Technology Advice for Small Businesses

Simple steps to fortify your Android device

Your Android phone holds much more than just contacts and apps — it stores your personal, financial, and professional data. With cyberthreats growing in both number and sophistication, you need to be proactive about device security. This guide will walk you through the most common threats and show you how to defend your Android phone against them.

Common Android security threats

Here are some of the top security threats currently affecting Android users.

  • Malware and spyware: These malicious programs often disguise themselves as harmless apps and can install themselves without your knowledge. Once on your device, they may monitor your online activity, record keystrokes, or steal login credentials.

  • Phishing attacks: Delivered through emails or text messages, phishing scams aim to trick you into clicking on malicious links or disclosing personal information. These scams often try to seem to come from reputable sources, making them more deceptive.

  • Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Cybercriminals often lurk on public networks, searching for data to intercept. If your Android device isn’t encrypted, anything you send or receive over the network, such as passwords or messages, can be captured.

  • Outdated software: Running an older version of Android means your phone still has security flaws that newer updates have already fixed. Hackers leverage these known weak points to breach your device.

  • App permissions abuse: Some apps request access to more data than necessary, such as your camera, contacts, or location. If granted to an illicit or compromised app, this excess access can lead to data theft.

How to secure your Android phone

With the wide variety of threats out there, it’s important to cover all your bases.

Review app permissions
Over time, apps accumulate permissions that may no longer be necessary. Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to review and adjust app permissions, making sure each application accesses only what it needs.

Enable Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect is your device’s built-in defense against malicious apps, as it automatically scans apps and blocks harmful malware from being installed. To activate it, open the Google Play Store app, tap your profile icon in the corner, go to Play Protect, then confirm that “Scan apps with Play Protect” is turned on.

Keep your device updated

Regular software updates fix security vulnerabilities that hackers use to infiltrate your systems. To check for updates, go to Settings > System > System Update, and install the latest updates right away. Enabling automatic updates can reduce the risk of missing important patches.

Use strong screen locks
A strong screen lock is your first line of defense, particularly if your device is left unattended or stolen. Set a PIN, password, or biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition, to prevent unauthorized access.

Be cautious with public Wi-Fi
As mentioned earlier, public Wi-Fi networks can be risky to use. Avoid accessing sensitive information over unsecured networks. If you must connect to public Wi-Fi, then activate a trusted virtual private network (VPN) application to encrypt your data.

Install apps from trusted sources
Only download apps from the Google Play Store, which vets applications for security. Be cautious with third-party app stores, as their less rigorous vetting processes may allow malicious software into their offerings.

Monitor device activity
Regularly check your device for unusual activity, such as unexpected pop-ups, a laggy interface, or battery drain. These could be signs of malicious software running in the background, either directing you to harmful websites or executing harmful processes.

Educate yourself and stay vigilant
Stay abreast of the latest phishing campaigns by making it a habit of reviewing cybersecurity news from trusted sources. Given how rapidly these scams evolve, staying informed makes it far less likely that you’ll fall victim to new phishing tactics.
Additionally, always keep an eye out for the signs of phishing attacks. Be skeptical of unexpected requests for personal information. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before responding.

By putting these practices into place, you can drastically decrease the likelihood of security breaches, safeguarding your Android device and its data.

For more tips on securing your Android phone and other devices, reach out to us. Our experts are here to help.

Lock it down: A guide to Android security threats and solutions

In an era where your smartphone is a digital extension of your life, securing your Android device is more important than ever. Here’s a comprehensive guide to strengthening your Android phone against potential vulnerabilities, beginning with the most common threats you may encounter.

Common Android security threats

Here are some of the top security threats currently affecting Android users.

  • Malware and spyware: These malicious programs often disguise themselves as harmless apps and can install themselves without your knowledge. Once on your device, they may monitor your online activity, record keystrokes, or steal login credentials.

