Your Business’ Swiss Army Phone

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Mobile devices, mainly smartphones, have become an indispensable tool for people to stay connected and to get things done on the go. While they can be a source of distraction, when used wisely, mobile devices can significantly enhance productivity. Let’s explore some practical tips on how to leverage the potential of your mobile device to maximize your efficiency and achieve your goals.

Organize your Digital Workspace

Just like a cluttered physical workspace can hinder productivity, a disorganized digital space can make it difficult to focus and find what you need. Take advantage of mobile apps that help you organize your files, notes, and tasks. Keep your home screen tidy by arranging the most frequently used apps and removing unnecessary ones. This will help streamline your workflow and save valuable time.

Use Productivity Apps

Mobile devices offer a wide range of productivity apps designed to help you stay organized and on track. From task management apps like Todoist and Trello to note-taking apps like Evernote and OneNote, there are countless options to choose from. Find the apps that align with your needs and integrate them into your daily routine. These apps can help you prioritize tasks, set reminders, collaborate with others, and track progress, ultimately enhancing your productivity.

Optimize Communication

Effective communication is crucial for productivity, and mobile devices offer various ways to streamline communication processes. Utilize email apps to manage your inbox efficiently, set up filters, and create templates for frequently sent messages. Instant messaging apps like Slack or Microsoft Teams can help you collaborate with colleagues in real time, reducing the need for lengthy email exchanges. 

Cloud Storage and Synchronization

Mobile devices allow seamless integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive. By utilizing these services, you can access your files and documents from anywhere, collaborate with others in real time, and ensure data backup. This enables you to work on projects seamlessly across different devices, enhancing productivity and eliminating the need to carry physical storage devices.

Minimize Distractions

While mobile devices can be productivity powerhouses, they can also be a source of distractions. Take steps to minimize distractions by disabling non-essential notifications, using focus mode or do-not-disturb settings during concentrated work periods, and limiting time spent on social media and entertainment apps. By consciously managing distractions, you can maintain focus and accomplish more with your mobile device.

If you would like to learn more about how to use mobile devices to improve your business’ productivity and keep business moving while out of the office, give the IT professionals at Reciprocal Technologies a call today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/your-business-swiss-army-phone/

Google Search Has Loads of Easter Eggs to Find

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On September 15, 1997, Google registered its domain and began its climb to the top of the search engine ladder. It began as a simple search engine, but since then it has seen immense growth as it continues to develop platforms and services through its parent company, Alphabet. There is a certain nostalgia attached to Google Search, and the company regularly includes little tidbits with the feature that people find fun: Easter Eggs.

Let’s take a look at some of the jokes that Google has used for their Easter Eggs over the years. Maybe you’ll see one or two that you didn’t know about!

Look, We Just Can’t Cover All of the Easter Eggs Here, and That’s Okay

Considering how long Google has been at it with these Easter eggs, it should come as no surprise that we can’t possibly cover them all in one blog article. There’s just too many of them, and some aren’t active any longer either. Some of them were associated with a specific day, like the “2/22/22” event, which issued a “Happy Twosday 2You!” to the user. Others, like those associated with the “Goooooo….gle” page indicator, don’t work any longer because Google has adopted an infinite scroll format.

That said, there are still plenty of them to mess around with. For example, try googling “Barbie” and see what happens. Here are some of the more fun Easter eggs still active at this time of writing:

A Tiny Sample of Google’s Easter Eggs

• Searching for “dvd screensaver” will cause the Google logo in the top left corner to begin bouncing around the screen, changing colors as it goes, similarly to—you guessed it—the screensaver that DVD players would display after remaining idle for too long.
• Searching for “text adventure” and then using the Ctrl+Shift+J shortcut to open the developers console will give you access to a Google-themed text-based adventure game, where you set out in search of the letters in the word “Google.” As a bonus Easter egg within an Easter egg, responding “no” to the introductory prompt “would you like to play a game” produces a reference to the 1983 movie WarGames.
• Searching for “puppy/puppies/dog/canine” or “kitten/cat” will produce a button that, when clicked, will cause a paw belonging to the corresponding animal to swipe up and leave a paw print behind.
• Searching for “define anagram” asks you if you meant to search for “nerd fame again,” which itself is an anagram of “define anagram.”
• Searching for “pi” will produce the Google calculator with the pi symbol prominent. Clicking it will start a memory game that takes the player through the digits of pi.
• Searching for “meteor shower” will darken the screen momentarily as three meteors pass by, shifting back to the way it was once they have passed.
• Searching for “netwon/Isaac Newton” will produce a button with an apple tree on it, which causes an apple to fall down the screen when clicked, just as the legend goes about how the physicist conceptualized the theory of gravity.
• Searching for “han/greedo shot first” will show the alternate result, posed as a “Did you mean” at the top of the screen. 
• Searching for “the one ring” will ask if you meant “my precioussss,” in a nod to Gollum from The Lord of the Rings.
• Searching for “world’s best boss” will ask “Did you mean Michael Scott” as a reference to Steve Carell’s character from The Office.
• Searching for “breathing exercise” will pull up a functional breathing exercise that you can follow along with.
• Searching for “pac-man/google pacman/play pacman” will pull up a functioning game of Pac-Man with a board designed around the Google logo. 
• Searching for “the answer to the ultimate question of life the universe and everything” brings up the Google Calculator, presenting the answer “42.” This is a reference to the Douglas Adams novel The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and has been around since the first Easter eggs were developed—even predating the calculator feature it now appears in.

