AI is great, but it creates a security blind spot

You’re focused on leveraging the latest technology for growth and innovation, but there’s a hidden risk that comes with it. The software, automated systems, and AI tools that power your business each have their own non-human identity (NHI). Managing these digital identities was a significant challenge even before the AI boom, but now, with intelligent agents capable of independent action, NHIs represent a critical threat that demands immediate attention.

Your company’s biggest, most overlooked security risk

Think about every piece of software, cloud application, and automated script your company uses. Each one needs credentials and permissions to access data and perform its tasks. That’s a massive, often invisible, digital workforce.

The problem here is that these NHIs are often created for a specific purpose and then forgotten, leaving a digital door wide open for attackers. This oversight leads to several common security gaps:

  • Ghost accounts: These are accounts and app credentials that are never disabled, even after a project ends or an employee leaves. Orphaned accounts like these are prime targets, as they are unmonitored and can provide persistent access to your network.
  • Weak credentials: Attackers use automated tools to constantly scan for easy-to-crack credentials, making them a significant vulnerability.
  • Lack of visibility: Most businesses have no clear picture of how many NHIs exist in their environment or what they have access to. If you don’t know an identity exists, you can’t secure it, monitor it, or recognize when it’s been compromised.

How AI supercharges the threat

If unsecured NHIs are like a key left under the doormat, then AI is like a team of burglars who can check every doormat in the city in a matter of seconds. AI-powered tools allow attackers to find and exploit these forgotten credentials with alarming speed and efficiency, turning a minor vulnerability into a major breach in minutes.

But the risk goes even deeper. The introduction of autonomous AI agents creates a new layer of complexity. AI agents are designed to act independently to achieve certain goals, which means they require broad access to your company’s systems and data. This can lead to:

  • Unpredictable actions: An AI agent given a simple task could find an unexpected and potentially destructive way to accomplish it. In a recent security test, an AI given access to company emails discovered it was going to be replaced. It then tried to blackmail the engineer in charge to save its “job.” Imagine the potential for data leaks or operational disruption if such an agent had access to your critical systems.
  • Shadow AI: Employees are increasingly using new AI tools without company approval or IT oversight. Each of these tools creates a new, unmanaged identity with access to your data, creating security gaps that your team can’t see.

Secure your business for the AI era

The rapid evolution of AI-driven threats can feel daunting, but you can take proactive steps to protect your business. The strategy starts with a few foundational principles:

  • Gain full visibility: You can’t protect what you can’t see. The first step is to discover and inventory every NHI across your entire digital environment. Utilizing specialized tools can help automate this process and provide a complete picture of your NHI landscape.
  • Enforce the principle of least privilege: Ensure every application, script, and system has only the absolute minimum level of access required to perform its function. If a tool doesn’t need access to sensitive customer data, it shouldn’t have it.
  • Manage the full life cycle: Implement a clear, automated process for creating, managing, and, most importantly, securely decommissioning NHIs when they are no longer needed.

Online threats may be sophisticated and constantly evolving, but a strong security plan can still keep them at bay. Our team of cybersecurity experts can help you gain a clear understanding of your current risk posture and develop a robust strategy to secure your business against the latest threats.

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

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Think you can spot a phishing email?

This new trick is harder to catch.

Many people are getting better at spotting phishing attacks from outside sources. But what if the attack appears to come from within your own company? A recently discovered vulnerability in Microsoft 365 is being used to bypass traditional security, making it easier than ever for hackers to send you convincing fake emails that slip past your defenses.

The sneaky trick, explained

At the heart of this new threat is a Microsoft 365 feature called Direct Send. It was created for a simple, helpful reason: to allow internal office devices, such as printers and scanners, to send you emails — such as a scanned document — without needing to log in with a password. This feature is designed for convenience and is intended only for internal use.

However, this convenience has created a security loophole. Because Direct Send doesn’t require authentication, hackers have found a way to exploit it to send phishing emails without needing to steal a single password or compromise any accounts. All they need is a few publicly available details and some guesswork to figure out your company’s email address format.

Once an attacker has a valid internal email address, they can use the Direct Send system to send emails that look like they’re from someone inside your organization. And because these emails are routed through Microsoft’s own infrastructure and appear to be internal, they often bypass the very security filters designed to catch suspicious messages.