  • Phishing attacks: Delivered through emails or text messages, phishing scams aim to trick you into clicking on malicious links or disclosing personal information. These scams often try to seem to come from reputable sources, making them more deceptive.

  • Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Cybercriminals often lurk on public networks, searching for data to intercept. If your Android device isn’t encrypted, anything you send or receive over the network, such as passwords or messages, can be captured.

  • Outdated software: Running an older version of Android means your phone still has security flaws that newer updates have already fixed. Hackers leverage these known weak points to breach your device.

  • App permissions abuse: Some apps request access to more data than necessary, such as your camera, contacts, or location. If granted to an illicit or compromised app, this excess access can lead to data theft.

How to secure your Android phone

With the wide variety of threats out there, it’s important to cover all your bases.

Review app permissions
Over time, apps accumulate permissions that may no longer be necessary. Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to review and adjust app permissions, making sure each application accesses only what it needs.

Enable Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect is your device’s built-in defense against malicious apps, as it automatically scans apps and blocks harmful malware from being installed. To activate it, open the Google Play Store app, tap your profile icon in the corner, go to Play Protect, then confirm that “Scan apps with Play Protect” is turned on.

Keep your device updated

Regular software updates fix security vulnerabilities that hackers use to infiltrate your systems. To check for updates, go to Settings > System > System Update, and install the latest updates right away. Enabling automatic updates can reduce the risk of missing important patches.

Use strong screen locks
A strong screen lock is your first line of defense, particularly if your device is left unattended or stolen. Set a PIN, password, or biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition, to prevent unauthorized access.

Be cautious with public Wi-Fi
As mentioned earlier, public Wi-Fi networks can be risky to use. Avoid accessing sensitive information over unsecured networks. If you must connect to public Wi-Fi, then activate a trusted virtual private network (VPN) application to encrypt your data.

Install apps from trusted sources
Only download apps from the Google Play Store, which vets applications for security. Be cautious with third-party app stores, as their less rigorous vetting processes may allow malicious software into their offerings.

Monitor device activity
Regularly check your device for unusual activity, such as unexpected pop-ups, a laggy interface, or battery drain. These could be signs of malicious software running in the background, either directing you to harmful websites or executing harmful processes.

Educate yourself and stay vigilant
Stay abreast of the latest phishing campaigns by making it a habit of reviewing cybersecurity news from trusted sources. Given how rapidly these scams evolve, staying informed makes it far less likely that you’ll fall victim to new phishing tactics.
Additionally, always keep an eye out for the signs of phishing attacks. Be skeptical of unexpected requests for personal information. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before responding.

By putting these practices into place, you can drastically decrease the likelihood of security breaches, safeguarding your Android device and its data.

For more tips on securing your Android phone and other devices, reach out to us. Our experts are here to help.

Keeping your Android device safe from modern cyberthreats

Your Android phone is more than just a device; it’s a vault of personal information. But is it truly secure? Cybercriminals are constantly refining their methods, which means you need to take a proactive approach to Android security. Dive into this comprehensive guide to common Android threats and practical steps to transform your smartphone into a digital fortress.

Common Android security threats

Here are some of the top security threats currently affecting Android users.

  • Malware and spyware: These malicious programs often disguise themselves as harmless apps and can install themselves without your knowledge. Once on your device, they may monitor your online activity, record keystrokes, or steal login credentials.

  • Phishing attacks: Delivered through emails or text messages, phishing scams aim to trick you into clicking on malicious links or disclosing personal information. These scams often try to seem to come from reputable sources, making them more deceptive.

  • Unsecured Wi-Fi networks: Cybercriminals often lurk on public networks, searching for data to intercept. If your Android device isn’t encrypted, anything you send or receive over the network, such as passwords or messages, can be captured.

  • Outdated software: Running an older version of Android means your phone still has security flaws that newer updates have already fixed. Hackers leverage these known weak points to breach your device.

