing and implementing these protective measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks. Remember, the key to cybersecurity is vigilance.

Wallet? Check. Planner? Check. Laptop? Uh oh… Laptop…? Laptop???

July 12, 2024

Summer time is travel time! Whether it’s a trip across the state or across the country, everyone needs a break. But picture this: You’ve had a great trip up north with the family, and you’re packing to head home. You’re balancing your luggage, kids, shopping bags, and your laptop case. It’s only when you get home that you realize, with a sinking feeling, that your laptop is nowhere to be found. Is it still at the hotel, maybe?

And then panic sets in as you remember all the sensitive data stored on that device.

This scenario is a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to turn into a full-blown crisis. Having a solid plan in place can mitigate the risks associated with a lost or stolen work device.

Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:

First and foremost, create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting a lost or stolen device immediately. Your team needs to know that the sooner they inform the company, the better. Emphasize that there will be no blame or punishment – what matters most is safeguarding the data.

Ensure that all work-issued devices have remote wiping capabilities. This is your first line of defense. When a team member reports a laptop missing, your IT team should be able to remotely wipe the device, erasing all data to prevent unauthorized access.

Before a device is lost, proactive measures can make a world of difference. Make sure all company devices are encrypted. Encryption converts data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. Even if someone gets hold of a company laptop, encrypted data remains inaccessible without the proper decryption key. Most modern operating systems offer robust encryption options.

Always enforce strong password policies. All company laptops should have a complex password and, ideally, two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security, making it harder for anyone to access the data if they bypass the initial password protection.

Regular training is vital. Employees should understand the importance of device security and the steps to take if a device is lost or stolen. Conduct workshops and send reminders about security protocols. The more informed everyone is, the quicker and more effectively they can respond to the loss.

Why are these steps so crucial? If a business laptop falls into the wrong hands, the consequences can be severe. Unauthorized access to customer files can lead to identity theft and loss of client trust. Exposure of financial data could result in significant loss and legal consequences. Proprietary information could be stolen and sold. It’s a nightmare.

By implementing these strategies, you can sleep easier knowing that your company’s data remains secure, even if a device goes missing. It becomes a minor annoyance, not a disaster.

It’s Almost Time To Say Goodbye (To Windows 10)

July 12, 2024

Microsoft announced that, come October 2025, Windows 10 will officially reach its end of life.

This means no more updates or support, which could leave your business’s systems vulnerable. It’s a significant shift, but you have a few options to manage the transition smoothly and make sure your operations stay secure and efficient.

Option 1: Ignoring the inevitable

You could choose to do nothing and keep using Windows 10. However, this “ostrich” approach could expose your business to serious risks.

Without updates, your systems become perfect targets for cyber attacks. The data you handle daily – customer details, financial information, and more – could be at risk. Not the best idea, right?

Option 2: Upgrade to Windows 11

The logical next step is to upgrade to Windows 11. Before you jump in, it’s crucial to check if your current hardware can support it.

Windows 11 comes with higher system requirements, so you may need a compatibility check (there are tools available for this). The benefits of upgrading are plenty – enhanced security, a more intuitive interface, and new features designed to boost productivity. Windows 11 is a great way to enhance how you work.

Option 3: New hardware

If your current devices don’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, it might be time for an upgrade. Don’t look at investing in new hardware as a cost; it’s an investment in your business’s future.

New devices are faster, more efficient, and come with better security features right out of the box. It’s an opportunity to streamline operations and maybe even reduce your long-term costs.

Option 4: Pay for Extended Security Updates

If upgrading isn’t an option right now, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10. This means you can still receive critical security updates, but at a cost.

For the first year, the price is manageable, but it doubles each year after that. While this can keep your systems secure a little longer, it’s a temporary solution with escalating costs.

While fall 2025 might seem far away, starting your transition plan now is wise. Deciding whether to upgrade, update, or overhaul your systems takes time. Early planning helps minimize disruption and spreads out the costs associated with transitions.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices or just need some expert advice tailored to your business needs, we can help – get in touch at (734) 457-5000 or info@mytechexperts.com.

