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Don’t think your business is a target? Think again

Believing your business is too small for cybercriminal attention? It’s time to reconsider.

It’s a common misconception that cyber criminals exclusively target large corporations or those with significant financial resources, lured by the prospect of hefty payoffs. However, this isn’t the full picture.

Recent findings indicate that cyber attackers are broadening their horizons, aiming at companies of every scale – from solo entrepreneurs to multinational conglomerates. A key tool in their arsenal? Botnets.

If you’re puzzling over what a botnet is and its relevance to you, here’s the scoop: botnets are cyber criminals’ clandestine forces, consisting of hijacked devices commandeered by a sinister overseer. These devices range widely, from personal computers to, surprisingly, smart refrigerators. Indeed, even household appliances can be weaponised in the cyber realm.

A notable study highlighted “massive surges” in botnet activities, witnessing over a million devices embroiled in malicious exploits at peak times. To give you an idea of the scale, this activity level is a hundredfold increase over typical botnet operations.

On an average day, about 10,000 devices might engage in malevolent actions, with 20,000 being an exceptional peak previously recorded by researchers. Yet, in December 2023, the figure soared to 35,144, and within a fortnight, it climbed further to 43,194. The most staggering spike observed was 143,957 devices simultaneously involved in nefarious activities, with the dawn of January 2024 seeing spikes surpass a million devices!

The motive behind these operations? Botnets scour the internet for vulnerabilities in websites, servers, and email systems, exploiting any weakness found.

Imagine the internet as a fortress peppered with various entryways. These cyber criminals diligently search for any unguarded access points, focusing on specific “ports” to infiltrate.

So, how can you fortify your business against these digital threats?

Strengthening your digital “fortress” involves several key steps:

  • Ensure all software, operating systems, and applications are consistently updated to patch any security holes.
  • Deploy robust firewall and antivirus solutions to safeguard your technology.
  • Train your team on cyber security awareness, emphasizing caution with dubious links and emails.
  • Implement stringent, unique passwords across all accounts and devices.
  • Conduct regular data backups to mitigate data loss risks from cyber attacks.
  • Monitor your networks for any signs of abnormal activities.
  • Consider consulting with a cyber security specialist (like our team) to review and boost your defences.

Interested in bolstering your business’s cyber security? Reach out for expert assistance.

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Before you replace your slow PCs…

Your team’s efficiency and productivity are crucial, but sluggish computers can hinder their work – potentially affecting you personally and your business’s overall performance.

Think twice before you decide to replace your PCs; there are several strategies to enhance computer performance on Windows 10 and 11. Here are some effective tips:

Restart Your Computer

Often overlooked, a simple shutdown and restart can significantly improve performance. This process clears background processes, applications, and memory data, resolving common issues, particularly if your computer has been on for an extended period.

Manage Start-Up Apps

A multitude of apps may be set to automatically start with Windows 11, slowing down your system’s boot time. To streamline start-up, you can disable unneeded apps:

  • Navigate to Settings
  • Select Apps
  • Choose the Start-up page
  • Arrange apps by “Start-up impact”
  • Deactivate the toggle switch for apps you don’t need
  • Reboot your computer

This action prevents these apps from auto-launching at start-up, conserving system resources.

Disable Restartable Apps

Windows 11’s feature to save and restart certain apps upon rebooting might seem handy but can dampen performance. To disable it:

  • Access Settings
  • Choose Accounts
  • Visit the Sign-in options page
  • Turn off the “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in” toggle

This adjustment can enhance your computer’s speed, especially for those who have many infrequently used applications.

Uninstall Unnecessary Apps

Superfluous apps can clutter your system, slowing it down. To remove them:

  • Open Settings
  • Click on Apps
  • Head to the Installed apps page
  • Pick the app you wish to uninstall and select the Uninstall option
  • Follow any additional prompts

Eliminating unneeded apps frees up space and resources, boosting performance.

Be mindful of the software you install. Substandard or outdated applications can negatively affect your system. Opt for reputable apps, ideally from the Microsoft Store, as they undergo rigorous security and performance reviews.

Before installing software, research user experiences and potential issues online. Trustworthy sources and reputable companies are generally safer bets.

Optimising your current Windows computers could save you from needing an upgrade. Alternatively, our team can handle the optimisation for you, checking your computers and network for hidden issues. Contact us for assistance.

