Monthly Archives: January 2025

So, what, exactly, is Malware?

Posted on by
Reply

So, what, exactly, is Malware?

Listen to the news? Read the internet? You know cyber crime is a very big business. Hackers and criminals are out there doing all sorts of nefarious things. Most generally, you hear that malware is some kind of virus that attacks your software programs, infects your hardware, and bungles up your network. But there are many different types of malware, just as there are many types of criminals–each with their own MO and bad intentions. In this e-guide, we will run through some of the major categories of malware, and then suggest 7 different ways you can work to protect your business from malware.

Malware defined – Malware is a generic term that covers all manner of software that is designed to attack your devices, applications, programs, and networks. It is software that has bad intentions. Malicious + Software= Malware. Hackers and criminals create malware for an array of reasons. Some may create it just to attack massive amounts of machines just to show that they can disrupt the cybersphere. Other malware may be created for political reasons. The major reason criminals create malware? To make money without earning it. Yes, stealing. Either by directly pulling money out of accounts, or improperly acquiring data that ultimately provides access to funds. Example: Stealing your SSN and setting up a credit card to use that info, or convincing you to provide the password to your checking account. Others will snatch your organization’s data and hold it for ransom. As usual, it is all about money.

FUN FACT: Before the internet, passing around malware to infect a PC meant a criminal had to find a way to infect a floppy disc and trick users into inserting it into their computer. One of the first was created by a high schooler in the early 80’s. It was relatively benign and just created a pop-up with a Seuss-like poem

“The program with a personality
It will get on all your disks
It will infiltrate your chips
Yes it’s Cloner!
It will stick to you like glue
It will modify RAM too
Send in the Cloner!”

Unfortunately, most viruses now have far more nasty intentions, and the internet has made it much easier for criminals to break in. No waiting for you to insert a disc drive to steal your data, disrupt your internal business operation, or take down your website. One bad click and you’re in trouble.

Malware is a general term and there are several types.

VIRUS – Like the pathogen we associate with human disease, a virus is a “piece of code that is capable of copying itself and typically has a detrimental effect, such as corrupting the system or destroying data.” Source: https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en/.

A characteristic of a virus is that it requires the user to take some action for it to infect your hardware, software, network, etc. For example, inserting an infected thumb drive or clicking on a link found in an email.

ADWARE -Adware is less a type of malware than a symptom created by the infection. Adware invades and then drives the user crazy with endless pop-up advertisements.

WORMS – Similar to viruses, worms replicate and attempt to cause damage but they don’t require a user action. Worms find vulnerabilities or holes in code that allows them access.

TROJAN HORSE – Yes, named after the Greek myth, Trojans trick you into accepting something you want, but inside it has bad intentions. A trojan refers to the method the cybercriminal uses to get you to download a virus or other infected program, rather than the nature of the specific virus.

KEYLOGGERS – This is malware that can track your keystrokes. This particular malware’s goal is to track your keystrokes and identify passwords or credit card information, and then log into your accounts.

RANSOMWARE – If there was any malware that gets more media attention, we aren’t aware of it. And it deserves everyone’s attention. Unlike some other forms of malware, once this has invaded, there is very little you can do to eliminate the virus. Ransomware sneaks in, snatches your data and holds it for ransom. Unless you choose to pay the ransom fee, usually in some cryptocurrency, you are out of luck. In the specific case of ransomware, prevention is the key. Having clean backups of your data which are kept continuously up to date is about the only way to sidestep a ransomware attack on your data.

Thing to do this week to start protecting your customer data

Posted on by
Reply

Thing to do this week to start protecting your customer data

You have client or customer data in your possession. It is part of running your business in a digital marketplace. If that data is breached, it could permanently damage your reputation. We talked in an earlier blog about types of malware. There are many steps that you can take to protect your systems and data. Here are a few suggestions to protect your business from malware.

Consider a Managed Service Provider – Cybercriminals are very sophisticated and every day are releasing new, cutting-edge tools to attack businesses and individuals. Small- and medium-sized businesses do not have the resources to staff an IT department sufficiently to be aware of all the newest tools and technologies needed to protect a business. For example, a business owner cannot possibly keep up with the changes and details of tax laws. Doing it themselves, they would likely overlook important tax advantages or inadvertently break some IRS rule. As a result, tax preparation and accounting above the level of basic bookkeeping is outsourced to an outside accounting firm. You should consider looking at IT in the same way.

