Cybersecurity investments boost profitability, resilience

Expenditures on resilience will help companies reduce downtime, Acting National Cyber Director Kemba Walden said at the Billington Cybersecurity Summit. Read More…

Secure, scalable and unified access control at your fingertips.

AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry puts efficient video surveillance and access control at your fingertips. Axis Communications offer scalable complete A-Z network video surveillance solutions including intelligent analytics, designed to protect your premises — and your bottom line. Check out the data sheet for full features and benefits of AXIS Camera Station Secure Entry and 2N IP Access Control Systems. View: Secure, scalable and unified access control at your fingertips.

Ransomware: A Big Threat to Small & Medium Businesses

Ransomware is a big threat to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). How big? Our technology partner, eSentire, gives you an at-a-glance in this quick-hitting infographic. Download the infographic for data showing just how vulnerable SMBs are to threats such as ransomware-as-a-service and initial access brokers. In addition, get 4 tips to preventing, detecting and responding to threats. Ready to take your first step? Contact Tech Hero today to get started. View: Ransomware: A Big Threat to Small & Medium Businesses

How much is your image costing you?

Epson’s laser projection technology offers a high-quality display on par with more expensive and complex direct view LEDs (dvLED). But potential cost-savings isn’t the only reason to choose Epson Series L projectors for Higher Education. Check out this solution brief for a point-by-point performance comparison of Epson’s single projector application vs direct view LED. We think you’ll be impressed with what you see. Contact Epson AV expert Tech Hero for more details. View: How much is your image costing you?

Most Companies Can't Handle Cybersecurity Alone

The way to detect and neutralize determined cyber attackers is with 24/7 eyes-on-glass delivered by expert security operations professionals. These highly skilled operators have never been more critically urgent. Few organizations, however, have the right tools, people, infrastructure, and processes in-house to do this on their own. Global cybersecurity workforce shortages complicate the challenge, increasing risk and exposure to potential attacks for those without the necessary, on-demand resources. CSaaS is a security model where organizations leverage outside specialists to fulfill critical cybersecurity needs — such as around-the-clock threat monitoring. By outsourcing or augmenting IT teams to include managed cybersecurity services, organizations can more effectively mitigate attacks before they cause damage. Read More…

5 ways to boost your cyber hygiene

Discover what steps to take to improve cybersecurity controls and manage complexity. Read More…

Are there any simple cybersecurity rules you live by—e.g., not opening attachments from unknown senders—that you think significantly mitigate #cyberrisk?

Make the Switch to the New Teams

The new Microsoft Teams was reimagined from the ground up for a faster, simpler and more flexible experience. See why it’s the perfect collaboration app for your hybrid workforce in this informative video showing how it’s made connecting with colleagues simpler and faster.

6 simple cybersecurity rules to live by

How do you train others to avoid being victims of online crime? It’s all about human behavior. Read More…

Identify your biggest security gaps—free consultation

If you’re using ChatGPT or another relatively new AI powered tool, you’re a prime target for cybercriminals eager to exploit the new tech’s security gaps. To determine what you can do about it, schedule a free consultation with one of our experts. View: Identify your biggest security gaps—free consultation