In a recent campaign that affected over 70 organizations, attackers used this method to send fake voicemail notifications containing malicious QR codes, which tricked users into visiting websites that stole their Microsoft 365 credentials.

What you can do: Stay alert

While the technical fix is up to your IT team, everyone can help prevent these attacks by being cautious.

  • Be suspicious of the sender – Even if an email looks like it’s from a coworker, be wary if the request is unusual.
  • Question internal notifications – Employees are used to seeing notifications from scanners and printers, so they rarely question their authenticity. Think twice before opening attachments or clicking links in automated messages.
  • Beware of QR codes – Be very careful about scanning QR codes you receive in emails, as they may lead you to malicious websites.
  • Report, don’t reply – If you see a suspicious email, report it to your IT department immediately.

For your IT department: The technical fix

This attack exploits a misconfiguration, not an impossible-to-stop, zero-day threat. Your technical team can take several steps to shut this vulnerability down.

  • Implement strict policies – Enforce strict DMARC and anti-spoofing policies to make it harder for fakes to get through. You should also enable “SPF hardfail” in Exchange Online Protection.
  • Disable or reject Direct Send – Microsoft is working to disable Direct Send by default. In the meantime, you can enable the “Reject Direct Send” setting in the Exchange Admin Center to block this type of attack.
  • Flag unauthenticated mail – Set up rules to flag any unauthenticated internal emails for review.
  • Secure your devices – Treat all network-connected devices, such as printers and scanners, as fully fledged endpoints. This means putting them on segmented networks, monitoring their activity, and restricting what they are allowed to do.

Don’t wait for an attack to test your defenses. Contact our cybersecurity experts today for help securing your email systems and for more information on how to protect your organization.

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What if the “unsubscribe” button was a trick?

Experts warn clicking “unsubscribe” on that boring email could actually be a security risk – here’s why

If you’ve received a spam email with an “unsubscribe here” button at the bottom, don’t press it – it could do more harm than good.

This is according to TK Keanini, CTO of DNSFilter, who recently revealed pressing such a button sends the recipient away from the safety of the email client and into the open internet, where potentially malicious landing pages are lurking.

In fact, Keanini claims that one in every 644 clicks can lead to a malicious website.

How to unsubscribe, then?

Even if clicking the button doesn’t lead directly to a phishing page, other, more subtle, risks, are lurking as well.

Keanini says that hackers would often place that button just to see who clicks – which would also help them determine which email addresses are active and thus worth targeting further.

The general rule of thumb seems to be – if you don’t trust the company that sent the email, don’t trust the unsubscribe process, either.

So, what’s the alternative? The alternative is to unsubscribe through the email client itself, rather than through the email’s body.

Most email clients have “list-unsubscribe headers”, which appear as built-in buttons and thus don’t include source code, Tom’s Guide explained. “If your email header doesn’t contain a link, you can reply on your spam filters, or try blacklisting the sender instead,” the publication further explained.

Those who don’t have these options can use disposable email addresses when signing up for different services. Most email service providers allow users to create throwaway email addresses, as well. For example, Gmail has a feature called “plus addressing” or “Gmail aliases”, which allow users to modify their address by adding a + and a tag before the @gmail.com address.

That way, the email address used during registration could be yourname+shopping@gmail.com. Messages will still arrive in the inbox, but they can be easily tracked or filtered.

Still not sure where to start? Contact our cybersecurity experts for personalized advice.

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 The Wall Street Journal  SOURCE

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SLAM Method: What It Stands For (And How It Can Save You From Hackers)

The internet became a thing just over four decades ago, and has now transformed into an essential service that connects billions of people worldwide. Every major industry, including healthcare, banking, and entertainment, relies heavily on digital communication. As convenient as instant access to millions of websites and apps has become, it has also opened the door for bad actors that find vulnerabilities to exploit users’ personal information. According to the U.S. Department of State, cyber criminals caused over $4 billion worth of financial losses in 2020 alone.

Top-rated antivirus programs like ESET and McAfee protect against various kinds of malware, which are usually beyond the control of the user once the malicious files have made their way into the system. Despite the clever advancements in the delivery mechanisms and execution strategies of malware, phishing remains a widely adopted method among cyber criminals. This is largely thanks to phishing being an easy yet persistent form of social engineering — often with a high success rate. 