This is Just a Small Sample of What Google Has Hidden Away

There are more than these Easter eggs, obviously, and we always like to encourage users to look for them. Developers often hide fun things like this in their services, so it’s always a treat when you make a fresh discovery.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/google-search-has-loads-of-easter-eggs-to-find/

How to Steal a Password

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Passwords are what separate you from someone else’s private information, their money, their subscriptions, their personal data, their business, and even their livelihood. If you were able to easily crack a password, you’d have access to the wealth and identity of another person. In this blog, we’re going to show you just how to do that.

How to Steal Almost Anyone’s Password for Almost Any Type of Account (Bank, Netflix, Email Inboxes, and More!)

Need a few extra grand to get yourself through the weekend? How about access to your neighbor’s Netflix account so you don’t have to pay for yours? Maybe you just want to hack into your former employer and cause a little chaos.

It’s incredibly easy to do.

Unfortunately, we’re not going to show you exactly how to do that. That would be, well, immoral. 

But we got your attention, so there’s that.

It’s worth understanding just how easy it is for hackers and bad guys to infiltrate your work, your network, your online accounts, and just about everything else you do. 

And hey, if you got this far in here because of the title of the blog, we don’t necessarily think you are one of the bad guys. It’s actually really interesting how this stuff works, and understanding it can help you become a whole lot safer online.

Step One – Know a Thing or Two About Your Victim

We’re going to use Homer J. Simpson as our example. No, not that Homer J. Simpson. As it turns out, the 1940 American census has one single Homer J. Simpson on it, and he was born in 1914. We’re pretty sure there haven’t been a lot of babies born with the name Homer J. Simpson ever since the 90s, so this is a pretty safe bet for our fictional victim. Everything from here on out, we’re just going to make up.

So let’s say we really don’t like Homer, and want to make his life miserable. Actually, scratch that. Let’s say we don’t know a gosh darn thing about him.

You see, Homer had a MyFitnessPal account back in 2018. Homer was using it to track his calorie intake and his daily steps. In February of 2018 (this is true), MyFitnessPal suffered a data breach that exposed 144 million unique accounts, including their emails and passwords. 144 million accounts getting stolen is small potatoes in the world of data breaches, but these types of data breaches happen all the time, and it means that the data you entrust to a business or online service could get you more exposure than you were counting on. Literally thousands of online entities have been breached over the last few years, from Sony to Wendy’s to Yahoo to Facebook to Experian to Doordash, and the list goes on.

Well, Homer’s MyFitnessPal account and his old password are floating around the dark web, and it’s available for me to scoop up. You might ask, how much value could I get from a MyFitnessPal account, especially years later, and long after the service forced Homer to reset his password?

Well, I know Homer’s name, his email, and a password he likes to use.

I can make my way over to Google.com and start looking up Homer on social media. I can find his date of birth, the town he grew up in, and his mother’s maiden name. I can pull up his LinkedIn and find out where he works, who he networks with, and what his job title is.

In 10 or 15 minutes, I can get a pretty decent snapshot of who Homer J. Simpson is, especially if he uses social media. I can learn the name of his kids, his dog, his wife, and the type of car he drives. I can easily find his address.

So how does all of this help me determine his password?

Most people use information about themselves in their passwords. It’s a really dumb idea, but it’s true. So many people put in birthdates, or birth years into their passwords, and then use their pet’s name. It might take you a little time, but if you are clever, you might be able to extrapolate a password based on their personal information. When in doubt, if their dog’s name is Woofy, replace the O’s with zeroes.