Updates – Always update your software. There will always be vulnerabilities in every bit of software that you use. Creators of software are constantly upgrading to close holes that could be exploited. Being attacked by malware because you are behind in upgrades is an avoidable error. That said, given the sheer volume of software applications accessing your network, you should consider outsourcing the administration and enforcement of this process.

Multi-factor authentication – Everyone is increasingly encountering MFA. This tool requires a second level of authentication in order to access an account or use a program. Generally, it involves entering a password then following up with a token you might be sent via text or email, or using a biometric measure, such as a fingerprint. An MSP can provide applications that can set up MFA to protect your data.
Access Control – You don’t give out keys to your house to everyone you know. Why allow all employees or vendors to access all of your databases or programs? Instead, follow the Principle of Least Privilege. That is, each individual only has the access to accounts, databases etc. that are absolutely necessary for them to do their assigned tasks.

Backups – Everyone knows they need to do backups, but handling these is more than just downloading data to a hard drive every evening. An MSP can provide you with the tools needed to handle backups appropriate to the needs of a business operation.

Employee education-This one cannot be emphasized enough. The individuals in your organization are your first and most critical line of defense against malware. As mentioned above, many types of malware need user action to get into your systems.

Here are some areas where training can help.

Phishing emails. These are mails that appear to come from legitimate sources, but are faked. Because the reader trusts the sender, they naively open a link that might be attacked which then downloads some forms of malware.

“Lost” USB. – Too often, individuals will find a USB drive left near a desk or dropped somewhere. The temptation to insert it into their computer to see what’s on it can be very hard to resist. ( This was part of what caused the Target data breach)

Password etiquette – Define standards within your organization about acceptable passwords. An MSP can help you set up programs that require employees to create passwords that meet your defined criteria. Also, consider fostering a culture that makes the sharing of passwords a performance issue that will be addressed by an individual’s supervisor.

Endpoint Detection and Response ( EDR): This is a solution an MSP can provide you with. At its basic level, EDR is a proactive approach to anti-malware software. EDR constantly looks at all of the endpoints in your network, tracks behaviors and identifies anything out of the ordinary. For an individual, anti-malware software may be sufficient. For a business that has multiple endpoints, this is not sufficient. ( Think dozens of employees connecting remotely via their own computer or smartphone). In a sophisticated business’s IT infrastructure, there are many endpoints which need to be evaluated.

In summary, there are many ways that an SMB can approach defending itself against malware. Some of these, such as employee training, can easily be done in-house. Others require a depth of experience that only your MSP can offer.

7 Signs It’s Time to Enhance Your IT Support with Co-Managed IT Service

Posted on by
Reply

When it comes to IT support, many businesses settle for “good enough,” assuming it’s all they need. But what if your current IT provider or in-house team is actually holding your business back?

Co-managed IT services offer a collaborative approach that combines the strengths of your internal team with the expertise of a professional IT partner. If any of these signs resonate, it might be time to consider co-managed IT to fill the gaps and supercharge your IT strategy.

1. IT Emergencies Take Too Long to Resolve

When critical systems fail or a cybersecurity breach occurs, time is of the essence. If your IT team or provider isn’t available to resolve issues quickly, it’s time to enhance your support. Co-managed IT offers 24/7 monitoring and rapid response to minimize downtime and keep your business running.

2. Your IT Team is Overwhelmed

Internal IT teams often wear too many hats, leaving little time for proactive improvements. Co-managed IT takes the pressure off by handling tasks like system monitoring, patch management, and troubleshooting, allowing your team to focus on strategic initiatives.

3. Cybersecurity Isn’t a Strength

Cybersecurity requires constant attention and expertise. If your team struggles to keep up with the latest threats, co-managed IT can fill the gap with:

  • Advanced threat monitoring.
  • Ransomware protection.
  • Comprehensive data backup solutions.

A strong co-managed IT partner brings the tools and expertise needed to keep your business safe.

4. Support is Slow or Inconsistent

Does your current setup leave employees waiting for help? If issues linger unresolved or your ticketing system is inefficient, a co-managed IT approach can streamline support. With access to a dedicated IT partner, your team gets the consistent, reliable assistance they need.

5. You’re Not Getting Clear Reporting or Billing

IT budgets shouldn’t be a guessing game. Co-managed IT services provide transparent reporting on system performance, project timelines, and costs, so you always know what you’re paying for and why.

6. Backups Aren’t Being Tested

Backups are only useful if they work when you need them. Regular testing is essential to ensure data can be recovered in a disaster. Co-managed IT ensures that backups are tested routinely, giving you peace of mind that your data is protected.

