Protect Yourself: 8 Steps to Take When You Get a Notice Your Data Was Breached                 

When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your data. It happens all too often today.

Data breaches happen at banks, online sites like Facebook, and ecommerce stores. Not only that, but governments are also victims. This leaves things like your address, SSN, and credit card details exposed to thieves. 

A business getting hacked is something you have little control over. But you can take important steps afterwards. We’ve outlined the most important things to do below. These steps can help you mitigate the financial losses.

Change Your Passwords

The very first thing you should do is change your passwords. Change the password for the service that sent you the breach notification first. Then, change it for any logins using the same password. 

This is one of the reasons it’s a best practice to use unique logins for every site. Many people get in the habit of using the same password in several places. This leaves more than the single breached login at risk. Use a password manager to help you create strong passwords. You only need to remember one to access all the others.

Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication can keep accounts secure, even if a hacker stole the password. Enable it for the breached service. Then, ensure you have MFA activated for all other logins, where possible. MFA is also called two-factor authentication or two-step verification.

Common forms of MFA are:

• Text message
• Authentication app
• Security key

Check Your Bank Accounts

If payment card details were breached, check bank accounts. You’ll want to watch these for several weeks for fraudulent charges. Report the breach to your bank to have them issue you a new card, if needed.

Notify your bank about the 3rd party data breach. This can help keep you from being held responsible for fraudulent charges. It’s good to get out ahead of it. Your bank can then help you with appropriate steps to avoid fraud.

Freeze Your Credit

Online criminals will often sell breached personal details. These details can enable someone to take out credit in your name. Contact the three credit agencies. They each have ways to freeze your credit to protect you. You can do this right on their websites.

The three credit agencies are: 

• Equifax
• Experion
• TransUnion

Carefully Review the Breach Notification

It’s important to understand exactly how the data breach may impact you. Review the notice you received. Additionally, look for updates on the company website.

These are the things you should be looking for:

• The type of data exposed (passwords, card numbers, etc.)
• What reparations the company is making (e.g., credit monitoring)
• Any instructions given to secure your account

Regularly check the company’s website. Often, they don’t immediately know how far reaching the breach is. You may check back later and find out other types of sensitive data were exposed.

Get Good Cybersecurity Protections

Make sure you protect your device and network. There are some simple tools you can use to beef up personal device security. These include:

• A good antivirus/anti-malware program
• DNS filtering to block malicious sites
• Email spam filtering for phishing

Another good protection you can use is a VPN. This helps mask your traffic. It is especially helpful if you’re using a public Wi-Fi. VPNs are easy to use. You can use VPNs for both computers and mobile devices.

Be On the Lookout for Phishing Scams

Emails are often exposed in data breaches. This means you may receive an uptick in phishing emails. Phishing is very convincing since criminals have AI at their disposal. Phishing emails often are hard to spot from the real thing.

Stay ultra-aware of any unexpected emails. Follow best practices to avoid becoming a phishing victim:

• Hover over links to see them
• Go to websites directly. Don’t click email or SMS links
• Beware of unknown senders
• Watch for phishing on social media and text messages
• When in doubt, double check through an official source

Make Sure to Update Software & Systems

Hackers often exploit unpatched vulnerabilities. How do you get unpatched vulnerabilities? Most times it’s from failing to keep software updated.

Make sure to update your device operating system. Update all apps or software on your devices. Update firmware for routers and printers. Update firmware for smart devices. 

There are so many updates we need to do with our electronics. Automating your updates is a good way to stay protected.

Managed Security Services You Can Count On

Managed services can keep you protected at work and home. Need help improving device security? We’ll be happy to discuss our options.

Contact Morefield today to schedule a chat about device security.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

There are many types of malware. One of the most common is called “malvertising.” It crops up everywhere. Including social media sites and websites. You can also see these malicious ads on Google searches.

Two things are making malvertising even more dangerous. One is that hackers use AI to make it very believable. The other is that it’s on the rise, according to Malwarebytes. In the fall of 2023, malvertising increased by 42% (month over month).

It’s important to inform yourself about this online threat. Knowledge is the power to protect yourself. Especially when it comes to malicious cybercriminals. Below, we’ll help you understand malvertising. We’ll also give you tips on identifying and avoiding it.