9 Easy Steps To Building A Culture Of Cyber Awareness

July 12, 2024

Cyberattacks are a constant threat in today’s digital world. Phishing emails, malware downloads, and data breaches. They can cripple businesses and devastate personal lives.

Employee error is the reason many threats get introduced to a business network. A lack of cybersecurity awareness is generally the culprit. People don’t know any better, so they accidentally click a phishing link. They also create weak passwords, easy for hackers to breach.

It’s estimated that 95% of data breaches are due to human error.

But here’s the good news, these mistakes are preventable. Building a strong culture of cyber awareness can significantly reduce your risks.

Why Culture Matters

Think of your organization’s cybersecurity as a chain. Strong links make it unbreakable, while weak links make it vulnerable. Employees are the links in this chain. By fostering a culture of cyber awareness, you turn each employee into a strong link. This makes your entire organization more secure.

Easy Steps, Big Impact

Building a cyber awareness culture doesn’t require complex strategies or expensive training programs. Here are some simple steps you can take to make a big difference.

1. Start with Leadership Buy-in
Security shouldn’t be an IT department issue alone. Get leadership involved! When executives champion cyber awareness, it sends a powerful message to the organization. Leadership can show their commitment by:

Participating in training sessions
Speaking at security awareness events
Allocating resources for ongoing initiatives

2. Make Security Awareness Fun, Not Fearful
Cybersecurity training doesn’t have to be dry and boring. Use engaging videos, gamified quizzes, and real-life scenarios. These keep employees interested and learning.

Think of interactive modules. Ones where employees choose their path through a simulated phishing attack. Or short, animated videos. Videos that explain complex security concepts in a clear and relatable way.

3. Speak Their Language
Cybersecurity terms can be confusing. Communicate in plain language, avoiding technical jargon. Focus on practical advice employees can use in their everyday work.

Don’t say, “implement multi-factor authentication.” Instead, explain that it adds an extra layer of security when logging in. Like needing a code from your phone on top of your password.

4. Keep it Short and Sweet
Don’t overwhelm people with lengthy training sessions. Opt for bite-sized training modules that are easy to digest and remember. Use microlearning approaches delivered in short bursts throughout the workday. These are a great way to keep employees engaged and reinforce key security concepts.

5. Conduct Phishing Drills
Regular phishing drills test employee awareness and preparedness. Send simulated phishing emails and track who clicks. Use the results to educate employees on red flags and reporting suspicious messages.

But don’t stop there! After a phishing drill, take the opportunity to dissect the email with employees. Highlight the telltale signs that helped identify it as a fake.

6. Make Reporting Easy and Encouraged
Employees need to feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity without fear of blame. Create a safe reporting system and acknowledge reports promptly. You can do this through:

A dedicated email address
An anonymous reporting hotline
A designated security champion employees can approach directly

7. Security Champions: Empower Your Team
Identify enthusiastic employees who can become “security champions.” These champions can answer questions from peers as well as promote best practices through internal communication channels. This keeps security awareness top of mind.

Security champions can be a valuable resource for their colleagues. They foster a sense of shared responsibility for cybersecurity within the organization.

8. Beyond Work: Security Spills Over
Cybersecurity isn’t just a work thing. Educate employees on how to protect themselves at home too. Share tips on strong passwords, secure Wi-Fi connections, and avoiding public hotspots. Employees who practice good security habits at home are more likely to do so in the workplace.

9. Celebrate Success
Recognize and celebrate employee achievements in cyber awareness. Did someone report a suspicious email? Did a team achieve a low click-through rate on a phishing drill? Publicly acknowledge their contributions to keep motivation high. Recognition can be a powerful tool. It helps reinforce positive behavior and encourages continued vigilance.

The Bottom Line: Everyone Plays a Role

Building a culture of cyber awareness is an ongoing process. Repetition is key! Regularly revisit these steps. Keep the conversation going. Make security awareness a natural part of your organization’s DNA.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By fostering a culture of cyber awareness your business benefits.

