Remote and hybrid working is now normal for a lot of people.
But a recent survey has found that, despite it being more than two years since many of us were forced to work from home, too many businesses still don’t have the right cyber security measures in place for those away from the office.
The survey was originally intended to learn about spending plans from now into next year. However, the results highlighted just how few businesses have the right cyber security protections.
And it’s a worry.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, cyber security incidents – like malware, ransomware, and data breaches – have risen sharply. Cyber criminals began by taking advantage of the panic, and have since developed increasingly sophisticated tactics.
It’s costing businesses around the world billions, plus causing excessive downtime.
While the survey did show that around two thirds of businesses have good web security measures in place, like malware filters, some of the results were more disappointing.
Just 50% of companies have cloud-based cyber security systems in place right now (another 15% are exploring their options).
Cloud security gives businesses multiple layers of protection across their network and infrastructure that helps to keep data better protected against breaches or attacks.
Not only is it a good defense, but it also identifies threats before they become an issue.
The survey also highlighted that 10% of businesses plan to implement access management, which ensures only the right people can access the right systems.
A further 9% intend to prioritize VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to allow secure network access for remote workers.
They’re also looking at zero-trust solutions where your network assumes every device or connection is a threat, until proven otherwise.
Of course, our advice is that you should already have these security solutions in place – especially if you have remote or hybrid workers.
If not, this is something to act on quickly. All you need to do is pick up the phone or send us an email. We can help.
Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.
Google Chrome’s going to block disruptive notifications
/in Industry News, IT Tips /by Sean RidleyWhen you’re browsing it can feel like you’re being bombarded with things other people want you to see.
Not only do we have to click on permissions for cookies and tracking, but now a lot of websites ask for our permission to send us notifications.
And while many of these notifications are harmless – news updates, latest recipes, product releases – sometimes they can be outright spam.
It’s distracting, it’s making us less productive at work, and it’s just really annoying.
It’s called ‘notification spam’ and it’s becoming a problem. In fact, Google says it’s one of the top complaint reports from people using its Chrome browser.
So now the tech giant has decided to do more about it.
Back in October 2020, Google first acted on harmful notifications by exposing websites that misled people into giving permission. It created its own prompts to warn people the website may have malicious intent.
Now, Google intends to take things a step further if it feels the website is ‘abusive’ or ‘disruptive’. It’ll revoke a website’s permission to send notifications, and even block attempts to request permission.
Even if you’ve accidentally allowed a malicious site to send notifications, Chrome will be able to step in and block the alerts.
While it’s not yet clear how Google will define websites as ‘abusive’ or ‘disruptive’, it feels like a good move towards reducing the amount of spam we’re exposed to.
Google has explained that this new feature works to strengthen its ‘Developer Terms of Service’ that pledge not to use the company’s API to send any form of spam. It shouldn’t affect the majority of websites, but instead should go some way to keeping your Chrome notifications spam-free.
Development on Chrome’s notification spam block protection has only just started, so we don’t yet have a release date for the new feature.
As always, if you’d like any further advice on protecting yourself from spam and other productivity killers, get in touch.
Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.
Unapproved apps are a security risk for your business
/in Uncategorized /by Sean RidleyIt’s likely a lot of the applications and software tools you’re using now are different from the ones your business used before the pandemic.
That’s because we’ve all had to make big adjustments to the way we communicate and collaborate.
And to begin with, it may have been hit and miss. It’s possible in the first few weeks and months that your employees had to use whatever tools they had available to them.
Now that we’ve settled into permanent new ways of working, we can pick the software tools that best suit our businesses.
Unfortunately, your employees might not like your choice of which apps should be used within the company. And some of them may continue to use the ones they prefer, despite the security risk that comes with that.
A recent survey found a massive 92% of employees want more control over the software, collaboration tools, and applications they use. And 51% continue to use apps that have been banned by IT departments.
It’s putting business owners in a difficult position.
