Stuart Crawford – Page 4 – Ulistic Projects Blog

September 19, 2022October 7, 2022

Data Classification Matters And Records Management

Why Data Classification Matters for Records Management Success

Key Points:

Records management (RM) is the administration of digital or paper records. It includes the creation, maintenance, and destruction of records.
RM aims to ensure that records are created and maintained to facilitate their retrieval and use while ensuring their authenticity, integrity, and reliability.
Data classification is a core component of records management. It organizes data into categories to manage it more effectively.

With the proliferation of electronic records, it is essential to classify and manage them in accordance with their value and legal requirements. Discussions surrounding records management and data classification often lead to debates. Stakeholders tend to have very different opinions on what should be done with an organization’s data and how that data should be managed. However, some general principles can help to guide these discussions and lead to more productive outcomes.

Records Management: A New Approach to an Old Problem

As the world becomes increasingly digital, organizations find that their traditional methods of managing paper records are no longer effective. As a result, many are turning to records management solutions that can help them manage both digital and paper records. Records management is not new, but it has changed how it is approached.

In the past, records management was often seen as a compliance issue. Organizations were required to keep certain records for a certain period, and they needed to ensure that those records were properly stored and maintained. While compliance is still an important part of records management, the focus has shifted to include a wider range of benefits.

Today, records management is seen as a way to improve efficiency, save money, and protect an organization’s data. By properly managing their records, organizations can reduce the storage space they need, make it easier to find and retrieve information, and ensure that their data is properly protected.

There are several benefits to implementing a records management solution, including:

Improved efficiency and productivity: A records management solution can help organizations more effectively manage their records, saving time and money.
Reduced risk: A records management solution can help organizations to reduce the risk of losing important records.
Compliance: A records management solution can help organizations to meet their legal and compliance obligations.
Improved decision making: A records management solution can help organizations to make better decisions by providing easy access to records.

To have an effective records management program, it is important to first establish a clear understanding of the organization’s data and its location. This can be difficult, as data is often spread across different departments and systems. Once the data has been identified, it needs to be classified into different categories. This will help to determine how the data should be managed and what level of protection it requires.

Once the data has been classified, it is important to establish management rules and procedures. These rules should be designed to ensure that the data is accessible when needed and protected from unauthorized access. The procedures should also be reviewed regularly to ensure they are still effective.

It is also important to plan how data will be disposed of when it is no longer needed. This plan should ensure that the data is securely destroyed and that no unauthorized access to the data is possible.

How Do I Get Started With Records Management?

There are four basic steps involved in getting started with records management:

Determine what type of system will work best for you. There are many different ways to organize your papers and documents, so take some time to explore your options and find what works best for you.
Identify which papers and documents need to be kept. Not everything needs to be saved forever, so it’s important to know what can be safely discarded and what needs to be kept long-term.
Store your papers and documents in a safe place. Once you’ve determined what needs to be kept, ensure it’s stored properly, so it doesn’t get lost or damaged.
Maintain your system on an ongoing basis. Implementing a records management system is not a one-time task; it’s something you’ll need to do on an ongoing basis as new papers and documents come in.

What Is Data Classification?

Data classification is organizing data into categories that can be used to manage the data more effectively. One of the most important aspects of data classification is determining how data should be categorized. Data classification schemes typically use a hierarchical structure to organize data.

However, there are many different ways to approach data classification. The best approach will vary depending on the type of data being classified and the goals of the classification scheme. In general, however, data classification schemes should be designed to meet the following criteria:

The categories should be clearly defined, so there is no ambiguity about what data belongs in each category.
The categories should be mutually exclusive so that each piece of data can only be classified into one category.

Workplace data can be classified into four primary categories: public, internal use only, confidential, and restricted.

Public data is information that can be accessed by anyone without restriction. This category includes information typically published by the organization, such as press releases, product descriptions, and marketing materials.
Internal use only data is information that is not intended for public release. This category includes employee records, financial data, and trade secrets.
Confidential data is information that must be kept secure and is only accessible to authorized individuals. This category includes supplier contracts, customer lists, and product development plans.
Restricted data is information subject to special restrictions, such as legal limitations on its use or disclosure. This category includes personal Identifiable Information (PII) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) data.

There is a reason why data classification is a critical component of effective records management. Without proper data classification, your records management efforts are likely to fail. Data classification provides a framework for understanding the value of data and how it should be protected. When data is properly classified, organizations can make informed decisions about how to store, manage, and dispose of data.

Increasing Records Management Compliance in Your Organization

Records management compliance is critical for any organization. Maintaining accurate records helps to ensure the safety and security of your business operations and protect your customers, employees, and other stakeholders.

There are several steps you can take to increase records management compliance in your organization, including:

Define your records management objectives and goals.
Implement policies and procedures for records management.
Educate employees on records management compliance.
Conduct regular audits of your records management system.
Implement technology solutions to automate records management.

Data governance is critical to the success of any organization. You must ensure that your organization complies with records management regulations and best practices. Implementing these practices can help safeguard your data and improve your bottom line.

Wrapping Up

When it comes to records management, there is no one size fits all solution. The best approach depends on the organization’s specific needs and the type of records being managed. Many different records management systems and software are available, so it is important to research to find the one that best suits your needs. Whatever system you choose, it is important to ensure that it is properly implemented and regularly reviewed to meet your organization’s needs.

September 19, 2022October 12, 2022

Will Your Cybersecurity Insurance Claim Be Denied?

Cybersecurity Insurance: Will Your Claim Be Denied?

Key Points:

Cybersecurity insurance is an important tool to help protect businesses from the financial costs of a data breach. Still, it’s important to understand your policy’s limitations and ensure you have the right coverage.
Not every cyberattack will be covered by insurance; in some cases, claims may be denied.
It’s important to keep up-to-date with regulation changes, work with your insurance broker or provider to ensure you have the right coverage, and understand the terms of your policy.
Proactive risk management practices are also important, as is having a plan in place in case of a data breach.

If you believe that every cybersecurity insurance claim will be approved, you may be surprised to learn that many claims are denied. When your insurance provider reviews your claim, they will assess your due diligence in maintaining cybersecurity for your organization. Your claim may be denied if it is determined that you could have prevented the data breach or incident. While having cybersecurity insurance is a must-have for businesses, there is no guarantee that your claim will be approved.