7. IT Projects Are Always Delayed

If IT projects consistently miss deadlines or go over budget, it’s a sign your current team may need additional resources. Co-managed IT provides extra manpower and expertise to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

How Co-Managed IT Can Transform Your Business

Co-managed IT is more than just outsourcing—it’s a partnership. By combining your in-house team’s knowledge with the expertise of a trusted IT provider, you gain:

  • Proactive monitoring and issue resolution.
  • Advanced cybersecurity solutions.
  • Streamlined operations and improved productivity.

With co-managed IT, your business can scale its IT capabilities without the need to hire and train additional staff.

Let’s Get Started

Is your IT support falling short? Whether you need to augment your internal team or add proactive IT management, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us at 214-550-0550 or Book a FREE Network Assessment today. Let’s work together to build a smarter, more secure IT environment for your business.

Stop settling for “good enough.” See what co-managed IT can do for your organization.

What exactly is Malware? A definition and some common types.

Posted on by
Reply

What exactly is Malware? A definition and some common types.

So what happens when you get software that has been mixed with a strong dose of malicious intent? You get malware, the term used to describe all manner of software invasion that has been designed to do bad things to your computers, networks and digital devices. It may have been created to steal something from you, such as data that can be monetized. It may try to directly steal money from you by draining bank accounts, or using credit card numbers. Sometimes, malware’s intention may be political: it may be about governmental intrigue or industrial espionage, Or it may just be about showing off or causing chaos for its own sake. Whatever the motivation, every organization needs to be constantly on guard to protect its data. Failure to protect the data of your clients and employees can result in serious damage to your reputation and brand as well as lead to fines from regulatory bodies. It can also open you up to liability from individuals or groups that have been harmed.

Malware isn’t new, of course. As long as there have been computers there has been malware. Long before computers were connected to the internet and other public networks, malware was placed onto floppy discs. Once inserted into a computer, they could wreak havoc. Now, it is through our connectivity that bad actors work to infect our computer systems.

Types of Malware

Malware is an umbrella term that covers an array of specific tools to cause trouble or steal data. These include…

Viruses
A virus is pretty much what you would think. Like the flu, it attaches itself to a host program where it then will try to change the code to steal your data, log your keystrokes, or corrupt your system/data. Generally, to be infected by a virus, some user action has to occur that allows the virus into your system. Example: The user opens a link found in an email that looks to be from a legitimate source, but isn’t.

Worms
Worms are similar to viruses in how they replicate and attempt to cause damage but they don’t require a user action. Worms find vulnerabilities or holes in code that allows them access.

Trojan Horse
Just like the Greek myth, trojans trick you into accepting something you want, but inside it has bad intentions. Basically, a trojan refers to the method the cybercriminal uses to get you to download a virus or other infected program.

Adware
Adware is a type of virus that can invade through various methods, such as a trojan or corrupted software. Adware generally besieges you with pop-up ads.

Keyloggers
This is malware that can track your keystrokes. This particular malware’s goal is to track your keystrokes and identify passwords or credit card information, for example, and then log into your accounts.

Ransomware
No malware seems to get as much media attention as ransomware. And for good reason. Unlike some other forms of malware, once this has invaded, there is very little you can do to eliminate the virus. Ransomware seizes your data and holds it for ransom. Unless you choose to pay the ransom fee, usually in some cryptocurrency, you are out of luck. In the specific case of ransomware, prevention is the key. Having clean backups of your data which are kept continuously up to date is about the only way to sidestep a ransomware attack on your data.

What can you do? Simply put, an off the shelf anti-virus software (now referred to as anti-malware) isn’t going to cut it in the business arena. Your systems are far too complex, with too many endpoints to rely on a solution better limited to home use. More importantly, you need protection systems, such as Endpoint Detection. An MSP is your best resource. As a small- to medium-sized business owner, you have limited time and resources to explore and design these protections on your own. An MSP can be your strategic partner in data and digital security.

AI-Powered Cybersecurity Threats: Why Small Businesses Are at Risk and How to Protect Yourself

Posted on by
Reply

Think hackers only target big corporations? Think again.

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), cyber-criminals are now able to scale their attacks more effectively than ever—and small businesses are at the top of their list. Why? Because while you might not have the resources of a Fortune 500 company, you still have valuable data they can exploit.

Gone are the days of slow, simplistic hacking tools. AI gives cyber-criminals smarter, faster methods to bypass businesses that aren’t prepared. Without a solid defense in place, they’ll find a way in.

Here’s how AI is revolutionizing cyber-crime and, more importantly, how you can protect your business from becoming a target.