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Which ransomware payment option is best? (Hint: none)

Imagine this scenario: Your business is suddenly struck by a ransomware attack, leaving your crucial data under lock and key by cybercriminals who demand a hefty ransom to release it. The price to regain access? It’s steep, and you’re not in a position to meet their demands. But here’s where it gets interesting – in a twist reminiscent of “buy now, pay later” deals, some ransomware operators are now offering victims the option to extend their payment deadlines. Recent studies have shed light on how these ransomware syndicates are evolving their tactics. Among their new strategies is offering victims a menu of ransom options. This includes the choice to pay a fee of $10,000 to postpone the public release of their stolen data or to pay for the complete deletion of their data before it goes public. Negotiations over the ransom amount add a deeply unsettling aspect to these encounters. To ramp up the pressure, these groups have introduced some harrowing new features on their websites, such as countdown timers that tick away the minutes until the data leak, counters that track page views, and tags that blatantly expose the identity and details of their victims. The intention behind these tactics is clear: to back victims into a corner and push them towards meeting the ransom demands. You may think paying the ransom is the quickest way to safeguard your business data, but here’s why that’s a risky move: Paying doesn’t ensure the return of your data or prevent future demands for more money. By paying, you’re indirectly supporting criminal activities, encouraging them to target more victims. Making ransom payments could also land you in legal hot water, as paying cybercriminals is considered illegal in some jurisdictions. So, how can you protect your business from becoming the next victim of a ransomware attack? Regular, secure data backups can save you from being held hostage by cyber threats. Educate your team on the dangers of ransomware and how to spot phishing attempts and dubious links. Invest in high-quality cyber security solutions and keep them updated. Regularly update your systems and apply security patches without delay. Segregate your network to contain ransomware spread should an infection occur. Have a detailed incident response strategy ready for potential ransomware attacks. Choosing to pay ransomware demands often leads to more problems, with businesses that comply becoming repeated targets. Instead, focusing on preventative measures can offer a stronger defense. Should you need assistance enhancing your cyber security posture, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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Bridging the trust gap between your employees and AI

 

You may have been contemplating the advantages of leveraging AI to enhance your business’s efficiency and productivity.

However, there’s a slight hiccup. A recent study has uncovered an intriguing yet somewhat expected issue: a gap in trust concerning AI in the workplace.

Although you view AI as a tremendous opportunity for transforming your business, your employees may harbour concerns and fears about their job security.

Here’s a brief overview of the study’s findings:

62% of C-suite executives are in favour of AI, in contrast to only 52% of employees feeling the same excitement.
23% of employees are sceptical about their organisation’s dedication to protecting employee interests during AI adoption.
Yet, 70% of business leaders argue that AI should involve human oversight and intervention, indicating they see AI as a support system rather than a substitute.
Understanding this, how can you smoothly integrate AI and reassure your team about the security of their positions?

Begin with transparent and candid discussions with your staff. Clarify the reasons behind adopting AI and its benefits for both the organisation and individual roles. Demonstrate that AI is intended to assist, not to replace.

Provide training that equips your staff with the skills necessary to collaborate with AI. Empower them by illustrating how AI can make their work more engaging and meaningful.

Stress that your AI initiatives aim to augment human skills, not replace them. Inform your team that AI will take over mundane tasks, freeing them to concentrate on the more creative and strategic aspects of their jobs.

Establish explicit rules for responsible AI usage within your company. Emphasise your dedication to ethical practices and ensure that all employees are informed about these guidelines.

Engage your employees in the AI integration process. Value their feedback, address their concerns, and involve them in crafting solutions. This demonstrates your appreciation for their input.

Promote a culture of ongoing learning. Assure your employees that they will have continuous opportunities for professional growth and development, keeping them relevant and indispensable in an AI-enhanced workplace.

Incorporating AI into your workplace need not be a source of worry for your staff. AI represents a pathway to growth and innovation, not a danger to employment security.

Should you require assistance in introducing suitable AI tools in an appropriate manner, please contact us.

 

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Microsoft wants you to pay for updates

Microsoft has recently made a significant announcement regarding the future of Windows 10. Beginning on the 14th of October 2025, they will discontinue the provision of free support and security updates for this operating system.

While the notion of paying for updates may raise a few eyebrows, it’s important to view this decision within a broader context. By 2025, Windows 10 will have been around for a decade, and it’s highly likely that Microsoft will have already introduced Windows 12. Furthermore, Windows 11 is already available today.

Managing multiple outdated operating systems can be a substantial task, even for a tech giant like Microsoft.

Although 2025 may seem distant, it’s prudent to start evaluating your options now. Here are the choices available to you:

Option 1: Transition to Windows 11

Microsoft’s preferred course of action is for users to migrate to Windows 11. It boasts impressive features and will continue to receive free updates until it reaches its end of life.

Option 2: Stay with Windows 10 and subscribe for security updates

You can opt to remain on Windows 10, but you will need to pay for security updates (though new features won’t be included). The exact cost remains uncertain, but it’s likely to be a subscription model for monthly updates.

