Technology Advisor Blog

How hackers use AI for phishing attacks has become more advanced, making standard email security measures inadequate for protection. Modern cybercriminals leverage artificial intelligence to create convincing emails with flawless grammar, personal details from social media, and context-aware content that can deceive your most alert employees.  No more language barriers in cyber crime!

Every year, Verizon publishes a Data Breach Investigation Report (DBIR). The Verizon DBIR is one of the most comprehensive reports illustrating REAL security incidents and breaches, not just hypothetical "this could happen" warnings.  The 2025 Report - the 18th annual report! -  was published on April 23, 2025 and as usual, its full of inciteful information for both small business AND enterprise. To generate the report, the Verizon DBIR team analyzed 22,053 real-world security incidents, of which 12,195 were confirmed data breaches. 

With the start of the new month and Tax season now over, cybercriminals are beginning to shift their focus on to new trends. This time targeting tech and healthcare giants for patient sensitive information out by the millions.
I’m sure you all have heard it before ‘I’m just one person and keep my circle small, I’m not going to fall victim to a cybercrime. I’m so careful.’ Or even; “I just use the necessities and take what I believe are the cautionary steps”. Until you’re not. Even just this morning a colleague received a phishing text claiming they saw their ‘resume’ and had a job opening with no further context. They pointed out the message’s red flags, which included a high amount of compensation for said job, no description of position or company name and contact information did not match. As annoying as it is to receive these types of unwanted messages, the attempt likely came from the individual placing their email to receive newsletters & updates of a product and service of their choosing. Not expecting their email or any other additional information to be involved for phishing attempts.

Starting May 5, 2025, all businesses - regardless of size - must meet Microsoft’s stricter email authentication requirements when sending to Outlook, Hotmail, and Live addresses. These changes are designed to reduce spoofing and impersonation, aligning with similar updates from Google and Yahoo to improve overall email security.

Just like your home needs a good spring cleaning, your technology and data need regular organization too. Cybersecurity best practices act like a home organization system for your digital life - keeping your accounts, passwords, and access permissions tidy, updated, and secure. This guide will show you proven methods in protecting your information while making sure your systems run smoothly using smart organization techniques. Learning the straightforward steps to defend yourself against current threats and build a more secure foundation for your business and personal data.  Cleaning out your closets this Spring?  Make sure you take care of your digital clutter as well!

With the development of generative AI becoming more sophisticated for both positive and malicious intent, it’s no surprise there has been an increased surge of cybercrime happening all around the world.
In 2024 alone, we can see these reflect in the 33% increased losses in the US compared to the previous year 2023. According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), losses from cybercrime in 2024 exceeded $16 billion, with the top three causes of financial loss stemming from phishing, extortion, and personal data breaches. Important note: When it comes to data incidents, the difference in context is that data incidents are suspicious activity occurring across accounts. A data breach refers to the confirmation of systems being given unauthorized access with malicious intent with financial loss.

Do small businesses need cybersecurity? YES!  Data shows that half of all cyber attacks target small organizations, making them prime targets alongside large corporations. Major security breaches at Fortune 500 companies grab headlines, yet local businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities face ongoing threats that can expose donor databases, financial records, and private customer details.  Each year, Verizon publishes the Data Breach Investigations Report which is loaded with statistics on the latest updates on real-world breaches.  Reports like this make it clear:  small businesses aren't flying under the radar - they're in the crosshairs.  Understanding real-world breach data helps you prepare, protect and stay resilient.

Did you know that in October, Microsoft will no longer be operating on Windows 10? Or that Microsoft is disabling ActiveX controls within the month of May? Are you aware that Microsoft’s April security updates intentionally added a folder that you must NOT delete? As a small business utilizing all your team’s energy and resources, it can be overwhelming keeping up with the multiple security updates ensuring your business’ safety.

Keyboard Shortcuts – These are a few of my favorite things!

Keyboard shortcuts are one of the simplest ways to boost your productivity - yet they're often overlooked. These quick key combinations help you navigate, format, and multitask faster without ever taking your hands off the keyboard. Whether you're writing emails, managing files, or working in Microsoft 365, learning a few key shortcuts can save minutes every day and hours over time. It’s a small change with a big payoff!

Did you know that 28% of consumers have fallen victim to credit card fraud in the last year? With nearly a third of people affected, it’s no surprise that 37% report feeling anxious about their credit card accounts being compromised. Families and career-driven individuals are especially on edge, with Gen X and Millennials (40%) sharing equally high levels of concern.