TechTidBit - Tips and advice for small business computing - Tech Experts™ - Monroe Michigan

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Act Now: The Clock Is Ticking For Windows 10

Still using Windows 10? It’s time to start planning for a big change. Microsoft has announced that this October will mark the end of support for the operating system.

That means no more security updates, no bug fixes, and no technical support.

While your computers won’t suddenly stop working, staying on Windows 10 after its end-of-life date could put your business at serious risk.

Without regular updates, your systems will be more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Cyber criminals love to exploit old, unsupported systems because they know the weaknesses won’t be fixed. If you handle sensitive customer data or financial information, this is a huge red flag.

On top of that, software compatibility could become a problem. New applications will be designed with Windows 11 and future systems in mind, meaning your current setup might not be able to keep up.

The result? Slower workflows or even critical tools that stop working entirely. And if something goes wrong, you’ll be on your own – Microsoft won’t be there to help.

But Windows 11 is here, and it’s built to make your business run more smoothly. From stronger security features to smarter productivity tools, the upgrade is packed with benefits… and it’s free!

Before making the move, you’ll need to check if your current computers meet the requirements for Windows 11. Not all Windows 10 devices will be compatible, but it’s easy to find out using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.

If some devices don’t make the cut, it might be time to invest in new hardware. While that sounds like a big step, newer machines offer better performance and security, saving you headaches down the line.

The key to a smooth transition is starting early. Back up your data, check compatibility, and plan your upgrade timeline so it doesn’t disrupt your team.

Making the move now means you’ll avoid scrambling later. And of course, you’ll set your business up for success with a system designed for the future.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to begin, we can help every step of the way. Get in touch.

What Is Threat Exposure Management (TEM) And Why Do You Need It?

Threat Exposure Management (TEM) is an important cybersecurity tool. It helps organizations find and fix weak spots in their digital systems. TEM outsmarts hackers before they break into your network.

Importance of TEM

Cyber attacks keep getting worse. Hackers always find new ways to break in. TEM helps businesses spot problems before they become big issues.

TEM allows you to:

  • Find weak points in your network
  • Fix issues quickly
  • Reduce your risk of cyber attacks

How TEM works

TEM uses special software to scan your entire network. It finds places hackers could attack and helps you fix these weak spots.

Continuous monitoring

TEM keeps looking all the time. This way, you can find new problems as soon as they appear.

Risk assessment

TEM finds which weak spots are the most dangerous. This helps you fix the most important ones first.

Main parts of a TEM program

Asset discovery

This finds all devices and software on your network. You can’t protect what you don’t know about!

Vulnerability scanning

This looks for open weak spots in your system. It’s like checking for unlocked doors and windows in your house.

Threat intelligence

This provides insights into new hacker techniques, helping you stay informed about what to watch out for.

Remediation planning

Once you find the vulnerabilities, you need a plan to fix them. TEM helps you make good choices on how to patch these spots.

Benefits of TEM for your business

Better security

Finding and fixing weak spots makes your whole system much safer and more resilient.

Cost savings

Stopping an attack before it happens can save you a lot of money. Dealing with the aftermaths of cyberattacks often comes with expensive costs.

Peace of mind

With TEM, continuous monitoring ensures your system is always under watch. This can help you worry less about cyber attacks.

What to look for in a TEM solution

A good TEM tool should:

  • Be user-friendly, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their technical expertise, can easily navigate and utilize the tool.
  • Provide immediate results, enabling quick and effective decision-making to address potential threats as soon as they are detected.
  • Integrate seamlessly with your existing security infrastructure, enhancing overall protection by working in harmony with other security tools and systems.
  • Generate clear and comprehensible reports, presenting findings in an easily digestible format that facilitates understanding and action.

Getting started with TEM

  • Check your current security setup to understand your existing vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
  • Find a TEM tool that fits your needs, ensuring it aligns with your security goals and integrates well with your current systems.
  • Set up the tool and start scanning your environment.
  • Make a plan to fix the weak spots you find, prioritizing the most critical issues.
  • Keep scanning and improve your security continuously, regularly updating your strategies and tools to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Want to learn more about how TEM can help your company? Contact us today for help staying safe in the digital world.

Securing Remote Access Technology: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know

Remote access technology has become essential for modern businesses. Whether your employees work from home, connect to the office while traveling, or access critical systems after hours, secure remote access can greatly enhance productivity and flexibility.

However, without proper security measures, it can also open the door to significant risks, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Here’s what small business owners need to know about securing their remote access technology.

Why secure remote access matters

Remote access allows users to connect to your business’s network or systems from anywhere. While this connectivity is convenient, it also presents a larger attack surface for cybercriminals.