Blocking apps and software may lead to employees feeling untrusted. This can lead to frustration and lack of motivation. It can really have a negative impact on your business.
But ignoring the issue can be just as bad. Unvetted apps can be a big security risk, leaving your data open to theft and your systems vulnerable to malware.
So, what’s the answer?
We’d always suggest having open conversations with your people. It’s a good idea to invite feedback on the software you want to use. After all, your people are the ones using it day-in, day-out.
Take their suggestions on alternatives if the consensus is you’re using the wrong solutions and commit to looking into their viability.
It’s also a very good idea to make sure your people fully understand the risks that come with using unapproved apps, and the impact that can have on a business.
Even in cases where your team are all sticking to approved tools, keeping them educated on the latest cyber security initiatives is a smart move.
Can we help you find the most suitable communication and productivity tools for your business? We’ve helped lots of business owners do this. Get in touch.
Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.
Ways to reduce security threats for remote employees
/in Computer Networking, Industry News, IT Support /by Sean RidleyRemote and hybrid working is now normal for a lot of people.
But a recent survey has found that, despite it being more than two years since many of us were forced to work from home, too many businesses still don’t have the right cyber security measures in place for those away from the office.
The survey was originally intended to learn about spending plans from now into next year. However, the results highlighted just how few businesses have the right cyber security protections.
And it’s a worry.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, cyber security incidents – like malware, ransomware, and data breaches – have risen sharply. Cyber criminals began by taking advantage of the panic, and have since developed increasingly sophisticated tactics.
It’s costing businesses around the world billions, plus causing excessive downtime.
While the survey did show that around two thirds of businesses have good web security measures in place, like malware filters, some of the results were more disappointing.
Just 50% of companies have cloud-based cyber security systems in place right now (another 15% are exploring their options).
Cloud security gives businesses multiple layers of protection across their network and infrastructure that helps to keep data better protected against breaches or attacks.
Not only is it a good defense, but it also identifies threats before they become an issue.
The survey also highlighted that 10% of businesses plan to implement access management, which ensures only the right people can access the right systems.
A further 9% intend to prioritize VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to allow secure network access for remote workers.
They’re also looking at zero-trust solutions where your network assumes every device or connection is a threat, until proven otherwise.
Of course, our advice is that you should already have these security solutions in place – especially if you have remote or hybrid workers.
If not, this is something to act on quickly. All you need to do is pick up the phone or send us an email. We can help.
Published with permission from Your Tech Updates.
How the chip shortage affects your business
/in Computer Networking, IT Support /by Sean RidleyFor the past couple of years, the tech world has been struggling with a huge shortage of chips.
But it’s not just tech businesses that are feeling the impact.
So many of the things we use every day contain a chip. Laptops and desktops, sure. But also household appliances, even our cars. It’s hard to find an electric device without a chip.
This shortage has the potential to disrupt our modern lives.
Did you know, it’s been ongoing since 2020 (ah, that year really was a gift, wasn’t it)?
It started during the pandemic as production fell while demand went up.
Other events since have made it worse, including extreme weather, the Ukraine war and a factory fire.
We’re told that increasing chip production isn’t easy. It can take years to build a new factory because of the unique production demands.
Of course, all of this is someone else’s problem. Let’s make it real to you – what does this actually mean for your business?
Essentially it means you need to plan ahead more.
Some of the technology you need to run your business may be in short supply.
As an example, getting large numbers of the same laptop might be difficult, compared to getting just 2 or 3.
And some of the essential devices you rarely think about as they’re in the background, such as network switches, are currently much harder to get.
As you push your business towards increased growth it means planning ahead more than ever before.
Industry experts expect the shortage to last into next year… and it could be even longer.
Would you like to run your growth plans by us, so we can advise what might need to be ordered, when? Get in touch.