Step Two – Just Use Software to Crack the Password

Don’t have a lot of time and just want to ruin someone’s day? There is software available on the dark web that makes it easy to crack sophisticated passwords. As long as the user’s password isn’t too complex (if it’s 9 or 10 characters, or a few more but without special characters) most cracking tools can usually get right in within a few minutes to maybe a day or two. Of course, if the user has a longer password that is truly random, and doesn’t contain any obvious terms like their favorite sports teams, their car make and model, or the word “password,” then it might start to take longer.

Complex passwords are harder for the software to crack, but fortunately, most of these tools will try the most common permutations first, so if your victim is lazy about their password generation, you should be able to get in.

Step Three – Just Trick Them Into Giving It To You

This is probably the step you should have started with because it’s the most effective way to steal a password. In fact, this is the number one way cybercriminals get access to things they shouldn’t. 

It’s true. Around 95% of modern cyber breaches these days start with a phishing attack. It has such a high success rate that it’s a no-brainer to use if you want to get into someone’s account.

Here’s how it works.

You send them an email saying you are, let’s say, their bank.

You tell them that something is wrong with their account. If you are pretending to be a bank, you have lots of options, because people get a strong emotional reaction when something happens to their money. Tell them that a payment has been authorized for $2500 for something. Be specific, be creative! The goal is to throw them off guard!

Now here’s the trick… Instead of sending them to their actual bank, send them to a webpage that you built, that looks an awful lot like their bank. The catch is when they try to log in, they give you their username and password.

It’s that easy!

This happens all the time. It’s very illegal, and you shouldn’t do it, but it’s also very difficult to catch cybercriminals who are doing this sort of thing.

Don’t Be a Victim of Cybercrime

It’s more important than ever to keep yourself and your business secure. Always use strong, complex passwords, and never use the same password twice. Set up Multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere you can, and be extremely skeptical of random unsolicited emails. If something doesn’t seem right, scrutinize it!

We can help your business become more secure. To get started today, give us a call at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/how-to-steal-a-password/

Tip of the Week: How to Download Images from Google Docs, Even When Docs Won’t Let You

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Google Docs is a wonderful tool that can rival the ubiquitous Microsoft Word, and as such, it’s used by all kinds of individuals, from business professionals to the average user with a personal account. However, there is one slight annoyance that you might face while using Docs, and that’s the fact that you cannot right-click on images and save them to your PC. Or can you? Let’s find out.

Yes, You Can Right-Click Images and Save Them to Your PC

There is a workaround for this missing feature, and we’re here to help you get through the process with ease. Here’s how it’s done.

We’ll use the example of writing an instruction manual or a proposal within Google Docs, something that needs screenshots to illustrate the steps involved. You might use the Windows Snippet Tool to take some screenshots, or another application that allows for similar functionality, and paste them directly into the document. They are there within the document now, but not necessarily saved to your PC.

So, if you wanted to then transfer those instructions to a website or use those pictures elsewhere, you might be out of luck without the image file.

You could then take a screenshot of the screenshot to save in Google Drive, but this would result in a smaller and distorted image. It’s just an annoyance more than anything, especially when you have a lot of images to work with.

Download Every Image You’ve Pasted Into Your Google Doc

You can easily download all of the images found in a Google Doc, but it’s not a very intuitive method, hence why we have to explain it. To do so, you just follow these steps:

1. Open up your Google Doc and go to File > Download > Web Page (.html, zipped).
   
2. Your browser will download a zip file containing the document and an images folder.
   
3. Find the zip file in your downloads, double-click it to open it, and find the images folder.

You’ll find all of the images, ready to be used for whatever you want. It’s pretty simple, even for a roundabout method.

For more great tricks that can help you save time and be more efficient with your work, be sure to subscribe to our blog.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/tip-of-the-week-how-to-download-images-from-google-docs-even-when-docs-wont-let-you/

The Right Technology Professional Goes a Long Way

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Technology enables businesses to streamline operations and make better decisions that can enhance productivity in the short and long term. That said, the sheer number of options available at any given moment for businesses can be intimidating and downright confusing at times. Technology professionals can help you determine the best solutions for your company’s needs.

Get Clear on Your Requirements

Identifying technology requirements for your business will be of paramount importance. You can get clear on what you need by assessing specific goals and challenges your business faces based on its industry. Understanding the context in which you operate will allow you to make better choices about any solutions you choose to implement moving forward. For example, do you rely on software applications, in-house hardware, and the cloud? What are others in your industry doing that allows them to see success? A technology professional can help you navigate these questions and more throughout the process.