Hackers often target remote access solutions because they can be a weak link in your cybersecurity strategy if not properly secured.

The consequences of a breach can be devastating: financial losses, reputational damage, and even legal penalties for failing to protect customer or employee data.

The good news is that implementing secure remote access methods doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and practices, you can greatly reduce your risk while enabling your team to work efficiently from anywhere.

Key strategies for securing remote access

Use strong authentication methods

Passwords alone are no longer enough to protect remote access. Instead, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to verify their identity using two or more factors, such as a password, a smartphone app, or a fingerprint.

This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for attackers to gain access, even if a password is compromised.

Deploy a virtual private network (VPN)

A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between a remote user and your business network. This ensures that sensitive data, such as login credentials or customer information, cannot be intercepted by hackers.

Ensure your VPN is configured properly and use strong encryption protocols to maximize its effectiveness.

Limit access privileges

Not all employees need full access to all systems. Use the principle of least privilege to limit access based on each user’s specific role. By restricting what employees can see or do within your network, you reduce the potential damage if their credentials are ever compromised.

Keep software up to date

Outdated software can contain vulnerabilities that hackers exploit to gain unauthorized access. Regularly update remote access tools, operating systems, and any third-party applications your business relies on.

Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you don’t miss critical security patches.

Educate employees on cybersecurity

Even the most secure systems can be compromised by human error. Train your employees on best practices for cybersecurity, including recognizing phishing attempts, creating strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious links or downloads. An informed workforce is one of your strongest defenses against cyber threats.

Monitor and audit remote access activity

Use monitoring tools to track who is accessing your network and when. Unusual activity, such as login attempts from unfamiliar locations, can be an early warning sign of a potential breach. Regular audits can help you identify and address vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

The cost of neglecting security

Some small business owners hesitate to invest in secure remote access solutions, viewing them as unnecessary expenses. However, the cost of a data breach or cyberattack often far exceeds the cost of preventive measures. Beyond financial losses, you could face downtime, lost trust from customers, and even regulatory fines.

By prioritizing secure remote access, you’re not only protecting your business but also demonstrating to clients and partners that you take cybersecurity seriously. This can enhance your reputation and give you a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.

Take action today

If your remote access technology isn’t as secure as it should be, now is the time to act. Consult with IT professionals to evaluate your current setup, identify vulnerabilities, and implement a security plan tailored to your needs.

With the right measures in place, you can enjoy the benefits of remote access without compromising your business’s security.

The Number One Threat To Your Business? Ransomware

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

Imagine this: You’re starting a normal day, coffee in hand, ready to tackle your to-do list. Suddenly, a red screen flashes on your computer, and a message pops up: “Your files have been encrypted. Pay up to get them back.”

That’s ransomware, a cyber attack that’s fast becoming the number one threat to businesses worldwide. It’s become a top choice for cyber criminals because it’s profitable, easy to deploy, and very effective.

Cyber criminals get their ransomware software onto a computer, often from something as simple as a link in a phishing email (that’s an email pretending to be from a trusted source). When clicked, it installs software that gives them access to your system, files and even backup locations.

They lock your files, making them unreadable. The cyber criminals demand payment, usually in cryptocurrency, and promise to return access once they’re paid. Some even threaten to leak sensitive info if you don’t comply.

It’s scary and the consequences for any business are huge. It’s not just the loss of data. It’s expensive, time-consuming, and could break the trust you enjoy with your customers and suppliers.

So, how do you keep your business safe?

The good news is that basic security practices can go a long way. Start by training your team not to click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments. Regularly updating applications and security software is also crucial as it closes security gaps cyber criminals might try to exploit.

Most importantly, create a reliable backup system. Set up isolated, “cold” backups that are disconnected from your main system. So, if an attack hits, your data remains untouched.

Regularly test these backups to make sure they work when you need them. In a ransomware attack, being able to restore your data from a safe backup can save your business from costly downtime or ransom demands.

Ransomware is serious, but a proactive approach can make all the difference. With the right prep, you can keep your business running smoothly. If you’d like help with that, get in touch. Call us at (734) 457-5000 or email info@mytechexperts.com.

Need New Hardware? Here’s Where To Start

When your team’s computers or internet start lagging, it’s often a sign your hardware needs an upgrade. But with so many tech options, you may want some help knowing where to start. Upgrading hardware can feel like a daunting task, but with a bit of guidance, small businesses can make informed choices that improve efficiency, security, and productivity.

Understanding the signs you need an upgrade

Computers and other tech devices aren’t meant to last forever. If your employees frequently complain about slow load times, crashing applications, or connectivity issues, it’s a clear indication that your hardware might not be keeping up. Older equipment may also struggle to support the latest software updates, leaving your business vulnerable to cyber threats or inefficiencies.

