Tech Advisory

Technology Advice for Small Businesses

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Is your cloud security at risk? Issues businesses need to address now

Editor November 14, 2025

Many businesses are unknowingly vulnerable to cyberattacks due to simple misconfigurations in their cloud environment and inadequate security measures. Find out where your greatest risks lie and learn how to fix them.

Why cloud security continues to fail

A recent report by the cloud security firm Tenable highlights an alarming trend: 74% of companies surveyed had storage settings configured incorrectly. In effect, these businesses accidentally left their digital doors unlocked.

While the cloud security solutions available today are more effective than ever, the teams managing the cloud infrastructure often lack the specific training to configure them correctly. As a result, businesses aren’t as secure as they think and often fail to fully maximize the cloud’s security features.

The toxic cloud triad of risk

The study points to three specific factors that, when combined, create a high risk of a cyberattack. Experts call this the “toxic cloud triad”:

  • Overprivileged accounts: Giving software or users more access rights than they actually need
  • Public exposure: Leaving sensitive parts of the network openly accessible to the internet
  • Critical vulnerabilities: Failing to patch known weaknesses within software systems

The overlooked danger of ghost keys

A significant yet often overlooked contributor to this heightened risk stems from the mismanagement of access keys, which are digital credentials designed for specific tasks. Alarmingly, the report found that 84% of organizations retain unused, high-level access keys, often referred to as “ghost keys.”
These dormant credentials present a critical vulnerability; if discovered by cybercriminals, they offer effortless entry into a system. Such an oversight can lead to security incidents — for example, the MGM Resorts data breach in September 2023.

The hidden risks in cloud infrastructure

Many modern businesses use a technology called “containers” to run their applications — think of these like digital packages that bundle software and its dependencies. They often use a system called Kubernetes to manage these containers.

The study reveals that 78% of organizations have left the control panel (i.e., API servers) for these systems accessible to the public internet. Even worse, many allow unrestricted user control. This is the digital equivalent of leaving your server room unlocked and unmonitored.

How to strengthen cloud security

You don’t need a technical background to improve your company’s security. By implementing stricter governance and fostering better security habits, you can transition your business from a reactive security stance to a proactive one. Follow this structured approach to get started:

Implement strict access controls

Controlling who can access your data is crucial. Regularly audit your digital keys, deleting any that are no longer necessary without delay.

Moreover, you can rotate these keys frequently to prevent old credentials from being exploited by cybercriminals. Think of it this way: if a key is stolen but you’ve already changed the lock, the cybercriminal can’t get in.

Enforce the principle of least privilege

This fundamental security rule dictates that employees and software should be granted only the exact level of access they need to perform their tasks, and nothing more. Use role-based access controls to enforce this; for example, a marketing employee shouldn’t be able to modify financial records.

Require independent audits

Testing your defenses before a cybercriminal does is paramount. However, relying solely on your internal IT team to evaluate their own work can be problematic. Internal teams often assess themselves too leniently or overlook issues, especially if performance incentives are linked to audit results. Instead, engage a third-party security firm to independent audits and penetration testing.

Automate your defense

Manual monitoring alone can’t keep pace with modern threats. Deploy automated tools that monitor your system 24/7 and can detect and neutralize threats in real time, eliminating opportunities for cybercriminals to launch attacks.

Prioritize software updates

Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to gain access to systems. That’s why when a software provider releases a security update or patch, install it immediately to close known loopholes.

Invest in cybersecurity awareness training

Most cloud security breaches stem from human error. After all, technology cannot compensate for a lack of awareness. Provide ongoing cybersecurity awareness training for all employees to keep them updated on the current cyberthreats and apply security best practices to strengthen your company’s cyber defenses.

Get in touch with our IT experts today for more cloud security tips and robust protection for your business.

How to protect your business from cloud security breaches

Editor November 14, 2025

Cloud security breaches are frequently caused by poor security practices and unaddressed vulnerabilities. It’s time to take decisive action before a breach hits your business.

Why cloud security continues to fail

A recent report by the cloud security firm Tenable highlights an alarming trend: 74% of companies surveyed had storage settings configured incorrectly. In effect, these businesses accidentally left their digital doors unlocked.

While the cloud security solutions available today are more effective than ever, the teams managing the cloud infrastructure often lack the specific training to configure them correctly. As a result, businesses aren’t as secure as they think and often fail to fully maximize the cloud’s security features.