With phishing, cyber criminals send fraudulent emails or messages to users, and these victims, who often don’t know any better, end up clicking on malicious links or downloading attachments. An effective defense against falling victim to phishing attacks is adopting the SLAM method. It’s a quick, four-step checklist that encourages users to briefly pause and examine potentially dangerous emails or text messages. It’s an acronym that stands for Sender, Links, Attachments, and Messages — four variables to look out for in any new emails.

Using The SLAM Method

Breakdown of the SLAM acronym

The SLAM method advises all internet users to check for the following four key aspects in any suspicious emails or messages they receive:

  1. Sender: Carefully examine the sender’s email address or phone number, in the case of a text message. Look for spelling errors or cleverly masked domains. For example, an email from “xyz@apple.com” is legit, whereas one from “xyz@apple-support.com” should raise immediate suspicion. 
  2. Links: Many phishing attacks depend on the victim clicking on fraudulent links. Before you click on a link in an email, hover your cursor over it to preview the URL. Most browsers show the destination URL at the bottom of the screen, and you can also long-press on a mobile to view a preview of the webpage. This can help you identify scam websites that disguise themselves as legitimate login portals.
  3. Attachments: Only download attachments from trusted senders. With document-based malware, PDFs or Microsoft Office files are laced with malicious macros that execute when they are launched. 
  4. Messages: Sometimes carefully going through the contents of an email or a text message is enough to spot an attempted phishing attack. Look for inconsistencies in the font and color, in addition to poor grammar or spelling mistakes.

It only takes a few intentional applications of using the SLAM method before it develops into habitual instinct. Not to mention, it’s a fast and effective measure against phishing attacks that doesn’t require any fancy apps or browser extensions.

What To Do If You Receive A Phishing Email

The safest way to deal with a phishing email is by not interacting with any links or attachments it contains. If, after a quick SLAM analysis, you determine that an email you’ve received is potentially fraudulent, you should delete it. You can also report an email before you send it to the trash. Flagging a suspicious email will help train the systems of email providers, which eventually would reduce the likelihood of phishing emails landing in the inbox of users.

You can report an email for phishing on most major services like Gmail and Outlook. For example, on Gmail, click on the three-dotted menu icon located on top of the email message, and click the “Report phishing” button. You can also directly forward a suspected phishing email to reportphishing@apwg.org, which is an address that belongs to the Anti-Phishing Working Group of the FTC.

If you have unfortunately fallen prey to a phishing attack and have entered your credentials on a fake website, immediately change your passwords. Preventing hackers from easily accessing your accounts is also why you should always enable two-factor authentication.

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 Slashgear.com SOURCE

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The Benefits of Keeping Your Computer Regularly Updated

In today’s fast-paced digital world, maintaining your computer’s software and hardware updates is crucial for optimal performance, security, and reliability. Here are some key benefits of keeping your computer regularly updated:

Enhanced Security

Regular updates protect your computer from the latest security threats. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new vulnerabilities to exploit, and software developers respond by releasing patches and updates to counter these threats. By keeping your system updated, you ensure that your computer has the latest defenses against malware, viruses, and other security risks.

Improved Performance

Updates often include performance enhancements that can make your computer run faster and more efficiently. These improvements can optimize resource allocation, reduce latency, and fix bugs that may be slowing down your system. Whether you’re using your computer for work, gaming, or everyday tasks, regular updates help maintain smooth and responsive performance.

Better Compatibility

As software evolves, compatibility issues can arise between older drivers and newer applications or operating systems. Regular updates ensure that your computer remains compatible with the latest software, preventing crashes and other stability issues. This is especially important for users who rely on their computers for professional tasks or complex applications.

Access to New Features

Software updates often come with new features and functionalities that can enhance your computing experience. These updates can introduce new tools, improve existing ones, and provide a more user-friendly interface. Staying current with updates allows you to take advantage of these improvements and keep your system modern and efficient.

Extended Hardware Lifespan

Keeping your computer’s drivers and firmware updated can prolong the lifespan of your hardware. Updates can optimize the performance of your components, reduce wear and tear, and ensure that your hardware functions at its best. This not only saves you money in the long run but also helps you get the most out of your investment.

Reduced Operating Costs

Regular updates can help reduce operating costs by improving energy efficiency and minimizing the need for repairs. Updated systems are less likely to experience crashes or other issues that require professional assistance, saving you time and money. Additionally, efficient resource management can lower energy consumption, contributing to a greener computing environment.

