Microsoft is the best choice for almost all daily work in the office, whether it’s Word for document processing, Outlook for email or Excel for spreadsheets, so why not get the most out of those services? Microsoft Office 365’s latest Cloud-based features have a lot to offer businesses, but could it expose your company to new risks? Can Microsoft Office 365 Affect Your Business’ Security? A healthy dose of skepticism is expected with any new technology, but with the right consultation from an expert provider like {company}, you can leverage the full power of Office 365 without taking on any risks. Office 365 connects each and every Microsoft application with the Cloud, making your tasks more convenient and user-friendly, and actually eliminates further risks with new innovations. {company} can help your {city} business make the most of Microsoft Office 365, ensuring a smooth transition and setup. To learn more about Microsoft Office 365, contact {company} today at {phone} or {email}. How Can Microsoft Office 365 Reduce Your Risks? {company} can give you access to Microsoft’s many Cloud-based features, including: “99.9% Uptime Guaranteed” means minimal interruptions:{company} can ensure minimal unexpected downtime or inconvenient planned maintenance, allowing you and your employees to work efficiently and without delay. Smooth transition means fewer migration issues:{company} can smooth your migration to Office 365 services with industry-leading practices. With our help, you can be sure that no email, file, or calendar is missing from your newly configured setup. Sensible fees that limit financial risk:Due to the very nature of Cloud computing, there is almost no up-front capital required to pay for any physical hardware or the space to store it. Safety in Cloud means lower chance of data loss: By operating through the Cloud, your files, emails and other data is stored offsite in secure locations. These effective archiving services ensure not only that you have access to your data from remote workstations and mobile devices, but also that an up-to-date version is available at a moment’s notice should your onsite copy be compromised during an emergency. Make the most of the Microsoft applications you already use! With our help you can optimize your {city} business’ Microsoft configuration for better accessibility, security and convenience. Contact {company} today to start your transition to the Cloud.

Microsoft’s recent Patch Tuesday brought four critical updates, as well as eight important updates, in an attempt to resolve 54 reported vulnerabilities found in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office. KB 3097877, part of security bulletin MS15-115, was found to cause a multitude of issues for those using Outlook, including the following: Crashing when opening web-formatted (HTML) emails Black screens when trying to log in Other odd behaviours/general hangups Upon discovering the issues, a spokesperson from Microsoft explained, “We are looking into reports from some customers who are experiencing difficulties with Outlook after installing Windows KB 3097877. An immediate review is under way.” If you experienced issues as mentioned above, you’re likely extremely frustrated. We get that. Fortunately, Microsoft has reissued KB 3097877 to address the issues. A spokesperson expressed, “We recommend customers apply this update to help stay protected.” There was no mention as to what the issues were caused by or why the update was faulty in it’s release, however, it’s vital to apply the reissued update as it’s designed to fix a series of flaws that could otherwise let attackers remotely execute code on your systems. Need help making sure patches are applied in a timely manner? {company} does that for you. Call {phone} or email us at {email} to learn more about about managed IT services.

Don’t Let the Latest Version of CryptoWall Destroy Everything You’ve Worked So Hard to Build… Remember CryptoWall, the world’s most destructive ransomware? It’s back with a vengeance! CryptoWall 4.0 has surfaced with a multitude of encryption methods and evasion tactics that are tricking even the latest anti-virus programs. Ransomware is the worst possible threat for businesses as it encrypts all of your vital information, then demands a payment for the decryption key. Tyler Moffitt, Sr. Threat Research Analyst at Webroot, explained, “CryptoWall 4.0 is the latest encrypting ransomware out right now and we’ve already observed it spreading. With the huge ‘success’ of CryptoWall 3.0, I anticipate this variant to be the number one threat to watch out for going into 2016.” Are you prepared to fend off the destructive ransomware that costs you thousands, or worse, tens of thousands of dollars to recover?   You’ve heard the saying ‘knowledge is power,’ and it’s absolutely true when it comes to fending off threats such as ransomware. Here are the top factors you need to know, in order to face the latest version of the most destructive ransomware: Keep an eye out for it’s name: The creators of CryptoWall 4.0 have given the ransomware a new name: help_your_files_ransomware. If you notice the phrase, make sure to call an experienced team of IT security professionals immediately. Also, make sure you’ve updated your file screening to include the phrase. Don’t open suspicious email attachments: If you’re not absolutely certain of the sender, do not open suspicious email attachments, even if it’s from someone you know, check the source. Don’t hesitate to call the sender and ask if they sent you something in the form of an attachment. Email attachments are still the most commonly used way to send ransomware. Expect to feel even more frustrated than ever:  In an effort to further frustrate victims into paying the fee, the attackers have started encrypting filenames, as well as files, so you’re not able to tell what files have been targeted and encrypted! This means filenames will appear with names including random letters and numbers. Prepare in the same way you would for previous versions: The good news is CryptoWall 4.0 behaves exactly like previous versions, although the encryption methods and evasion tactics are more advanced. CryptoWall 4.0 still infects in the same way, encrypts files in the same way, and uses the same domain to request/receive payments. This means you can prepare in the same way. CryptoWall 4.0 is stronger and more sophisticated than previous versions, but ultimately, it’s the same preventative measures that matter: Make sure files are backed up onsite and in the cloud, in order to ensure you’re able to recover those files instead of paying the fee. Use an email filtering software to prevent malicious or annoying spam from getting to your inboxes. Install an enterprise-grade firewall that keeps unauthorized users away from your network at all times. {company} provides managed IT services wherein we keep our clients prepared for the latest threats – safeguarding with the appropriate security measures to prevent even the most destructive ransomware. Call {phone} or email us at {email} for more information.