Consider Available Options

Technology professionals can help your organization sift through the countless potential options at its disposal to make the most educated decisions possible about the future of your business. The right professionals will have boundless knowledge about current and future technology trends that can help you not only meet industry standards, but also innovate in the future. They keep themselves apprised of the options available so they can best help businesses align with their goals and needs.

Determine Eligible Vendors

The right vendor for the right solution will also go a long way, and this process can take some time if you’re not working with a professional. With the relationships built over years of working with the best of the best, technology professionals can help businesses leverage these connections to great effect. They can help organizations compare offerings, research specific integrations, streamline implementation, and bring all factors into account to ensure that the vendor chosen is the most reliable one for the job.

Customize and Integrate Your Solutions

Your business will have its own unique way of approaching processes and workflows, and a technology professional can pair you with technology solutions that can fit into your existing infrastructure without a hitch. They have the skills and knowledge to customize your solutions to suit your specific needs during the integration process, working alongside your company to ensure that it works well with all required technologies.

Establish Ongoing Maintenance and Support

No solution is going to be 100% right the first time, though, and over time, you might add new solutions or encounter specific challenges which prevent you from getting the most out of it. In situations like this, technology professionals offer ongoing maintenance and support to ensure that issues are addressed and resolved in a timely manner, thus keeping operations running smoothly. Additionally, technology professionals can help to train your team so they can better utilize the tools at their disposal.

Finding, implementing, and maintaining the right technology tools for the job doesn’t have to be difficult. You can work with Reciprocal Technologies to cut out a significant amount of the hassle and struggle. To learn more, call us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/the-right-technology-professional-goes-a-long-way/

Google: “Cybersecurity is Easy, Just Block the Internet!”

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What measures do you take to protect your employees and business from the dangers found on the Internet? One major company, Google, is implementing some extreme measures to protect against online threats. In this pilot program, the Internet is simply not available to its workers. How is Google—a company notorious for its search engine and web-related technology—making do with minimal access to the Internet? The answer might surprise you.

The Answer: Internet-Free PCs

In reality, the idea that one of the biggest companies in the technology sector would disconnect its workforce from the Internet—although initially quite shocking and counterintuitive—actually makes more sense than you might at first realize. Considering the fact that major technology companies are often the targets of cyberattacks, as well as the fact that the data they house is monumentally important and valuable, it’s hard to imagine a world where Google would not want to do all that it can to keep itself safe from these types of hacks.

Even with all of the security measures in the world, Google could, of course, still fall victim to cyberthreats if one of their employees falls for it. Many cyberthreats target the weakest link in a company’s infrastructure rather than trying to crack through powerful security measures: the company’s employees. By blocking the Internet for many employees, Google can effectively prevent most phishing attempts that would be leveraged against them. This is especially important before implementing new tools powered by artificial intelligence or working with sensitive jobs funded by government contracts.

The Internet-free program piloted by Google involves its employees only having access to sites that are owned by Google itself—sites that are housed on an internal intranet. This means that they can still access their Google Drive, Gmail, and YouTube accounts. The program itself was implemented with the intention of being mandatory for a 2,500-employee sample, but it is now open to any who wish to opt in.

Theoretically, this program should reduce the threats that any involved employee comes into contact with, but it doesn’t completely eliminate them. Google’s employees will still be at risk of various phishing attempts that get around the need for an Internet connection, like those conducted through voice or text messages.

Will This Program Be Successful?

How employees respond to these limitations will ultimately speak to the success or failure of this program. Will it impact productivity? Will it sway their opinions of the workplace? Only time will tell.

We know that not all companies have the luxury of forsaking Internet connectivity for their operations and security, which is why we offer comprehensive technology solutions to help your staff be more secure and productive throughout the course of their workdays. Learn more by calling Reciprocal Technologies at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/google-cybersecurity-is-easy-just-block-the-internet/

Unified Threat Management: What is it?

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In today’s digitally driven world, safeguarding sensitive data and information from evolving cyber threats has become an increasing concern for individuals, organizations, and enterprises alike. To combat these malicious attacks effectively, a comprehensive approach is required—one that focuses on mitigating multiple types of cybersecurity risks simultaneously while streamlining operations within a single solution.

This is where Unified Threat Management (UTM) comes into play—an advanced security framework designed to provide unmatched protection against an array of hacking techniques, malware infections, and network vulnerabilities. We will delve into the intricacies of UTM and explore how it empowers businesses to fortify their defenses against online perils in our ever-connected digital landscape.