These 7 AI Trends Are Sweeping the Cybersecurity Realm

Relentless digital innovation has defined the last few years. The symbiotic relationship between AI and cybersecurity has become pivotal especially when it comes to safeguarding sensitive information and digital assets. As cyber threats evolve in complexity, AI has emerged as a formidable ally. It empowers organizations with advanced tools and techniques. Helping them to stay one step ahead of malicious actors. In this exploration, we delve into cutting-edge AI trends. The trends that are reshaping the cybersecurity realm as well as fortifying defenses against an ever-expanding array of cyber threats. The Rise of AI in Cybersecurity As cyber threats grow in sophistication, traditional measures face challenges in keeping pace. This is where AI steps in. It offers a dynamic and adaptive approach to cybersecurity. Machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and other AI technologies analyze vast datasets. They do this at unprecedented speeds. They identify patterns and anomalies that might elude human detection. 58% of security professionals expect a completely new set of cyber risks in the coming years. The integration of AI in cybersecurity doesn’t replace human expertise. It enhances it. This allows security professionals to focus on strategic decision-making. All while AI handles the heavy lifting of data analysis and threat detection. AI Trends Sweeping the Cybersecurity Realm 1. Predictive Threat Intelligence AI is revolutionizing threat intelligence by enabling predictive capabilities. Machine learning algorithms analyze historical data, current threats, and emerging patterns. It does this to predict potential future cyber threats. This proactive approach allows organizations to put in place preemptive measures as well as close vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them. 2. Behavioral Analytics Traditional signature-based approaches struggle to keep up with zero-day attacks as well as advanced “smart phishing.” But AI-driven behavioral analytics take a different approach. They focus on understanding the normal behavior of systems and users. Deviations from these patterns trigger alerts. This helps in identifying potential threats. Identification is based on anomalous activities rather than known signatures. 3. Autonomous Security Systems The concept of autonomous security systems, empowered by AI, is gaining prominence. These systems can automatically detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats in real-time. This minimizes response times and reduces the impact of security incidents. The ability to automate routine security tasks enhances efficiency. It also allows human experts to focus on strategic aspects of cybersecurity. 4. Explainable AI (XAI) AI plays an increasingly critical role in cybersecurity decision-making. This makes the need for transparency paramount. Explainable AI (XAI) addresses this concern. It provides insights into how AI algorithms reach specific conclusions. This enhances trust in AI-driven cybersecurity. It also helps security professionals understand the decisions made by AI systems. 5. Cloud Security Augmentation With the proliferation of cloud services, securing cloud environments has become a priority. AI is being leveraged to enhance cloud security. A few ways that it does this is by: Monitoring activities Detecting anomalies Responding to threats in cloud-based infrastructures The dynamic nature of cloud environments requires adaptive security measures. This makes AI a natural fit for bolstering cloud security. 6. Deception Technology Deception technology involves creating decoy assets within an organization’s network to mislead attackers. Companies are now integrating AI into deception technology to make decoys more convincing as well as more responsive to attackers’ behavior. This helps in early threat detection. It also provides valuable insights into attacker tactics and techniques. 7. Zero Trust Architecture Zero Trust Architecture, supported by AI, challenges the traditional security model. Where systems trust entities inside and distrust entities outside the network. AI-driven continuous authentication and monitoring ensure that trust is never assumed. It dynamically adapts access privileges. It does this based on real-time assessments of user behavior and risk factors. Embracing the Future of Cybersecurity with AI As the threat landscape evolves, the incorporation of AI in cybersecurity is important. It’s not just a strategic choice, it’s a necessity. These AI trends mark a paradigm shift. They are enabling organizations to build more resilient and adaptive cybersecurity frameworks. It’s important to stay informed and embrace the transformative power of AI. This helps businesses navigate the complexities of the digital landscape. And do it with confidence, fortifying defenses against emerging threats. AI stands as a beacon of innovation. It continually pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of cybersecurity. The symbiotic relationship between human expertise and AI-driven capabilities is vital. It will shape the future of data security. Helping ensure a safer digital landscape for businesses and individuals alike. Schedule a Cybersecurity Upgrade Assessment How strong are your digital defenses against sophisticated threats? The bad guys are also using AI. This means more dangerous phishing and network attacks. Need some help assessing your strength? Sign up for a cybersecurity assessment and shed light on your capabilities. We can help you incorporate AI-based protection and fortify your network from attacks. Give us a call today to schedule a chat. —Featured Image Credit This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