Discover the Secrets to Spotting Phishing Attacks Before You Become Yet Another Victim… Email is the most common source of malware and virus infections. Why? Because email is the gateway to your company; and while it’s an incredibly convenient way for your staff members to communicate with one another, clients, and partners, it’s also an incredibly convenient way for cybercriminals to hack your systems and steal confidential information. Phishing attacks flow into inboxes like yours significantly more during the months before the holidays… Are you confident your employees would be able to spot a phishing attack before it’s too late? Phishing attacks flow into inboxes like yours all throughout the year, however; they become significantly more common and sophisticated during the months before the holidays. Top secrets you need to know in order to spot phishing attacks before you become yet another victim: Poor spelling and grammar: If you’re on a major corporation’s website or you receive an email from a major corporation and it’s filled with spelling and grammar mistakes, it’s likely not legitimate. Asking for personal information: No matter how official the email seems, reputable companies don’t ask for personal information via email, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or anything else. Offers that seem too good to be true: If you end up on a website, receiving an email, or coming across a popup saying you’ve won something fantastic, it’s likely a phishing attack. Being asked to send money: If you receive an email that seems to be from a family member or friend asking for money due to an emergency, make sure to contact that individual prior to sending anything. A sense of extreme urgency: In many cases, hackers make it seem very urgent that you provide personal information/financial details or something terrible will happen. Don’t fall for this scam. Don’t become yet another victim to phishing attacks. Safeguard your email against hackers before it’s too late. Contact {company} at {phone} or send us an email at {email} for more information.

Honor Our Troops and Give a Big Salute to the True Heroes! On Veterans Day, we’d like to invite all of our clients to join us in thanking all the veterans who bravely serve their country and put their lives on the line. This year, please take a moment when 11:00am rolls around to take a moment of silence – remembering the true heroes who are currently serving, have already served, and those that have lost their lives in war. In today’s modern, increasingly competitive business environment, it’s easy to get caught up and busy with balancing the day-to-day tasks we have at work, but it’s absolutely necessary to honor the sacrifice of all the veterans and demonstrate that their dedication to our country will not be overlooked. {company} is proud to take a moment to thank all of the veterans out there. We greatly appreciate you for your service and we greatly appreciate you for your sacrifice. Thank you.      

Hackers have found a new way to steal from companies and it has more to do with people than it does technology.  Millions of dollars have been reported stolen from large corporations and they are handing it over themselves! This is how the scam works… Hackers will target the leaders of the company, usually the CEO and the CFO, using public available information. The attackers with find out the inner workings of the company and learn the policies for financial transactions. They make a domain name as similar to the name of the company as possible, LUTHERCORP.ca vs. LUTHERRC0RP.ca, and send an email to the CFO from that false domain. The email will claim to be from the CEO asking for a large sum of money to be wired to an account. The email will often be full long business conversations with other company executives to make it seem real and will be marked as urgent. Making it urgent often bypasses many of the regular security steps in wiring money. Once the money has been sent, there is no getting it back. How can I protect my company? Have a multi-step system for withdrawing money that involves more than 1 person within the company Open up communication within the company so that people know it’s okay to ask questions Establish a physical or verbal signature for withdraw so that the entire transaction isn’t online What does {company} do to keep you protected and operating at your best? {company} is all about keeping you protected and operating at your best. We provide managed IT services wherein we handle absolutely everything – from implementing the right security measures to proactively monitoring your systems for issues to making sure all patches are applied immediately – all at a flat-rate monthly fee. We go above and beyond – staying ahead of the latest threats and any industry-specific regulations you’re required to adhere to, in order to help you stay safe in the evolving world of cybercrime. This scam shows the biggest security flaw in a company is internal. Targeting high ranking members allows them to skip past any and all security measures that you may have in place. For more information on hacking tactics so that you can keep your company safe, contact {company} at {phone} or {email}. We provide managed IT services wherein we handle all of your technology needs.

