An electrifying transformation is taking place in Houston, a place where innovation meets tradition. It is not about sprawling skyscrapers or bustling markets but about dominating the digital realm. Businesses of all sizes, including multinational corporations, are witnessing a new era illuminated by the vast potential of cloud migration.
When combined with the expertise of managed IT services Houston, this shift not only marks a prolific technological trend; but the future of business optimization. Join us as we reveal why cloud migration, especially in collaboration with Houston’s Network Elites, is the game changer that every business requires.
Let’s delve deep, guiding you through this paradigm shift, with Houston’s own Network Elites steering the ship.

A Look Into Cloud Migration – An Incredible Tech Support

Cloud migration refers to the act of transitioning digital assets — such as applications, data, or IT processes — from traditional on-premises infrastructure to modern cloud platforms. So, what is the primary objective of this shift? It’s multi-dimensional. Cloud migration seeks to harness the power of technology to enhance scalability, agility, and economic efficiency in business processes, beyond just storing data.
The allure of the cloud has surged as its myriad advantages and potentials become increasingly recognized. Hence, it’s evident why a growing number of businesses are adopting cloud as the cornerstone of their IT framework, using it as a conduit to bridge the gap from conventional physical networks.
In the current digital landscape, there is a proliferation of cloud-native tools and applications designed to refine and facilitate the integration of traditional systems into the cloud. This evolution underscores why many entrepreneurs are acknowledging the significance of cloud transition. That’s why Houston IT services are fervently crafting robust strategies to ensure smooth cloud transitions.
By leveraging managed IT services in Houston, businesses can effortlessly transition to the cloud, allowing their internal IT departments to focus on core operations.

Why Houston Businesses Should Take Notice?

As companies grow, so do their IT needs. Handling surges in traffic, ensuring data safety, and maintaining operational efficacy becomes challenging. Herein lies the allure of managed IT services Houston-style, blending Texan business acumen with cutting-edge technology.
When you add a cloud IT solution to your infrastructure, you must think about how you will manage it. Your IT department may assume management responsibilities. However, it is the best strategy for your company. Network Elites, for example, exemplify this convergence by combining local knowledge with global technological expertise.
You can meet professionals who can assist you in managing the cloud solution when you use cloud-managed services. Cloud-managed service providers will take over some or all of your organization’s cloud management responsibilities. They may also provide full cloud deployment or management of specific cloud services.
The Multifaceted Benefits of Cloud Migration with Managed IT Services

Enhanced IT Management

Houston IT services excel in delivering comprehensive business technology oversight, spanning from fundamental hardware care to resolving intricate network challenges. Moreover, managed services providers (MSPs) bring to the table avant-garde proficiency in crafting groundbreaking business applications tailored to your unique requirements.
This involves activities like deploying timely updates and executing regular security evaluations within your digital infrastructure.

Boosted Mobility

The allure of cloud-based solutions lies in the unmatched flexibility they offer, featuring tools such as CRM, electronic document signing, and advanced project management utilities. This tech paradigm ensures that your workforce remains productive regardless of their geographical location.
For instance, amidst their travels, managerial staff can engage collaboratively with their teams, executing pivotal tasks for tech projects. This dynamism is a stark contrast to conventional setups where junior members might be left in limbo, awaiting their supervisor’s return to the office.

Effortless Integration

The expansive universe of the cloud facilitates seamless integration with a myriad of services crucial for your business tech arsenal – be it point-of-sale mechanisms, task coordination systems, social media integrations, or interactive team communications. Furthermore, the cloud environment empowers businesses to launch tailored software tools, enhancing their IT operations.
One of the cloud’s paramount benefits is its dual-layered redundancy safeguards for both hardware and software, ensuring unwavering reliability day and night.

Cloud Managed Service Overview

Network Elites, as a cloud-managed service provider, offers robust technical assistance and adept IT governance for cloud-centric solutions, such as the Hybrid Cloud Solution. They play a pivotal role in refining management systems, especially if you are navigating the intricate waters of a hybrid system.
Their services encapsulate the entirety of business IT solutions. Consequently, potential gaps in technical expertise cease to be a concern. Network Elites ensures that every deficiency, whether in the realm of computing, data governance, security, or backup, is competently addressed.

Predictable Pricing

Transitioning to cloud-managed solutions with Network Elites presents the luxury of selecting a service that aligns with your requirements. This enables harnessing a powerful and dependable network infrastructure sans the financial strain.
Furthermore, they offer scalability in service, permitting adjustments in pricing based on evolving cloud demands, paving the way for efficient resource allocation and financial savings.

Cybersecurity Support

The consequences of cyber breaches are frightening, with businesses jeopardizing not only sensitive data but also their entire operational integrity. With cyber adversaries lurking around every corner, having Network Elites on your side can provide great protection and reliable technical support.
They ensure that malicious digital threats are kept at bay by utilizing top-tier expertise, tools, and strategies.

Free IT Staff & In-House Developers

Maintaining a full-fledged IT department can be financially burdensome. By partnering with Network Elites for cloud-managed services, you can circumvent the high costs associated with recruitment and retention. Given the ceaseless operational nature of cloud environments, it’s often more feasible to outsource specific responsibilities, such as addressing system glitches or resolving connectivity lags.

Resource Optimization

Crafting a cloud-hosted project or application necessitates leveraging cloud resources. With the pay-as-you-go model of public clouds and the assistance of Network Elites, you are solely billed for the resources you tap into.
This ensures the optimal use of cloud resources and the means to assess any superfluous resource engagements.