Introduction to Unified Threat Management

UTM has emerged as a crucial solution for individuals, organizations, and enterprises looking to protect their sensitive data from an ever-growing range of cyber threats. UTM offers a solution that addresses multiple types of security risks concurrently, enabling businesses to streamline their operations without compromising on protection. By integrating various security technologies into a single platform, UTM provides unparalleled defense against hacking techniques and malware.

As cyber-attacks continue to advance in sophistication and frequency, traditional security measures are no longer sufficient. The need for a unified approach is vital to adequately combat these emerging threats. UTM’s ability to consolidate multiple security functionalities such as firewall protection, intrusion detection systems (IDS), content filtering, antivirus software, virtual private networking (VPN), and more within one solution makes it an ideal choice for organizations seeking robust protection while reducing complexity.

By implementing UTM solutions into IT infrastructure, individuals and businesses can enhance their cybersecurity posture significantly. Through increased visibility and control over network activity coupled with real-time threat intelligence analysis capabilities; UTM empowers users with proactive measures in identifying potential vulnerabilities before they turn into significant issues or breaches.

Overview of UTM Features

UTM provides a range of features and capabilities that help organizations and enterprises protect sensitive data and information from evolving hacking techniques and malware.

One key feature of UTM is its ability to provide multiple layers of protection in a single solution. This means it can detect and mitigate various types of cybersecurity risks simultaneously, making it highly effective at preventing attacks.

Another important aspect of UTMs is their ability to streamline operations by integrating different security components into one system. This not only makes it easier for users to manage their security infrastructure but also reduces complexity and increases efficiency. The centralized management console allows administrators to monitor network traffic, track potential threats in real-time, set policies across all devices on the network, and generate comprehensive reports.

UTM combines multiple essential security functionalities into one solution while effectively protecting against a wide range of cyber threats. Its ability to centralize operations enables organizations to enhance their overall security posture without overwhelming complexity or costly investments in separate systems.

Benefits of Using UTM

First and foremost, UTM minimizes the need for multiple point solutions. This not only simplifies management but also ensures consistent threat detection and prevention across all network entry points. This results in cost savings due to reduced hardware requirements, lower maintenance expenses, and simplified training processes for IT staff.

Another key benefit of using UTM is enhanced productivity. With centralized control and monitoring capabilities, administrators can efficiently manage security policies and address any vulnerabilities or potential risks in real-time.

Lastly, UTM provides scalability to accommodate the growing needs of businesses over time. As organizations expand their networks or adopt new technologies such as cloud computing or bring your own device (BYOD) policies, UTM can easily adapt to these changes without compromising security standards. Its flexibility allows businesses to scale up or down according to their requirements while maintaining consistent protection.

UTM offers comprehensive protection against cyber threats with its integrated security features while improving productivity through centralized control and reduced complexity. Businesses can also enjoy scalability as they grow or evolve their IT infrastructure without sacrificing security measures.

Common Use Cases for UTM

UTM offers a range of use cases that make it an essential tool for protecting against cyber threats. One common use case is network security. UTM solutions safeguard networks from unauthorized access and protect against malicious activity such as denial-of-service attacks. UTMs simplify the management of network security, making it easier for organizations to maintain a robust defense posture.

Another important use case for UTM is web filtering and content control. With the increasing reliance on internet connectivity, businesses need a way to enforce acceptable usage policies and prevent employees from accessing harmful or inappropriate websites. UTMs enable the filtering of web traffic based on predefined criteria such as category or reputation, ensuring that users are protected from potentially dangerous sites while maintaining productivity within the organization.

Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for organizations looking to proactively defend against evolving cyber threats in today’s digital landscape.

Analysis

Unified Threat Management offers a powerful solution to the complex and ever-growing threat landscape in the digital world. With its comprehensive approach, UTM defends against multiple types of cyber threats simultaneously.

UTM provides unmatched protection against evolving hacking techniques and malware. Its ability to detect threats in real-time and automatically respond with measures like blocking suspicious activities or isolating infected devices ensures that sensitive data remains secure from cyber-attacks. The convenience of having all these security functionalities integrated into one platform also significantly reduces complexities in managing multiple solutions.

As cyber threats continue to evolve at an alarming rate, adopting a unified approach like UTM becomes essential for staying ahead of hackers’ tactics. Organizations can benefit greatly from implementing UTM solutions by bolstering their defense mechanisms while simplifying their security management processes overall.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/unified-threat-management-what-is-it/

Docking Your Laptop Can Make it Feel More Like a Desktop

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Do you prefer to get your work done on a desktop? If so, you’re not alone; laptops are great for mobility, but they do have certain limitations placed on them that you might find difficult to work with. Thankfully, you can make most modern laptops work and feel like a desktop with a couple of modifications and components.