What Is “Malvertising?”

Malvertising is the use of online ads for malicious activities. One example is when the PlayStation 5 was first released. It was very hard to get, which created the perfect environment for hackers. Several malicious ads cropped up on Google searches. The ads made it look like someone was going to an official site. But instead, they went to copycat sites. Criminals design these sites to steal user credentials and credit card details.

Google attempts to police its ads. But hackers can often have their ads running for hours or days before they’re caught. These ads appear just as any other sponsored search ad on Google.

Google is not the only site where malvertising appears. It can appear on well-known sites that have been hacked. It can also appear on social media feeds.

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Malicious Online Ads

Review URLs Carefully

You might see a slight misspelling in an online ad’s URL. Just like phishing, malvertising often relies on copycat websites. Carefully review any links for things that look off.

Visit Websites Directly

A foolproof way to protect yourself is not to click any ads. Instead, go to the brand’s website directly. If they truly are having a “big sale,” you should see it there. This tip is useful for all types of phishing. Just don’t click those links and go to the source directly.

Use a DNS Filter

A DNS filter protects you from mistaken clicks. It will redirect your browser to a warning page if it detects danger. DNS filters look for warning signs. They, then block dangerous sites. This can keep you safe even if you accidentally click a malvertising link.

Do Not Log in After Clicking an Ad

Malvertising will often land you on a copycat site. The login page may look identical to the real thing. One of the things phishers are trying to steal is login credentials. They can get big money for logins to sites like Netflix, banks, and more.

If you click an ad, do not input your login credentials on the site. Even if the site looks legitimate. Go to the brand’s site in a different browser tab.

Don’t Call Ad Phone Numbers

Phishing can also happen offline. Some malicious ads include phone numbers to call. Unsuspecting victims may not realize fake representatives are part of these scams. Seniors are often targeted with malvertising scams. They call and reveal personal information to the person on the other end of the line.

Just say no to calling numbers in online ads. If you find yourself on a call, do not reveal any personal data. Just hang up. Remember, this is an elaborate scam. These people prey on triggers like fear. They also work to gain your trust.

Don’t Download from Ads

“Get a free copy of MS Word” or “Get a Free PC Cleaner.” These are common malvertising scams. They try to entice you into clicking a download link. It’s often for a popular program or freebie. The link actually injects your system with malware. The hacker can then do further damage.

Never click to download anything from an online ad. If you see an ad with a direct download link, it’s often a scam.

Warn Others When You See Malvertising

If you see a suspicious ad, warn others. This helps keep your colleagues, friends, and family more secure. If you’re unsure, try a Google search on the ad. You’ll often run across scam alerts confirming your suspicion. 

It’s important to be smart and arm yourself with knowledge. You can then share this with others. Foster this type of cyber-aware community. It helps everyone ensure better online security as well as get alerted of new scams cropping up.

Improve Your Online Security Today

Is your device up to date with security patches? Do you have a good anti-malware solution? Is DNS filtering installed to block dangerous websites?

If you’re not sure of any of those questions, contact Morefield. Our cybersecurity experts are here. We’ll help you find affordable solutions to secure your online world.

Morefield is here when you are ready to talk about your about online security. Contact us today!

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Today’s businesses are no stranger to the word cybersecurity. They are facing a growing wave of cyberattacks. These come from ransomware to sophisticated phishing schemes. How do you stand ahead of these threats? A strong cybersecurity strategy is essential. One crucial component of this strategy is event logging. It’s one that not every business owner is aware of.

Think of event logging as a digital detective. What does tracking activities and events across your IT systems do? It helps you spot potential security breaches and respond swiftly. As your managed IT service provider, we’re committed to helping you. We can help you understand the importance of event logging as well as how to put in place best practices to safeguard your network.

What Is Event Logging?

Event logging is the act of tracking all events that happen within your IT systems. “Event” can be many different things, such as:

• Login attempts
• File access
• Software installs
• Network traffic
• Denial of access
• System changes
• And many others

Event logging means to track all these and add a time stamp. This provides a robust picture of what is going on in your IT ecosystem. It’s through that ongoing picture that you can detect and respond to threats promptly.

Why is it critical to track and log all these events?