Whether or not your business should accept mobile payments is a question every business owner needs to ask themselves. Does it benefit your company to have the ability to receive payments immediately, as well as offer multiple payment options? If you answer yes, then it is likely mobile payments would benefit you and your business. Making the Right Choice If you are just embarking on the process of making payment option decisions for your business, or in the process of re-evaluating what payment methods you will accept it is best to begin by evaluating the way your products and services are brought to market. When making the choice, consider your clients, who they are and what payment preferences have been in the past. Mobile payments are appreciated by more technology savvy buyers who embrace the concept of making payments via their smartphones. If your company sells their products in a variety of locations, including client sites, expos or while travelling than mobile payments can be a large advantage for the business. It allows the business to close a sale on the spot, and payment can be made immediately. Not having this ability could cost you the sale as potential customers and clients will often say they will be in contact and they are never heard from again. Mobile Payments Include: Google Wallet PayPal Square Simplify Commerce What to Consider There are several considerations to me made when choosing what payment options will work for your unique circumstances, such as what will work with the technology you are already using. It can be quite simple to implement mobile payments, and be as easy as getting a credit card ready that attaches to your phone. Be sure to investigate whether or not mobile payment devices and apps can properly integrate with the software your business already uses, as well as carefully considering the cost of these services, and weighing them against the likely benefits of offering them. It is important to ensure that your chosen mobile payment service integrates with your accounting software, as well as your merchant account, if there is one, as well as any and all other financial systems that may be used by the business. It is important to always remember that credit card transactions contain highly sensitive financial and personal information, so if you decide to accept mobile payment it is critical to do your homework and do business with a trusted and reputable provider that takes the appropriate measures to safeguard all of your client’s information. Many clients prefer to pay for their products and services via credit card, and are now starting to do it with phones as well. If you think that mobile payment options have the potential to boost your business’s sales and profits it seems like a natural decision to investigate it further and we can help you with that!  Our IT professionals are immersed in technology every day, so you can feel rest assured knowing that we have your best interests in hand.  We can provide you with the strategic guidance you need to make informed technology decisions that not only benefit you, but also your business. For more information on using mobile payments to help your business reach the next level of success and how our Managed IT services could be the perfect fit for you, contact {company} at {phone} or send an email directly to {email}.  

Microsoft’s new Windows 10 operating system is a simple, familiar, and easy to use OS that operates with more speed and power than ever before, but similar to all new releases in the IT world, there are some bugs. Microsoft has been testing and researching the OS, and they’ve incorporated major upgrades in the Build 10565. Here is a list of what you can expect from the upgrades of Build 10565: Skype Integration Microsoft will be including Skype video calling and messaging into the new Operating System. This will allow users free calling across 3G and 4G data and WIFI connections. The Integration won’t be perfect, but Microsoft is working on making it as efficient and simple to use as possible. Microsoft Edge Microsoft’s Edge Browser is receiving a few upgrades, such as tab preview and syncing reading items with favorites or frequently visited sites. There are various other upgrades to come for those using the new browser. Cortana Those with Surface Pro items can now use their Surface pen to write down notes and have the Cortana recognize and schedule events and set reminders. Cortana is also capable of scanning your email for confirmation messages and scheduling concerts or other ticket events. Other minor fixes made include: Sounds will now work when windows are minimized Context menus are now smaller for the mouse pad Contacts can be pinned to the start menu You can hide desktop items Applications will not appear more than once on the task bar {company} provides managed IT services wherein we handle all of your technology and provide guidance when needed to help you figure out what new technologies are right for you. Call {phone} or send us an email at {email} for more information.

And It’s Costlier Than You’d Think to Wake Up. Imagine your worst nightmare: coming into the office, turning on your desktop, and finding that all of your data is gone – financial records, customer information, everything – deleted. IT shouldn’t be something you’re afraid of; but when cybercriminals start causing trouble, it’s crucial that you take notice. One small mistake could compromise your livelihood, and attackers are pulling out every trick imaginable to scam victims into clicking on dangerous links, downloading attachments, or compromising sensitive information. So how do you separate the tricks from treats in your inbox? These tips will make sure you spot a ghoul before they infect your network. They Prey on Your Fears Whenever there’s a big story circulating, cybercriminals take it and run. When news of the heartbleed bug broke in 2014, attackers would send emails disguised as security warnings or important information; victims who clicked on links were then infected with ransomware and other bugs. They’re Always Wearing Masks Like we said, cybercriminals are smart and very adaptive; they’ll never simply identify themself. Emails always come disguised as “breaking news”, a friend in need, an urgent warning, and so on. Being vigilant with your inbox is the best way to stay safe – never click on a link or download an attachment that you’re not expecting or that looks suspicious. You’re Constantly Being Watched Think about your social media presence; how protected are you online? Phishing scams have been around for a while, but a new form called spear-phishing attacks are even more sinister and dangerous. Using information from your Facebook, Instagram, and other accounts, attackers gather a wide range of knowledge; your friends, your likes, your location, and more. They use that info to create a fake persona, engage you through email, and then coax you into sending money or compromising data. Their Scare Tactics Will Suck The Life Out of Your Business A cybercriminal that targets your inbox usually isn’t just after you; when data is compromised, your entire business is affected. That’s why you need to think twice before falling for an email that claims to be from your bank or FedEx, asking you to clarify account numbers and information. Pick up the phone and call before you ever make transactions through Email or give out sensitive information. Halloween is rapidly approaching and you need to keep your inbox safe from the ghouls that are constantly lurking. Get in touch with {company} to discuss the most effective ways to protect your business against malicious intruders. Contact our IT experts at {email} or {phone}.