Try Docking Your Laptop

There are several benefits to gain from docking your laptop; here are just a few of them.

The Keyboard and Mouse You’re Used To

A laptop with USB ports gives you the power to choose which devices you want to plug into it to get your work done. For example, you can choose your preferred keyboard and mouse that are hopefully going to feel more comfortable and natural than using the trackpad or keyboard on your laptop. Your wrists will thank you for sure.

Better Screens and Displays

Laptops have really nice displays capable of outputting 4k, but how much does that matter when you’re forced to hunch over just to appreciate and use them? Plus, laptops only have one screen, unless you’re carrying around a portable monitor. If you already have a couple of monitors that work well for you, then you can use them alongside your laptop to get more work done. It makes performing tasks easier when you have more than one screen to work with.

It’s More Ergonomic

Hunching over your laptop is going to do a real number on your body, and the laptop keyboard is certainly not doing any favors for your wrists and joints, either. If you’re going to spend several hours in front of your laptop, then it might as well be while it’s docked to ensure that you’re not putting unnecessary strain on your body.

There’s More Flexibility

If you upgrade to a new laptop, it should be just as compatible with your docking station as your old one, meaning there is less hassle when it comes to making sure that all of your technology works well with it. If you have a home office with a dock, then you can just as easily drop your laptop into that as you would at your actual office. It cuts down on reconnecting peripherals and plugs you into productivity immediately.

How to Transform Your Laptop Into a Desktop

The trick to turning your laptop into a desktop is a USB-C Hub. If you know where to look, you can get them for as cheap as $15, but they of course vary in size and capability, running as costly as several hundred dollars. Obviously, your preferences and needs will vary, so consider your needs before investing in anything too costly.

Ultimately, how much you choose to plug into the hub will determine its cost. For example, if you have two monitors, you’ll want to ensure that your hub can at least support them and outputs a resolution that your monitors are native to and that your laptop can handle. Most monitors are natively 1080px, also known as full HD. If you aim for this goal, then you should be set. That said, if you want to handle 2k (QHD) or 4k resolution (UHD), you should make sure that your laptop and the USB-C Hub can output that resolution. The option to downscale is there as well, and most 2k monitors can display a Full HD signal without issue, but there’s no reason to invest in expensive 4k monitors if you’re not going to use technology that can leverage that tech.

Once you have your displays handled, then you just need to plug in your other peripherals, including your keyboard, mouse, webcam, microphone or headset, and anything else that you might need. Depending on the USB-C Hub you purchase and your laptop, the device might even slowly charge your laptop battery. There are also hubs that can connect more than one computer or laptop, but it’s usually more convenient to just swap the single cable out.

If any of this sounds difficult, rest assured that Reciprocal Technologies can help you out.

Docking Stations Are Helpful for the Hybrid Office

Remote and hybrid work can both be augmented through the use of laptops and docking stations. You retain control over devices and data while also providing employees with the tools they need to fulfill their tasks without sacrificing mobility. You also gain the ability to experiment with desk reservation systems where you have shared workstation environments for employees to come to the office to get their work done—all they have to do is plug in their laptops and get to work.

Let Reciprocal Technologies help you make the process of acquiring these solutions easier. Learn more by contacting us at (317) 759-3972 today.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/docking-your-laptop-can-make-it-feel-more-like-a-desktop/

Amazon’s Advice on Security Scams is Actually Pretty Great

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Amazon Prime subscribers were recently sent a communication from the online marketplace detailing popular scams and what can be done to protect against them. While we have our own set of best practices to share, we thought we would take a closer look at Amazon’s advice to see how it squares up against our own.

Amazon’s Recommended Practices

The communication sent out by Amazon focused mostly on services related to Amazon. For example, the communication mentions “Prime membership scams” and “Account suspension/Deletion scams.”

To be more precise, this email issued to Prime members describes what to expect from the various scams. For a Prime membership scam, users might encounter messages claiming further fees must be charged to an account in question, or users might have to log in to dispute charges or provide payment information (which, if you think about it, makes zero sense, right?).

According to the official company email: “Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information for products or services over the phone.” If Amazon ever needs you to take action, they recommend confirming through the official website or application and checking for legitimate communications sent through their secure Message Center.

Suspension and deletion scams are also covered in detail here. Amazon describes these attacks as those delivered via text, email, or phone call which attempt to convince users to log in or provide payment information under duress of a lost or suspended account.