Quick Problem Resolution

Updates often include fixes for known issues and bugs that may be affecting your system’s performance. By staying on top of these updates, you can quickly resolve problems and maintain a stable and reliable computing experience. This is particularly important for business users who need their systems to be dependable and efficient.

Future-Proofed Systems

Regular updates ensure that your computer is prepared for future software developments and technological advancements. By keeping your system current, you can avoid compatibility issues and ensure that your computer remains relevant and functional as new technologies emerge.

In conclusion, regularly updating your computer is essential for maintaining its performance, security, and reliability. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional, staying current with updates helps protect your investment and ensures a smooth and efficient computing experience.

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The benefits of technology reviews for SMBs

For small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), regular technology reviews are imperative. These reviews help ensure IT systems are optimized for efficiency, security, and scalability. Moreover, they can be instrumental in reducing costs, preventing downtime, and leveraging new technology. There are numerous advantages to conducting technology reviews, and it could hold the key to your SMB’s success.

Here’s how a well-executed technology review benefits your business.

Optimizing costs and IT investments

Many SMBs overspend on IT without realizing it. A technology business review evaluates your current tech expenses and identifies ways to cut costs without sacrificing efficiency. IT consultants can recommend cost-effective alternatives, such as consolidating redundant tools, switching to cloud-based solutions, or optimizing software licenses. By making smarter IT investments, you can stretch your budget further and free up resources for growth.

Improving productivity and workflow efficiency

Inefficient IT systems slow teams down. A technology review helps uncover bottlenecks and guides you toward a more efficient and effective technology strategy, such as upgrading outdated hardware or adopting cloud collaboration tools such as Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. These platforms enable seamless file sharing and real-time collaboration, and in turn, increase efficiency and productivity. Making sure your technology supports, rather than hinders, your team’s workflow leads to better business performance.

Enhancing security and compliance

Cyberthreats will always be a major concern for many SMBs, which happen to be a primary target for cybercriminals mainly due to their weaker security measures. A technology review can help boost security by identifying vulnerabilities such as unpatched software, weak passwords, or outdated access controls. The data gathered can also be used to determine the right security solutions for a company’s needs.

Then there’s the matter of compliance requirements, which constantly change. So, whether your business handles customer data, financial records, or healthcare information, a review ensures your IT practices align with industry regulations, reducing legal risks and protecting your reputation.

Keeping up with technology trends

Failing to adapt to rapid technological changes can leave your business behind. A technology business review offers valuable insights into emerging trends, helping you stay informed and up to date. It can help you determine which innovations — such as automation, artificial intelligence, or cloud computing — can benefit your business. It can also help pinpoint outdated systems that must be replaced with scalable, future-proof solutions that support long-term growth.

Minimizing downtime and IT disruptions

Unplanned IT failures can be costly and disruptive, especially without a system in place to monitor risks. Regular reviews help identify potential issues early, preventing downtime and keeping your business running smoothly. Consultants can recommend solutions such as cloud-based backups for faster recovery, redundant internet connections for uninterrupted service, and predictive maintenance strategies to prevent hardware failures. With a proactive IT strategy, your business can avoid costly interruptions and maintain seamless operations.

Future-proofing your business

Technology business reviews not only help resolve current issues but also ensure your IT strategy stays modern and aligned with evolving trends. Conducting regular reviews help you stay ahead of risks, refine your technology investments, and maintain a secure, efficient IT environment that supports your company’s growth.

Ready to gain a competitive edge with a tailored technology review? Contact us today, and let’s create a smarter IT strategy for your business.

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

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Use These 5 Rules to Block Phishing Emails From Your Inbox

Your email inbox is likely rammed full of suspicious emails. Despite your best efforts, at some point, you’re bound to click on one; don’t worry, we all do it. However, you can try to keep your inbox phishing-free with a few simple tips and rules.

– Hover Over Links Before Clicking

One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from phishing attempts is to hover over any links before clicking them. This simple action can reveal the actual URL behind the anchor text, giving you a better idea of where it will take you.

When you hover over a link, make sure the URL matches the expected destination. If you expect to go to your bank’s website, but the URL looks unfamiliar or suspicious, it’s best to avoid clicking on it altogether.

Be particularly cautious of shortened links, as they can easily mask the true destination. Scammers often use link shorteners to hide malicious URLs behind seemingly innocuous ones. If you must click on a shortened link, consider using a URL checker to scan for potential threats.