Let Customers Know You’re Open
/in Digital Signs /by BCS Voice & DataWith the ever-changing environment around COVID-19, including state and federal regulations, businesses must adapt to keep up. For some, this means updating technology and adding remote phone lines and video conference systems to keep the team connected while working remotely. For others, like restaurants and retail spaces, this means offering curbside pickup, delivery and even creating new online reservation systems for limited seating.
Local requirements are changing almost weekly, and getting the word out online doesn’t ensure every potential customer will see the services you are currently offering. Many stores have settled for outdoor signage letting people know that they are open for business – but what if you could do more?
Digital signage allows you to display any message, at any time. If you are a restaurant offering a rotating menu, or a shopping center where some stores haven’t opened yet, you can show the message you need, and update it as frequently as you’d like as items run out, new retail spaces open or social distance and mask guidelines evolve. However, digital signs can offer more than just sharing a message about menu items or hours of operation. With more businesses trying to minimize interactions between customers and employees, easy-to-clean touch screens are more popular than ever for placing to-go and dine-in orders in areas where indoor seating is allowed.
While digital signage may be a bigger initial investment than a traditional sign, it is more cost-effective over time, especially now as the world moves fast and businesses must keep up to stay open. The cost of printing brochures, menu boards, traditional billboards and posters represents a large part of most marketing budgets. By saving here, businesses can invest more in creating high-quality and compelling content to draw in new customers.
Digital signs from BCS Voice & Data are highly customizable to meet all your advertising and communication needs. We’ll work with you closely to design the perfect solution for your operational requirements and aesthetic tastes. Contact us today to learn more about options for your business.
Re-Opening Your Office After Working Remotely
/in Business Phone Systems, IT Tips /by BCS Voice & DataDepending on which state you live in, you may be thinking about the process of re-opening your offices. Even if you don’t plan on having employees return for another few weeks or even a few months, it’s a good idea to consider what steps to take, and what a new work environment might look like.
Tech Tips
Personal Tips
If your office needs help transitioning back to the office with video conferencing solutions, IT support or network security, contact BCS Voice & Data Solutions today.
Tips for a More Professional At-Home Video Conference
/in Video Conferencing /by BCS Voice & DataWith more and more employees from all types of industries all over the world beginning to telecommute, working from home offices, kitchen counters and dining room tables, video conferences have surged in popularity. Once used by remote workers and to stay connected with office locations in other states or countries, video conferencing is now used by schools, entire offices and even fitness studios to stay connected with each other during the COVID-19 crisis.
While some virtual meetings may be casual in nature, staying at home doesn’t mean professionalism has to be left back at the office. Here are a few tips to keep it professional during your next important video conference:
Does your company need to set its employees up for better at-home conferencing? BCS can help you find the perfect solution and dominate your business’ technology in 2020. Give us a call today at (757) 497-3100 or contact us online.
Tips for Working From Home
/in BCS News, IT Tips, Unified Communications /by BCS Voice & DataEarlier this month, we shared tips for keeping your video conference professional while working from home. But, what about the hours or days where you don’t have meetings scheduled? How do you keep yourself on-task when working with all of your home comforts just a few steps away from your workspace? Take a look at these tips for working from home:
Set Boundaries
When you’re working at the office, do you go into work at whatever time you choose? Work in a different office every day? Creating time and space boundaries can help you stay focused on the tasks at hand, rather than putting work off to the side to complete later that night, or on the weekend. It also means that family time will be for family, and weekends will be for relaxing or honey-do lists, instead of trying to get extra work done well past your to-do list.
Stick to Your Routine
While getting up early and putting on a pair of slacks may not necessarily make you more productive, it can help you stick to a routine and feel a sense of normalcy, despite the changes in your work environment.
Take breaks
Once you are sticking to a routine, it can also become easy to get sucked into work and continue through lunch. Though you may not be able to run out for a coffee or sandwich right now, taking regular breaks to walk outside and get fresh air, or read a book while you eat lunch can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health.