Protect Your Business From A Data Leak With The Microsoft Edge Browser

July 12, 2024

Microsoft Edge for Business has just rolled out new data leak control capabilities. And that could be a good thing for keeping your sensitive info safe.

What are data leak control capabilities?

In plain English, they help prevent your sensitive information from getting out to the wrong people. Think of it as having an extra lock on your digital doors, making sure only the right people can access your important data.

Every business handles sensitive information, whether it’s financial records, client details, or proprietary data. If this information leaks, it could mean big trouble: Financial loss, legal headaches, and a hit to your reputation.

This new feature in Microsoft Edge helps keep your data secure by making sure only authorized people can access it. It also stops accidental sharing.

Depending on your industry, you may have strict rules about data protection. These new controls can help you stay on the right side of regulations.

And let’s not forget your customers. They’re more aware than ever about data privacy. Using a browser with strong data leak controls shows you’re serious about protecting their information, which can boost their trust in your business.

Microsoft Edge for Business has added this new feature into an easy-to-use package. You can set policies on how data can be shared – like stopping certain types of data from being copied or emailed to unauthorized recipients. This way, you’re less likely to have accidental leaks.

It uses artificial intelligence to spot potential threats and unusual data movements. Edge can alert you to a potential leak before it happens, giving you a chance to act proactively.

If you’re already using other Microsoft products like 365 or Microsoft Teams, good news: Edge for Business integrates smoothly with them, letting you apply consistent data protection across all your tools.

Ready to give it a spin? Here’s what to do:

Update your browser: Make sure all your business’s devices are using the latest version of Microsoft Edge for Business. This makes sure you have all the newest features and security updates.
Set your policies: Work with your IT support partner to set up data sharing policies that make sense for your business. Microsoft provides guidelines and templates to help you get started.
Train your team: Make sure your employees know about the importance of data security and how to use the new features. A quick training session can do the trick.
Monitor and adjust: Keep an eye on how things are working and tweak your policies as needed. You want to find a balance that keeps your data secure without disrupting your workflow.

Better still, why not get our team to just do this for you? Give us a call at (734) 457-5000.

Work From Home Employees… Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind?

June 18, 2024

Having your employees work from home or their local coffee shop is the norm now. And while there are loads of benefits to this new attitude to work, it’s easy to overlook a crucial aspect of keeping operations secure: The home set-ups of remote employees.

Here’s the thing – neglecting remote security can lead to some serious headaches down the line. And you already have enough business headaches, right?

Imagine this: Your employee’s laptop, which holds loads of sensitive company data, gets breached because their home Wi-Fi network wasn’t properly secured.

Or worse, a malware infection spreads from their kid’s device to their work laptop, putting your entire network at risk. That’s scary.

A little vigilance and some regular checks can prevent these risks and keep your business and its data much safer.

So, let’s talk about devices. Encourage your remote workers to treat their work devices like Fort Knox. That means regular updates and patches, robust protective software, and strong, unique passwords (password managers are your best friend for this).

Remind them to avoid risky behaviors like downloading software from unofficial sources or clicking on suspicious links.

Next, address home networks. A weak Wi-Fi password is asking for trouble.

Encourage your employees to set a strong password for their home network (again, a password manager can remove the hassle of this). And while they’re at it, remind them to enable encryption and hide their network’s SSID (Service Set Identifier) to add an extra layer of security.

And it’s not just about devices and networks – physical security matters too. Use biometrics to protect logins. Remind your team to keep their work devices secure when they’re not in use, whether that means locking them away in a drawer or simply keeping them out of sight from prying eyes.

And if they’re working from a shared space like a coffee shop, remind them to be cautious of public Wi-Fi and to keep an eye on their belongings.

Regular checks are key to staying on top of security. Schedule routine audits of remote set-ups to ensure everything gets a thumbs up. This could include checking for software updates, reviewing network configurations, and providing refresher training on best security practices.

Want a hand with that? We can help – get in touch.

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