  • App permissions abuse: Some apps request access to more data than necessary, such as your camera, contacts, or location. If granted to an illicit or compromised app, this excess access can lead to data theft.

How to secure your Android phone

With the wide variety of threats out there, it’s important to cover all your bases.

Review app permissions
Over time, apps accumulate permissions that may no longer be necessary. Navigate to Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager to review and adjust app permissions, making sure each application accesses only what it needs.

Enable Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect is your device’s built-in defense against malicious apps, as it automatically scans apps and blocks harmful malware from being installed. To activate it, open the Google Play Store app, tap your profile icon in the corner, go to Play Protect, then confirm that “Scan apps with Play Protect” is turned on.

Keep your device updated

Regular software updates fix security vulnerabilities that hackers use to infiltrate your systems. To check for updates, go to Settings > System > System Update, and install the latest updates right away. Enabling automatic updates can reduce the risk of missing important patches.

Use strong screen locks
A strong screen lock is your first line of defense, particularly if your device is left unattended or stolen. Set a PIN, password, or biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanning or facial recognition, to prevent unauthorized access.

Be cautious with public Wi-Fi
As mentioned earlier, public Wi-Fi networks can be risky to use. Avoid accessing sensitive information over unsecured networks. If you must connect to public Wi-Fi, then activate a trusted virtual private network (VPN) application to encrypt your data.

Install apps from trusted sources
Only download apps from the Google Play Store, which vets applications for security. Be cautious with third-party app stores, as their less rigorous vetting processes may allow malicious software into their offerings.

Monitor device activity
Regularly check your device for unusual activity, such as unexpected pop-ups, a laggy interface, or battery drain. These could be signs of malicious software running in the background, either directing you to harmful websites or executing harmful processes.

Educate yourself and stay vigilant
Stay abreast of the latest phishing campaigns by making it a habit of reviewing cybersecurity news from trusted sources. Given how rapidly these scams evolve, staying informed makes it far less likely that you’ll fall victim to new phishing tactics.
Additionally, always keep an eye out for the signs of phishing attacks. Be skeptical of unexpected requests for personal information. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before responding.

By putting these practices into place, you can drastically decrease the likelihood of security breaches, safeguarding your Android device and its data.

For more tips on securing your Android phone and other devices, reach out to us. Our experts are here to help.

Unlearn these 10 habits to speed up your Windows PC workflows

The way we use our PCs can seem adequate, but often, there’s always room for improvement. With just a few adjustments, you could be getting more done in less time. Streamline your workflow and boost productivity by breaking these 10 common habits. From eliminating unnecessary clicks to customizing your workspace, these tips will transform your Windows PC into a productivity powerhouse.

Opening apps the traditional way

Many people still open apps by clicking through the Start menu, but that method often involves scrolling through a long list of programs. Instead, use the Start Menu search bar to quickly find what you need. For even quicker access, consider pinning your favorite apps to the taskbar or Start menu.

Navigating through the File Explorer the long way

Repeatedly clicking through the same folders every time you open File Explorer can be a productivity killer. A better approach? Pin frequently accessed folders to the Quick Access menu. This gives you one-click access to your essential files without wasting time searching for them. You can also pin folders to your taskbar for even faster access.

Hunting for settings without searching

Digging through the Settings app to find specific options is time-consuming. Why not use the search bar within the Settings window to directly jump to the setting you need? You can also use Windows + I to quickly access the Settings app, saving time searching through multiple menus.

Ignoring taskbar and Start menu customization

If you haven’t customized your Start menu or taskbar, you’re missing out. The default layout often includes unneeded apps and shortcuts. Spend a few minutes unpinning irrelevant items and pinning the apps you use most. You can also tweak the settings for the Start menu and taskbar to match your preferences and streamline your workflow.