URL checkers, such as VirusTotal or URLVoid, can help you determine whether a shortened link leads to a fraudulent or malicious site. So, just by taking a moment to verify the safety of a link, you can save yourself from potential headaches down the road.

– Set Up Email Rules and Filters

Another effective way to keep phishing emails at bay is to set up rules and filters within Outlook or another email client. These tools allow you to automatically sort incoming messages based on specific criteria, helping you separate legitimate emails from potential threats.

Start by creating rules based on the sender. Suppose you consistently receive phishing attempts from a particular email address or domain. In that case, you can create a rule that automatically moves these messages to a separate folder or marks them as spam.

Implementing language-based filters can also be helpful. Many phishing emails contain poor grammar, spelling errors, or unusual phrasing. By setting up filters that flag emails containing these red flags, you can easily identify and avoid potential scams.

Other filtering criteria might include subject lines containing urgent or threatening language, emails with attachments from unknown senders, or messages from countries where you don’t typically receive correspondence.

– Block Suspicious Email Addresses

If you spot phishing emails from the same sender, it may be time to take a more proactive approach. Most email clients offer the option to block specific email addresses, preventing future messages from reaching your inbox.

Blocking suspicious email addresses can provide extra protection against persistent scammers. Once blocked, these senders can no longer contact you, reducing the risk of accidentally falling for one of their schemes.

However, scammers may try to circumvent these blocks by creating new email addresses. Therefore, you need to consistently block suspicious senders and stay vigilant.

– Report Phishing Emails as Spam

When you come across a phishing email in your inbox, don’t just delete it—besides blocking the sender, take a moment to report it as spam. This simple action can have far-reaching benefits for both you and other email users.

When you report phishing emails as spam, it helps train your email client to recognize and filter out similar messages in the future. Over time, this can significantly reduce the number of phishing attempts that make it to your inbox.

Moreover, reporting an email as spam contributes to improving collective spam detection. Email providers use this feedback to update their algorithms, making identifying and blocking phishing attempts easier for all users.

– Regularly Update Your Email Client

One often overlooked aspect of protecting yourself from phishing emails is keeping your email client up-to-date. Software updates usually include important security patches and improvements that can help detect and prevent the latest phishing techniques.

Just regularly update your email client to ensure you have access to the most recent security features and spam detection algorithms. These updates can be the difference between falling victim to a phishing scam and avoiding it altogether.

Most email clients offer automatic updates. So, it gets easy to stay protected without much effort on your part. However, if you’re prompted to install an update manually, don’t put it off—take a few minutes to complete the process and give yourself that extra peace of mind.

So, by following these simple rules—hovering over links, setting up filters, blocking suspicious senders, reporting spam, and keeping your email client updated—you can significantly reduce your risk of falling for a phishing scam. And if you do slip up, don’t panic; you can still mitigate the phishing damage.

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 MakeUseOf.com SOURCE

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The state of ransomware today and what it means for your business

Ransomware has become one of the most persistent cyberthreats, affecting organizations of all sizes across the globe. These attacks, which hold data hostage in exchange for payment, are evolving rapidly as attackers adopt new tactics that leave businesses scrambling to respond. For business owners and leaders, understanding the current state of ransomware is crucial for protecting their organizations from potentially devastating consequences.

Ransomware today: A shifting landscape

The ransomware threat landscape has never been more dynamic. While joint efforts by law enforcement and security agencies have led to takedowns of major ransomware groups, smaller and more agile gangs have quickly filled the void.

One key trend is the emergence of new ransomware strains, often rebranded or derived from leaked and purchased code. These groups are working faster, starting negotiations just hours after stealing data.

Most alarmingly, “double extortion” tactics have become the norm. Attackers no longer settle for encrypting company data; instead, they also steal sensitive information, threatening to leak it publicly unless their ransom demands are met. This shift has rendered encryption-only attacks nearly obsolete.

Certain sectors have also become primary targets for ransomware groups. Healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies remain top priorities for cybercriminals due to the sensitive nature of their data and their perceived vulnerability. These industries accounted for nearly half of publicly disclosed attacks in 2024, according to a BlackFog report.

For business owners and leaders outside of these sectors, it’s crucial to note that no industry is truly safe. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service, or RaaS, has made it easier for more and less skilled cybercriminals to target businesses of all sizes with advanced ransomware.