Rapid Response Time

As underscored earlier, service providers like Network Elites pledge uninterrupted support. Their cloud experts and dedicated teams stand ready to address any network-related concerns. With their 24/7 IT Support, swift issue detection and resolution become the norm.

Network Security

Ensuring the sanctity of your cloud resources entails a fortified network security posture. A vulnerable cloud network is a magnet for cyber invasions, jeopardizing vital data. It’s essential to realize that cloud security isn’t rudimentary; it’s multifaceted. Trusting experts like Network Elites ensures a persistent shield against cyber threats and unwarranted accesses.

Concluding Thoughts

For businesses across Houston and beyond, there is a clear trajectory toward the future: embracing cloud migration and fortifying it with top-tier managed IT services akin to what Network Elites offers. This isn’t merely following a trend – it’s charting a course towards a sustainable, modernized digital framework. It’s about unlocking unprecedented cost efficiencies, scalability, and the acumen that modern enterprises necessitate.

For any Houston-based entity contemplating an IT revamp, understand that the cloud is more than a storage solution. It symbolizes a transformative phase in business evolution. And with the right allies, like Network Elites, you’re not just aiming for the clouds but reaching for unparalleled success in the vast digital expanse.

The post Explore The Advantages of Migrating To The Cloud, Cost Savings, And Scalability For Businesses. appeared first on TechReviewsCorner.

But if used carelessly, even these secure platforms can expose users to online threats such as identity theft and data theft. And marketers are custodians of highly sensitive customer and company strategy information so a data leak can expose them and their organizations to a wide range of security risks.
It’s not hard to avoid the most common file-sharing mistakes that compromise the security and privacy of sensitive information.

What Are the Risks of File Sharing?

There are plenty of risks if your documents fall into the wrong hands:
● Data theft: a data leak could ruin your brand’s reputation and have severe legal implications, such as compensation claims and fines.
● You may cause harm to individuals: how would you feel if you were responsible for a breach of your customer’s personally identifiable information (PII) that leads to them getting hacked or defrauded?
● Malware: attackers can install viruses or other malware in shared files to expose other users to danger.
● Man-in-the-middle attacks: accessing shared files without a VPN gives snoopers the opportunity to intercept data while it travels between your computer and the cloud storage server.
● Leaking of proprietary information: would your company be able to overcome the setback if it lost proprietary product information, financial data, strategic planning documents, or confidential information about its competitors or employees?
● Prosecution over copyright breaches: you may expose yourself or your company to prosecution for sharing copyrighted materials.

Choose top tech tools for file sharing safety

While there are many ways to share files (secure FTP, P2P networks, handing out physical data storage devices, emailing documents, or creating shared access on local servers), the most popular way is to upload files to cloud storage solutions such as Dropbox, or collaboration platforms such as Microsoft OneDrive, Notion, Asana, or Google Drive.

Choose your platform carefully

It should be built around security and data protection, and for the best security, you may have to look further than free solutions. Key features are robust encryption, authentication and access controls, password protection, and MFA.

Protect your devices from cyberattacks

Remember that the devices of any one of the trusted contributors may get compromised at any time. Malware-infected devices often act as a distribution point for spreading malware to others. So, secure all your devices with high-quality antivirus software to block threats like viruses, ransomware, or spyware. Remain naturally cautious around shared files – hackers find new exploits all the time!

VPN pros and cons

What are the VPN pros and cons? There are zero cons to using a VPN for file sharing. File sharing exposes your files and data to eavesdroppers. For hackers, it’s a simple matter to intercept the data you send and receive on the internet. A VPN creates a secure communication tunnel to contain and protect the sensitive
data you’re working on.

10 Tips to avoid common mistakes when sharing files

Once you’ve chosen a secure cloud solution, follow these practical guidelines to make sure that both you and your data stay safe.
● Get into a routine of always customizing and checking sharing settings. It’s better to be over-cautious and stick to a minimum access level default setting. Disable downloads and editing or add passwords to documents as routine. It’s better to get participants to request download or editing rights for documents than allowing everyone to do whatever they like to your precious reports.
● Don’t give users admin rights when editing rights will do. Someone with admin privileges can accidentally change vital security settings, corrupt your macros, revert to previous versions, change data, or even permanently delete documents.
● There’s also a difference between ownership and admin rights. On most platforms, the person who uploads a document retains full admin access, in perpetuity, as the designated owner. Changing that status can be a rigmarole. The problem is that if they retain ownership, a disgruntled employee could
simply revoke access at some stage, leaving you and the rest of the group with nothing. So, if a contributor uploads a document, fix the privileges before anyone starts to work on it. You may have to download and upload the document yourself, then grant the necessary privileges to other users.
● Create a policy or rules for downloading and distributing shared documents via other routes. There’s not much point in protecting access to your files if people can share your downloaded documents via email, Telegram, or Skype.
● Regularly check file privileges. In an environment where you’ve shared or been granted access to dozens or even hundreds of files, it’s astonishingly easy to forget about access expiration dates. Diarise a recurring reminder to review access privileges for completed documents. What would happen if ex employees accessed your data accidentally months or even years after they’ve gone?
● Verify recipients before sharing. If you get the email address on the invitation link wrong, the person on the other end may not be who you intended.
● Implement MFA (multi-factor authentication) to lessen the risk of hacking.
● Think before you share extremely sensitive or confidential information.
● Don’t share copyrighted or pirated content, it could mean legal trouble.
● Never log in from unprotected or public Wi-Fi. You might compromise your files and platform logins without knowing it happened.

