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Get ready for another game-changer from Teams

Imagine a setup where artificial intelligence (AI) refines your business communication and lifts your productivity to unparalleled heights.

Seems like something out of a sci-fi film, doesn’t it? However, thanks to Microsoft’s recent revelation, that futuristic vision is almost within reach.

Microsoft Teams is rolling out an ‘AI library’ aimed at transforming how we interact within Teams.

The objective?

To enable developers to embed Large Language Models (LLMs), such as the renowned ChatGPT, into their Teams applications. So, how could this benefit your enterprise? Essentially, you’d have an advanced AI at your fingertips during Teams discussions.

Currently being deployed, this AI library will offer developers an array of coding options to effortlessly incorporate LLMs into their software. This simplifies the process of designing Bots, Message Extensions, and Adaptive Cards for more dynamic conversation experiences.

Microsoft assures that this AI toolkit will also facilitate the smooth transition of pre-existing Bots, Message Extensions, and Adaptive Cards features into Teams.

Is this the same firm that launched the Copilot utility? Absolutely! Earlier in March 2023, Microsoft rolled out GPT-4 integration across Microsoft 365 via their Copilot feature, capable of drafting emails, assembling reports, and, in their own lofty words, helping you “rediscover the essence of work.” Who would have thought AI could wax lyrical?

Let’s also not overlook the newly released feature that employs AI to auto-generate meeting minutes, recommend subsequent steps, and even insert timeline markers for quick reference to significant segments of a call.

Microsoft Teams is set on reshaping our AI interactions. This goes beyond mere convenience; it opens up fresh avenues for operational productivity and effectiveness. Frankly, we’re eager to witness the innovations this new AI library will introduce.

If you’re keen to maximise the utility of Teams throughout your organisation, please get in touch.

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Beware these “too good to be true” Facebook ads

Ever found yourself mindlessly scrolling through Facebook when an ad suddenly appears, claiming to boost your business with cutting-edge AI tech? It’s tempting to click and explore, isn’t it?

Hold on a moment—that’s a major red flag!

Cybercriminals have been crafting Facebook ads that lure you in with promises of enhancing productivity and profits. The catch? The software they encourage you to download is actually malware.

Once this malicious software infiltrates your computer, the culprits gain access to your Facebook data, including your ad spending budget.

You might think, “I’d never fall for something so blatantly dodgy.” But let’s keep it real. When you’re multitasking as a small business owner, it’s all too easy to get caught up. These hackers are savvy; they disguise their fake offers well and hide malware on your computer, making it challenging to detect.

So, how do you safeguard yourself? Firstly, always question offers that sound too ideal—they usually are. Before clicking on an ad, do a quick Google search to authenticate the advertiser.

Most importantly, fortify your Facebook account’s security. Implement two-factor authentication, requiring a second device to confirm your identity during login.

While these cybercriminals are crafty, they’re not foolproof. For instance, the original malware had several Vietnamese keywords, which helped researchers expose the scam.

This serves as yet another compelling warning of the critical role cybersecurity plays. Running a business is a balancing act, and adding another layer of security might feel like one too many balls in the air.

However, consider this: would you rather invest a small amount of time now to secure your account or face the daunting task of handling a security breach later?

As the adage goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” So, stay vigilant, secure your digital assets, and if you need help doing so, don’t hesitate to reach out.

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Tempted to test new features before everyone else? DON’T BE!

Ever felt the urge to download the beta version of your go-to app, eager to experience all those shiny new features ahead of the crowd?

STOP!

A recent alert from the FBI might make you reconsider.

Cybercriminals are getting craftier, hiding nasty bits of code in bogus beta versions of popular apps. The end result? Your smartphone could become their personal cash machine.

Now, don’t misunderstand us; we’re as keen on tech innovations as anyone. But the thing about beta versions is, they haven’t undergone the strict security vetting that official app store offerings have.

These tricksters often send out phishing emails posing as app developers, promising early access to new beta features.

But here’s the catch: those apps are far from legit. Once downloaded, they can wreak all kinds of havoc, from plundering your financial apps to gaining control of your phone.

What if your team downloads one of these onto a company device? Could that put your business at risk?

So, here’s the takeaway: Good things come to those who wait. Resist the lure of beta versions and stick to officially released apps in trusted stores. If you’ve dabbled in beta versions before, watch out for warning signs like rapid battery drain, sluggish performance, relentless pop-up ads, or suspicious permission requests.

In today’s digital landscape, we need to be as clever and cautious as the gadgets we use. Before you hit that download button, pause and ponder: is the risk worth the reward?

Educate your staff to exercise the same caution. And if you’re providing them with work phones, you might want to look into a Mobile Device Management solution to keep things in check.

Need help fortifying your devices? We’re here to assist. Just drop us a line.

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And breathe… the “file too large to send” problem is over

Ever been in the thick of sending an urgent email, trying to attach a vital document, when you’re greeted by that all-too-familiar message: “file too large to send”? Annoying, right?