Option 3: Remain on Windows 10 without updates (not recommended)

Certainly, you can continue using Windows 10 without paying, but this is not advisable. Without updates, your business’s PCs will become vulnerable to security threats and issues. Furthermore, without Microsoft’s support to address problems, even tech experts like us will have no recourse for assistance. We strongly discourage choosing this option.


You have until October 2025 to make your decision, so there’s no need to rush. However, if you wish to ensure your business’s success in the coming years, we highly recommend considering the upgrade to Windows 11 sooner rather than later. You’ll immediately benefit from some features that can enhance your processes and streamline your team’s tasks.

If you are contemplating the transition to Windows 11 or exploring other possibilities, please know that we are here to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free transition. Feel free to get in touch with us; we’re ready to assist you.

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SHOCK STAT: A third of business owners don’t trust their staff

Do you have faith in your employees to handle sensitive information securely?

You might find this statistic startling…

Nearly one-third of small and medium-sized enterprise leaders firmly distrust their staff with confidential data!

Could it be due to Jim in accounts leaving his password on a sticky note under his keyboard? Or is it the result of previous negative experiences?

Regardless, it’s evident that mere trust isn’t sufficient for safeguarding data.

We contend that the issue lies not with your employees, but rather in the absence of robust training and security protocols.

So, what’s the solution?

Initiating comprehensive training for all staff is a straightforward starting point. This equips them with the necessary skills, techniques, and knowledge to identify and respond effectively to potential threats.

Consider this: a well-informed workforce is a lesser threat to your business’s digital infrastructure. They essentially become the frontline in defense, bolstering your company’s security and drastically cutting down the likelihood of a data breach.

Then, consider your security strategies. Numerous firms acknowledge their current technology and procedures are inadequate for safeguarding sensitive information.

This is where our expertise comes into play. We can tailor your system to ensure individuals access only the data they need.

But our involvement doesn’t end there. We also work to establish robust policies regarding data sharing, access to sensitive information, and procedures for when an employee departs. In doing so, we contribute to fostering a more secure workplace for everyone.

Here’s a reality check: trust alone is insufficient for data security. However, with the appropriate training and security measures, your employees can shift from being potential risks to key assets.

Are you prepared to transition from a state of apprehension and distrust to one of empowerment and assurance? Contact us to begin.

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You’ve heard of Copilot… but what is it?

What if we told you your business could have its own personal assistant that’s always ready to help, can answer virtually any question, and even change system settings on your devices? It might sound too good to be true, but thanks to Microsoft’s innovative new AI chatbot, Copilot, it’s a reality. Imagine this: You’re busy. Your day is packed with meetings, and you need to quickly find information or change a setting on your device. What do you do? Instead of panicking or wasting time you don’t have, just ask Copilot. It’s the new kid on the block, replacing Cortana as Microsoft’s go-to AI assistant. But what makes Copilot stand out from the crowd? Well, it’s built into the Microsoft Edge browser and integrated directly into Windows 11, allowing it to perform a broader range of tasks than ever before. Ever tried to find a specific setting on your device and ended up lost in a sea of menus? With Copilot, you can simply ask it to change the setting for you. But Copilot isn’t part of the operating system. It’s more like a bonus feature of the Microsoft Edge browser that’s been cleverly disguised to look like a native part of Windows 11. When you summon Copilot, a sidebar appears from the right, revealing an interface identical to Bing Chat’s web version. Here, you can set your conversation style and ask questions on virtually any topic. From “Make me a picture of a tropical beach with palm trees” to “Create a five-day itinerary for my business trip in March,” Copilot is ready to assist. The best bit? Copilot understands context, meaning you can ask follow-up questions without repeating specific keywords. It’s like having a conversation with a real person. You can also use Copilot to get answers from any page on Microsoft Edge. Simply ask something like, “Give me a summary of the page I have opened on Microsoft Edge,” and Copilot will scan the webpage content and respond accordingly. So, what’s the catch? Well, the preview of Copilot in the Windows 11 2023 update doesn’t reflect the final product that Microsoft plans to roll out. But they’re continually polishing the interface and will be adding more features in future updates. While it might still be finding its feet, there’s no denying its potential. If you’d like a hand navigating Copilot, or any other productivity tools, get in touch.
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It’s time to say goodbye to traditional passwords

Have you ever envisioned a world where those lengthy, easily forgotten, and often complex passwords would fade into obscurity? Well, it appears that day might be closer than we thought.

Google has now officially made Passkeys the default method for signing in to all personal accounts on its network, marking the dawn of a new era in online security.

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly is a Passkey?”

In essence, it’s the future of internet safety. Picture this: logging into your account with a simple four-digit PIN or your biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition. Sounds straightforward, right?