Also Read: Computer Security Solutions – Methods And Tools

Conclusion

Most file-sharing mistakes stem from lapses in reviewing and maintaining user privileges. Take the time to review user privileges regularly. Set up user privileges so that it’s easy for everyone to contribute but harder to disseminate files indiscriminately. Encourage strong password practices, use an antivirus, and always use a VPN to encrypt your connections. Happy file sharing!

The post 10 Mistakes You May Be Making When Sharing Files appeared first on TechReviewsCorner.

What Is Identity Theft?

It is a malicious activity that seeks to impersonate another person. There are different reasons: to commit fraud, obtain data, practice cyberbullying, or obtain financial benefits through blackmail. Do not think that only famous people or politicians suffer from it, since to avoid being a victim of this type of threat, it is best not to let your guard down and always maintain certain precautions.
Keep in mind that spoofing can be done relatively quickly. For example, by creating a fake profile on a social network and acting like you are the person you say you are. This threatens anyone’s security and reputation since the account impersonating the identity could issue, for example, a defamatory statement that affects the prestige of the affected person or the distrust of those they know.
Furthermore, the usurpation can be carried out through account theft. The most straightforward technique is a brute force attack, which aims to discover the password by trying thousands of combinations until the correct one is found. If it is weak, the attacker can succeed and guess the password. Once you have gained account control, you can change the password and recovery methods. Any data or information contained in the account would be available to you.

How To Detect Account Hijacking?

There are different ways to detect that an account hijacking has occurred. Some are indirect, meaning the offender has done something involving you. For example, you could receive a call from a collection agency demanding the payment of a debt in your name or see the granting of a mortgage or loan rejected.
You may receive a confirmation email for renting an apartment or that you have made a particular purchase in a store you have never visited. Money will also likely disappear from your bank account if the criminal has taken it. And on social networks, you could see posts on your profiles that you have not made, such as a photo of people you do not know or data from your private life.
Another way to detect impersonation is by trying to access your account. If you have tried different methods and cannot enter, you may face a robbery. Before considering this situation, you must have exhausted all the alternatives. Consider this the last possible scenario since you will likely have forgotten the password.
You could also appear registered on numerous Internet platforms or, directly not have access to those you already had previously. For example, you try logging into your account from a website to view streaming content or an online store, and you can’t. You exhaust all password recovery options and still get no results. In this context, you are likely to face identity theft.

Steps To Follow In Case of Identity Theft

If you suffer from it, you cannot sit idly by but keep calm because this situation has a solution. Also, remember that both the platform where the usurpation took place and the State Security Forces and Corps will be willing to help you. We recommend following these steps to facilitate quick and effective action:

Document what is happening

It would help if you documented what is happening before you report phishing. Try to review and exhaust all the options offered by the platforms to recover your account. You must come with unequivocal proof of your situation. Get copies of possible emails, messages and screenshots of criminal acts.

In case you are unsuccessful in the recovery and have collected enough evidence, it is time to report. Get in touch with the platforms. For example, you will find links to all the available social networks on the Internet User Safety Office website. These direct you to the pages dedicated to reporting impersonation so that you will always have their support. 

Alert your friends and family.

You must notify your contacts of what is happening. Not only will they witness what happened, but you will also alert them that you do not control your accounts. In this way, you avoid misunderstandings with those you appreciate, an additional problem that can lead to identity theft. In addition, they can help you maintain control over your profile by alerting other people.

Go to authority

If you know you are being the victim of a case of identity theft, do not hesitate to go to the authorities. The Police or the Civil Guard has units specialized in cybercrime. They are instrumental in severe cases where it has not been possible to recover your profiles in other ways or if crimes are committed using your name.

Remember that platforms like Facebook or Twitter allow you to report a possible usurpation. They will study your situation and act accordingly while the authorities investigate what happened and look for the people responsible. Usually, you will recover your accounts in a short time.

Guidelines To Prevent Identity Theft

Prevention is the key to protecting yourself from identity theft. Luckily, there are different guidelines that you can follow to save yourself from this severe problem. In addition, many are easy to apply but unquestionably effective.

Do not show your passwords in public.

Showing your passwords publicly is a grave mistake. Anyone who wants to hurt you will have a golden opportunity. They won’t have to go to any lengths to impersonate you, as they know how to access your profile. This is a situation that you can easily avoid by being careful. Also, if someone asks for your credentials, wait to provide them.

No platform will ask you to give them your password, which they usually inform. So, in the face of this type of request, the best option is to remain cautious and not give any information. Remember that prevention is the key to browsing safely. Just as you wouldn’t give a stranger your home address, don’t give out your account passwords either.

Do not enter secure pages.

Secure pages have different certificates that demonstrate the measures they take. One of them is the HTTPS protocol ( hypertext transfer protocol secure ), which protects the integrity and confidentiality of your data. If you enter a website that does not have it, avoid registering with them.

To check if it uses HTTPS, click on its address. It should start like this: https://. If it is not present, you are on an insecure page, potentially dangerous for you. The owner may not have activated this protocol, but try to prevent the consequences before dealing with them.

Avoid strange links

If a link takes you to a web page with misspellings, bad presentation, or that does not have the HTTPS protocol, you may be in a false one. Suspicious links can reach you through social networks, email, SMS or WhatsApp messages. If you do not know its origin or the sender must be correctly identified, do not enter them.

Use two-step authentication systems.