Beyond performance issues, consider whether your current hardware aligns with your business needs. For example, if your team is transitioning to hybrid or remote work, laptops with better portability and extended battery life may be necessary.

Similarly, businesses managing large files or using graphics-intensive software should invest in systems with robust processing power and high-resolution displays.

Choosing the right equipment

When selecting new hardware, focus on what makes sense for your business operations. For many small businesses, reliability and scalability are the top priorities. Here are a few key items to consider:

Desktops and Laptops: Decide whether you need desktops for stationary workstations or laptops for mobility. For general office tasks, mid-range models with solid-state drives (SSDs), at least 8GB of RAM, and Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors are often sufficient.

Networking Equipment: Outdated routers and switches can bottleneck your internet speeds, no matter how fast your ISP claims to be. Upgrading to Wi-Fi 6 routers or mesh networking systems can significantly improve connectivity and range, especially in larger offices.

Monitors and Accessories: Dual monitors are increasingly standard for maximizing productivity. Additionally, ergonomic keyboards, mice, and adjustable monitor stands can reduce strain and improve comfort for your team, especially for staff who work at a computer all day.

Servers and Storage: If your business handles sensitive data or large volumes of information, upgrading to a dedicated server or Network Attached Storage (NAS) device can provide better security and accessibility.

Printers and Scanners: While many offices are moving toward paperless workflows, reliable printers and scanners are still essential for certain industries. Look for multi-function devices with wireless connectivity for added convenience.

Balancing budget and long-term value

Hardware upgrades are an investment, so it’s important to strike a balance between cost and value. Cutting corners to save a few dollars upfront can lead to higher expenses in the long run if equipment fails prematurely or doesn’t meet your needs.

Consider working with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) to identify cost-effective options tailored to your business. MSPs often have access to bulk purchasing discounts and can recommend hardware that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems. They can also assist with setup, ensuring minimal disruption to your workflow.

The environmental impact

Finally, don’t overlook the opportunity to dispose of old equipment responsibly. Many manufacturers and local organizations offer recycling programs that ensure outdated hardware is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Some programs even offer trade-in credits to help offset the cost of new purchases.

Upgrading your computer hardware doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By identifying your team’s needs, prioritizing reliable and scalable options, and partnering with experts when needed, you can ensure your business stays competitive and efficient. Investing in the right tools today can save you time, money, and headaches down the road—and your team will thank you for it.

Watch Out! “Malvertising” Is On The Rise!

This image was generated by an AI engine.

There are many types of malware. One of the most common is called “malvertising.” It crops up everywhere. 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.

Below, we’ll help you understand malvertising and 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 an official site. Instead, they went to copycat sites. Criminals design these sites to steal user credentials and credit card details.

Google attempts to police its ads, but hackers can have their ads running for hours or days before they’re caught. These ads appear just as any other sponsored search ad. They can also appear on well-known sites that have been hacked or on social media feeds.

Tips for protecting yourself from malicious online ads

Review URLs carefully

You might see a slight misspelling in an online ad’s URL. Just like phishing, malvertising often relies on copycat websites. Carefully review any links in the ads.

Visit websites directly

A foolproof way to protect yourself is not to click any ads.

Instead, go to the brand’s website directly.

If they truly are having a “big sale,” you should see it there. Just don’t click those links and go to the source directly.

Use a DNS filter

A DNS filter protects you from mistaken clicks. It will redirect your browser to a warning page if it detects danger. DNS filters look for warning signs. This can keep you safe even if you accidentally click a malvertising link. Often, you’ll see a block page.

Do not log in after clicking an ad

Malvertising will often land you on a copycat site. The login page may look identical to the real thing. One of the things phishers are trying to steal is login credentials.

If you click an ad, do not input your login credentials on the site, even if the site looks legitimate. Go to the brand’s site in a different browser tab.

Don’t call suspicious ad phone numbers

Phishing can also happen offline. Some malicious ads include phone numbers to call. Unsuspecting victims may not realize fake representatives are part of these scams. Seniors are often targeted; they call and reveal personal information to the person on the other end of the line.
Stay away from these ads. If you find yourself on a call, do not reveal any personal data.

Don’t download directly from ads

“Get a free copy of MS Word” or “Get a Free PC Cleaner.” These are common malvertising scams. They try to entice you into clicking a download link. It’s often for a popular program or freebie. The link actually injects your system with malware to do further damage.

A direct download link is likely a scam. Only download from websites you trust.