9 Signs That Your Smart Home Device Has Been Hacked

Smart home devices are becoming more popular and convenient. But they also pose some serious security risks. Hackers can target these devices to access your personal information. As well as spy on your activities or cause damage to your home. Often the dangers of smart home devices fall under the radar. Seventy-five percent of people feel some level of distrust about the use of their data. Yet most people are willing to use smart home technology. As we enjoy the convenience of smart living, it’s crucial to be vigilant about cyber threats. A hacker may have compromised your smart system without you even knowing it. How can you tell if a hacker has compromised your smart home device? Here are some signs to look out for. 1. Unexpected Behavior Unexpected behavior is the first sign someone has compromised your smart home device. If your device starts acting erratically, it’s time to investigate. Erratic behavior can include: Lights flickering Thermostat settings changing Smart locks behaving unpredictably Hackers often manipulate smart devices to create disturbances. Noticing these irregularities early can prevent further damage. 2. Unusual Network Traffic Monitoring your home network is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. Have you observed a sudden surge in data usage? Noticed unusual patterns in network traffic? If so, this could indicate unauthorized access. Hackers may exploit your smart devices to launch attacks or steal sensitive information. Regularly check your router’s activity logs. This helps you stay vigilant against abnormal network behavior. 3. Strange Sounds or Voices Smart speakers and voice-activated assistants have become commonplace in many households. If you start hearing unfamiliar voices or strange sounds from these devices, it’s a red flag. Hackers may use compromised devices to eavesdrop or communicate with household members. This poses serious privacy concerns. Ensure that your smart devices are only responding to authorized voices. 4. Device Settings Modification Smart devices offer customizable settings to cater to individual preferences. Have you noticed unauthorized changes to these settings? Such as alterations in camera angles, sensor sensitivity, or device preferences? If so, there’s a high likelihood that a hacker has compromised your device. Regularly review and update your device settings. This helps you maintain control over your smart home ecosystem. 5. Unexplained Data Transfers Smart devices often collect and send data to the cloud for analysis or storage. Keep an eye on your device’s data usage. Be wary of unexplained data transfers. Hackers may exploit vulnerabilities to extract sensitive information from your devices. Regularly review the data usage patterns of your smart devices. This helps you to identify any suspicious activity. 6. Device Inaccessibility Suddenly finding yourself locked out of your smart home devices could be a sign of hacking. Hackers may change passwords or enable two-factor authentication without your consent. They can take control of your accounts. This renders you unable to access or manage your devices. Always act promptly to regain control. Secure your accounts if you suspect unauthorized access. 7. New or Unknown Devices on the Network Regularly review the list of devices connected to your home network. Do you spot unfamiliar or unauthorized devices? If so, it’s a clear sign that someone may have breached your network. Hackers often connect to your network. They do this to exploit vulnerabilities in smart devices or launch attacks. Secure your network with strong passwords. Also, consider implementing network segmentation for added protection. 8. Frequent Software Glitches Smart devices receive regular software updates. These updates patch vulnerabilities and enhance security. Have you noticed frequent software glitches? Or has your device failed to update? It could be a sign of interferenceby a malicious actor. Ensure that your smart devices are running the latest firmware. This ensures it has the latest security patches and bug fixes installed. 9. Emails or Messages Confirming Changes You Didn’t Make Some smart devices send notifications or emails to confirm changes such as changes in settings, passwords, or device access. Did you receive such confirmations for actions you didn’t take? If so, this is a clear sign of unauthorized access. Take immediate action to secure your account. This includes changing passwords and reviewing access permissions. Need Help Securing Your Smart Home & Peace of Mind? As our homes become smarter, so must our approach to cybersecurity. The first step in safeguarding your digital domain is recognizing signs. The signs that a hacker has compromised your smart home device. Remember, smart home devices can make your life easier and more comfortable. But they also need careful maintenance and protection. Need some guidance? We can help you ensure that your smart home remains a secure haven of innovation. Instead of a vulnerable target for cyber threats. Contact us today to schedule a smart home security consultation. —Featured Image Credit This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

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