Your security always starts with having a strong password with a robust code (a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols). However, a two-step authentication system is a perfect complement to deter any criminal from accessing your accounts. Creating several protection barriers gives you greater security and peace of mind.

An example of this authentication system is the one used by banks and some web pages. The first part is a password, which you must provide, and the second consists of a code sent to your mobile phone by SMS message. This makes it difficult to remove an account since your device is needed to verify access. You can also verify your identity by email, a security question (to which only you know the answer) and biometrics (facial recognition, fingerprint, etc.), among others. In short, try to act proactively to avoid impersonating Internet identity. These situations can get complicated and lead you to lose your accounts on the network. Always resort to the platforms to find a solution and report to the Police or the Civil Guard to avoid greater evils.

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How Can You Detect That Your Device Is Infected?

Although most of the threats today try to go undetected, several signs will help you identify and combat them. The main symptoms that the device is infected are the following:

• Your computer is running especially slow. Although there are different reasons for this to happen, such as having it running for too long, having very little space on the hard drive, or using a program that is too powerful for its capacity, among others, it is one of the signs that can alert you that a virus has entered your device.
• Some applications do not work. If you try to start applications that you usually open and they do not work, it is another symptom of a possible infection.
• Computer temperature. An excessive rise in the internal heat of your PC may be due to some type of program with malicious intent ( malware ) having entered it. Its only objective will be to carry out actions that are harmful to your device, both at the physical level of its components (damaging them due to the increase in temperature) and the information you store inside that they can steal from you.
• That the homepage of your browser changes by itself. Sometimes the infection causes this change to redirect you to pages that often lead to another series of infections.
• Your antivirus has disappeared or is disabled. When introduced to your device, some of these threats are designed to completely disable your antivirus, making it impossible to detect them.
• When you connect to the Internet, a series of windows open. This is a sure sign that your PC is infected since there are threats that do this to redirect traffic to the place that interests them.
• You can’t connect to the Internet. You cannot access the network, or if you manage to access it after trying several times, you are browsing very slowly. Malware infiltrating your device may be causing this situation, stealing your bandwidth (the maximum speed you browse with your Internet connection).
• You notice that the language of your computer changes. If you have not been the one who has done it, it is very clear that there is something external, like a virus, that has wanted to configure it that way.

Steps To Follow In Case You Discover That Your Device Has Been Infected

Do not be nervous or nervous if you detect any malware entering your computer. Just follow a series of simple steps to help completely remove the virus from your device.

Cut your Internet connection.

The malicious program is usually housed in your RAM, which is responsible for temporarily storing the data of the applications you are using so that they work. From there, it goes on to infect another series of files. Turning off the Wi-Fi connection or disconnecting the modem cable is best to isolate your PC. For example, spyware is a malicious malware that follows your online activities while stealing your information, so immediately cutting off your network access is important.

Don’t run any programs.

If you do so, any type of file you have on it can become infected and, therefore, you will lose all the information it contains. It is better not to use any program until the threat is completely removed.

Restart your computer in safe mode.

To do so, follow these simple steps:

• Turn off the computer.
• Turn it back on.
• When it is doing so, press F8 and click on “Safe Mode with Networking.”

In this mode and disconnected from the Internet, your device will be more protected from the threat.

Delete temporary files

Some of these malicious programs start when the PC starts up. If you remove temporary files from your system, you will be able to remove them as well. To do so, type ” Disk Cleanup ” in the Windows “Start” search bar: “Disk Cleanup.” Once inside, check “Temporary files” in the list of “Files that can be deleted” and delete them.

Perform a system analysis and scan

If your computer’s operating system is Windows 10, it includes a function allowing you to analyze and scan its content. You can do it with the Windows Defender security application. In this way, you will be able to detect the malware programs on your system.

If you prefer to do it manually, open the “Start” menu and type “Security.” Then click on “Windows Security.” Once these steps have been taken, click “Antivirus and threat protection.” Finally, click on “Quick scan.” It will run a full system scan, and if it finds any malware, it will offer you the chance to remove the infected files immediately from your computer.

If your operating system is not Windows 10, we recommend using an antivirus. Several of them have a free version that you can obtain by entering their respective websites. The most prominent are Kaspersky and Avast.

Restart the computer

After you have removed the reason for the infection, restart your PC. Safe mode is no longer necessary so you can restart it normally.

Change your passwords

To protect your computer against further attacks, change any passwords you have used before, as the virus may have had access to them for some time.

How To Stay Protected From Computer Viruses?

You’re either at the point where you’ve managed to remove the malware, or you’re lucky not to have it yet. Whatever your case, this is the best time to apply a series of tips and shield your computer against any threat.

Use an antivirus

Even if your operating system is Windows 10, which already has a security application, we recommend using an antivirus or malware detection software. It seems very obvious, but it is necessary to mention it since it is the first step so that no type of malware can enter your device, and if it does, it is instantly detected and eliminated.

Run scheduled scans with your antivirus periodically.

Set your antivirus or Windows Defender to run regular scans. It is advisable to do it once a week. If you need to use the computer and it bothers you that this analysis is being carried out simultaneously, a good option is to schedule it to run when you are not using it.

Protect your network

Ensure your Wi-Fi connection is adequately protected with WPA2 encryption (which allows you to protect wireless networks with passwords of up to 63 characters). Most companies offer you this possibility. To do this, write https://192.168.1.1 in your browser (or the one provided by your provider), enter your credentials, and access the security section to activate it.

Think before you click.