• Detect suspicious activity by monitoring user behavior and system events.
• Respond quickly to incidents by providing a clear record of what happened in a breach.
• Meet regulations that require businesses to maintain accurate records of system activities.

Best Practices to Use Event Logging Effectively

Event logging is most effective when you follow best practices. Here are some standard guidelines to follow. These are helpful if you’re just starting out as well as for those improving existing event-logging processes.

Log What Matters Most

Let’s be honest: You don’t need to track every digital footstep.  Logging every single action on your network can create a mountain of data that’s hard to sift through. Instead, focus on the events that truly matter. These are those that can reveal security breaches and compliance risks.

The most important things to log are:

• Logins and Logouts: Keep tabs on who’s accessing your systems and when. This includes failed attempts, password changes, and new user accounts.
• Accessing Sensitive Data: Track who’s peeking at your most valuable information. Logging file and database access helps spot unauthorized snooping.
• System Changes: Keep a record of any changes to your system. Including software installations, configuration tweaks, and system updates. This helps you stay on top of changes and identify potential backdoors.

Event logging is much more manageable when you start with the most critical areas. This also makes it easier for small businesses.

Centralize Your Logs

Imagine trying to solve a puzzle with pieces scattered across different rooms. It’s chaos! That is what happens when you try to work with several logs for different devices and systems. Centralizing your logs is a game-changer. A Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) gathers logs in one place. This includes those from various devices, servers, and applications.

This makes it easier to:

• Spot patterns: Connect the dots between suspicious activities across different systems.
• Respond faster: Have all the evidence you need at your fingertips. This is helpful when an incident strikes.
• Get a complete picture: See your network as a whole. This makes it easier to identify vulnerabilities.

Ensure Logs Are Tamper-Proof

It’s important to protect your event logs! Attackers love to cover their tracks by deleting or altering logs. That’s why it’s vital to make your logs tamper-proof.

Here are some tips:

• Encrypt your logs: Lock them down with encryption. This makes them unreadable to unauthorized eyes.
• Use WORM storage: Once a log is written, it’s locked in place, preventing changes or deletions.
• Use strong access controls: Limit who can see and change your logs to trusted personnel only.

Tamper-proof logs provide an accurate record of events even if a breach occurs. They also keep the bad guys from seeing all your system activity tracking.

Establish Log Retention Policies

Keeping logs forever isn’t practical (or always necessary). But deleting them too soon can be risky, too. That’s why you need clear log retention policies. 

Here are some things to consider:

• Compliance requirements: Some industries have specific rules about how long to keep logs.
• Business needs: How long do you need logs to investigate incidents or for auditing?
• Storage capacity: Make sure your log retention policy doesn’t overwhelm your storage.

Strike the right balance with retention. You want to ensure you have the data you need without sacrificing performance.

Check Logs Regularly

Event logging is only as good as your ability to use it. Don’t “set and forget” your logs. You should check them regularly. This helps you spot anomalies and identify suspicious patterns. It also helps you respond to threats before they cause serious damage. Use security software to help automate this process.

Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Set up automated alerts: Get notified immediately of critical events. Such as failed logins or unauthorized access.
• Perform periodic reviews: Dive into your logs regularly. Look for patterns that might show a threat.
• Correlate events: Use your SIEM to connect the dots between different activities. It can reveal more complex attacks.

Need Help with Event Logging Solutions?

As a trusted managed IT service provider, we’re here to support you. We can help you install these practices and ensure your business stays protected.

Give Morefield a call or contact us today.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a technology reserved for companies with big budgets. Today, small businesses can access AI tools that help in several ways. Such as streamlining operations, improving customer experiences, and boosting profits. 

The rise of affordable AI solutions has opened the door for small businesses. They can leverage these powerful technologies without spending a fortune. This post will explore seven great examples of how to use AI to succeed in a competitive market.

1. Streamlining Customer Support with AI Chatbots

Small businesses often struggle with limited customer service resources. AI-powered chatbots provide a cost-effective solution. They automate responses to common customer inquiries. And can sound less robotic than non-AI chatbots.

Here are a couple of ways AI chatbots add value to small businesses.

Reducing Response Times

AI chatbots can handle several conversations at once. This significantly reduces customer wait times. Chatbots work 24/7, ensuring support is always available. This removes the burden on human agents. It also customers with quick answers to their questions.