According to Amazon’s communication, “Amazon will never ask you to disclose your password or verify sensitive information over the phone or on any website other than Amazon.com.” Again, they double down on any significant communications being sent directly to their secure Message Center, and they urge users to confirm identities before ever responding to these urgent or out-of-place messages.

Other Relevant Amazon-Related Security Tips

Amazon also offers the following advice for anyone who would like additional security information about their platform:

“1. Trust Amazon-owned channels.
Always go through the Amazon mobile app or website when seeking customer service, tech support, or when looking to make changes to your account.

2. Be wary of false urgency.
Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they’re asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now.

3. Never pay over the phone.
Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information, including gift cards (or “verification cards,” as some scammers call them) for products or services over the phone.

4. Verify links first.
Legitimate Amazon websites contain “amazon.com” or “amazon.com/support.” Go directly to our website when seeking help with Amazon devices/services, orders or to make changes to your account.”

Augment These Practices with Our Recommendations

Generally speaking, these practices check out perfectly fine, and they are in line with what we would recommend. However, we would like to provide our own perspectives on these recommendations:

• If you have any reason to suspect illegitimate communications are afoot, you should use official channels of communication to either confirm or refute your feelings on the message. You should never respond to a message if you have any reason to believe it could be dangerous. We recommend manually finding the supposed sender’s contact information on the company’s website to verify it first, reaching out only through secure secondary methods.
• If there is any urgent language used in the email, it’s worth being just a hair skeptical of it. Hackers love to use language like this to get users to take action before they think more carefully about it. If the user feels extra pushy in their message, then you should be extra careful.
• You might make purchases or phone payments here and there, even with legitimate businesses, but no company is ever going to ask you to pay in gift cards.
• Don’t click on links in any messages you suspect are fraudulent. Go to the website or your account through your normal methods first to see if there is anything to be concerned about.

Need More Info? Learn More with Us

Amazon has some great advice to keep in mind regarding account security, but we would like to also remind you that these types of attacks are not Amazon-exclusive. You can experience phishing attacks from any vector at any time, so be sure to keep your wits about you and your protections in place. They might just save you from a major headache in the future.

Reciprocal Technologies can help your business shore up any potential problems with its security. To learn more, call us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/amazons-advice-on-security-scams-is-actually-pretty-great/

AI Can Save Your Business Time and Money Through Automation

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Artificial intelligence is all over the headlines, and not always in a good way, but the fact remains that it can save your business plenty of time and resources that could be better invested elsewhere. Let’s go over some ways that businesses just like yours are currently using AI to automate tasks and streamline operations.

Automated Repetitive Tasks

AI gives businesses the ability to automate various tasks that would otherwise consume a considerable amount of time and energy that would be better invested elsewhere. Machines equipped with AI algorithms can perform tasks like data entry, invoice processing, and inventory management without manual intervention from any human workers, reducing the possibility of error and freeing up time for use elsewhere.

Better Decision Making

One of the big things that AI can do for businesses is transform the decision-making process. Since AI is capable of examining data to discover trends and patterns, analytics tools are a natural fit for businesses that want to make informed decisions. With these insights, business leaders can make better decisions much faster, allowing businesses to not only save money, but potentially make a lot of it in the process.

Improved Customer Services

Customers tend to expect great service from any reputable company, and you can give them what they expect with AI-powered solutions like virtual assistants and chatbots. This can save your team from answering frequently asked questions during the day and provide opportunities for customers to receive support even during off-hours. These solutions can answer queries, troubleshoot problems, and make personalized product recommendations. If customers get prompt support, they are more likely to remain satisfied with your product.

Proactive and Predictive Maintenance

Some industries rely on machinery and equipment, prompting them to consider AI for tasks like predictive maintenance. In the past, companies would use scheduled inspections to determine the need for repairs, something which was both time-consuming and expensive. AI can offer a different approach by analyzing data from sensors and machines in real-time, allowing for the detection of potential problems before they develop into dangerous situations. Businesses can use these preventative solutions to minimize the odds of failures, downtime, and the expenses that come along with them.

Streamlined Supply Chain Management

Companies that rely on any type of supply chain can benefit from implementing AI tools to track data, market trends, and consumer demand for specific products. They can then optimize inventory levels in accordance with their needs, avoiding running out or stocking too much of any particular item or product. AI can also automate the routing and scheduling of deliveries, allowing for more timely and logistically sound operations.