AI-Powered Phishing Scams

Traditional phishing relied on generic, poorly written emails—often full of errors. AI has changed the game by enabling hackers to craft highly personalized, convincing messages. Using AI, attackers can:

  • Scrape social media and business websites for personal details
  • Mimic real contacts or brands
  • Adapt language to sound authentic

Imagine receiving an email that looks like it’s from your bank, addressing you by name and referencing a recent “transaction attempt” that was declined. It asks you to “click here to confirm your information.”

If you click the link, you could be led to a fake website designed to steal your login credentials or even install malware on your system. The result? Hackers gain access to your accounts, steal sensitive data, or launch further attacks.

Automated Vulnerability Scanning

AI is now used to automate scanning for weaknesses in small businesses’ systems. These tools can:

  • Identify outdated software or weak network configurations
  • Target vulnerabilities faster than ever

For small businesses with limited IT resources, these automated attacks are a growing threat. Hackers can find and exploit weaknesses within minutes, leading to costly downtime, data theft, or even a complete loss of access to your network.

AI-Driven Malware

AI also enables hackers to create malware that evolves quickly. These malicious programs:

  • Learn how antivirus software works to avoid detection
  • Adapt to exploit new vulnerabilities in real time

AI-powered ransomware, for example, can lock down systems faster and more effectively, demanding ransoms and putting small businesses at heightened risk.

Deepfake Technology for Social Engineering

AI-generated deepfakes are no longer just a Hollywood tool. Cyber-criminals use deepfake technology to impersonate trusted contacts or executives, convincing employees to:

  • Transfer funds
  • Share sensitive data

For example, imagine your CFO receives a call that sounds exactly like your CEO, instructing them to wire funds urgently to close a deal. The voice is so convincing that the CFO follows through, only to discover it was a fraudulent request.

Deepfakes make these scams incredibly believable, leaving even the most cautious employees vulnerable.

Advanced Password Cracking

AI-powered algorithms can guess passwords at lightning speed, even cracking moderately strong ones by recognizing patterns. This makes traditional passwords less secure than ever.

Tip: Multi-factor authentication is essential to combat this growing threat.

How to Protect Your Business from AI-Powered Cyberattacks

  1. Invest in AI-Driven Defenses: Use cybersecurity tools that leverage AI to detect and respond to threats in real time.
  2. Educate Your Team: Train employees to recognize phishing and social engineering tactics.
  3. Conduct Regular Audits: Regularly check your IT infrastructure for vulnerabilities.
  4. Strengthen Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication and encourage strong, unique passwords.
  5. Partner with Experts: Managed IT providers can proactively monitor your systems and implement security solutions.

AI is transforming cybersecurity for both attackers and defenders. While hackers use AI to target vulnerabilities, businesses can also use it to strengthen their defenses. Staying informed and proactive is key to keeping your business safe in this evolving digital landscape.

Ready to fortify your business? Click here or call us at 214-550-0550 to schedule a FREE Cybersecurity Assessment today and ensure your defenses are AI-proof.

Data Privacy Day: Shield Your Business from Costly Data Breaches

Posted on by
Reply

Every year, January 28 marks Data Privacy Day, a reminder of the importance of safeguarding sensitive information. For businesses, data privacy is more than just a buzzword—it’s a critical defense for your reputation and bottom line.

In 2023, data breaches cost businesses an average of $4.35 million (IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach report)—a number that’s only rising. The good news? By taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk.

Why Data Privacy Matters for SMBs

Many small and midsized businesses believe they’re too small to be targeted by cybercriminals. That’s a dangerous myth. In reality:

  • 43% of cyber-attacks target small businesses.
  • Most SMBs lack the resources to recover from a major breach.

The consequences of a data breach include:

  • Financial Losses: Ransom payments, fines, and legal fees.
  • Reputational Damage: Loss of customer trust can drive clients away.
  • Operational Disruption: Downtime that halts business operations.

What Data Are Hackers After?

Cybercriminals target any valuable data they can find, including:

  • Customer Information: Credit card details, addresses, and login credentials.
  • Employee Records: Social Security numbers, payroll, and health data.
  • Business Financials: Bank accounts, invoices, and trade secrets.

How Does Data Get Stolen?

Hackers use several tactics to breach your systems:

  • Phishing: Deceptive emails that trick employees into revealing sensitive info.
  • Ransomware: Locking you out of your data until a ransom is paid.
  • Weak Passwords: Exploiting easily guessed or reused credentials.
  • Unsecured Networks: Intercepting data on public Wi-Fi or unprotected systems.