Do not open attachments that come in emails you do not know, enter websites that are not trusted, or click on files that are unsure where they lead you. In short, do not click without knowing if you are doing it safely and which page you are going to.

Keep your personal information safe

Even if your PC is well protected, sometimes you expose your personal information without realizing it. Try to be cautious when offering this type of information on social networks or any page where registration is required. Set up your social networks’ privacy well so that only people you trust see your information and, if it is not necessary, avoid exposing private information.

Backup your files

Ideally, you should have a backup copy of all your files on your device. If you can, make that duplicate on an external drive since you will have all your files safe if there is any kind of problem on your computer. As you have observed, clues will indicate if your PC has been infected. However, if you follow the steps we have detailed above, you can detect and remove the threat. In any case, it is best to prevent and apply the appropriate protection measures so that any computer virus does not reinfect your device. If you are interested in this topic, we advise you to access our Cybersecurity Guide. Surf the net safely and responsibly!

The post How To Protect Your Computer From A Computer Virus Attack appeared first on TechReviewsCorner.

Ransomware

Ransomware is software that takes your data hostage and paralyzes your system while waiting for a ransom, most often in cryptocurrency.
Often attackers threaten to disclose certain personal data publicly. Attackers seek to create a sense of urgency and panic by issuing an injunction and sometimes a ransom that increases over time.

Intrusion Into Your Information System (IS)

In this attack, the attackers manage to break into your IS to alter its operation or steal data to resell it. In the first case, we are faced with a desire for destabilization or sabotage. In the second, it is more akin to espionage or theft.
Most of the time, a human error is at the origin of this intrusion which occurs via an email containing an attachment, a visit to a corrupted site, or a connection from an unsecured public network.

Account Hacking

Account takeover is taking control of an account from its owner. From then on, the attackers can access all the functionalities and information this account is entitled to. It can be an email account or social networks but also access to an intranet or management tools.
Most often, the attackers only had to force a password that was too simple or send a phishing email asking you to enter your password. Sometimes, they may use spyware capable of recording letters typed on a keyboard.

Identity Theft

Historically, it was about taking a person’s identity to carry out fraudulent actions. Today, criminals prefer to impersonate companies to trick their customers, place large orders or take out loans.
To do this, they do not hesitate to recreate a complete digital identity with email addresses and mirror sites similar to their victims. Some falsify purchase orders and invoices and even go so far as to register with the commercial register.

Phishing

Phishing, or Phishing in English, is not an attack but rather a way to prepare for future attacks such as account hacking, intrusion, or even Ransomware.
This involves pretending in an email to be a reliable and trustworthy source to deceive the victims and thus obtain confidential information, such as access codes, or encourage them to act: click on a malicious site, open an attachment, install software, enter a form, etc.

Denial of Service Attack or DDOS Attack

A denial of service attack aims to make an online site or service unavailable by saturating bandwidth or mobilizing system resources. This artificial peak in stress considerably slows down the operation. It can go as far as causing a breakdown and, therefore, a system shutdown with the consequences that can be imagined in the case of a merchant site, for example.
It also happens that this type of attack serves as a diversion for intrusions or data theft.

Transfer Fraud

Wire transfer fraud is a variant of identity theft that often uses the technique of Phishing. It consists of contacting an accounting department employee and obtaining from him that he “voluntarily” makes a transfer.
To do this, the attackers can pretend to be a supplier awaiting payment whose bank details have changed. Some even go so far as to pretend to be employees who have changed banks and thus have their wages paid. It can sometimes take several months before the company realizes the deception.
A variant of this type of attack consists of contacting the accounting department, pretending to be the manager or one of his representatives, and asking to execute transfers to accounts abroad urgently. The scenarios have often been very carefully studied to make them believable and create a sense of urgency.

Disfigurement

Disfiguration is a deliberately very visible and sometimes publicized attack that aims to damage the image and credibility of a company by modifying the appearance and content of its website or its accounts on the networks. Most often, the motivations are political or ideological. However, it is not uncommon for this type of attack to be identified as former employees acting out of revenge or on behalf of competitors.

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Protect Network Access

Most teleworkers use WiFi, so there is a need to protect network access effectively. Unfortunately, this type of connection is not the most secure today for protecting personal data. To avoid any intrusion into your computer, it is essential to set up a secure password., which you can regularly change. Ideally, this password should be 12 characters long and include numbers, letters, and special characters. Specialized software such as LastPass, Dashlane, or Keeper now makes it possible to find, manage and save secure passwords. To best ensure cybersecurity, avoid connecting to the Internet via a public WiFi network, which is particularly exposed to attacks.
If the company does not offer one, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) also proves to be an attractive solution to protect the exchange of information. This virtual private network makes it possible to hide the IP address and encrypt the data during authentication, for example. Filtering by MAC address (Media Access Control) offers the advantage of only allowing network access to a limited number of devices.

Update Your Computer

Viruses and other malicious software take advantage of the vulnerabilities of our computers to enter their systems. This is why updating your equipment as regularly as necessary through the computer’s operating system (OS) or specialized software is essential. Windows and Mac OS, of course, regularly offer these updates free of charge. Depending on the OS system preferences, they may be downloaded manually or automatically. Companies must make employees aware of this practice as much as possible.
Also, remember to acquire an effective antivirus, which you will also remember to update frequently. Some are free; others are paid. If the level of protection offered by these 2 solutions does not vary drastically, paid antiviruses always offer additional features, such as WiFi security alerts, ransomware removal (extortion software), hard disk cleaning, or protection against phishing (phishing of personal data). Among paid antiviruses, Norton, Kaspersky, and Bitdefender is the reference.
Particular attention will be paid to the data security of Windows computers. Due to its popularity, this operating system is much more subject to computer attacks than Mac OS.