How law enforcement and enterprises are fighting back

Despite the growing complexity of ransomware, there is hope on the horizon. Law enforcement agencies and international collaborations have made significant headway in disrupting major ransomware operations. High-profile takedowns, such as Operation Cronos, have resulted in a decline in the overall volume of ransom payments — a promising trend for businesses worldwide.

However, the fight against ransomware doesn’t solely rest on external actors. Enterprises are adopting the following proactive measures to safeguard themselves:

  • Implementing zero trust architecture – Zero trust is a security model that assumes that threats exist both outside and inside an organization, requiring strict verification for all users and devices attempting to access resources.
  • Adopting endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions – EDR tools provide real-time visibility into the devices connected to a network, enabling businesses to detect, investigate, and swiftly respond to threats before they can cause significant damage.
  • Conducting regular cybersecurity drills – Simulating an attack can help identify weaknesses, prepare employees, and ensure the organization can respond quickly and efficiently in the event of a real breach.
  • Maintaining immutable backups – If ransomware infiltrates your system, immutable backups provide a secure way to restore operations without paying the ransom.
  • Staying vigilant with patches and updates – Attackers cannot take advantage of outdated technology when you regularly update your software and systems.
  • Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools – Just as attackers are exploring AI-based methods to enhance their operations, businesses can use AI for advanced threat detection and automated responses to preempt attacks.

Our security experts can help you build a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes proactive measures and rapid incident response capabilities. Contact us today to learn more about how we can protect your business from ransomware attacks.

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

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Windows 10 is nearing its end of life — here’s what you need to know

Microsoft will officially cease support for Windows 10 in October 2025, marking the end of an era for one of the most widely used operating systems. But there’s no need to worry just yet, you still have plenty of time to prepare. To help you navigate this transition, we’ve put together a straightforward guide to explore your next steps.

What happens when Windows 10 support ends?

Your computer won’t suddenly stop functioning after support ends. You’ll still be able to access your files, browse the web, and carry out everyday tasks as usual. However, there’s an important drawback: Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. Over time, this could leave your system increasingly vulnerable to security threats and performance problems.

Why won’t Microsoft support Windows 10 anymore?

You might be wondering, “If Windows 10 still works so well for millions of users, why is Microsoft ending its support?”

The short answer is planned life cycle management. Technology evolves quickly, and continuing to support older software takes up significant resources. Microsoft typically provides support for its operating systems for about a decade, and Windows 10, released in 2015, will reach its 10-year mark by October 2025. This timeline aligns with industry standards and ensures a predictable transition for users.

But there’s another big reason: Microsoft wants to shift focus to Windows 11, their newest and most secure operating system. Windows 11 is designed to take advantage of newer hardware, enhance data security, and integrate innovative tools such as AI-powered assistants. These advancements require a more sophisticated foundation than what Windows 10 was designed for. By encouraging users to move to Windows 11, Microsoft can prioritize enhanced security, performance, and cutting-edge features while streamlining the infrastructure behind the scenes.

While switching over to a new operating system might seem inconvenient at first, it represents a broader shift toward a future of safer, more efficient, and highly capable computing.

What are your options after the Windows 10 end of life?

To stay protected, it’s important to plan your next steps well before the support window closes.

Option 1: Buy a new PC with Windows 11 preinstalled

If your current device is getting a little sluggish or outdated, this might be the perfect opportunity to upgrade. Most new computers now come with Windows 11 already installed, giving you the latest features, security updates, and a more modern interface.

Some retailers even offer trade-in deals or discounts if you hand over your old Windows 10 device, which is a great way to offset the cost.

Option 2: Upgrade your current operating system to Windows 11

You may not need to purchase a new device to experience Windows 11. Many Windows 10 PCs are eligible for a free upgrade, provided they meet the necessary hardware requirements.

To find out if your device is compatible, download Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool. This tool will quickly scan your system and confirm whether it’s ready for the upgrade. If your hardware passes the test, the upgrade process is straightforward, allowing you to access the latest updates and features without missing a beat.

However, if your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, don’t attempt to force the upgrade, as this could lead to stability issues. To ensure a smooth transition, it’s always best to follow Microsoft’s official guidelines.

Option 3: Keep using Windows 10

Yes, you can keep using Windows 10 after 2025, but it comes with risks. Without official support or updates, your system will become increasingly vulnerable to malware and security threats.