Why Is It Important to Comply With Cybersecurity Insurance?

You likely agreed to certain terms and conditions when you signed your insurance policy. One of these was likely a duty to take reasonable care to protect your property from loss or damage. This means you must take reasonable steps to protect your business from a data breach or cyber attack. If you have not taken reasonable steps to protect your business, your insurance company may deny your claim. This is why it is so important to have strong cybersecurity measures and keep up with the latest cyber threats.

Why Are Some Cybersecurity Insurance Claims Denied?

As we mentioned, one of the reasons claims are denied is a failure to take reasonable steps to protect your business. However, there are other reasons claims may be denied as well. Some insurers will only cover certain types of cyberattacks or data breaches. For example, they may not cover phishing attacks or social engineering. Check with your insurer to see what is and is not covered under your policy.

There are several reasons why cybersecurity insurance claims are denied. Here are some of the most common:

You Did Not Have Adequate Cybersecurity Measures in Place

Your claim might be denied if you did not have adequate cybersecurity measures in place at the time of the data breach or incident. Your insurance provider will want to see that you took reasonable steps to protect your data and systems. This includes things like having a firewall, using strong passwords, and having up-to-date anti-virus software.

You Failed to Take Reasonable Steps to Prevent the Data Breach or Incident

Even if you had cybersecurity measures in place, your claim may still be denied if it is determined that you could have prevented the data breach or incident. For example, your claim may be denied if you failed to patch a known security vulnerability.

You Did Not Notify Your Insurance Provider Promptly

If you did not notify your insurance provider of the data breach or incident promptly, your claim might be denied. It is important to contact your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process.

Your Policy Has Exclusions

Some cybersecurity insurance policies have exclusions that may prevent your claim from being approved. For example, many policies exclude claims from certain cyberattacks, such as ransomware. Review your policy carefully to see if any exclusions could apply to your claim.

You Did Not Cooperate With the Investigation

Your claim might be denied if you did not cooperate with the insurance company’s investigation into the data breach or incident. The insurance company will want to interview you and review your records to determine what happened.

You Made Material Misrepresentations in Your Application

Your claim might be denied if you made material misrepresentations on your insurance application. For example, your claim may be denied if you failed to disclose a previous data breach or incident. Be sure to disclose all relevant information on your insurance application to avoid denying your claim.

The Incident Occurred Outside the Policy Period

Your claim might be denied if the incident occurred outside of the policy period. For example, if your policy has a one-year term and the incident occurred two years after the policy was purchased, your claim will be denied.

What Are the Impacts of a Cybersecurity Insurance Claim Denial?

If your cybersecurity insurance claim is denied, you may be left to pay for the damages out of pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially for small businesses. In addition, a denial can damage your reputation and leave you vulnerable to future attacks. If you are denied coverage, you can appeal the decision. Many insurance companies have an appeals process that you can follow.

Here are two real-life examples of companies that had their claims denied:

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro vs. Federal Ins. Co

Computer hackers stole nearly 60,000 credit and debit card numbers from P.F. Chang’s China Bistro restaurants in 2014. P.F. Chang’s had a cybersecurity insurance policy with Federal Insurance Company. Federal reimbursed Chang’s for nearly $1.7 million in costs under the policy, including conducting the investigation and legal fees. However, Bank of America Merchant Services(BAMS), Chang’s merchant services provider, imposed assessment fees totaling $1.9 million.

A federal district court ruled that Chang’s had no cyber protection company for the assessment fees. The court found that the insurance policy’s “Privacy Injury” coverage did not apply to the claim because the policy’s definition of “Privacy Injury” required the compromised confidential records at issue to be the claimants. In this case, the payment card information taken in the breach belonged to Chang’s customers and the card-issuing banks, not the acquiring bank that sought reimbursement.

The policy also did not include Payment Card Industry coverage, a coverage option for restaurants, retailers, and other businesses that handle debit or credit card information. Without this coverage, Chang’s was not insured for the amounts assessed by the card company.

Family and Children’s Services of Lanark, Leeds and Grenville vs. Co-operators

According to FCSLLG(a Canadian not-for-profit organization), an unidentified hacker accessed the organization’s website and stole sensitive information in 2016. The stolen data was later shared on multiple Facebook pages. As a result, a class proceeding was filed against FCSLLG, seeking damages of $75 million. FCSLLG filed a claim against the company it hired to revamp its website.

FCSLLG had two policies with Co-operators during the breach, but Co-operators denied coverage for both policies. Co-operators also denied coverage to the third party. The policy excluded any loss from the distribution or display of data utilizing an internet website.

These are only two examples of many companies that have had their cybersecurity insurance claims denied. As you can see, even with insurance, there is no guarantee that you will be covered in a cyberattack. It is important to carefully read your policy and ensure that you are aware of any exclusions.

How to Navigate Compliance for Cybersecurity Insurance

While it may seem daunting to keep up with all the different compliance regulations, there are a few key steps you can take to make it easier:

Keep up-to-date with regulation changes. This can be done by signing up for newsletters or following industry news sources.
Work with your insurance broker or provider to ensure you have the right coverage.
Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your policy.
Be proactive in your risk management practices. This includes having strong security measures and being aware of the latest threats.
Have a plan in place in case of a data breach. This should include who to contact and what steps to take.

Cybersecurity insurance is an important tool to help protect businesses from the financial costs of a data breach. However, it’s important to understand your policy’s limitations and ensure you have the right coverage in place. Cybersecurity insurance is not a cure-all, and it’s important to complement your policy with strong risk management practices.

September 16, 2022October 7, 2022

Raising Awareness of Digital Risks

Raising Awareness of Digital Risks: What Businesses Need to Know

Key Points:

Rapid technological advancement has led to new risks that businesses must now face.
There are many steps businesses can take to mitigate these risks, but they need to be aware of them first.
Ignoring these risks can lead to serious business consequences, including financial loss and reputational damage.