The toxic cloud triad of risk

The study points to three specific factors that, when combined, create a high risk of a cyberattack. Experts call this the “toxic cloud triad”:

  • Overprivileged accounts: Giving software or users more access rights than they actually need
  • Public exposure: Leaving sensitive parts of the network openly accessible to the internet
  • Critical vulnerabilities: Failing to patch known weaknesses within software systems

The overlooked danger of ghost keys

A significant yet often overlooked contributor to this heightened risk stems from the mismanagement of access keys, which are digital credentials designed for specific tasks. Alarmingly, the report found that 84% of organizations retain unused, high-level access keys, often referred to as “ghost keys.”
These dormant credentials present a critical vulnerability; if discovered by cybercriminals, they offer effortless entry into a system. Such an oversight can lead to security incidents — for example, the MGM Resorts data breach in September 2023.

The hidden risks in cloud infrastructure

Many modern businesses use a technology called “containers” to run their applications — think of these like digital packages that bundle software and its dependencies. They often use a system called Kubernetes to manage these containers.

The study reveals that 78% of organizations have left the control panel (i.e., API servers) for these systems accessible to the public internet. Even worse, many allow unrestricted user control. This is the digital equivalent of leaving your server room unlocked and unmonitored.

How to strengthen cloud security

You don’t need a technical background to improve your company’s security. By implementing stricter governance and fostering better security habits, you can transition your business from a reactive security stance to a proactive one. Follow this structured approach to get started:

Implement strict access controls

Controlling who can access your data is crucial. Regularly audit your digital keys, deleting any that are no longer necessary without delay.

Moreover, you can rotate these keys frequently to prevent old credentials from being exploited by cybercriminals. Think of it this way: if a key is stolen but you’ve already changed the lock, the cybercriminal can’t get in.

Enforce the principle of least privilege

This fundamental security rule dictates that employees and software should be granted only the exact level of access they need to perform their tasks, and nothing more. Use role-based access controls to enforce this; for example, a marketing employee shouldn’t be able to modify financial records.

Require independent audits

Testing your defenses before a cybercriminal does is paramount. However, relying solely on your internal IT team to evaluate their own work can be problematic. Internal teams often assess themselves too leniently or overlook issues, especially if performance incentives are linked to audit results. Instead, engage a third-party security firm to independent audits and penetration testing.

Automate your defense

Manual monitoring alone can’t keep pace with modern threats. Deploy automated tools that monitor your system 24/7 and can detect and neutralize threats in real time, eliminating opportunities for cybercriminals to launch attacks.

Prioritize software updates

Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to gain access to systems. That’s why when a software provider releases a security update or patch, install it immediately to close known loopholes.

Invest in cybersecurity awareness training

Most cloud security breaches stem from human error. After all, technology cannot compensate for a lack of awareness. Provide ongoing cybersecurity awareness training for all employees to keep them updated on the current cyberthreats and apply security best practices to strengthen your company’s cyber defenses.

Get in touch with our IT experts today for more cloud security tips and robust protection for your business.

Cloud security: The hidden dangers businesses can’t ignore

Editor November 14, 2025

The cloud should be a secure place for business data, but cloud misconfigurations and lax security practices often leave the door wide open for cybercriminals. This article explores how to close those gaps.

Why cloud security continues to fail

A recent report by the cloud security firm Tenable highlights an alarming trend: 74% of companies surveyed had storage settings configured incorrectly. In effect, these businesses accidentally left their digital doors unlocked.

While the cloud security solutions available today are more effective than ever, the teams managing the cloud infrastructure often lack the specific training to configure them correctly. As a result, businesses aren’t as secure as they think and often fail to fully maximize the cloud’s security features.

The toxic cloud triad of risk

The study points to three specific factors that, when combined, create a high risk of a cyberattack. Experts call this the “toxic cloud triad”:

  • Overprivileged accounts: Giving software or users more access rights than they actually need
  • Public exposure: Leaving sensitive parts of the network openly accessible to the internet
  • Critical vulnerabilities: Failing to patch known weaknesses within software systems

The overlooked danger of ghost keys

A significant yet often overlooked contributor to this heightened risk stems from the mismanagement of access keys, which are digital credentials designed for specific tasks. Alarmingly, the report found that 84% of organizations retain unused, high-level access keys, often referred to as “ghost keys.”
These dormant credentials present a critical vulnerability; if discovered by cybercriminals, they offer effortless entry into a system. Such an oversight can lead to security incidents — for example, the MGM Resorts data breach in September 2023.