Manually resizing and positioning windows

Dragging and resizing windows manually is an outdated approach. Windows has a built-in snap feature that allows you to quickly arrange windows using keyboard shortcuts such as Windows + Left Arrow or Windows + Right Arrow. For even greater flexibility, try Microsoft’s PowerToys FancyZones, which lets you create customized window layouts to automatically organize your workspace.

Copy-pasting the old-fashioned way

If you’re still using Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V for copying and pasting, you’re overlooking some useful features. Windows has a clipboard history that lets you access previous copies and even pin items you use frequently. Press Windows + V to open it, and enjoy easier access to your clipboard content without hunting through previous work.

Taking screenshots the clunky way

Old habits die hard, but Windows now offers much better ways to capture screenshots. Instead of using the Print Screen button and cropping the full screen image, press Windows + Shift + S to select a portion of your screen to capture. You can easily paste this screenshot into any app without the hassle of editing it afterward.

Letting startup programs run wild

Many apps are set to launch automatically when your PC starts, often slowing down the boot process and consuming essential system resources. To reduce startup delays, head into the Task Manager and disable unnecessary startup programs. This way, you only have the essentials running from the get-go.

Using the mouse for everything

It’s easy to rely on the mouse for everything, but learning a few keyboard shortcuts can greatly increase your efficiency. Master a few basics, such as Windows + E to launch File Explorer or Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. The more shortcuts you learn, the less time you’ll waste aimlessly clicking through menus.

Rebooting instead of restarting Explorer

If your desktop, taskbar, or File Explorer isn’t behaving properly, you don’t always need to reboot your entire PC. A simple fix is to restart Windows Explorer via the Task Manager. Right-click on “explorer.exe” in the process list and select Restart. This can resolve many minor issues without interrupting your work.

By breaking these time-wasting habits, you’ll be able to use your Windows PC more effectively and get more done with less effort. For more tech tips and updates, contact our expert IT team today. We’re always happy to assist you with everything tech.

Break these Windows PC habits for peak productivity

Is your Windows PC slowing your work down? The root cause might not be your computer, but your habits. By breaking free from a few inefficient practices, you can speed up your tasks and streamline your everyday PC use. Here’s a breakdown of 10 common habits that can drag down your Windows experience, and how you can refine them for better speed and efficiency.

Opening apps the traditional way

Many people still open apps by clicking through the Start menu, but that method often involves scrolling through a long list of programs. Instead, use the Start Menu search bar to quickly find what you need. For even quicker access, consider pinning your favorite apps to the taskbar or Start menu.

Navigating through the File Explorer the long way

Repeatedly clicking through the same folders every time you open File Explorer can be a productivity killer. A better approach? Pin frequently accessed folders to the Quick Access menu. This gives you one-click access to your essential files without wasting time searching for them. You can also pin folders to your taskbar for even faster access.

Hunting for settings without searching

Digging through the Settings app to find specific options is time-consuming. Why not use the search bar within the Settings window to directly jump to the setting you need? You can also use Windows + I to quickly access the Settings app, saving time searching through multiple menus.

Ignoring taskbar and Start menu customization

If you haven’t customized your Start menu or taskbar, you’re missing out. The default layout often includes unneeded apps and shortcuts. Spend a few minutes unpinning irrelevant items and pinning the apps you use most. You can also tweak the settings for the Start menu and taskbar to match your preferences and streamline your workflow.

Manually resizing and positioning windows

Dragging and resizing windows manually is an outdated approach. Windows has a built-in snap feature that allows you to quickly arrange windows using keyboard shortcuts such as Windows + Left Arrow or Windows + Right Arrow. For even greater flexibility, try Microsoft’s PowerToys FancyZones, which lets you create customized window layouts to automatically organize your workspace.

Copy-pasting the old-fashioned way

If you’re still using Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V for copying and pasting, you’re overlooking some useful features. Windows has a clipboard history that lets you access previous copies and even pin items you use frequently. Press Windows + V to open it, and enjoy easier access to your clipboard content without hunting through previous work.