In today’s business world, technology is constantly evolving. This rapid change can be both a blessing and a curse for businesses. On one hand, new technology can provide businesses with new opportunities to grow and improve their operations. On the other hand, it can also lead to new risks that businesses must learn to manage. One of the most significant risks businesses now face is digital.

What Is Digital Risk?

Digital risk is the risk of loss or damage caused by technology. It includes risks such as cyberattacks, data breaches, and system failures. When your business scales, the attack surface area also increases. The larger your business, the more likely you are to be a target for criminals. However, this does not mean small businesses are immune to digital risks. Small businesses are often targeted. After all, they are seen as easier targets because they usually have fewer resources to dedicate to security. Digital transformation has changed how all businesses operate and has created new risks that need to be managed. Businesses must learn to manage these risks or be left behind.

What Are the Types of Digital Risks?

The complex nature of the digital risk landscape can make it difficult to identify all the risks your business faces. However, there are some common types of digital risks that businesses should be aware of, including:

Cybersecurity risks: Cybersecurity risks can be caused by weaknesses in your cybersecurity measures. This includes poor password management, unpatched software, and phishing attacks.
Data security risks: Data security risks can be caused by poor data security measures. This includes poor data management, insecure data storage, and data breaches.
Network security risks: Network security risks can be caused by weaknesses in your network security. This includes unsecured Wi-Fi networks, Denial of Service attacks, and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Compliance risks: Compliance risks can arise from not complying with regulations or industry standards. This includes GDPR compliance, PCI DSS compliance, and HIPAA (US) compliance.
Cloud security risks: Cloud security risks can be caused by weaknesses in your cloud service platforms. This includes insecure data storage, cloud service outages, and account hijacking.
Resiliency risks: Resiliency risks can be caused by failures in your ability to recover from an incident. This includes things like extended downtime, data loss, and reputational damage.
Third-party risks: Third-party risks can be caused by the actions of your business partners or vendors. This includes things like data breaches, system failures, and service outages.
Privacy risks: Privacy risks are risks to the privacy of your customers or employees. This includes things like identity theft and data leaks.

How to Manage Digital Risks

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing digital risks. The best approach will vary depending on the specific risks faced by your business. However, there are some basic principles that all businesses should follow when managing digital risks.

Define what digital risks are relevant to your business.
Assess the potential impact of each digital risk.
Put in place controls to mitigate the impact of digital risks.
Monitor and review digital risks regularly.
Communicate with all stakeholders about digital risks.
Be prepared to respond to incidents arising from digital risks.

By following these principles, you can ensure that your business is well-prepared to manage its digital risks. Digital risks are an increasingly important part of business in the modern world. Understanding and managing these risks can protect your business from potentially devastating impacts.

How to Mitigate Digital Risks

Given the complex nature of the digital risk landscape, businesses must take a holistic approach to manage these risks. Some steps that businesses can take to mitigate digital risk include:

Implementing strong cybersecurity measures: This includes things like two-factor authentication, data encryption, and intrusion detection.
Improving data security: Ensure adequate security measures are in place to protect your information.
Securing networks: Install proper security measures on your networks to protect them from outside threats.
Complying with laws and regulations: Familiarize yourself with the data security laws and regulations that apply to your business. Make sure you are taking steps to protect your customers’ data.
Improving resiliency: This means having a plan in place in case of a data breach or other incident, such as a power outage. You should have a backup plan for how you will keep your business running.
Working with trusted third parties: When you work with other businesses, make sure they have adequate security measures in place to protect your data.
Raising privacy awareness: This includes things like training employees on data privacy and implementing security controls.

There are different controls that businesses can put in place to mitigate digital risks. These can include technical controls, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and organizational controls, such as policies and procedures.

What Role Do Risk Assessments Play in Digital Risk Management?

Risk assessments are an important part of managing digital risks. They help businesses identify their risks and implement appropriate controls to mitigate them. The most effective risk management strategies will usually involve a combination of both technical and organizational controls. There are several approaches to risk assessments, but all share some common elements.

Firstly, businesses need to identify the assets they need to protect. These include customer data, financial information, intellectual property, and company secrets. Once these assets have been identified, businesses need to identify their threats. These can come from external sources, such as hackers, or internal sources, such as employees who may accidentally or deliberately leak information.

Once the threats have been identified, businesses need to assess the likelihood of them happening and the potential impact they could have. This will help businesses prioritize the risks and put in place controls to mitigate them. Digital risks are constantly evolving, so businesses must regularly review their risk assessments and update their controls accordingly. This will help ensure that they are prepared for the latest threats and can continue to protect their assets effectively.

Wrapping Up

Digital risks are an inevitable part of doing business in the digital age. However, many businesses are still unaware of the potential risks they face. From data breaches and cyberattacks to reputational damage and loss of customer trust, digital risks to businesses are real and should not be ignored. Businesses must understand their digital risks and take appropriate measures to protect themselves. This includes ensuring that their data is secure, their online reputation is managed effectively, and their customers’ trust is not compromised.

While there are steps you can take to mitigate these risks, it’s important to remember that there is no single silver bullet. The best approach is to take a comprehensive and proactive approach, implementing multiple layers of security and constantly monitoring your systems for vulnerabilities. Now is the time to start if you’re not already taking steps to protect your business from digital risks. Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated and widespread, and the consequences of a breach can be devastating. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action now to protect your business.

September 16, 2022September 26, 2022

Introducing the Microsoft Teams Schedule Send Feature

Introducing the Microsoft Teams Schedule Send Feature

Key Points

Microsoft Teams will introduce a new feature in the coming weeks that will enable users to schedule messages to be sent later.
Schedule Send will allow users to choose a specific time and date for their message, giving them greater control over when it is delivered.
This new feature will be valuable for organizations looking to improve productivity and communication.

In today’s business world, we are increasingly relying on chat apps like Microsoft Teams to communicate with our coworkers. While this is a great way to stay in touch, maintaining a sensible workflow can also be difficult if you and your team constantly send messages back and forth. Fortunately, Microsoft is introducing a new feature to Teams that will help address this issue.

According to Microsoft’s product roadmap, Microsoft Teams users will soon benefit from a delayed send feature. This will allow users to schedule when their messages will be sent, giving them more control over their communication.