Well, good news! Microsoft has been listening to our collective grumbles. They’ve rolled out an update aimed at making that frustrating “file too large” warning a thing of the past.

Believe it or not, this isn’t one of those “too good to be true” moments. It’s the real deal!

According to an official update on the Microsoft 365 roadmap, the company plans to seamlessly integrate Outlook with OneDrive, their cloud storage service. So, when you bump up against those pesky attachment size limits, Outlook will kindly suggest uploading your file to OneDrive. This ensures your important document still lands in the right inbox.

Smart, isn’t it?

Android users are the first in line to enjoy this new feature, but the rest of us won’t be far behind—the full rollout is slated for this month. No more scrambling to compress, resize, or even ditch your bulky files. And you can forget about relying on third-party services that might compromise security. Microsoft is setting the stage for a more streamlined, secure email experience.

If you fancy a bit of help in maximising your Microsoft 365 subscription, feel free to give us a shout.

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Microsoft and Samsung team up to boost work phone security

You’ve checked your pockets, your bag, under cushions… and then it hits you. You left your work phone on the table at the coffee shop.

You panic.

It’s not the device itself that’s got you worried, but all the sensitive business information stored on it. If that mobile ends up in the wrong hands, you’re facing a nightmare.

But that worry could be over. Microsoft and Samsung are joining forces to make your work phones safer. This month, they’re launching a groundbreaking solution to help protect anyone who uses a Samsung Galaxy device in the workplace.

How?

With something called on-device attestation. It lets companies see if mobile devices have been compromised, even at their deepest components. Think of it as a security guard for your phone.

Samsung brings its software and hardware innovations to the table, whilst Microsoft provides its endpoint management expertise.

And whilst other device attestation tools require a network connection and access to cloud services, this solution works reliably regardless of network connectivity or device ownership model.

This solution will be released alongside Microsoft Intune (previously known as Windows Intune), a unified endpoint management service for both corporate devices and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). And it will be available to select Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets, especially those “Secured by Knox”.

So, whether you’re working from the office, a busy coffee shop, or a remote cabin in the woods, you can rest assured your device is safe.

In business, your phone is more than just a communication device. It’s a vault of sensitive (and valuable) information. And with Microsoft and Samsung on the case, that vault just got a lot safer.

If we can help you keep any of your devices more secure, get in touch.

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Is that Microsoft email actually a phishing attack?

You’re probably well aware of the dangers lurking in your email inbox, but have you ever thought that an email appearing to be from Microsoft could actually be a disaster waiting to happen?

Microsoft, a brand we all recognise and trust, has unfortunately become the top target for phishing scams. In these scams, cybercriminals send you an email with a dodgy link or file, aiming to nick your data.

While Microsoft isn’t at fault here, it’s crucial for you and your team to be extra vigilant for anything that looks fishy.

In Q2 of 2023, Microsoft took the lead as the most impersonated brand by scammers, making up a staggering 29% of all brand phishing attempts. This puts them well ahead of Google in second place (19.5%) and Apple in third (5.2%). Combined, these three tech giants are responsible for over half of all brand impersonation attacks.

So, what does this mean for your business?

Even though there’s been a noticeable uptick in fraudulent emails targeting Windows and Microsoft 365 users globally, being observant can go a long way in shielding you from identity theft and fraudulent activities.

While the brands being mimicked may change over time, the tactics used by cybercriminals often remain the same. They’ll use convincing logos, colours, and fonts, and their phishing scams often feature URLs that look almost identical to the real thing. However, a closer look will usually reveal typos and mistakes—dead giveaways of a phishing attempt.

One of the latest scams warns you of unusual activity on your Microsoft account and directs you to a harmful link. These links are crafted to snatch everything from your login details to your payment information.

And it’s not just tech companies that are popular targets. Many scammers have shifted their focus to financial services like online banking, gift cards, and e-commerce. Wells Fargo and Amazon also made it to the top five in Q2 2023, accounting for 4.2% and 4% of brand phishing attempts, respectively.

How can you safeguard your business?

The way to protect your business is more straightforward than you might imagine. The most effective defence against phishing is not just individual vigilance but also equipping your staff with the right training. Teach them to pause, observe, and critically examine emails for red flags such as inconsistent URLs, domains, and textual errors. By making sure everyone on your team knows what to look out for, you’re adding an extra layer of security against these types of attacks.

If we can help you keep your team aware of the risks, get in touch.

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3 ways AI makes almost any business task easier

In the rapidly changing landscape of technology, entrepreneurs like you are constantly searching for the next innovation to boost your competitive edge. Are you curious about how AI tools might lend a hand?

Introducing ChatGPT, or the Generative Pretrained Transformer if you prefer the technical term. It’s been the talk of the town all year! Created by OpenAI, this AI model crafts text that feels incredibly human. Imagine having an expert writer at your fingertips, ready to whip up content, respond to questions, or even pen emails at a moment’s notice.