5 Steps to Strengthen Your Data Privacy

  1. Know Your Data
    Understand what data you have, where it’s stored, and who has access to it. Conduct an inventory of:
    • Customer information.
    • Employee records.
    • Financial details.
    Quick Tip: Only collect and store what you truly need—less data means less risk.
  2. Encrypt Everything
    Encryption converts sensitive data into unreadable code, protecting it from hackers.
    Pro Tip: Use encryption both in transit (when data is sent) and at rest (when stored).
  3. Implement Strong Access Controls
    Adopt the principle of least privilege (PoLP), ensuring employees only access data relevant to their roles.
    Example: Marketing teams shouldn’t have access to payroll data.
  4. Train Your Team
    Human error is a leading cause of data breaches. Regular training on data privacy best practices is essential.
    Teach your team to:
    • Spot phishing attempts.
    • Secure devices in public spaces.
    • Report suspicious activity.
    Statistic: 88% of data breaches are caused by employee mistakes (Stanford University).
  7. Partner with a Trusted IT Provider
    Managing data privacy is complex. An IT provider can:
    • Conduct audits.
    • Monitor vulnerabilities.
    • Respond to potential threats quickly.

Don’t Leave Data Privacy to Chance

Data breaches don’t just hurt your finances—they can destroy your reputation and even your business.

This Data Privacy Day, assess your security practices and make necessary improvements.

Start with a FREE Network Assessment to uncover vulnerabilities and ensure your business is protected.

Click here to schedule your FREE assessment and take control of your data privacy today. Let’s make 2025 the year your business stays ahead of the threats.

New Year, New Tech: Top IT Upgrades to Transform Your Business in 2025

Posted on by
Reply

The start of a new year is more than just resolutions—it’s the perfect opportunity to reevaluate your business’s technology. With 2025 ushering in rapid advancements and an AI-driven digital landscape, staying competitive requires IT solutions that enhance efficiency, fortify security, and future-proof your operations.

Outdated IT systems can cost SMBs dearly: ITIC reports that IT downtime averages $1,670 per minute per server. Beyond the financial toll, inefficiencies—like dropped calls, slow internet, and poorly organized cloud systems—create disruptions that hinder productivity.

Here are the top IT upgrades to help your business thrive in 2025:

1. Move to the Cloud: Flexibility Meets Cost Savings

Cloud solutions are no longer optional—they’re essential for businesses aiming to stay efficient and competitive. Cloud technologies go beyond file storage, driving collaboration, business continuity, and scalability.

4. Leverage AI-Powered Tools

Key benefits include:

  • Reduced reliance on physical servers.
  • Scalable resources tailored to your business.
  • Lower IT maintenance costs.

Businesses using cloud solutions see an average 20% reduction in IT expenses (Flexera). If you haven’t embraced the cloud yet, now’s the time.

2. Fortify Your Cybersecurity Strategy

With cybercrime expected to cost businesses $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures), robust security is non-negotiable. Protect your business with:

  • Endpoint detection and response (EDR).
  • Multifactor authentication (MFA).
  • Proactive threat monitoring via managed security service providers (MSSPs).

Investing in cybersecurity safeguards your operations, reputation, and customer trust.

3. Upgrade Your Hardware

Outdated hardware slows productivity and increases vulnerabilities. If your computers, servers, or network devices are aging, consider modern replacements.

What to prioritize:

  • Energy-efficient devices.
  • Windows 11 compatibility (Windows 10 support ends in October 2025—don’t wait until the last minute!).
  • Hardware designed for AI and cloud computing.

AI is no longer a luxury; it’s a must-have for businesses seeking operational efficiency. AI-driven tools can:

  • Automate repetitive tasks.
  • Enhance customer service with smart chatbots.
  • Deliver real-time insights to improve decision-making.

For IT teams, AI can proactively identify and resolve issues before they impact operations, ensuring smoother business continuity.

5. Adopt Unified Communications (UCaaS)

Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) integrates email, phone, video conferencing, and chat into one seamless platform, streamlining communication and collaboration.

Pro Tip: Choose a UCaaS provider with robust security and integration features to simplify adoption across your business.

Tailor IT Upgrades to Your Needs
Every business is unique, and IT solutions should be customized to your specific goals. A FREE Network Assessment is a great way to evaluate your current infrastructure, identify inefficiencies, and prioritize investments for maximum impact.

Ready to future-proof your business for 2025?
Call us at 214-550-0550 or click here to schedule your FREE Network Assessment today. Let’s build a smarter, more secure IT environment for your business!