But don’t be fooled by its simplicity. This groundbreaking technology significantly reduces the risk of cybercriminals swiping your credentials or hijacking your account.

So, how do Passkeys operate?

Creating a Passkey is a breeze. Just visit Google’s official Passkeys website, where you can set up a PIN or link your biometrics (fingerprint or face), connect your smartphone, and you’re good to go.

Keep in mind that your computer should be running at least Windows 10, or your Mac should have macOS Ventura or a newer version. On your mobile device, you’ll need Android 9 or iOS 16.

As of now, this technology is compatible with Microsoft Edge, Safari, and Google Chrome browsers.

Now, let’s talk about the perks of using Passkeys.

According to Google, a whopping 64% of users find Passkeys easier to use than traditional login methods. They’re not only simpler and more secure but also quicker. Logging in with a Passkey is a remarkable 40% faster than using a conventional password.

But what’s on the horizon?

Google’s decision to adopt Passkeys as the default sign-in method is just the beginning. The tech giant is already collaborating with select partners to extend this new login approach to Chrome and Android. It’s already available on platforms like Uber and eBay, with plans to expand to WhatsApp in the near future.

Therefore, it might be prudent to start considering how Passkeys can benefit your business. After all, Google could soon introduce this feature for business accounts as well.

In the meantime, if you’re not quite ready to embrace Passkeys, you do have the option to opt-out. Simply head to the Sign-in options page, locate “Skip Password When Possible,” and switch it off.

We strongly recommend giving it a try to experience the increased convenience and enhanced security it offers. And, of course, if you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to us. Your online security matters to us!

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Are you using the all-new Teams yet?

Microsoft is rolling out a brand-new version of Teams, its video conference, collaboration, and chat platform. We’re being promised a faster and easier way to work. And we all could use a bit of that, couldn’t we? The new Teams is like the superhero of apps for Windows and Mac. It’s faster than a speeding bullet… well, at least twice as fast as the classic version. Plus, it’s on a diet, using up to 50% less memory and disk space. Microsoft went back to the drawing board to reimagine it, make it simpler and more flexible. Now Teams:
  • Plays better with third-party apps
  • Is happier calling phones outside of Teams
  • Gets you into meetings quicker than you can say “not another meeting”
This pumped-up version of Teams uses some tech which allows it to share resources with your browser. That reduces how much memory and disk space it needs. And the initial test results? Teams is twice as quick when loading the app, joining meetings, and switching chats and channels. This isn’t just for businesses using Windows. Teams on Mac is also getting this performance boost. Microsoft promises this update will be a game-changer for your productivity. They’ve improved the user interface, adding in a “mark all as read” feature in activity. Plus, they’re introducing Copilot, an AI assistant that can summarise key points from your chats and calls. Sort of like having your very own personal assistant, just without the coffee runs. Are you ready to switch to the new and improved Teams? It’s rolling out now. Look at the top left corner of your Teams app… if you see “try the new Teams”, then you can flick the switch and try it out. If you need help with Teams for your business, get in touch.
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Never mind “can’t teach an old dog new tricks”…

New research has uncovered an unexpected twist in the tale of cyber security risks – your tech-savvy younger employees may be your biggest vulnerability.

Shocked? Let’s dive into the details.

More than 6,500 employees across the globe were surveyed, with an almost equal representation of demographics. The results were rather alarming.

The study found that younger office workers, those 40 or under, are more likely to disregard standard password safety guidelines. Can you believe that 34% admitted to using their birth dates as passwords, compared to just 19% of those over 40?

And it doesn’t stop there.

The habit of using the same password across multiple devices was also more prevalent among younger workers, with 38% admitting to doing this.

And let’s not even get started on phishing scams. A whopping 23% of the younger demographic didn’t report the last phishing attempt they received. Their reasoning? “I didn’t think it was important”.

But surely they understand the gravity of security threats against businesses, right? Well, not quite.

While ransomware and phishing were acknowledged as critical threats by 23% and 22% of employees respectively, the overall attitude towards cyber security leaves much to be desired.

Here’s the kicker: a staggering number of those surveyed revealed that their organisations did NOT provide any mandatory cyber security training.

From the US (30%) to the UK (17%), Netherlands (32%), Japan (35%), India (31%), Germany (22%), France (43%), Australia (29%) and China (65%) – the numbers speak for themselves.

So, are we really to blame our young workforce when it’s clear that businesses aren’t doing enough to equip their employees with the necessary cyber security skills?

It’s high time we stopped treating cyber security as an afterthought and started investing in regular cyber awareness training for everyone in our businesses. Yes, EVERYONE. Not just the tech team or the executives, but every single employee.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about protecting your business; it’s about creating a safer digital world for us all.

We can help you do that. Get in touch.