Warn others when you see malvertising

If you see a suspicious ad, warn others. This helps keep your colleagues, friends, and family more secure. If unsure, do a Google search. You’ll often run across scam alerts confirming your suspicion.

Foster a culture of cyber awareness

It’s important to arm yourself and others with this kind of knowledge. Foster a culture of cyber-awareness to ensure safety and better online security.

Why Small Businesses Need Cybersecurity Training for Employees

Your team is the first line of defense against cyber threats, but without proper training, they may also be your biggest vulnerability. From spotting phishing emails to practicing safe browsing habits, employee cybersecurity training is essential for protecting your business.

Cybercriminals target small businesses because they often lack robust defenses, relying instead on trust and good intentions. Unfortunately, these qualities make employees prime targets for attacks like phishing or social engineering. A single click on a malicious link can open the door to data breaches, ransomware, or other costly disruptions.

Training your team doesn’t have to be a major production. Simple, practical lessons can make a big difference. Start with the basics: teaching employees to recognize the red flags of phishing emails. Suspicious links, poor grammar, or an urgent tone asking for personal information are all common giveaways. Encourage them to verify requests before acting, especially when handling sensitive data.

Password security is another critical area to address. Employees should use unique, complex passwords for different accounts and avoid writing them down. Better yet, implement a password manager to simplify the process. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for hackers to gain access.

Safe browsing habits should also be part of your training. Remind your team to avoid clicking on ads, downloading attachments from unknown sources, or visiting suspicious websites. Tools like DNS filters can provide an additional safeguard against accidental clicks.

Finally, regular practice is key. Consider running simulated phishing campaigns to test your team’s ability to spot threats. Review the results and provide constructive feedback to improve their skills over time. A well-trained employee is far less likely to fall for scams, keeping your business safer.

Investing in cybersecurity training isn’t just about preventing threats.

It builds a culture of awareness and responsibility, ensuring everyone plays a role in safeguarding your company’s data. In the long run, this proactive approach can save you significant time, money, and headaches.

Keeping Work Devices Secure: Protecting Your Business

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

It’s common practice for employees to use work laptops for personal tasks. Whether it’s checking email, scrolling through social media, or watching a quick video, many people mix business with personal activities on work devices. At first glance, it may seem harmless—but it could actually be a big security risk for your business.

A recent study revealed that 90% of employees use company laptops for non-work activities. This often includes high-risk actions like visiting unsecured websites, streaming questionable content, and even accessing parts of the dark web. Each of these activities can open the door to malware, phishing attacks, and other cybersecurity threats, putting sensitive company data at risk.

As remote and hybrid work arrangements become the norm, it’s tougher than ever to control what happens on work devices. Employees working from home or on the go are likely connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, plugging in personal USB drives, and blurring the lines between work and personal usage. Younger employees, in particular, seem more inclined to take these digital risks. This behavior makes it easier for hackers to take advantage of weak points, which can have serious consequences for businesses.

Adding to the concern, 18% of employees don’t have any cybersecurity software on their work devices, and another 7% aren’t even sure if they do. Without adequate protection, a single compromised device can be all it takes to give cybercriminals a way into your business.

Privacy is another issue to consider. A third of employees admit they’d feel uneasy knowing their employer could see their personal activities on a work laptop. This discomfort is understandable, but it highlights the need for clear policies that protect both employees’ privacy and your business’ security.

So, how can business owners address these risks? Here are a few steps that can make a big difference:

Implement Clear Policies: Make sure employees understand what’s allowed—and what isn’t—when it comes to using company devices. It’s important to outline specific guidelines that address acceptable use, privacy expectations, and potential consequences.

Strengthen Security Measures: Every company device should be equipped with up-to-date cybersecurity software. This is a straightforward but effective way to prevent threats from taking hold.

Use Remote Management Tools: With the right tools, your IT team (or partner) can monitor devices, manage security settings, and respond to threats in real-time, regardless of where your employees are working. These tools can also help maintain a clear boundary between work and personal usage on company devices.

Educate Your Team: Help employees understand the risks of using work devices for personal activities. A little knowledge goes a long way—when people know how their behavior impacts security, they’re more likely to follow best practices.

Balancing convenience and security can be challenging. Working with an experienced IT partner like us can help you implement these measures smoothly, keeping your business secure without disrupting daily operations.

If you’d like to discuss how we can support your business in managing device security, feel free to reach out.

Top Technologies Transforming Customer Service

Customer service is the foundation of any successful business, and with each passing year, customer expectations continue to rise. Meeting these expectations requires more than just dedication; it demands the right tools and technologies. Research shows that more than half of customers now prefer self-service options to speaking with a representative, reflecting the growing desire for quick, accessible solutions.