Check In
If you’re accustomed to working in a larger office around a lot of coworkers, remember to check in with them. Sometimes even a short conversation with your officemate can inspire a new idea, or help you solve a problem in a way you hadn’t thought of before.
If you need assistance transitioning your workforce to remote connections and network access, the experts at BCS Voice & Data are here to help.
Keeping Your Wireless Network Secure
/in Industry News, IT Support /by BCS Voice & DataWireless networking means the improved access and availability of data, leading to an overall increase in your team’s productivity. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come without cost. When a wireless network is installed, there are added security risks that come along with it. It’s important to understand and take the appropriate steps to safeguard your data and infrastructure. As your network-integration partner, BCS takes security seriously, guiding you in keeping your wireless network secure. Here are a few wireless networking security basics to start with:
Change default settings. With a new wireless network, we recommend creating unique usernames and passwords, just as in your personal life. Change the default router network name and password promptly. Often, the default router name contains information about the type of router you have, which hackers use to access network passwords. To further protect your data, make it a habit to update passwords regularly.
Limit access to authorized users. Keep your wireless network safe by only allowing employees or other approved individuals access. Give visitors and the public a guest wireless network to prevent them from infecting your network with a virus. Consider limiting your wireless signal strength as well, setting it to cover only the areas that need access to your network.
Utilize wireless encryption. Wireless encryption secures your data by requiring users to authenticate themselves when connecting to your network. Multiple encryption protocols are available, so be sure to choose one that works with your router and provides the level of protection you need.
Don’t overlook physical security. Keeping the hardware and equipment of your system safe is just as important as protecting your wireless data. Place all network equipment, including routers, access points, adapters and range extenders out of sight and secured from the public and visitors. For extra security, lock equipment in a cabinet or consider video surveillance options.
As a full service wireless networking provider, BCS provides uncompromised security of your data and infrastructure. Call us at (800) 365-8067 to learn how we can assist you with your wireless networking needs.
Common Cybersecurity Myths Busted
/in BCS News, Computer Networking, IT Support, IT Tips /by BCS Voice & DataIt’s easy to say “it won’t happen to us,” but cybersecurity is something that every business, large or small, needs to take seriously. It’s easy to underestimate cyber dangers if you believe certain myths that surround them. So, let’s take a look at some cybersecurity lore and why it isn’t always correct.
Myth: We’re too small; no one will hack us.
Small does not mean safe. No matter what it’s size, your company is a target for hackers. In fact, many hackers will purposely search for small businesses, correctly betting that they don’t have a secure network in place. Unfortunately, small does mean your company is hurt more significantly. As reported in Forbes, the average cost of an attack is more than $200,000! That puts 60 percent of small companies out of business within six months of a cyberattack.
Myth: Anti-virus software and a firewall is enough security.
Cybercriminals are increasingly sophisticated. That makes it important to have multi-layered security protecting your data. In addition to the traditional end-point security of firewalls and anti-virus software, consider other measures like two-factor authentication, data monitoring and encryption software. While there is no perfect cybersecurity solution, make it your goal to have systems in place that allow for a quick reaction and comprehensive damage control.
Myth: You know right away if your computer is infected.
Gone are the days when slow loading times and non-stop pop-up ads were the obvious indicators of a virus. Today’s malware is stealthy and hard to detect as hackers control webcams, access sensitive information or use an infected computer to attack other targets.
Myth: Cybersecurity is a technology issue only.
While your IT department or contractor plays a large role in keeping your data safe, employee education is critical when it comes to cybersecurity. Employees, rather than technology, are the most common entry point for hackers. Make sure internal cybersecurity training occurs at least once a year and covers topics such as phishing scams, password best practices and the ins and outs of wireless networks.
BCS Voice & Data Solutions works with its customers to provide guidance and support for implementing the most up-to-date cybersecurity practices. Call us today at (757) 497-3100 to discuss how we can assist you in creating a cybersecurity plan that is right for you.