The hidden risks in cloud infrastructure

Many modern businesses use a technology called “containers” to run their applications — think of these like digital packages that bundle software and its dependencies. They often use a system called Kubernetes to manage these containers.

The study reveals that 78% of organizations have left the control panel (i.e., API servers) for these systems accessible to the public internet. Even worse, many allow unrestricted user control. This is the digital equivalent of leaving your server room unlocked and unmonitored.

How to strengthen cloud security

You don’t need a technical background to improve your company’s security. By implementing stricter governance and fostering better security habits, you can transition your business from a reactive security stance to a proactive one. Follow this structured approach to get started:

Implement strict access controls

Controlling who can access your data is crucial. Regularly audit your digital keys, deleting any that are no longer necessary without delay.

Moreover, you can rotate these keys frequently to prevent old credentials from being exploited by cybercriminals. Think of it this way: if a key is stolen but you’ve already changed the lock, the cybercriminal can’t get in.

Enforce the principle of least privilege

This fundamental security rule dictates that employees and software should be granted only the exact level of access they need to perform their tasks, and nothing more. Use role-based access controls to enforce this; for example, a marketing employee shouldn’t be able to modify financial records.

Require independent audits

Testing your defenses before a cybercriminal does is paramount. However, relying solely on your internal IT team to evaluate their own work can be problematic. Internal teams often assess themselves too leniently or overlook issues, especially if performance incentives are linked to audit results. Instead, engage a third-party security firm to independent audits and penetration testing.

Automate your defense

Manual monitoring alone can’t keep pace with modern threats. Deploy automated tools that monitor your system 24/7 and can detect and neutralize threats in real time, eliminating opportunities for cybercriminals to launch attacks.

Prioritize software updates

Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software to gain access to systems. That’s why when a software provider releases a security update or patch, install it immediately to close known loopholes.

Invest in cybersecurity awareness training

Most cloud security breaches stem from human error. After all, technology cannot compensate for a lack of awareness. Provide ongoing cybersecurity awareness training for all employees to keep them updated on the current cyberthreats and apply security best practices to strengthen your company’s cyber defenses.

Get in touch with our IT experts today for more cloud security tips and robust protection for your business.

Should you keep your phone plugged in? Here’s what you need to know

Editor November 12, 2025

You may have heard that charging your phone overnight or frequently topping it off could damage the battery. But is that really true? This article breaks down the facts about phone charging habits in simple terms, helping you make smarter choices that can extend your phone’s battery life.

How do phone batteries work?

Modern smartphones use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are smarter and safer than older types, and your phone has built-in tools to help manage charging automatically. That means your phone can protect itself when charging.

For example, many phones now have features that slow down charging when the battery gets close to 100%, especially at night. This feature, commonly known as “optimized charging,” helps reduce wear and tear on your battery over time.

Is overnight charging bad?

Not really. Most phones stop charging once they hit 100%. They may “top off” now and then to keep the battery full, but it’s not the same as constantly pushing power into the phone.

However, leaving your phone plugged in overnight isn’t a good idea either. Over time, staying at 100% for too long and charging in hot environments can make the battery age a little faster. Still, the effect is minimal and won’t ruin your phone anytime soon.

To ease your mind, try these simple habits:

  • Don’t worry about unplugging the moment your phone hits 100%.
  • If your phone has optimized or adaptive charging, keep it turned on.
  • Avoid charging in direct sunlight or on soft surfaces that trap heat.

Do I need to let my phone drain to 0%?

Nope. In fact, it’s better not to. Letting your phone fully die before recharging it isn’t good for lithium-ion batteries. Instead, try to keep your battery between 20% and 80% most of the time. A full charge now and then is fine. Just don’t make it a regular habit to run your phone all the way down.

Is it okay to charge my phone a few times a day?

Topping up your phone several times during the day is perfectly fine. It’s actually easier on the battery to charge a little here and there instead of doing one big charge from 0% to 100%. So, if you plug in during lunch or while working at your desk, it won’t damage your battery.

Your phone battery isn’t as fragile as some myths make it sound. Modern devices are designed to manage charging on their own, and with a few easy habits, you can keep your battery in good shape for years.