What Is Schedule Send?

Schedule Send is a new feature in Microsoft Teams that will allow users to delay the delivery of messages. This can be useful if you need to coordinate with team members in different time zones or if you want to make sure that your messages are received during normal business hours.

How to Use Schedule Send

To use the Schedule Send feature, simply compose your message as usual and then long press the send button to schedule the message. A window will appear where you can select the date and time you want your message delivered. Once you have selected a date and time, click on the “Send at scheduled time” button, and your message will be sent at the specified time.

Schedule Send is a great way to stay organized and smoothly flow your chat conversations. By taking advantage of this feature, you can ensure that your messages are always received by your team members at a convenient time.

The Benefits of Delaying a Message in Microsoft Teams

Sometimes it is beneficial to not have a message sent immediately. This could be for several reasons, such as:

You are in a different time zone, and the person you are messaging is likely to be asleep
It is out of normal work hours for the person you are messaging
You don’t want to interrupt the person you are messaging if they are busy
You want to make sure the person you are messaging sees the message as soon as they wake up/start work

How Will This New Feature Impact Your Organization?

Every user within your organization will have the ability to schedule messages to be sent at a later time. Users can schedule messages as long as the scheduled date is no longer than 7 days in the future. Scheduled messages can also not be flagged as important or urgent, and any attached files and inline images will only be accessible once the message has been marked as delivered.

While Microsoft may state that this feature was designed for organizations that employ people in different time zones, this feature can have several applications within your organization.

Here are 5 ways that your organization can make use of the Schedule Send feature in Microsoft Teams:

Time Zone Coordination

If you have team members in different time zones, scheduling messages can help ensure everyone is on the same page. You can avoid any confusion or miscommunication by sending messages at a convenient time for all team members.

Keeping the Conversation Flowing

If you and your team are constantly sending messages back and forth, the Schedule Send feature can help keep the conversation flowing smoothly. By scheduling messages in advance, you can avoid any disruptions or delays in the conversation.

Planning Ahead

The Schedule Send feature can also be used to plan ahead. If you know you will be unavailable at a certain time, you can schedule messages to be sent while you are away. This way, you can still participate in the conversation even when you cannot be online.

Avoiding Distractions

If you are working on a project and do not want to be interrupted, you can use the schedule send feature to delay the delivery of messages until you are finished. This way, you can focus on your work without being distracted by incoming messages.

Following Up

The Schedule Send feature can also be used as a follow-up tool. If you need to follow up with a team member about a task or project, you can schedule a message to be sent after the task is completed.

What Impact Does the Digital Age Have on the Schedule Send Feature?

In the digital age, we are always connected. With the click of a button, we can send a message to anyone, anywhere in the world. With instant messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage, we can converse with someone on the other side of the globe in real-time.

While this instant gratification can be great, it can also be overwhelming. We are constantly bombarded with messages and notifications from friends, family, and co-workers. As a result, we often feel like we should always be available and on-call. The Schedule Send feature can help alleviate some of this pressure.

By allowing you to schedule messages in advance, you can control when and how you want to communicate with your team. This can be a great way to establish boundaries. The Schedule Send feature can be a great tool for managing your time and communication in the digital age. In a world where everyone is connected 24/7, the Schedule Send feature can help you take a step back and think about the best time to send a message.

September 15, 2022October 7, 2022

iOS 16 Is Finally Here: What Should You Know?

Key Points

After months of anticipation, iOS 16 is finally here!
If you’re using an iPhone 8 or later, you can update to the newest version of iOS right now.
New features include Messages, Maps, and more improvements.

iPhone. One word. So many different meanings. For some, it’s a status symbol. For others, it’s a life-saving tool. For many, it’s a way to stay connected to the people and things we love. With that being said, there is always a sense of excitement when a new iOS update is released because it has the potential to improve the way we use our iPhones. Now that iOS 16 is here, let’s look at some new features and changes it brings.

Widgets Galore

One of the biggest changes in iOS 16 is the addition of widgets to the Home screen. With iOS 14, Apple introduced a new way to view and customize your widgets, but you still couldn’t put them on your Home screen alongside your apps. Now, with iOS 16, you can add widgets to your Home screen and stack them on top of each other. Plus, new Smart Stack widgets use on-device intelligence to surface the right widget at the right time based on your usage patterns.

Notifications Have Moved

Another change you’ll notice in iOS 16 is that notifications are no longer displayed at the top of the screen. Instead, they appear at the bottom. While many did not have a problem when notifications were displayed at the top, some people felt it was disruptive to have them in such a prominent position. With notifications being displayed at the bottom, you can still see your notifications, but they’re not right in your face. For those who prefer the old way, you can simply tap up on the notification stack to return it to its original position.

What’s New in Maps?

If you use Apple Maps, you’ll be happy to know that there are some new features in iOS 16. One of the most useful is multi-stop routing. This allows you to add multiple destinations to your route, and Maps will give you the best way to get there.

Live Text in Videos

Another new feature in iOS 16 is Live Text in Videos. This lets you select text from a video and perform actions like copying, looking it up, or sharing it. This is a handy feature if you come across an interesting quote in a video or want to share something you saw with a friend. Also, data detected in photos using Live Text can be used in other apps, so you can quickly find more information about something you see in a photo.

Focus Mode

With iOS 15, Apple introduced Focus mode, a new tool to help you stay on task and avoid distractions. With Focus mode, you can choose which apps and notifications can send notifications and alerts. iOS 16 builds on this feature by adding the ability to schedule Focus mode. So, if you know you need to focus on a task at a certain time, you can set Focus mode to turn on automatically.

PassKeys

Another new feature in iOS 16 is PassKeys. This new way to securely log in to apps and websites using Face ID or Touch ID. With PassKeys, you don’t have to remember multiple passwords or log in with a different account each time. Instead, you can use your Face ID or Touch ID to log in with a single tap.

Lock Screen Improvements

There are also some improvements to the Lock screen in iOS 16. One of the most welcome changes is the ability to customize your lock screen. Users can now add widgets to their lock screen, choose custom fonts, and apply their favorite filters. Another welcoming change is the addition of haptic feedback when you press the Home button or the Lock button. This provides a physical confirmation that you’ve pressed the button, which can be helpful if you’re not looking at the screen.