Taking screenshots the clunky way

Old habits die hard, but Windows now offers much better ways to capture screenshots. Instead of using the Print Screen button and cropping the full screen image, press Windows + Shift + S to select a portion of your screen to capture. You can easily paste this screenshot into any app without the hassle of editing it afterward.

Letting startup programs run wild

Many apps are set to launch automatically when your PC starts, often slowing down the boot process and consuming essential system resources. To reduce startup delays, head into the Task Manager and disable unnecessary startup programs. This way, you only have the essentials running from the get-go.

Using the mouse for everything

It’s easy to rely on the mouse for everything, but learning a few keyboard shortcuts can greatly increase your efficiency. Master a few basics, such as Windows + E to launch File Explorer or Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. The more shortcuts you learn, the less time you’ll waste aimlessly clicking through menus.

Rebooting instead of restarting Explorer

If your desktop, taskbar, or File Explorer isn’t behaving properly, you don’t always need to reboot your entire PC. A simple fix is to restart Windows Explorer via the Task Manager. Right-click on “explorer.exe” in the process list and select Restart. This can resolve many minor issues without interrupting your work.

By breaking these time-wasting habits, you’ll be able to use your Windows PC more effectively and get more done with less effort. For more tech tips and updates, contact our expert IT team today. We’re always happy to assist you with everything tech.

10 mistakes to avoid for better productivity and efficiency on a Windows PC

Do you feel like you’re not getting the most out of your Windows PC? A few simple tweaks to your daily habits can improve your workflow, reduce wasted time, and help you work faster. In this article, we’ll walk through 10 common habits to break and share tips on how to use your computer more efficiently.

Opening apps the traditional way

Many people still open apps by clicking through the Start menu, but that method often involves scrolling through a long list of programs. Instead, use the Start Menu search bar to quickly find what you need. For even quicker access, consider pinning your favorite apps to the taskbar or Start menu.

Navigating through the File Explorer the long way

Repeatedly clicking through the same folders every time you open File Explorer can be a productivity killer. A better approach? Pin frequently accessed folders to the Quick Access menu. This gives you one-click access to your essential files without wasting time searching for them. You can also pin folders to your taskbar for even faster access.

Hunting for settings without searching

Digging through the Settings app to find specific options is time-consuming. Why not use the search bar within the Settings window to directly jump to the setting you need? You can also use Windows + I to quickly access the Settings app, saving time searching through multiple menus.

Ignoring taskbar and Start menu customization

If you haven’t customized your Start menu or taskbar, you’re missing out. The default layout often includes unneeded apps and shortcuts. Spend a few minutes unpinning irrelevant items and pinning the apps you use most. You can also tweak the settings for the Start menu and taskbar to match your preferences and streamline your workflow.

Manually resizing and positioning windows

Dragging and resizing windows manually is an outdated approach. Windows has a built-in snap feature that allows you to quickly arrange windows using keyboard shortcuts such as Windows + Left Arrow or Windows + Right Arrow. For even greater flexibility, try Microsoft’s PowerToys FancyZones, which lets you create customized window layouts to automatically organize your workspace.

Copy-pasting the old-fashioned way

If you’re still using Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V for copying and pasting, you’re overlooking some useful features. Windows has a clipboard history that lets you access previous copies and even pin items you use frequently. Press Windows + V to open it, and enjoy easier access to your clipboard content without hunting through previous work.

Taking screenshots the clunky way

Old habits die hard, but Windows now offers much better ways to capture screenshots. Instead of using the Print Screen button and cropping the full screen image, press Windows + Shift + S to select a portion of your screen to capture. You can easily paste this screenshot into any app without the hassle of editing it afterward.

Letting startup programs run wild

Many apps are set to launch automatically when your PC starts, often slowing down the boot process and consuming essential system resources. To reduce startup delays, head into the Task Manager and disable unnecessary startup programs. This way, you only have the essentials running from the get-go.