If you’re having battery issues or need help choosing the right phone accessories, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help with all your hardware needs: smartphones, laptops, chargers, and more.

Always charging your phone? Here’s the real impact on battery life

Editor November 12, 2025

Is leaving your phone on the charger overnight doing more harm than good? In this article, we explain how modern batteries work and clear up common charging myths, without the technical jargon.

How do phone batteries work?

Modern smartphones use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are smarter and safer than older types, and your phone has built-in tools to help manage charging automatically. That means your phone can protect itself when charging.

For example, many phones now have features that slow down charging when the battery gets close to 100%, especially at night. This feature, commonly known as “optimized charging,” helps reduce wear and tear on your battery over time.

Is overnight charging bad?

Not really. Most phones stop charging once they hit 100%. They may “top off” now and then to keep the battery full, but it’s not the same as constantly pushing power into the phone.

However, leaving your phone plugged in overnight isn’t a good idea either. Over time, staying at 100% for too long and charging in hot environments can make the battery age a little faster. Still, the effect is minimal and won’t ruin your phone anytime soon.

To ease your mind, try these simple habits:

  • Don’t worry about unplugging the moment your phone hits 100%.
  • If your phone has optimized or adaptive charging, keep it turned on.
  • Avoid charging in direct sunlight or on soft surfaces that trap heat.

Do I need to let my phone drain to 0%?

Nope. In fact, it’s better not to. Letting your phone fully die before recharging it isn’t good for lithium-ion batteries. Instead, try to keep your battery between 20% and 80% most of the time. A full charge now and then is fine. Just don’t make it a regular habit to run your phone all the way down.

Is it okay to charge my phone a few times a day?

Topping up your phone several times during the day is perfectly fine. It’s actually easier on the battery to charge a little here and there instead of doing one big charge from 0% to 100%. So, if you plug in during lunch or while working at your desk, it won’t damage your battery.

Your phone battery isn’t as fragile as some myths make it sound. Modern devices are designed to manage charging on their own, and with a few easy habits, you can keep your battery in good shape for years.

If you’re having battery issues or need help choosing the right phone accessories, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help with all your hardware needs: smartphones, laptops, chargers, and more.

Charging habits that help your phone battery last longer

Editor November 12, 2025

Wondering if charging your phone too much is bad for it? This easy-to-follow guide explores how your daily charging routine affects battery health, and what you can do to help your phone last longer without getting caught up in myths.

How do phone batteries work?

Modern smartphones use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are smarter and safer than older types, and your phone has built-in tools to help manage charging automatically. That means your phone can protect itself when charging.

For example, many phones now have features that slow down charging when the battery gets close to 100%, especially at night. This feature, commonly known as “optimized charging,” helps reduce wear and tear on your battery over time.

Is overnight charging bad?

Not really. Most phones stop charging once they hit 100%. They may “top off” now and then to keep the battery full, but it’s not the same as constantly pushing power into the phone.

However, leaving your phone plugged in overnight isn’t a good idea either. Over time, staying at 100% for too long and charging in hot environments can make the battery age a little faster. Still, the effect is minimal and won’t ruin your phone anytime soon.

To ease your mind, try these simple habits:

  • Don’t worry about unplugging the moment your phone hits 100%.
  • If your phone has optimized or adaptive charging, keep it turned on.
  • Avoid charging in direct sunlight or on soft surfaces that trap heat.

Do I need to let my phone drain to 0%?

Nope. In fact, it’s better not to. Letting your phone fully die before recharging it isn’t good for lithium-ion batteries. Instead, try to keep your battery between 20% and 80% most of the time. A full charge now and then is fine. Just don’t make it a regular habit to run your phone all the way down.

Is it okay to charge my phone a few times a day?

Topping up your phone several times during the day is perfectly fine. It’s actually easier on the battery to charge a little here and there instead of doing one big charge from 0% to 100%. So, if you plug in during lunch or while working at your desk, it won’t damage your battery.

Your phone battery isn’t as fragile as some myths make it sound. Modern devices are designed to manage charging on their own, and with a few easy habits, you can keep your battery in good shape for years.

If you’re having battery issues or need help choosing the right phone accessories, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help with all your hardware needs: smartphones, laptops, chargers, and more.