Enhancing Customer Experience

AI chatbots are becoming more sophisticated. They can engage in natural, human-like conversations. Small businesses can offer high-quality service without increasing overhead costs.

2. Improving Marketing with AI-Powered Analytics

Marketing is crucial for small businesses but can be time-consuming and costly. AI-powered analytics tools help businesses make smarter decisions. They provide insights based on customer behavior, preferences, and trends.

Targeted Advertising

AI can analyze customer data to create highly targeted ad campaigns. They help ensure that businesses spend marketing budgets efficiently. This increases return on investment (ROI).

Predicting Customer Trends

AI uses predictive analytics to forecast future trends based on historical data. This enables small businesses to adjust their strategies in real time. With AI, companies can adapt quickly, maximizing their reach and impact.

3. Automating Routine Tasks with AI Tools

Small business owners often juggle many roles. This includes managing inventory and handling customer inquiries. AI can help by automating repetitive, time-consuming tasks.

Scheduling and Calendar Management

AI tools can automate scheduling. This includes client meetings, appointments, or team collaboration. You can integrate AI with email platforms and calendars. This saves time and reduces the risk of human error.

Invoice and Expense Management

Managing finances is another area where AI excels. AI-driven accounting tools can automate invoicing, track expenses, and more. This reduces the administrative burden on small business owners. It also ensures financial data is accurate and up-to-date.

4. Enhancing Inventory Management with AI Forecasting

Managing inventory is a critical aspect of running a small business. Overstocking can lead to increased costs. Understocking results in missed sales opportunities. AI can help balance inventory levels by accurately predicting demand.

Demand Forecasting

AI algorithms analyze historical sales data. As well as seasonality and market trends to predict future demand. This allows small businesses to order the right amount of inventory. This reduces waste and ensures they always have what customers need. 

Automating Reordering

AI can also automate the reordering process. It can set triggers when stock levels reach a certain threshold. This ensures that companies replenish inventory before items run out.

5. Personalizing Customer Interactions with AI

Personalized experiences are key to customer loyalty. AI tools can analyze customer data and provide insights. These insights enable businesses to tailor their interactions, making customers feel valued.

Companies that use personalization can generate as much as 40% more revenue.

Personalized Product Recommendations

AI-powered recommendation engines analyze customer preferences and past purchases. They use these to suggest products that are most likely to appeal to them. This can lead to increased sales and improved customer retention.

Customized Email Marketing

AI can also help businesses create personalized email marketing campaigns. It can segment customers based on their behavior, preferences, and purchasing history. AI tools can then generate tailored email content.

6. Enhancing Recruitment and HR Processes with AI

Hiring the right employees is critical but often a time-consuming process. AI tools can streamline recruitment and human resource (HR) processes. It helps businesses find the right talent more efficiently.

Screening Resumes

AI-driven recruiting tools can quickly scan resumes. This reduces the time spent manually reviewing applications. It allows business owners to focus on interviewing top candidates. 

Predicting Employee Performance

AI can analyze employee data to predict which candidates are likely to succeed. This ensures that new hires are a good fit. It also reduces turnover and improves productivity.

7. Securing Data with AI-Powered Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for small businesses. They often lack the resources to install robust security measures. AI-powered tools can help protect sensitive data from cyber threats. This ensures the safety of both business and customer information.

Detecting Anomalies

AI can check systems in real-time. It can detect anomalies that show potential security threats. AI tools provide early warnings. This allows businesses to respond quickly and prevent breaches.

Automating Threat Responses

Some AI-powered cybersecurity tools can automatically respond to threats. Such as isolating affected systems or blocking malicious traffic. This reduces the risk of data breaches and minimizes downtime.

Streamline AI Integration for Your Business Success

Now is the time to explore how AI can help your company succeed. Our business technology experts can help.

Reach out today to schedule a chat about leveraging AI to improve your bottom line.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Email is a fundamental communication tool for businesses and individuals alike. But it’s also a prime target for cybercriminals. Cyberattacks are increasing in sophistication. This means enhancing your email security has never been more critical.

Ninety-five percent of IT leaders say cyberattacks have become most sophisticated. Over half (51%) have already seen AI-powered attacks in their organization.

