Whether your employees are simply searching on Google or accessing online work applications, they’re vulnerable to all sorts of cyberthreats, such as phishing scams and malware. This could endanger your company data and your employees themselves. Therefore, as a business owner, you need to take steps toward helping your employees browse safely.

Install ad blocking software

Even though online ads may seem harmless, they can contain scripts and widgets that send your information to third parties without your knowledge and consent. Ad blocking software will stop banner, rollover, and pop-up ads from appearing on websites. It can also help protect you from accidentally going to malware-laden sites.

Many ad blockers can also disable cookies and scripts used by third parties on sites, block specific items, “clean up” Facebook, and hide YouTube comments.

Prevent browser tracking

In browser tracking, websites monitor your online activity and retain information about the sites you’ve visited. It’s done by placing cookies (i.e., small text files that record everything you do online) on your computer and other devices. Browser trackers not only slow down your computer but can also expose sensitive information to malicious actors.

You can use browser extensions like Ghostery and Disconnect to block cookies from collecting data about your online behavior. It’s also best to utilize your web browser’s built-in private browsing tools, such as Chrome’s Incognito mode or Safari’s Private Browsing. When you use these built-in tools, your browser won’t save details of your browsing session, so it won’t remember your search history, the pages you visited, or your autofill information. This also means your online activities won’t be saved on your device or shared with your other devices.

Use a virtual private network (VPN)

Cybercriminals can intercept data between two parties, allowing them to steal sensitive data, such as login credentials and banking information. A VPN can help solve this problem since it anonymizes your online activity by routing your connection through its secure servers. With a VPN, all of your data traffic gets encrypted and sent via an anonymous IP address. This makes it difficult for hackers to track or intercept your data.

Install antivirus software

Antivirus software is a must for keeping viruses and other malware away from your work PCs, tablets, and smartphones. It will scan your devices for malware and block it if detected, keeping you safe from malicious parties that are after your data.

Make sure to keep your antivirus up to date so it can keep you protected even from the latest cyberthreats. You can enable automatic updates to ensure you’re always running the latest software version.

Train your employees

Provide your employees with security training so they would be aware of the latest scams, know how to recognize cyberthreats, and practice good cyber hygiene. Make sure training sessions also cover your company policies related to data privacy and security, which may include guidelines like:

  • Use strong and unique passwords for every account.
  • Be wary of clicking on links in emails and opening suspicious email attachments.
  • Download software only from legitimate sources.
  • Do not store important documents on unsecured devices.

By taking these steps, you can provide a safer online environment for your employees and protect your business from cyberthreats. If you need help implementing these tips, get in touch with our IT experts.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

Password fatigue is a real problem for businesses. Here’s what they can do while they await passwordless authentication.

Does the term “password fatigue” sound familiar? It’s ironic that increased security measures put in place to keep us safe may sometimes do the exact opposite. Mandatory password changes, lengthy password requirements and security questions, while well intentioned, can lead some people to backslide with their digital hygiene.

With the average person reusing the same password 14 times across their portfolio of digital accounts, it’s no wonder the FBI received a record number of cybercrime complaints from the American public last year, with potential losses exceeding $6.9 billion.

How To Prevent Password Fatigue

Password fatigue is a reaction to the fact that safety and functionality are often seen as in opposition to each other. Our days are filled with a series of different programs and platforms, each requiring its own login credentials.

The average adult has at least 100 passwords to keep track of, and the majority of Americans say they’re locked out of an average of 10 accounts per month. It’s impossible to remember all the passwords that safeguard our daily lives. The seemingly endless need to remember or reset passwords can wear people down, resulting in risky behavior.

One study revealed that 92 percent of people are aware of the security risk associated with reusing passwords, but 65 percent reuse them anyway. The password has stuck around so long despite its flaws precisely because it is not easy to replace.

Passwordless authentication is available for use today; however, most organizations have not yet deployed the technologies to support it. For now, they rely on multi-factor authentication to mitigate the risk of passwords being hacked. That’s a good intermediate step, but it doesn’t do anything to solve password fatigue.

Resetting Passwords: What You Need to Know

In addition to multi-factor authentication, businesses can help employees by deploying password management technology that acts as a digital logbook — a compilation of passwords to various accounts that can be accessed through a single master password.

Password managers can automatically monitor your password strength and help you create strong, unique passwords for every account.

Take the following factors into consideration when deciding which password manager is best for your needs:

  • Will it protect your organization against a cyberattack? You are best served by a manager that cr­eates high-strength, random passwords for each website, application and service that you use. Ensure you have alerts and dark web monitoring engaged so you can take immediate action if your credentials are leaked in a public data breach.
  • Does it enable multi-factor authentication? An additional PIN sent to employees’ digital devices, or one that works in tandem with an authentication app, is one element that separates a dedicated password manager from a browser-based manager, which saves and auto-fills passwords, giving anyone using your computer access to your online accounts.
  • How flexible is it? Some password managers can only be used with one device type, or with specific software systems. Make sure you’re protected on every platform, with a manager that securely syncs across all your devices.
  • Is it easy to use? Safely storing passwords should make employees’ lives simpler. Ensure your password manager can auto-fill user IDs and passwords, and consider additional features, such as the ability to add payment cards for faster checkouts.

Custom fields can help securely save important information such as your driver’s license or passport number, or even sensitive files, documents, photos and videos. Most experts agree that the ongoing use of passwords represents a security risk for organizations. Until passwords are a thing of the past, however, businesses should do all they can to reduce that risk.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from BizTech  SOURCE

If you’re a Mac user, it’s important to be aware of the growing number of ransomware attacks that are specifically targeting macOS devices. Just like Windows users, you need to take precautions to protect yourself from these threats. Here’s how you can secure your Mac against ransomware attacks.