Messages Receive a Big Update

In addition to all of the new features and changes in iOS 16, there are many new features and changes to Messages. With iOS 16, you can now go back and edit your messages after you’ve sent them. Just tap and hold on to the message you want to edit and select the “Edit” option. You have 15 minutes to edit a message after you’ve sent it. After that, the message will be locked, and you won’t be able to edit it. Sometimes we don’t realize we’ve made a mistake in a message until after we’ve already sent it, so this is a welcome addition.

Another big change in Message is the addition of the Undo Send feature. This feature has been available in other messaging apps for a while, and it’s finally arrived in Messages. With Undo Send, you can recall a message after you’ve sent it. Just tap and hold on to the sent message and select the “Undo Send” option. While you are given 15 minutes to edit a message, you only have 2 minutes to recall a message after you’ve sent it. So if you realize you made a mistake right after sending a message and need to delete it, you should quickly recall it.

iOS 16 has already shaken up the iPhone operating system with its many new features and changes. Apple has also made some changes to how Siri works. With iOS 16, Siri is now more contextually aware and can provide more useful information.

Wrapping Up

The above are just a few of the many highlights of the latest iOS update. There are many more new features and changes in iOS 16. So, if you haven’t already, update to iOS 16 and enjoy its new features! If you own an iPhone 8 or later, you can update your phone to the new software by going to Settings > General > Software Update and following the prompts. As always, be sure to back up your device before updating.

September 12, 2022October 3, 2022

How Do Phishing Scams Work?

You may have heard of the term “phishing,” but you may not be completely aware. If you operate a business or even conduct any kind of transactions online – which represents the majority of people – you may be susceptible to a phishing attack. When executed correctly, a phishing attack can leave you or your business in major personal or financial trouble.

In this post, we’ll dive deeply into defining a phishing scam, understanding the common traits, and identifying the various types of scams. Finally, we’ll look at what you can do to prevent a phishing attempt from disrupting you or your organization.

What is a Phishing Scam?

A phishing scam starts with a hacker or malicious actor reaching out to you. These individuals are looking to access information that you hold. To gain access to this, they’ll attempt to contact you (usually by email, but it can also be via phone or text) with a message prompting you to click on a link.

These scams use social engineering tactics compelling you to comply (more on those below). Once you or someone within your organization clicks the link, it may then upload destructive malware or viruses to your device, system, or network. This malware then provides them access to your personally identifiable information (PII), financial information like credit card numbers, or other information you don’t want falling into the wrong hands.

How a Phishing Scam Works

As noted above, phishing scams use social engineering tactics to trick recipients into complying with a requested action. Hackers will pose as an institution the individual knows or trusts to gain their trust.

For example, let’s say you receive an email from your bank asking you to log in to your account due to a problem. At first glance, the email may appear legitimate as it contains your bank logo and a similar font. But have your bank ever contacted you in this way before? The answer is likely no, as banks don’t ask you for information like this over email.

Everything from the email address the hacker uses to the language they use in the email might appear legitimate. That’s why it’s important to examine them carefully and err on the side of caution.

The Common Traits of a Phishing Scam

Every phishing attempt looks different, but they tend to have some traits in common across attacks. For one, email phishing attacks prompt you to click a link within your email.

Additionally, many attacks attempt to create a false sense of urgency. They’ll say there’s an issue with your account or suspicious activity that you’ll need to log in to resolve. This is, of course, a ruse meant to create a feeling of panic in the recipient. The hackers are banking on you, reacting without thinking.

Other phishing scams mimic or recreate an email address for a friend or family member. Have you ever gotten an email from a family member that contained a link but didn’t look right? It was almost certainly a phishing attempt.

You may also get an email from what you believe to be a trusted source, like your employer or healthcare provider. If the email looks suspicious, it likely is. Your default stance should always be to follow up with the sender to confirm the email’s legitimacy.

It bears repeating: if anyone asks you for any type of sensitive information over an email, text, or phone, you’re probably on the receiving end of a phishing attempt.

The Different Types of Phishing Scams

While phishing attempts happen over email, similar attacks happen over phone or text. Email phishing scams involve you clicking on a bad link. The other types of scams have different tactics with the same desired outcome for the hacker.

In the case of phone attacks (also known as vishing), you’ll receive a call from someone asking you to relay personal information over the phone. You may even be prompted to dial a specific number. These attackers often spoof numbers from trusted institutions like your bank. They might tell you that a friend or family member needs assistance to increase your feeling of urgency. They can also ask you to verify personal information to authenticate your identity to them – when, in fact, they’re stealing the information themselves.

Another common phishing scam is attacks conducted over SMS text messages (also known as smishing). These operate similarly to email attacks. You’ll receive a text from someone or some institution you trust asking you to click on a link.

How to Respond to a Phishing Scam

The first step is to be aware that phishing scams exist. Knowing what they might look like helps you know what to watch out for. If you are part of an organization, create this culture of awareness with your team. By educating your staff on what to expect, you’ll be able to prevent them from impacting your business in the future.

But what happens when you do receive a phishing attempt? The most important action you can take is this: nothing at all. Don’t interact or engage with a phishing attempt. If it’s a text or email, don’t click the link. If you’re on the phone with someone attempting to scam you, don’t engage – simply hang up as soon as possible.

Phishing Scams are Growing Increasingly More Common

In summary, phishing scams tap into sophisticated social engineering techniques, using people’s fears to gain access to sensitive information. This information can then be used to defraud the person or organization financially or steal their identity. They can be carried out over email, phone, or text message. When you get a phishing attempt, the best action is no action. Don’t engage – just block and delete.

The sad reality of phishing scams is that they aren’t going away anytime soon. You can’t prevent them from happening. All you can do is maintain awareness and constant vigilance of an attack possibly occurring. Be wary of emails that look suspicious and even those that don’t – as phishing strategies become more complex, you’ll be more likely to fall prey to one. Exercise utmost caution when communicating with anyone over email, phone, or text.