Using the mouse for everything

It’s easy to rely on the mouse for everything, but learning a few keyboard shortcuts can greatly increase your efficiency. Master a few basics, such as Windows + E to launch File Explorer or Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. The more shortcuts you learn, the less time you’ll waste aimlessly clicking through menus.

Rebooting instead of restarting Explorer

If your desktop, taskbar, or File Explorer isn’t behaving properly, you don’t always need to reboot your entire PC. A simple fix is to restart Windows Explorer via the Task Manager. Right-click on “explorer.exe” in the process list and select Restart. This can resolve many minor issues without interrupting your work.

By breaking these time-wasting habits, you’ll be able to use your Windows PC more effectively and get more done with less effort. For more tech tips and updates, contact our expert IT team today. We’re always happy to assist you with everything tech.

Is your data safe? A guide to Backup-as-a-Service

What would happen if you lost all your critical business data tomorrow? For many companies, the answer is devastating. Hardware failures, natural disasters, and the ever-present threat of ransomware can bring operations to a grinding halt. Relying on outdated, on-site backup systems is a risky gamble. A more effective solution is Backup-as-a-Service (BaaS), which leverages the power of the cloud to keep your data safe and accessible.

What is Backup-as-a-Service?

BaaS is a managed service where a third-party expert handles your data backups by storing them securely in the cloud. Instead of you buying and managing your own expensive hardware and software for on-site backups, the BaaS provider takes care of everything behind the scenes.

The process is simple and automated. Your data is backed up continuously without interrupting your day-to-day work, ensuring you always have a recent copy ready to go. If you ever need to recover your information, the process is fast, simple, and hassle-free.

This model works with different cloud setups, whether you use a private, public, or hybrid environment. It’s a hands-off approach that frees up your IT team to focus on other priorities while giving you peace of mind that your data is protected by specialists.

Key benefits of adopting a BaaS strategy

Moving your backup strategy to the cloud offers advantages that go far beyond just storing your files:

Reduced costs and simplified management

You can stop spending significant capital on backup hardware and software. Instead, you pay a predictable subscription fee, shifting your costs from a large upfront investment to a manageable operating expense. Your IT team is also freed from the daily grind of managing and maintaining these complex systems, as the vendor handles all the technical work.

Enhanced efficiency and scalability

Unlike on-site systems that can quickly run out of space, cloud environments offer what feels like limitless storage. BaaS providers make this even more efficient by using smart techniques such as data compression, which shrinks files before they’re transferred, and deduplication, which eliminates redundant copies of data. As a result, you can easily scale up or down as needed without worrying about running out of space or investing in additional hardware.

Improved data accessibility

With your data stored in the cloud, you have quick and easy access to it from anywhere. This simplifies the process of finding information for audits and makes meeting compliance requirements much easier.

How BaaS is your shield against outages and cyberattacks

Effective data management requires a plan for worst-case scenarios, such as sudden outages or determined cybercriminals. BaaS plays a crucial role in any robust business continuity plan, keeping your data secure and accessible at all times.

A major advantage of BaaS is its automatic backup and disaster recovery capabilities. This means your data is constantly backed up and stored in different locations, making it nearly impossible for cybercriminals to access or destroy all of your information.

In addition, many BaaS providers implement advanced security measures, such as encryption and multifactor authentication, to protect your data from malicious attacks. Dedicated teams also monitor for potential threats and respond quickly to any issues that may arise. Such a high level of security and protection provides peace of mind, knowing your business’s data is safeguarded at all times.

Overall, BaaS is much more than just a backup plan. It’s a smart, forward-thinking strategy for any modern business. It offers a cost-effective, efficient, and highly secure way to protect your most critical asset: your business data. By preparing your organization and choosing the right provider, you can implement a successful BaaS solution and ensure your business remains resilient no matter what comes its way.

Talk to our experts today to learn more about how BaaS can benefit your business.