Securing your business VoIP in 2025: 6 must-have defenses

Editor November 10, 2025

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has become the backbone of modern business communication, handling everything from video conferences to critical customer support. Unfortunately, cybercriminals are relentlessly developing sophisticated methods to exploit VoIP’s vulnerabilities. Keep your essential communication channels safe by implementing these six must-have security measures.

Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

Strong passwords alone can’t protect your VoIP systems. It’s high time you implement multifactor authentication (MFA), which adds a second step — usually a temporary code, biometric scan, or authentication app — to ensure only authorized users get in. MFA protects VoIP portals, web-based dashboards, and softphone apps from two common types of cyberattacks:

  • Brute-force attacks, where cybercriminals use automated software to guess your password over and over again until they get it right.
  • Credential-stuffing attacks, where attackers use lists of usernames and passwords stolen from other websites to try and log in to your account, hoping you’ve reused the same credentials.

Require true end-to-end encryption

Your VoIP provider should offer end-to-end encryption that covers both call signaling and media (the actual voice or video content). End-to-end encryption means that the data is scrambled and indecipherable from the moment it leaves your system until it reaches the recipient’s device, making it virtually impossible for anyone to eavesdrop or intercept your communications.

Encryption is especially vital for the healthcare, legal, and finance sectors, where voice communications often involve sensitive and confidential information.

Use virtual private networks (VPNs) the right way

VPNs are a reliable way to secure VoIP traffic, particularly for employees working remotely or using mobile devices, as they create a secure, encrypted tunnel between the user and your internal VoIP infrastructure. But simply installing a VPN isn’t enough. It needs to be properly configured, regularly updated, and paired with strong access controls. A poorly maintained VPN can become a point of entry rather than a security tool.

Turn off the phone’s web interface

Many VoIP desk phones include a web-based interface that allows users to tweak settings from a browser. But unless your team actively uses this feature, it should be disabled. Keeping the web interface open, particularly without robust authentication measures, poses a significant security risk. Hackers can exploit it to access user accounts, alter forwarding rules, or even listen in on calls.

Set up a VoIP-aware firewall

Not all firewalls are designed with VoIP in mind. VoIP traffic uses specific protocols like the Session Initiation Protocol, which requires a firewall that understands how to handle and filter these communications.

Use only next-gen firewalls with built-in VoIP-specific protections as part of their core features. These firewalls can detect spoofed calls, prevent denial-of-service attacks, and detect unusual usage patterns that could signal abuse. Some can even terminate suspicious sessions in real time.

Monitor systems 24/7

VoIP attacks often happen outside regular business hours, typically late at night or over the weekend when systems are less closely monitored. Cybercriminals take advantage of these quiet periods to commit toll fraud, access sensitive call records, or identify system vulnerabilities. This makes round-the-clock monitoring essential for safeguarding your communications.

Implement tools that detect unusual call behavior, such as spikes in international calls, repeated login attempts, or connections from unfamiliar locations. Better yet, partner with a managed IT provider like us. We can help you set up these tools while offering 24/7 VoIP-aware monitoring and rapid incident response.

Not sure where your VoIP security stands? Contact us. We can conduct a simple audit or a consultation to uncover VoIP vulnerabilities, enabling you to fix them before they’re exploited.

Practical security measures for business VoIP systems in 2025

Editor November 10, 2025

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems are the lifeblood of modern business communication — and a prime target for cybercriminals. Given VoIP’s critical role in everything from sales calls to customer support, a successful breach of your VoIP systems can cripple daily operations, lead to massive data leaks, and cause financial ruin. Protect your VoIP systems with the following tools and strategies.

Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

Strong passwords alone can’t protect your VoIP systems. It’s high time you implement multifactor authentication (MFA), which adds a second step — usually a temporary code, biometric scan, or authentication app — to ensure only authorized users get in. MFA protects VoIP portals, web-based dashboards, and softphone apps from two common types of cyberattacks:

  • Brute-force attacks, where cybercriminals use automated software to guess your password over and over again until they get it right.
  • Credential-stuffing attacks, where attackers use lists of usernames and passwords stolen from other websites to try and log in to your account, hoping you’ve reused the same credentials.

Require true end-to-end encryption

Your VoIP provider should offer end-to-end encryption that covers both call signaling and media (the actual voice or video content). End-to-end encryption means that the data is scrambled and indecipherable from the moment it leaves your system until it reaches the recipient’s device, making it virtually impossible for anyone to eavesdrop or intercept your communications.