Here’s a look at some of the top technologies reshaping customer service and helping businesses stay competitive:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are revolutionizing customer service, transforming everything from customer interactions to internal operations. Through AI-powered chatbots, businesses can offer instant responses to common inquiries, reducing wait times and allowing human agents to focus on more complex issues. Additionally, machine learning algorithms can analyze past interactions to improve responses, predict needs, and personalize service, enhancing the customer experience in meaningful ways.

Omnichannel support

Today’s customers use multiple channels to reach out—phone, email, chat, social media, and more—and they expect a smooth, consistent experience across each one. Omnichannel support integrates these various touchpoints, allowing customers to switch channels without repeating information. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also helps companies provide a seamless, unified service experience.

Cloud-based customer service platforms

Cloud technology has brought unprecedented flexibility and scalability to customer service. By moving customer service operations to the cloud, companies can easily scale their support capabilities up or down, ensuring they can handle peak times or unexpected surges in demand. Cloud platforms allow agents to work from anywhere, making remote and hybrid customer service teams effective and responsive.

Self-service solutions

Self-service tools like knowledge bases, FAQs, and community forums empower customers to find answers on their own. Not only does this reduce the burden on customer service teams, but it also meets the preferences of customers who prefer solving issues without direct assistance. By offering robust self-service options, companies can boost satisfaction while freeing up resources for more complex inquiries.

Data analytics and customer insights

Data analytics has become an invaluable tool for understanding customer behavior and preferences. By analyzing customer interactions and feedback, companies gain insights that can shape more personalized and proactive service. For instance, if data shows recurring issues or common questions, businesses can address these proactively through FAQs or dedicated service strategies, ultimately improving the customer experience.

Robotic process automation (RPA)

RPA uses software “robots” to perform repetitive, rule-based tasks, such as data entry, form processing, or responding to basic queries. By automating these routine tasks, RPA frees human agents to focus on complex and high-value activities. This not only improves efficiency but also allows employees to spend more time solving nuanced problems, creating a better experience for customers.

Planning your customer service roadmap

With so many technologies available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Each business has unique needs, and the best approach to implementing new technologies is to have a clear roadmap. Our team of IT consultants can help you evaluate your current setup, identify key areas for improvement, and design a technology roadmap that aligns with your business goals.

Six Simple Steps to Enhance Your Email Security

Email is a fundamental communication tool for businesses and individuals alike. But it’s also a prime target for cybercriminals. Cyberattacks are increasing in sophistication. This means enhancing your email security has never been more critical.

By taking proactive measures, you can protect your sensitive information as well as prevent unauthorized access and maintain communication integrity. Here are six simple steps to enhance your email security.

Use strong, unique passwords

Passwords are the first line of defense for your email accounts. A weak password is like an open invitation for cybercriminals. To enhance your email security, use strong, unique passwords. Ones that are difficult to guess.

Consider using a password manager. Remembering several complex passwords can be challenging. A password manager can help you generate and store unique passwords for all accounts. With a password manager, you only need to remember one master password. This simplifies the process while enhancing security.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your email accounts. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they won’t be able to access your account. They would need the second factor of authentication to do that.

Enable 2FA for all your email accounts. Most email providers offer this feature and setting it up usually takes just a few minutes. This simple step significantly improves your email security.

Be cautious with email attachments and links

Email attachments and links are common vectors for malware and phishing attacks. Clicking on a malicious link or attachment can give attackers access to your system. Exercise caution to protect your email security.

Before opening an attachment or clicking on a link, verify the sender’s identity. If you receive an unexpected email from someone you know, contact them. But do it through a different channel to confirm they sent it. For emails from unknown senders, exercise extra caution.

Keep your email software updated

Software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities in your email client. Keep your email software updated. This ensures you have the latest protections against known threats.

Most email clients and operating systems offer automatic updates. Enable this feature. It ensures your software stays up to date without requiring manual intervention. Automatic updates reduce the risk of missing critical security patches.

Use encryption for sensitive emails

Encryption adds a layer of protection to your emails. It encodes the content, making it readable only by the intended recipient. This ensures that even intercepted email information remains secure.

If you’re sending encrypted emails, make sure the recipients know how to decrypt them. Provide clear instructions about how to access the encrypted content securely.

Watch your email activity

Regularly monitoring your email activity can help you detect suspicious behavior early. By keeping an eye on your account, you can take swift action if something seems off.

Many email providers offer activity alerts. They notify you of unusual login attempts or changes to your account settings. Enable these alerts to stay informed about your account’s security status.

Review your email account activity on a regular basis. This includes login history and devices connected to your account.