Adopt Good Practices Daily

The GDPR recommends a few rules to ensure the computer security of your professional tools, whether remote or face-to-face.
Remember to lock your computer when you are away to limit the risk of someone accessing your data.
Avoid working in public places without screensavers, especially when handling sensitive data. Visual piracy is a very real phenomenon. According to a study, 87% of respondents had already noticed furtive glances at their screen from strangers in a public work situation1.
Back up your data daily via a USB drive, external hard drive, or secure cloud service. If you were to be the victim of a cyber-attack, this data would thus remain perfectly protected.
Separate the private and professional spheres, avoiding using the computer for personal purposes (shopping, Facebook, Twitter, other social networks, sports sites, etc.). Today there are nearly 2 billion websites, and not all offer the same security guarantees. The presence of a padlock or the mention of “https” at the beginning of the URL generally guarantees a high level of security.
Beware of suspicious emails; do not click links without checking where they redirect. Email providers rightly ask for your permission to download attachments. In some cases, they may contain malware harmful to your computer3, especially in .rar and .zip archives or Microsoft Office documents.
If you have any doubts about the security of your connection, do not hesitate to inform your supervisor or contact your company’s IT manager.

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What Are Computer Security Solutions?

They are good practices that apply the standards and methods necessary to secure devices, platforms, and information. To do this, you must use the appropriate techniques and tools to protect a company’s data. This way, your information, and your users or consumers are not exposed to third parties.

In general, there are different solutions for computer security, depending on the types of threats. For this reason, this work is significant since with time, criminal methods become more sophisticated. Consequently, a company that needs to guarantee the security of its data and its consumers must have a computer security team.

What Are The Consequences For a Company That Does Not Have Computer Security?

In the digital market, there are many risks to which both companies and users are exposed. Although in both cases, this generates harmful consequences, and in the case of companies, it can be worse. This is because they have information about themselves and their efforts, work, and communications with other entities and buyers. This is why their level of responsibility is much higher, and the description of said data is not admissible. Below we mention the main consequences of not having computer security in a company: 

• It is a victim of advertising that infects computers with botnets, which click on ads and thus avoid being detected as spam.
• It was being exposed to malware, which infects devices to leak information and spy on the company. Through software and sites that do not appear to be a threat. Subsequently, from this data, blackmail (phishing).
• Following the above, data hijacking (Ransomware) could also be carried out to request large amounts of money to recover the information.
• Botnets are used to commit fraud in advertising campaigns using robots to click on ads. They are also used to bypass spam filters.
• I hack equipment such as computers, tablets, and cell phones like other devices like security cameras and routers.
• I am not making backup copies or doing them incorrectly, which causes a loss of information.
• It is inserting or opening external devices, such as USBs, that can transfer toxic data to the devices.

What Computer Security Solutions Can I Apply?

As mentioned, some solutions help us protect our devices from threats. Below we explain how to improve computer security through these five solutions:

• Establish rules for the preventive use of devices and platforms to be met by staff and their users.
• Create an action plan determining the steps to follow according to the threats that could affect the company. To this end, the figures to participate and their function according to each contingency are established.
• Acquire the necessary tools that help prevent such threats or, failing that, protect yourself from them.
• Agree with third parties (service providers, software, technicians) on the plan to execute in the event of a contingency. In this way, it is possible to talk about the participation of each one without harming any of those involved.
• Maintain an expert team on the subject or resort to specialists who can advise or collaborate. Either in anticipation or to solve a problem.

The Four Best Computer Security Tools

Now, if you want to apply computer security solutions to keep your information and equipment protected, you can use the following tools:

Antivirus

This tool is most commonly used in companies and homes due to its reliability and effectiveness. An antivirus program or application will be permanently activated to detect any anomaly or malware. Likewise, these threats can be eliminated by the computer being placed in quarantine or checking to see failures and risks.

Firewall

It is an ideal complement when it comes to computer security. It is in charge of examining the network packets and identifying the traffic and its users. Likewise, it also blocks sites that are not authorized.

Proxy server

It is a tool that analyzes the internet connection and the browser. It is responsible for blocking suspicious sites, which could put the computer at risk. It even secures the areas the company deems appropriate so that its workers cannot enter while they work.

Vulnerability scanner

Through this method, it is possible to examine the system’s weaknesses. Ideal for keeping your device protected and, at the same time be, free of any risk. Since by correcting failures in real-time, you limit the possibility that threats can affect computers. Likewise, its response time is ideal for protecting the entire operating system.

Also Read: Detect Fake Emails, QR Codes, And Deep Fakes

Importance Of Computer Security Solutions

Security is a term that, regardless of the context, arouses our interest, especially when they collide with our personal lives. However, we often have access to certain content and materials and provide our information, which leads us to accept the use of our data in exchange for its processing in the company’s database being used legitimately. But even more critical, guaranteeing that their security is not exposed to third parties.

That is why a company, to meet these requirements, must use the best equipment and system so that no difficulty takes them by surprise since the consequences for a company are more significant. They must be held accountable for their actions and the use of consumer information in their internal management data, which must not be exposed or filtered. This only delays the strategies to maintain your sales and your position in the market.

Thus, any company wishing to maintain its services and products must guarantee computer security. Only in this way will you prevent any threat from costing you a large amount of money, or even worse your company and prestige.