By taking proactive measures, you can protect your sensitive information as well as prevent unauthorized access and maintain communication integrity. Here are six simple steps to enhance your email security.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Passwords are the first line of defense for your email accounts. A weak password is like an open invitation for cybercriminals. To enhance your email security, use strong, unique passwords. Ones that are difficult to guess.

Create Complex Passwords

A strong password should include a mix of:

• Letters (both uppercase and lowercase)
• Numbers
• Special characters

Avoid using common words or phrases. Also, avoid easily guessable information like your name or birthdate. A complex password makes it harder for attackers to gain access to your email account.

Use a Password Manager

Remembering several complex passwords can be challenging. A password manager can help you generate and store unique passwords for all accounts. With a password manager, you only need to remember one master password. This simplifies the process while enhancing security.

Avoid Reusing Passwords

Using the same password across many accounts increases your risk. If one account gets compromised, all accounts using the same password are vulnerable. Make sure each of your email accounts has a unique password. This prevents a single breach from spreading.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your email accounts. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they won’t be able to access your account. They would need the second factor of authentication to do that.

Choose a 2FA Method

Common 2FA methods include SMS codes, authenticator apps, and hardware tokens. SMS codes send a verification code to your phone. Authenticator apps generate time-sensitive codes on your device. Hardware tokens provide physical devices that generate a code. Choose the method that best suits your needs.

Set Up 2FA for All Accounts

Enable 2FA for all your email accounts. Most email providers offer this feature and setting it up usually takes just a few minutes. This simple step significantly improves your email security.

3. Be Cautious with Email Attachments and Links

Email attachments and links are common vectors for malware and phishing attacks. Clicking on a malicious link or attachment can give attackers access to your system. Exercise caution to protect your email security.

Verify the Sender

Before opening an attachment or clicking on a link, verify the sender’s identity. If you receive an unexpected email from someone you know, contact them. But do it through a different channel to confirm they sent it. For emails from unknown senders, exercise extra caution. Consider not engaging with the content.

Scan Attachments

Use antivirus software to scan email attachments before opening them. This helps detect and block any malicious content before it can harm your system. Many email providers also offer built-in scanning features. But having your antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

Be wary of links that seem out of place or too good to be true. Hover over the link to see the URL before clicking. If the URL looks suspicious or unfamiliar, don’t click on it. Instead, navigate to the site directly through your browser.

4. Keep Your Email Software Updated

Software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities in your email client. Keep your email software updated. This ensures you have the latest protections against known threats.

Enable Automatic Updates

Most email clients and operating systems offer automatic updates. Enable this feature. It ensures your software stays up to date without requiring manual intervention. Automatic updates reduce the risk of missing critical security patches.

Regularly Check for Updates

Even with automatic updates enabled, it’s good to manually check for updates. This ensures you don’t miss any important security patches. It also helps keep your email client running smoothly and securely.

5. Use Encryption for Sensitive Emails

Encryption adds a layer of protection to your emails. It encodes the content, making it readable only by the intended recipient. This ensures that even intercepted email information remains secure.

Encrypt Emails Containing Sensitive Information

If you need to send sensitive information via email, use encryption. This protects the content. Many email providers offer built-in encryption options. For added security, consider using third-party encryption tools that offer end-to-end encryption.

Educate Recipients

If you’re sending encrypted emails, make sure the recipients know how to decrypt them. Provide clear instructions about how to access the encrypted content securely.

6. Watch Your Email Activity

Regularly monitoring your email activity can help you detect suspicious behavior early. By keeping an eye on your account, you can take swift action if something seems off.

Set Up Activity Alerts

Many email providers offer activity alerts. They notify you of unusual login attempts or changes to your account settings. Enable these alerts to stay informed about your account’s security status.

Regularly Review Account Activity

Review your email account activity on a regular basis. This includes login history and devices connected to your account. If you notice any unfamiliar activity, change your password immediately and investigate further.

Respond Quickly to Suspicious Activity

If you detect any suspicious activity in your email account, respond quickly. Change your passwords, review your security settings, and consider enabling extra security measures.

Get Expert Email Security Solutions

Email security is essential for protecting your personal and professional information. We have solutions that can effectively reduce the potential for email compromise. As well as reduce phishing risk.

Contact us today to schedule a chat about email security.

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.