But that’s not all – there’s a whole host of AI models out there, like Google’s Bard. Unlike ChatGPT (which can browse the web if you’re a Plus subscriber with the right settings), Bard has the ability to scour the internet for answers.

Some businesses have already dipped their toes into the world of AI, mainly for customer service and crafting content. But that’s like owning a Ferrari and only using it for the weekly shop. There’s so much more potential!

Here’s how an AI tool could put your business into overdrive:

  1. Stay Ahead with Trend Detection: Ever kicked yourself for missing out on the last big trend? With AI, you’ll be leading the charge, not trailing behind. Simply prompt it to “Provide a short analysis of the latest [insert your industry] trends,” and you’ll be armed with invaluable insights.
  2. Enhance Productivity with Keystone Habits: Boosting productivity is every business owner’s dream. With AI, you can delve into the latest research to elevate your work routines. Just ask for the “top 5 latest ways to [improve a specific area].” You might stumble upon a gem you’d never considered.
  3. Make Better Decisions through Easy Summaries: Need to explain [something complex]? Ask your AI to break it down for a 12-year-old. It’s a clever trick to get a clear and concise summary.

ChatGPT, Bard, and their counterparts aren’t just writing aides – they’re your hidden ace in the business game. It’s high time to take your metaphorical Ferrari out for a thrilling ride, beyond the mundane supermarket trips.

Curious about how AI might transform your business? Get in touch!

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The hidden dangers of free VPNs: Are you at risk?

Did you know that global VPN usage has soared in recent times? It’s easy to see why: Virtual Private Networks provide enhanced security, anonymity, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions online.

But here’s the critical question: Are all VPNs on equal footing?

Emphatically, no. And this disparity could have serious implications for your business.

The allure of free VPNs, with their promise of zero cost, can be tempting. But are they all they claim to be? Let’s delve into the world of free VPN services.

First off, recognise that operating a VPN service involves substantial expenses. From servers to infrastructure, maintenance to staffing – none of these come without a cost.

So how do free VPN providers manage to stay afloat? Unfortunately, some may resort to strategies that can endanger your privacy and security.

Picture this: While enjoying your morning coffee, you’re browsing online via a free VPN, thinking you’re in a private space. Unbeknownst to you, your confidential data might be gathered and auctioned off to the highest bidder. It could fall into the hands of cybercriminals, advertisers, or even governmental bodies.

Astonishing, right?

Furthermore, free VPNs have a reputation for pushing unsolicited ads and tracking cookies into your browsing activity. Ever noticed alarmingly precise ads popping up? Your free VPN might be monetising your online behaviour.

Consider the potential risks if an employee were to install a free VPN on a company or personal device used for work. Such an act could expose vital company data, presenting a grave business threat. Imagine a scenario where your organisation’s confidential information ends up in the wrong hands. It’s a terrifying thought, isn’t it?

So, what should you do?

It’s vital to inform your employees about the perils of free VPNs. Advocate for trustworthy, paid VPN services that assure no data logging, robust encryption, and paramount user privacy.

You might even decide to offer them one. Should you require assistance in identifying the safest and most appropriate VPN for your business, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Bear in mind, when it comes to digital security, opting for a free option might lead to hidden costs. Isn’t it worthwhile to invest a few extra pounds monthly to safeguard your business’s invaluable information?

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Is this the ultimate browser for business?

Hold onto your hats, because Microsoft is back at it with another impressive reveal. It does make one question whether their team ever catches any shut-eye!

Their latest game-changer? A browser tailor-made for businesses, aptly named Edge for Business.

This revamped tool is replete with top-notch security and productivity enhancements, offering a veritable treasure trove of benefits for bosses and their teams alike.

Edge for Business could soon be the top-drawer choice for internet browsing on work-related devices, whether managed or unmanaged. It offers companies the ability to maintain a level of control over employees without impinging on their personal privacy.

That’s just tickety-boo for the way many of us work today. If you operate under a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) model, then Edge for Business is going to be just the ticket for you.

One of the standout features of Edge for Business is its automatic separation of work and personal browsing into distinct browser windows. It comes with its own favourites, separate caches, and storage locations.

Certain sites will even launch automatically in the relevant browser. For instance, Microsoft 365 will open directly in your work browser, while a shopping site will launch in your personal browser.

That ensures you won’t have to fret about accidentally sharing that hilarious meme you found on social media with a colleague.

Edge for Business is currently ready for a test drive. However, as much as we understand the temptation to take it for a spin, we’d recommend holding your horses until its official launch come autumn. Let’s leave the guinea pig role to others, shall we?

Microsoft still needs to introduce custom branding capabilities for businesses, but they assure us that this feature is just around the corner. The waiting does add a bit of spice, doesn’t it?

Edge for Business aims to seamlessly integrate work and personal use on the same device while ensuring both personal and professional information remains segregated and secure. This fresh and exciting business browser promises to boost productivity and security.

If you’re looking for ways to stay productive and secure in the interim, don’t hesitate to drop us a line.