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Securing computer networks involves implementing measures to prevent, detect, and manage cybersecurity incidents. These measures may include controls for who has access to the network, complex and robust password management solutions, and encryption of sensitive data to protect its confidentiality.

Computer network security is an important issue that requires constant attention to ensure data protection, service availability and information integrity.

Securing computer networks is a crucial area of ​​our daily lives.

It is essential to understand the basic principles of computer security to ensure the safety and integrity of the network. The main principles for good computer network security include firewalls, data filtering, data encryption, application of critical updates and protection against malware.

The fundamentals of computer network security aim to protect the network from unauthorized access attempts, malware, and any other potential threats. These principles include identifying and authenticating users, encrypting data, implementing data access control policies, and implementing network monitoring tools. Securing the network requires constant attention to ensure all necessary steps are taken to keep the system operating optimally.

Each of these principles can be implemented by different means, but together they help to ensure that your network is protected against attacks and other threats encountered on the Internet.

Choose The Right Software To Secure Your Network.

Securing a computer network is a task that requires sustained attention from the user.

To succeed, choosing software that offers the best features and tools to protect your network is essential. The software available in the market varies widely in terms of efficiency and features.

Some may offer advanced protection against hackers and malicious clients, while others may focus on more straightforward tasks such as email filtering and virus protection.

It is essential to take the time to compare several softwares to choose the one that will provide the best level of security for your network.

Implement Appropriate Security Measures.

The primary purpose of securing a computer network is to ensure data confidentiality, integrity and availability.

To do this, it is necessary to implement adequate security measures using appropriate hardware and software.

Standard measures include the use of a firewall to control access to networks and services, encryption of data to protect their sensitive content, and control of user access through a robust authentication system.

Other technologies can be implemented to strengthen further IT systems, such as antivirus or anti-spam solutions and configuration management tools.

Finally, it is essential to ensure that the software installed on the network is kept up to date to limit the potential attack surface.

Use Strong And Secure Passwords.

Securing a computer network requires the use of solid and secure passwords. Indeed, these passwords must be strong enough not to be easily guessed or hacked.

It is, therefore, important that users create passwords that are not too simple and that they change their passwords regularly.

Using phrases or expressions instead of a single word is also advisable, as this makes the password harder to guess.

In addition, each user must have a password to avoid any possibility of unauthorized access from an outside source.

When the appropriate security measures are taken, the risk of hacking is significantly reduced, and the computer system remains protected against external threats.

Keep The Security System Up To Date.

It is essential to keep the security system up to date to ensure the security of computer networks.

Regularly updating software and systems can help prevent computer attacks and malicious intrusions.

Updates can also ensure that security settings remain consistent and effective, allowing network administrators to monitor threats in real-time actively.

Updates may also allow users to access additional features provided by the security system, such as identity theft protection and strong authentication.

Therefore, it is good practice to carry out proactive maintenance of the system to ensure an optimal level of security for computer networks.

This process includes implementing technical, organizational and physical measures to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of computer systems.

Securing computer networks includes a variety of techniques that can be employed to detect, prevent and respond to threats. These techniques include access control, data encryption, IP address filtering, and real-time monitoring. Effectively securing a computer network is essential to protect sensitive data and present a barrier to illicit use of the network infrastructure.

Computer Network Security Best Practices

Computer networks are increasingly critical for businesses, and adequate security measures must be implemented to ensure their protection.

Best practices for securing computer networks include data encryption, firewalls, and antimalware tools.

Using strong and unique passwords is also essential to protect access to sensitive points in the network. Training employees in the proper use of IT can also help prevent potential attacks, monitor network traffic, and rigorously enforce security policies. Finally, it is essential to constantly perform security tests and audits on the network to ensure it is well protected.

Secure Your Computer Network In 3 Simple Steps.

The first thing to do is to choose strong passwords for your administrator accounts and other users. You should also install a firewall and antivirus/antimalware solution to block unauthorized access attempts. Regularly updating the operating system software and any third-party software used on the network is essential.

It is good practice to regularly back up data to ensure that it is always available in the event of a computer attack. Finally, it is advisable to perform security tests on the network occasionally to ensure that no threat is present.

The following steps can be taken to ensure the security of your network:

• Install antivirus and antimalware software on all computers connected to your network. Make sure they are constantly updated to provide optimal protection against online threats.
• Configure a firewall on your network’s router or server to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic and block any suspicious traffic. Also, use strong encryption and authentication technologies to ensure the confidentiality of data transmitted over the network.
• Create separate user accounts with different access levels for each user to limit access to sensitive data to only authorized users.

Essential Tools And Strategies For Optimal Network Security

Essential IT network security tools and strategies are essential for protecting sensitive data and IT assets. The first step is to assess the risk and the level of security your business needs. Once the security strategy has been decided, you can use tools and technologies to protect your network.

Standard tools include firewalls, antivirus/antimalware solutions, threat monitoring systems, and robust authentication solutions.

Appropriate procedures and policies must also be in place to ensure that your network is appropriately administered and monitored. Finally, an adequate backup system must be in place to ensure that your data will not be lost or altered if a threat occurs.

The post How To Secure Your Computer Network appeared first on TechReviewsCorner.

Implement a data protection policy

To ensure data is secure at all times, it’s important to create a data protection policy that outlines how data should be handled by employees. This policy should include clear instructions on when data sharing is acceptable, as well as guidance on password use and device security protocols. Yet, no matter how well you define your procedures and policy, they will only work if you impart their importance to your employees. 