Defining ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software, or malware, designed to extort money from victims. It works by locking down access to an infected computer’s system and files and demanding payment, typically in a cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, in return for unlocking the system.

Mac ransomware wreaking havoc

There is a common misconception that Macs are safe from ransomware. But as some recent ransomware attacks show, Macs are no safer than Windows computers from the growing threat of ransomware.

In 2016, a ransomware named KeRanger made waves when it was found to have affected over 7,000 macOS computers. KeRanger managed to bypass Apple’s renowned security protocols by piggybacking on an official BitTorrent client called Transmission.

Meanwhile, in 2017, another ransomware strain targeting Mac was discovered. Called Patcher, this Mac ransomware was disguised as an application for patching programs like Microsoft Office. However, launching Patcher would encrypt user directories and demand payment for a decryption key that would never be provided due to the software’s faulty construction.

And finally, in 2019, the EvilQuest ransomware ran rampant on Mac computers around the world. Even after paying the ransom, EvilQuest victims weren’t able to gain back access to their systems and files

Prevention is key

Taking proactive steps to prevent ransomware from occurring is the best defense you can have. You can start by ensuring that your Mac’s operating system (OS) and applications are updated on a regular basis. Aside from improved system performance, OS updates usually include essential security patches that aim to address the latest security threats.

And to ensure that your data remains safe, perform regular backups and set up firewalls and antivirus software on your Mac. Doing so can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access or exposure to damaging malware. Additionally, creating backups can also help you recover important files in the event of a ransomware attack or any other untoward event.

Another essential security tip is to use strong passwords and multifactor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. These security methods can provide an added layer of protection to your data and systems, making it difficult for attackers to gain access to confidential information.

Furthermore, it is important to stay vigilant and aware of phishing emails since these are the most common delivery method for ransomware. If you receive an email from someone you don’t know, or an email you weren’t expecting, avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments.

What to do in case your Mac gets infected

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having your Mac infected with ransomware, take these steps to protect your data, restore access to files, and remove the malware from your device.

  1. Immediately disconnect from the internet or disable any form of wireless connection to contain the spread of the ransomware.
  2. After that, if possible, back up all of your important files and folders onto an external drive or file storage provider. Make sure not to include any encrypted files in this backup.
  3. Run an antivirus scan on your Mac and delete any detected threats.
  4. Reinstall any deleted apps or replace corrupted system files.
  5. Finally, connect to the internet again and check whether ransomware is still present on your Mac.

It’s also crucial to not pay the ransom fee. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the attackers will provide you with the decryption key to release your data. Instead, you may explore free ransomware decryption tools online to remove the ransomware from your Mac.

Lastly, with a severe threat like this, it’s best to work with cybersecurity experts. They know all about the latest Mac security threats and will be able to best assess and address the situation, and take the necessary steps to keep your organization safe.

Don’t let ransomware and other cyberthreats ruin your Mac and your business. For more information about protecting your Macs from ransomware, contact us today. Our IT security experts will be glad to assist you.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE

As the owner of a small- or medium-sized business (SMB), you may feel like you’re always stretched thin. You have to manage tight budgets, juggle multiple roles, and make sure your employees have the tools and resources they need to do their jobs. It can be tough to find time to focus on growing your business. But what if there was an all-in-one solution that could help you do it? Enter Microsoft 365.

Do more with less

Microsoft 365 is a comprehensive suite of tools and services designed to help SMBs get more done. It delivers the full power of Office apps, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, with the convenience of cloud-based collaboration. It also gives you access to features like secure file sharing, document workflow automation, and real-time communication. Best of all, Microsoft 365 is designed to work with the tools and services you already use.

With Microsoft 365, you can save time and money by eliminating the need for additional software or hardware. It’s easy to set up and manage, and it’s available at affordable price points. You can even use a single subscription to cover all the devices in your business, from PCs to phones to tablets.

Stay connected, wherever you are

By leveraging Microsoft 365, you can keep your team connected and engaged, regardless of their location. With cloud-based services like Microsoft Teams, you can have virtual meetings, chat with colleagues, and collaborate on projects in real time. And when you need to access files, emails, or other data while away from the office, you can do so securely with the Microsoft 365 mobile app.

Gain valuable insights with AI

Tools like Power BI and Azure AI enable you to gain valuable insights into your business. With Power BI, you can quickly create interactive dashboards that provide up-to-date information about the performance of your company. This can help you make better decisions and identify trends that could be a source of new opportunities.

Meanwhile, Azure AI allows you to leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve customer service, automate processes, and optimize your business operations.

Secure your data

Finally, Microsoft 365 offers a range of advanced security features that help protect your data and keep your business safe. These include multifactor authentication, data loss prevention, and encryption to keep sensitive information secure. And if you ever need assistance with any of these functions, Microsoft’s world-class support team is always on hand to help.

In today’s competitive world, it’s essential for SMBs to have the tools and resources they need to succeed. Microsoft 365 can help you do just that. With its easy setup, affordable pricing, and powerful features, it’s a great way to give your business an edge. Try it today and see the difference Microsoft 365 can make in your SMB’s growth.

Don’t know where to get started? Contact us today! We’re here to help you discover the full potential of Microsoft 365.

If you are looking for an expert to help you find the best solutions for your business talk to GCInfotech about a free technology assessment

Published with consideration from TechAdvisory.org SOURCE