If you decide to stick with Windows 10, consider installing strong third-party antivirus software and exercising caution when downloading files or clicking on links. Microsoft may offer extended security updates for a fee, but the details for everyday users are still developing at this time.

Option 4: Explore alternative operating systems

If you’re open to exploring something new, consider switching your PC to a completely different operating system such as Linux. Known for its security, flexibility, and frequent updates, Linux is a favorite among tech-savvy users.

However, it’s important to note that Linux comes with a steeper learning curve and may not support all of your current apps and programs. Before making the switch, back up your data and do thorough research to ensure it’s the right fit for your needs.

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

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How to pick the right antivirus software for your SMB

When running a small or medium-sized business (SMB), security should never be an afterthought. With cyberattacks becoming more advanced, having reliable antivirus software is one of the most effective ways to protect your sensitive data. However, choosing the right antivirus software isn’t as simple as picking the first one you come across. The wrong choice could lead to poor performance, unnecessary expenses, or, worse, vulnerabilities in your defenses. Here are five key factors to consider before purchasing antivirus software.

Cost

Sticking to a budget is essential, but cost should be more than just the sticker price when evaluating antivirus solutions. Instead, think of it in terms of value for money.

What to consider

  • Free vs. paid versions – While free antivirus software might seem like a cost-effective solution, it often lacks features such as advanced threat detection, multidevice support, or customer service.
  • Pricing plans – Does the software offer flexible pricing plans that scale with your business? Many antivirus providers offer packages designed specifically for SMBs, with options for a limited number of devices.
  • Hidden costs – Watch out for hidden costs such as additional fees for technical support, upgrades, or advanced features not included in the basic package.

Speed and performance

Slow, resource-heavy software can cripple productivity. Antivirus software is meant to protect your system, not bog it down.

What to consider

  • System impact – Will the antivirus software slow down your devices? Some solutions are notorious for eating up processing power, making simple tasks like opening applications painfully slow.
  • Scan speeds – How fast can the software run a full system scan? It should strike a balance between thoroughness and efficiency, ensuring minimal disruption to your team’s workflow.
  • Smart scanning options – Look for features such as scheduled scans or smart scanning, which allow the program to run background checks during low-usage times.

System compatibility

Every business uses a mix of devices to operate, which can include PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones. The antivirus software you choose should be compatible with your setup.

What to consider

  • Operating systems – Does the software support the operating systems your team uses? Some antivirus programs are optimized for Windows, while others are better suited for macOS or Linux environments.
  • Device coverage – How many devices can you protect under a single license? Keep in mind that many SMB packages allow for a specific number of installations, so ensure you have enough to cover your team’s equipment.
  • Mobile compatibility – With employees often working on the go, your antivirus software should extend its defense to mobile devices.
  • Cross-platform protection – If your office uses a mix of operating systems, look for an antivirus solution that offers protection for all of them.

Comprehensive protection

Antivirus software should do more than just scan for viruses. It should also defend against evolving cyberthreats.

What to consider

  • Features – Look for features beyond basic virus detection, such as ransomware protection, phishing prevention, and firewall integration.
  • Real-time monitoring – Does the software constantly monitor threats, or does it only check during scheduled scans? Real-time monitoring is crucial for businesses that need 24/7 defense.
  • Web protection – With so much business conducted online, antivirus software should be capable of safeguarding your web browsers against malicious sites and downloads.
  • Cloud-based updates – Threats evolve daily. Ensure the software offers automatic, cloud-based updates to keep your protection current.

Customer support

Even the best antivirus software can run into hiccups, and when that happens, having access to reliable customer support can make all the difference.

What to consider

  • Documentation – Check if the antivirus provider offers detailed user guides, FAQs, or video tutorials to help your team use the software effectively.
  • Support channels – Does the company offer support via email, phone, or live chat? 24/7 availability is ideal if you operate outside traditional business hours.
  • Response times – How quickly does the support team resolve issues? A delayed response during a real security incident can be catastrophic.

Choosing antivirus software may feel like a chore, but investing a bit of time upfront can save you from major headaches and even bigger losses. Focus on these five factors, and you’ll be set to find a solution that’s tailored to your SMB’s needs.

Still not sure where to start? Contact our cybersecurity experts for personalized advice.

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

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