Contact us today for more on how we can help your organization navigate phishing attempts or provide other managed IT services.

September 12, 2022September 14, 2022

The Benefits of Azure Virtual Desktop Remote App Streaming

The Benefits of AVD Remote App Streaming: Why You Should Stream Your Apps

Key Points:

Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop app streaming can help reduce latency and improve performance when using apps on a remote device.
AVD can help improve the quality of your app experience by providing a consistent connection and reducing buffering.
AVD can help you save on data usage by compressing it before sending it over the internet.

In today’s world, more and more people are working remotely. Whether you’re a freelancer, work for a remote company, or often travel for business, there’s a good chance you’ve had to access work applications from a non-traditional office setting. If you have, you know that it can often be a frustrating experience. Latency, poor internet connection, and inconsistent performance can make using remote apps challenging. That’s where Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) comes in.

Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) is a cloud-based app streaming service that allows users to access their apps and desktops from anywhere, on any device. AVD is an alternative to traditional desktop virtualization solutions. AVD can be used to deliver a virtual desktop experience to any device, including PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones. AVD is easy to set up and manage and provides a high-quality user experience. AVD includes several features that make it an attractive solution for organizations looking to provide remote access to apps and desktops.

What Is Azure Virtual Desktop(AVD) Remote App Streaming?

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) remote app streaming is a feature that allows users to access their applications remotely. The apps are streamed from a server to the user’s device, and the user can interact with them as if they were running locally. Users can use AVD remote app streaming to access their apps anywhere, on any device.

App streaming allows you to use remote apps with little to no lag, even on a poor internet connection. That’s because data is compressed before it’s sent over the internet, meaning there are fewer data to transfer and less chance of lost packets or delays. App streaming can also help reduce bandwidth usage, as only the data needed to run the app is sent, rather than the entire application.

There are many other benefits to using AVD app streaming, which we’ll explore in more detail below.

What Are the Benefits of Using AVD Remote App Streaming?

Reduced Latency

One of the biggest benefits of using AVD app remote streaming is reduced latency. Latency is the time it takes for data to travel from your device to the remote server and back again. When you’re using a remote app, any latency can cause problems, as it can make the app feel unresponsive. AVD app streaming eliminates the need for a server round-trip, which can often add several seconds of delay.

Improved Performance

Another benefit of AVD remote app streaming is improved performance. When you’re using a remote app, any inconsistency can be frustrating. Buffering, slow load times and freezing can make using a remote app challenging. AVD’s remote app streaming feature helps to eliminate these issues by allowing you to stream your apps directly to your device. This means you can enjoy a smooth, seamless experience without frustrating interruptions.

Increased Flexibility

AVD’s remote app streaming feature also provides you with increased flexibility. This feature is not tied to a single device or location. You can easily stream your apps to any device with an internet connection. This means you can use your apps on your phone, tablet, or laptop – wherever you happen to be. You’re not limited to using them just on your AVD device.

Access to More Features

You gain access to more features when you use AVD’s remote app streaming feature. Some remote apps offer limited functionality. With AVD, you can take advantage of the app’s full feature set. This includes using the app’s camera, microphone, and other sensors. You also have access to the app’s file system. This means you can save files locally on your device for offline use.

No Need to Install the App Individually

Another big advantage of AVD’s remote app streaming feature is that you only have to install the app once. With some remote apps, you must install the app on each device you want to use. This can be a hassle, especially if you have multiple devices. With AVD, you can install the app once and use it on any compatible device.

Improved Productivity

AVD’s remote app streaming feature can also help to improve productivity. By allowing users to access their apps from any location, they can get work done more efficiently. This is especially beneficial for users who need to access their apps while away from their desks. With AVD, they can stay productive even when they’re on the go.

Enhanced Security

AVD’s remote app streaming feature also provides enhanced security. This is especially important for users who work with sensitive data or need access to their apps from public Wi-Fi networks. With AVD, they can be sure that their data is safe and secure.

Reduced Costs

AVD’s remote app streaming feature can also help to reduce costs. By streaming apps remotely, users can avoid the need to purchase and install multiple copies of their apps. This is especially beneficial for users who have multiple devices or who travel often. With AVD, they can save money by streaming their apps remotely.

When Should You Opt for AVD Remote App Streaming?

There are many situations where AVD remote app streaming can be beneficial. Here are some examples:

When You Need to Use a Specific App That Is Not Available on Your Current Device

For example, if you’re using a work-issued device, you may not have access to certain apps that you need for your job. In this case, AVD remote app streaming can give you the access you need without switching devices.

When You’re Using a Public Device and Don’t Want to Install Apps

If you’re using a library computer or another public device, you may not want to install apps on that device. AVD remote app streaming can give you the same functionality without installing anything.

When You Want to Save Space on Your Device

If you have limited storage on your device, you may not want to install apps that you don’t use regularly. AVD remote app streaming can allow you to use apps on an as-needed basis without wasting valuable storage space.

The fundamental difference between AVD’s app streaming and other offerings is that AVD doesn’t require the same high-powered hardware at the app streaming destination as is typically needed to run the app natively. Remote app streaming brings you many benefits without the expense of powerful destination hardware.

Wrapping Up

AVD remote app streaming can be a great solution for several different situations. If you need to use a specific app that is unavailable on your current device, if you want to use an app that doesn’t support it, or if you simply want to save battery life, streaming an app can be a great option. As employees continue to work remotely, AVD remote app streaming can help keep everyone connected and productive.

September 9, 2022September 13, 2022

Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform: Unlocking the Power of Data for Businesses

The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform: Unlocking the Power of Data for Businesses

Key Points:

Microsoft’s Intelligent Data Platform is designed to help businesses make the most of their data.
The platform can gain insights into customer behavior, trends, and patterns. It can also be used to predict future behavior.
The platform can help businesses make a better product, marketing, and operations decisions.

All businesses strive to work faster and smarter, and Microsoft has developed the perfect platform to make this happen. Microsoft’s Intelligent Data Platform is designed to make data more valuable by making it more accessible and useful.

What Is the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform?