Encryption is especially vital for the healthcare, legal, and finance sectors, where voice communications often involve sensitive and confidential information.

Use virtual private networks (VPNs) the right way

VPNs are a reliable way to secure VoIP traffic, particularly for employees working remotely or using mobile devices, as they create a secure, encrypted tunnel between the user and your internal VoIP infrastructure. But simply installing a VPN isn’t enough. It needs to be properly configured, regularly updated, and paired with strong access controls. A poorly maintained VPN can become a point of entry rather than a security tool.

Turn off the phone’s web interface

Many VoIP desk phones include a web-based interface that allows users to tweak settings from a browser. But unless your team actively uses this feature, it should be disabled. Keeping the web interface open, particularly without robust authentication measures, poses a significant security risk. Hackers can exploit it to access user accounts, alter forwarding rules, or even listen in on calls.

Set up a VoIP-aware firewall

Not all firewalls are designed with VoIP in mind. VoIP traffic uses specific protocols like the Session Initiation Protocol, which requires a firewall that understands how to handle and filter these communications.

Use only next-gen firewalls with built-in VoIP-specific protections as part of their core features. These firewalls can detect spoofed calls, prevent denial-of-service attacks, and detect unusual usage patterns that could signal abuse. Some can even terminate suspicious sessions in real time.

Monitor systems 24/7

VoIP attacks often happen outside regular business hours, typically late at night or over the weekend when systems are less closely monitored. Cybercriminals take advantage of these quiet periods to commit toll fraud, access sensitive call records, or identify system vulnerabilities. This makes round-the-clock monitoring essential for safeguarding your communications.

Implement tools that detect unusual call behavior, such as spikes in international calls, repeated login attempts, or connections from unfamiliar locations. Better yet, partner with a managed IT provider like us. We can help you set up these tools while offering 24/7 VoIP-aware monitoring and rapid incident response.

Not sure where your VoIP security stands? Contact us. We can conduct a simple audit or a consultation to uncover VoIP vulnerabilities, enabling you to fix them before they’re exploited.

How to stay one step ahead of VoIP risks in 2025

Editor November 10, 2025

If you think Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) security is simply about setting a strong password, think again. In 2025, threats against VoIP systems have become more sophisticated, necessitating advanced safeguards and strategies. But don’t fret. Here are six practical ways to secure your VoIP environment and stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

Strong passwords alone can’t protect your VoIP systems. It’s high time you implement multifactor authentication (MFA), which adds a second step — usually a temporary code, biometric scan, or authentication app — to ensure only authorized users get in. MFA protects VoIP portals, web-based dashboards, and softphone apps from two common types of cyberattacks:

  • Brute-force attacks, where cybercriminals use automated software to guess your password over and over again until they get it right.
  • Credential-stuffing attacks, where attackers use lists of usernames and passwords stolen from other websites to try and log in to your account, hoping you’ve reused the same credentials.

Require true end-to-end encryption

Your VoIP provider should offer end-to-end encryption that covers both call signaling and media (the actual voice or video content). End-to-end encryption means that the data is scrambled and indecipherable from the moment it leaves your system until it reaches the recipient’s device, making it virtually impossible for anyone to eavesdrop or intercept your communications.

Encryption is especially vital for the healthcare, legal, and finance sectors, where voice communications often involve sensitive and confidential information.

Use virtual private networks (VPNs) the right way

VPNs are a reliable way to secure VoIP traffic, particularly for employees working remotely or using mobile devices, as they create a secure, encrypted tunnel between the user and your internal VoIP infrastructure. But simply installing a VPN isn’t enough. It needs to be properly configured, regularly updated, and paired with strong access controls. A poorly maintained VPN can become a point of entry rather than a security tool.

Turn off the phone’s web interface

Many VoIP desk phones include a web-based interface that allows users to tweak settings from a browser. But unless your team actively uses this feature, it should be disabled. Keeping the web interface open, particularly without robust authentication measures, poses a significant security risk. Hackers can exploit it to access user accounts, alter forwarding rules, or even listen in on calls.

Set up a VoIP-aware firewall

Not all firewalls are designed with VoIP in mind. VoIP traffic uses specific protocols like the Session Initiation Protocol, which requires a firewall that understands how to handle and filter these communications.