Use secure devices & networks

Businesses should always ensure they are using high-security devices like secure computers, firewalls and data encryption software. Additionally, they should connect to a secure Wi-Fi network while working remotely. Plus, they should consider using virtual private networks (VPNs), which can help protect data when transferring between different networks.

This should also include physical security networks, such as a digital mailbox. Thess allow for security in multiple ways. Services like iPostal1 prevent mail and package theft for your business, but also allow for privacy.  

Password system

Ensure that all data is kept secure by setting up a strong password system. All team members should have unique passwords, and these should be changed regularly or after any data breaches. Passwords should include upper and lower case characters, numbers, symbols and be at least 14-16 digits in length.

Monitor access privileges

Businesses should also ensure that data is only shared with those employees and customers who need it and that their access rights are monitored constantly to avoid data leakage. It’s important to review who has what access to data and ensure those permissions are up-to-date with their position within the company. While your business might not be big enough to warrant hiring a security expert, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the newest issues in the security industry.

Incorporating the use of unlimited residential proxies into a data protection policy can help employees understand how to protect sensitive information. Regularly educating employees on data protection practices and the importance of secure online behavior can create a culture of security within the organization.

Backup & recovery plan

Finally, businesses should set up a comprehensive data backup plan. This should include data stored on both physical and digital devices, as well as data stored offsite or in the cloud. Regularly testing data backups is also essential to ensure data can be recovered quickly and easily in the event of a data breach. While the hope is that everything will be secure, it’s still necessary to prepare for the worst.

In Conclusion

By following these five steps, businesses can protect their data and increase security both online and offline. Data protection is vital for any organization, so it’s important that business owners take the time to make sure their data is secure from any potential threats. If businesses choose to not spend the money to ensure security from the beginning, they will certainly be paying for it in the end. 

The post The Top Five Improvements for Business Security in 2023 appeared first on TechReviewsCorner.

Phishing at Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Co.

Cybercriminals are extremely sophisticated, using pictures of supervisors, deep fakes, or chats on platforms such as Slack and Teams. These attacks are not limited to emails but to various channels and social networks used in the business environment. Deep fakes can even be used to fake a person’s voice and use it in video conferences. Many users have little idea of ​​the phishing threats lurking today, let alone how best to respond. Training that addresses exactly this is an important pillar for corporate security.

Training Helps To Better Protect Networks And Fight Malware

Users should be able to recognize when emails or other messages are not legitimate, even if the sender is supposed to be a manager or other authority figure. However, it is not easy. But users should learn not to blindly open a file or click a link just because the sender appears familiar. Training forms an important foundation for reliably recognizing such emails and what to do if a suspicious email arrives in the mailbox. Fake invoices and documents of this type are also often sent by email to lure recipients into a trap or inject malware. Cybercriminals are now extremely sophisticated. Without appropriate education and training, employees often react incorrectly.

More QR Scams And QR phishing

QR scams direct users to compromised websites. QR codes entice users to quickly and easily access websites on their smartphones by scanning the code. Statistics show that nearly 90 percent of smartphone users have scanned at least one QR code, with over a third doing so weekly. With some delay, QR codes are now spreading in many areas. So users should know how they work and what to look out for when using them.

QR codes are also used in phishing attacks. To do this, the attackers integrate QR codes into phishing emails or other messages. After scanning, a new website opens, and the user is prompted to enter his username and password, for example. Cybercriminals use this technique to undermine the security functions of the email system: it does not recognize the dangerous URLs because the email only contains a QR code. Users should know this and be more careful with QR codes or become suspicious of suspicious QR codes.

Deep Fakes Combined With Spear Phishing

Deep fakes are deceptively real-looking videos or images. They are often used for targeted disinformation or in the field of social engineering. Deep fakes are often difficult to detect but pose a growing threat. They are often used with spear phishing attacks to extract information from the victim specifically. Even if deep fakes are well done, the message is often implausible, or the image/video itself seems inconsistent. What you have to pay attention to can be trained well with the help of professionals. There are now deep fakes in the form of calls. Deep fakes over the phone are often based on text-to-speech technologies combined with the perfect voice fake. Such deep fakes are now able to

Mobile Security

More and more users work primarily on the go on notebooks, tablets, or smartphones. Many mistakenly rely on the security of their smartphones and take phishing attacks or malware on mobile devices less seriously than on a stationary computer. In the prevailing, at least hybrid, work models, employees access corporate networks via various mobile channels. Fake apps and fake URLs are spreading rapidly, creating an additional gateway for cybercriminals. Virus scanners offer little protection. Prudent operation and the right reaction are better in a cyber attack. The almost nationwide switch to remote working or hybrid infrastructures has opened up numerous gateways. This is where training often works wonders.

Cyber ​​Attacks From Within: Insider Threats

Unsurprisingly, company networks are threatened by unknown external attackers and insiders from their own companies. These can be dissatisfied employees, criminals who have been smuggled in, guests, partners, or suppliers. There are many ways to become part of the company, attack it internally, and defeat most external security systems. If employees spy on other employees or try to access data, it is naturally more difficult to counteract abuse. Users should know how to protect their data and ensure that only authorized persons can access their respective computers.

Conclusion

Networks are already vulnerable, and untrained users increase the potential for privacy and data security breaches. Phishing is one of the most pervasive cyber threats, and there are countless ways that phishing can be used to obtain sensitive information. However, companies and users are not defenseless against this. The probability of a successful attack can be significantly reduced through targeted, practical security awareness training.

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