The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform is a comprehensive data platform that helps organizations unlock the value of their data to improve business outcomes. The platform integrates data analytics, databases, and governance capabilities to enable businesses to make better decisions with their data. Microsoft’s Intelligent Data Platform empowers organizations of all sizes to turn data into insights and use those insights to drive business transformation.

It also includes a set of services that helps organizations turn data into insights, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence. The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform is the latest evolution in data management. It builds on the success of previous generations of data platforms, such as the SQL Server and Azure. Microsoft’s Intelligent Data Platform is designed to help you manage data at scale.

The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform is built on three pillars:

A flexible data model that can be easily adapted to your needs
A scalable architecture that can handle large amounts of data
A set of powerful tools that make it easy to work with data

Benefits of the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform

Businesses and organizations are striving for innovation and success in the digital age. They must adopt new ways of working with data to stay ahead of the competition. In a world surrounded by technology, it can be quite challenging to keep up with the constant changes and maintain a high level of productivity.

Identifying application and platform features that will push your business forward can also be difficult. What features should you look for? What aspects are important and will help you succeed? With the introduction of the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform, businesses now have access to powerful tools and technologies that can help them drive innovation and transformation.

Here are a few of the benefits of the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform:

Turning Insights Into Better Business Operations

While big data technologies seem to be the industry’s main focus, it is important not to lose sight of the data itself. Data has always been a critical part of business, but its importance has only grown recently.

With the proliferation of digital devices and the rise of the Internet of Things(IoT), businesses are collecting more data than ever. This data can improve nearly every aspect of a business, from marketing and sales to operations and customer service. With machine learning capabilities, businesses can use data to predict future trends. This means there will be opportunities to make your data work for you.

Data analytics was once seen as a tool for only the most technical users. However, with the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform, businesses of all sizes can use data insights to improve their operations. By analyzing data, businesses can identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks in their operations. They can then make changes to improve their processes and make them more efficient.

Data-Driven Decision Making

In the past, business decisions were often made based on gut feeling or intuition. However, the Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform allows businesses to make decisions based on data. With data-driven decision-making, businesses can avoid the pitfalls of intuition-based decision-making, such as confirmation bias and the sunk cost fallacy.

Businesses can identify trends and patterns that they would otherwise miss with the right data. They can also test different hypotheses to see which one is most likely to lead to success. Businesses can gain a significant competitive advantage by using data to drive their decisions.

Secure Data Sharing and Collaboration

Quality and security are important considerations for any business that shares data. The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform includes features that help ensure the quality and security of data. With these features, businesses can be confident that their data is accurate and secure. These features will become even more valuable as data governance becomes more important. Data governance is managing data to ensure its quality and security.

This is important for businesses of all sizes, but it is especially critical for businesses that handle sensitive data. With the right data governance practices in place, businesses can ensure that their data is accurate and reliable. The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform from Microsoft includes features that help businesses manage their data and ensure its quality. With these capabilities, businesses can gain the trust of their customers and partners.

Greater Insight Into Your Data Sources

Businesses and organizations must understand their data sources, capabilities, and limitations. Doing so can help you prioritize your data initiatives, focus on areas with the greatest impact, and avoid issues arising from incorrect assumptions about your data. Organizations often have a wealth of data at their disposal, but not all are useful for decision-making. To make the most informed decisions, you need to understand what data is available to you, where it comes from, and how accurate and reliable it is.

There are many factors to consider when assessing your data sources, but some key questions you should ask are:

What data do we have?
Where does it come from?
How accurate is it?
How complete is it?
How timely is it?

Answering these questions can help you understand your data capabilities and limitations, which is essential for making informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Data is critical to any organization, but not all data is created equal. To make the most informed decisions, you need to understand the provenance of your data. The Microsoft Intelligent Data Platform makes it easy to understand the data in your organization, so you can make more informed decisions. With this platform, businesses of all sizes will find it easier to understand their data capabilities and limitations. As a result, they can focus on areas that will have the greatest impact and avoid issues arising from incorrect assumptions about their data.

September 8, 2022October 7, 2022

10 Best Practices for Working Remotely

Key Points:

Working remotely is not going anywhere and will become increasingly popular as time goes on.
It is important to know the potential security risks when working remotely and take steps to mitigate those risks.
Maintaining a secure remote working environment begins with the right tools and processes.

The way we work has changed dramatically in the last decade. With the advent of technology, there is no longer a need to be tethered to a physical office space to be productive. Instead, more and more people are finding that they can work remotely, either from home or in various locations. Working remotely has many advantages, including increased flexibility and freedom, but some challenges come with it.

Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, and remote workers can be an easy target. Maintaining a secure remote work environment is vital to protecting your company’s data and keeping your confidential information safe. Before maintaining a secure remote working environment, it is important to understand the potential risks.

Here are 5 of the most common security risks for remote workers:

1. Unsecured Networks

One of the most common risks for remote workers is using unsecured networks. When you connect to an unsecured network, you are giving hackers an easy way to access your data. To mitigate this risk, only connect to networks you trust and ensure your device is up-to-date with the latest security patches.

2. Malware and Phishing Attacks

Another common risk for remote workers is malware or phishing attacks. These attacks can happen when you click on a malicious link or attachment or visit an infected website.

To protect yourself from these attacks, be careful about the links and attachments you click on and only visit websites you trust. If you think you may have been infected, run a virus scan on your device as soon as possible.

3. Unencrypted Devices and Data

If your device is lost or stolen, it’s important to ensure your data is encrypted. Otherwise, anyone who gets their hands on your device can access your data.

4. Weak Passwords

One of the most common security risks is weak passwords. Hackers can easily guess weak passwords, so choosing strong, unique passwords for all your accounts is important.

To create strong passwords, use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed words like your name or birthdate. Never reuse passwords across different accounts.

5. Lack of Security Awareness

Even if you have all of the right security measures in place, they won’t do you good if you don’t know how to use them. That’s why it’s important to have security awareness training for all remote workers.

10 Best Practices for Working Remotely

Now that you know about some of the most common security risks for remote workers let’s look at 10 best practices for maintaining a secure environment.

1. Keep Your Software Up to Date

It’s important to keep all of the software on your device up-to-date, including your operating system, web browser, and any applications you use. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect you from newly discovered threats.

2. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security that requires you to confirm your identity with two different factors: your password and a code sent to your mobile phone.

3. Implement BYOD Policies

If your company allows employees to bring their own devices (BYOD), it’s important to have policies to secure them. Make sure employees understand the security risks and know how to protect their data.

4. Use a VPN

One of the best ways to protect your data when working remotely is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your data and routes it through a secure tunnel, making it much more difficult for hackers to intercept.

5. Educate Your Employees

As we mentioned before, security awareness training is critical for all employees, especially those who work remotely. Employees should know how to identify security risks and what to do if they suspect their device has been compromised.

6. Migrate to the Cloud

There are many benefits to migrating to the cloud, including increased security. When you store data in the cloud, it’s stored on secure, regularly backed-up servers. You can still access your data from another device if your device is lost or stolen.

7. Use Security Tools

There are a variety of security tools available that can help you protect your data. Some common tools include firewalls, anti-virus software, and intrusion detection systems.

8. Monitor Your Network

If you have a remote network, it’s important to monitor it for suspicious activity. There are a variety of tools available that can help you do this, including network intrusion detection systems and log monitoring tools.

9. Restrict Access to Data

You should only give employees the access they need to do their jobs. For example, if employees don’t need access to certain sensitive data, they shouldn’t have it. This will help reduce the risk of data breaches.

10. Regularly Back Up Your Data

It’s important to regularly back up your data in case of a security breach. You can do this in various ways, including storing data in the cloud or on an external hard drive.

Wrapping Up

Digital transformation has changed how we work, and remote work is here to stay. Given the rise in remote work, it’s important to be aware of the security risks and take steps to protect your data. Remember, security risks can come from anywhere, not just external hackers. Disgruntled employees, for example, could wreak havoc on your company’s systems if they decided to take advantage of their access privileges. So it’s important to have policies and procedures to mitigate employee risks working remotely.

September 7, 2022

What Is Microsoft Purview?

What Is Microsoft Purview? The Ultimate Guide to Data Governance

Key Points:

Microsoft Purview is a cloud-based data governance tool that helps organizations manage and govern their data.
Purview provides a central repository for data assets and role-based access control to manage who can see and use what data.
Purview can help organizations meet compliance requirements, such as GDPR and CCPA, by providing a way to track and manage data.

What Is Microsoft Purview?

Microsoft Purview is a cloud-based data governance tool that helps organizations manage and govern their data more effectively. It provides a central repository for storing and managing data and a set of tools for analyzing and reporting on that data. Purview also includes several features that make collaborating on data governance projects easier, such as workflow and approvals.

Data Governance in Today’s Digital World

Data governance is a critical success factor in any digital transformation. The processes and policies ensure data is accurate, consistent, and compliant with regulations. With the proliferation of data, it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage and govern. There are different types of data that organizations have to deal with, including but not limited to financial data, customer data, employee data, and more

With over 90 percent of organizations using some form of cloud services, it can be challenging to keep track of all the data stored in the cloud. Additionally, many organizations use multiple cloud providers, which complicates things further. In addition to managing a multi-cloud strategy, businesses and organizations must keep up with the latest laws and regulations regarding data privacy and security.

Small, mid-size, and large organizations must comply with the ever-changing regulatory landscape, which can be challenging. Organizations have to ensure that they have a way to collect, process and store all of this data in a way that complies with the law. Organizations also have to be able to access this data when they need to, and they have to be able to protect it from unauthorized access.

Many regulatory requirements around data governance are changing, and organizations must adapt to these changes quickly or be subject to hefty fines. Businesses and organizations need a comprehensive data governance solution that will help them comply with the latest laws and regulations.

Managing Your Risks With Microsoft Purview

Microsoft Purview can help you manage risks by allowing you to see all of your data in one place. By identifying and addressing risks early, you can avoid potential problems later. Additionally, Purview can be used to create reports that show you how your data has changed over time. This can help you to identify trends and potential risks.

Purview can help you manage risk in several ways:

Helps you see all of your data in one place
Helps you understand who has access to your data and what level of access they have
Helps you create reports that show you how your data is being used

Risk management is an important part of any business, and Microsoft Purview can help you take control of your risk exposure.

What Does Microsoft Purview Do for Businesses and Organizations?

Microsoft Purview is a data catalog that helps you discover, understand, and govern your data. It provides a unified view of your data across all your data sources, so you can find the right data quickly and confidently. With Purview, you can do these things:

Discover What Data You Have, Where It’s Located, and How It’s Being Used

Purview helps you discover what data you have, where it’s located, and how it’s being used. You can use Purview to find the data you need and understand how it can be used to improve your business. Purview also provides you with a holistic view of your data to make better decisions about your business.

Governs Your Data to Ensure Compliance and Reduce Risk

Purview helps you govern your data to ensure compliance and reduce risk. You can use Purview to track and manage data to meet compliance requirements. Purview also allows you to control who can see and use your data. This helps you to keep your data safe and secure.

Automatically Classify Data

Purview automatically classifies data so that you can easily find the data you need. You can use Purview to classify data by customer, product, or even by time period.

Share Data With Others

Purview provides you with the ability to share data with others. You can use Purview to create groups and give access to specific data sets.

Integrate Data From Multiple Sources

Purview helps you integrate data from multiple sources. You can use Purview to connect to data sources and combine data from multiple sources into one central location. Additionally, Purview can be used to cleanse and transform data to be ready for analysis.

Understand the Meaning of Your Data

Purview provides you with the ability to understand the meaning of your data. You can use Purview to create models that analyze your data and provide insights into what it means. Additionally, Purview can monitor your data for changes and generate alerts when specific conditions are met.

Summing Up

Today, data is the most valuable asset for any company or organization. It helps businesses understand their customers, figure out what works and doesn’t, and make better decisions. However, its value depends on how quickly and easily it can be found and used. The more data a company has, the more difficult it becomes to find the most important data.

Microsoft Purview helps you gain the insight you need to make decisions about your business. It provides a unified view of all your data, including financial, operational, and customer data. With Purview, you can track performance, identify trends, and predict future business conditions. Purview is a powerful tool to help you run your business more effectively.