Use only next-gen firewalls with built-in VoIP-specific protections as part of their core features. These firewalls can detect spoofed calls, prevent denial-of-service attacks, and detect unusual usage patterns that could signal abuse. Some can even terminate suspicious sessions in real time.

Monitor systems 24/7

VoIP attacks often happen outside regular business hours, typically late at night or over the weekend when systems are less closely monitored. Cybercriminals take advantage of these quiet periods to commit toll fraud, access sensitive call records, or identify system vulnerabilities. This makes round-the-clock monitoring essential for safeguarding your communications.

Implement tools that detect unusual call behavior, such as spikes in international calls, repeated login attempts, or connections from unfamiliar locations. Better yet, partner with a managed IT provider like us. We can help you set up these tools while offering 24/7 VoIP-aware monitoring and rapid incident response.

Not sure where your VoIP security stands? Contact us. We can conduct a simple audit or a consultation to uncover VoIP vulnerabilities, enabling you to fix them before they’re exploited.

Still using Microsoft Office 2016 or 2019? Your business is now at risk

Editor November 7, 2025

Does your business run on Microsoft Office? If you’re still using Office 2016 or Office 2019, you need to know about a major change. As of October 2025, Microsoft has officially stopped supporting these versions. Your Word and Excel files will still open, but the software is no longer being protected. You are now on your own, and that creates a big risk.

Why this is a big deal for your business

“End of support” isn’t just a sales pitch to get you to upgrade. It’s a serious security warning. Your software will keep working, but it’s now a sitting duck.

Losing support means you’ve lost three key things:

  • No more security updates: Hackers and viruses love finding old, unprotected software. Without new security updates, your business is exposed. It’s like knowing criminals have a copy of your office key but deciding not to change the locks.
  • No more bug fixes: If PowerPoint crashes during a big presentation or an Excel glitch corrupts your file, there will be no fix. Think of it as your car’s manufacturer deciding to stop making spare parts. When something breaks, it stays broken.
  • No more help: Are you having problems? Microsoft’s technical support team can no longer help you with Office 2016 or 2019 issues. Your product’s warranty has expired, so you’ll need to find other support options.

What are your options?

Fortunately, you have clear choices to protect your business. Continuing to use the old software shouldn’t be one of them.

Option 1: Move to Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 is the subscription version of Office, where you pay a monthly or yearly fee to access various apps. It’s best for businesses that want to “set it and forget it” and always have the latest, most secure tools.

Pros

  • You are always up to date and always secure.
  • You get new features as soon as they are released.
  • It often includes other tools such as cloud storage (OneDrive) and communication (Teams).

Option 2: Buy Office 2024

If you prefer the “old” way, you can buy Office 2024 once and own it. Keep in mind that this version will be supported until 2029, so you’ll need to plan for another upgrade after that.

Pros

  • It’s a single, one-time cost.
  • You get the classic apps you know (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  • It’s perfect if you don’t want or need cloud features.

Option 3: Get Office LTSC 2024

You might also hear about a version called Office LTSC 2024. LTSC stands for long-term servicing channel, which is a special, one-time purchase version of Office built purely for stability. It’s designed not to get new feature updates over time, only essential security fixes.

It’s made for specific commercial or government situations. Think of computers that run medical equipment, control machinery on a factory floor, or operate in a lab — devices that need to stay exactly the same for years and often aren’t connected to the internet.

Like the regular Office 2024, it’s supported until 2029. However, it is typically sold through volume licensing and won’t get any of the new tools or features that Microsoft 365 or even the standard Office 2024 might get. For nearly all small businesses, Option 1 (Microsoft 365) or Option 2 (Office 2024) is the simpler and better choice.

It’s not just Office — check these apps too

This end-of-support announcement also affects other related Microsoft programs. It’s a great time to do a quick check-up on all your software.

Make sure you have a plan to upgrade these if you use them:

  • Project (2016 and 2019)
  • Visio (2016 and 2019)
  • Skype for Business (2016 and 2019)

The same thinking also applies to other major products such as Windows 10 and Exchange Server 2016/2019, which are also at or near their end of support.

Don’t wait for a problem, and make a plan today

Your old Office software will keep working, but the risk of a security breach, data loss, or a major glitch is now very high.

Switching systems can take time, so we recommend starting your upgrade plan now. Whether you choose the flexibility of Microsoft 365 or the simplicity of Office 2024, upgrading is a small step that protects your business from big problems. Contact our experts today for help.

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