These are just a few ways that AI is transforming the modern business landscape. How can your business use it to great success? Be sure to find out by calling us at (317) 759-3972 today.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/ai-can-save-your-business-time-and-money-through-automation/

Five Emerging Technologies Small Businesses Can Use

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Technology is improving all the time, which means that businesses are always gaining new opportunities to put it to work. Whether your goal is to make your current business processes faster and easier or expand upon what your business can do, there are several options that recent technologies provide for you to consider. Let’s review some of them now.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate by providing secure and scalable access to data, applications, and resources. Small businesses can leverage cloud-based services to reduce infrastructure costs, improve data storage and security, and enhance collaboration among team members. Cloud computing also enables remote work, enabling small businesses to tap into a global talent pool, reducing overhead costs and expanding market reach.

Artificial Intelligence

AI technology offers small businesses numerous opportunities to automate tasks, improve decision-making, and enhance customer experiences. AI-powered chatbots can handle customer inquiries, freeing up human resources for more critical tasks. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns, predict trends, and optimize business processes. AI can also personalize marketing efforts, recommending products or services based on customer preferences, driving sales and customer loyalty.

Internet of Things 

The IoT refers to the network of devices connected to the Internet, enabling them to share and exchange data. Small businesses can utilize IoT devices to monitor and manage inventory, track shipments, and optimize supply chain processes. IoT-enabled sensors can collect real-time data on equipment performance, allowing businesses to proactively identify maintenance needs and minimize downtime. The IoT can also enhance customer experiences by providing personalized and interactive services.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology offers small businesses a secure and transparent way to conduct transactions, share data, and establish trust. By recording transactions in a decentralized and immutable ledger, blockchain eliminates the need for intermediaries, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Small businesses can benefit from blockchain by leveraging smart contracts for secure and automated agreements, improving supply chain transparency, and enhancing customer trust and loyalty.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

AR and VR technologies have transformed the way businesses engage with customers and enhance brand experiences. Small businesses can utilize AR and VR to provide immersive product demonstrations, virtual tours, or interactive training sessions. These technologies can also facilitate design and prototyping processes, enabling small businesses to visualize and refine products before production. With AR and VR, businesses can create unique and memorable experiences that differentiate them from competitors.

There is a longstanding conversation about how exactly technology fits into a growing small business. Our technicians are experienced at fitting the right technology, emerging or otherwise, to businesses in Indiana. Give us a call at (317) 759-3972 to learn how we can help you unleash the power of technology to help your business grow. 

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/five-emerging-technologies-small-businesses-can-use/

Artificial Intelligence Can Improve These Four Processes

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Artificial Intelligence has become kind of a hot-button issue in the business world. Seemingly every business is starting to dip their toes in the AI water and are gaining significant benefits from doing so. In this month’s newsletter, we discuss four ways that AI, which is being integrated into a lot of the applications that businesses use, can improve business computing and enhance efficiency, customer relationships, and more.  

Powerful Features 

Artificial intelligence can automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks, allowing small businesses to optimize their operations. For example, AI algorithms can analyze large data sets to identify trends and patterns, helping companies make informed decisions. This can be particularly useful in inventory management, where AI can predict demand, optimize inventory levels and reduce waste. AI can also automate routine administrative tasks such as data entry, freeing up employees to focus on more strategic and value-added activities. 

Fraud Detection and Risk Management 

Small businesses are not immune to fraud and cyberthreats. Artificial intelligence can help protect businesses by detecting unusual patterns and anomalies in financial transactions and reporting potential fraudulent activity. AI algorithms can continuously analyze data and learn from patterns, improving their accuracy over time. In addition, AI can help with risk management by anticipating and mitigating potential risks, allowing small businesses to make informed decisions and secure their assets.

Smart Marketing 

Artificial intelligence can transform marketing for small businesses. By analyzing customer behavior and preferences, AI algorithms can identify target audiences and optimize marketing campaigns to achieve the best impact. AI-powered tools can automate content creation, personalize messages and recommend the most effective marketing channels. This not only improves the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, but also helps small businesses reach the right audience at the right time with the right message. 

If your business could use an enhancement to the way that you do things and you think that maybe AI can be a major benefit to it, give our IT technicians a call today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/artificial-intelligence-can-improve-these-four-processes/

The Benefits of BYOD Beyond Cost Savings

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Businesses are always trying to improve on efficiency, and one method they use to do so is mobile technology. Businesses invest in mobile technology like smartphones, laptops, and data plans for their employees with the expectation that it will help them be more productive, but the fact of the matter is that these investments are costly for the return. There is another approach businesses use: Bring Your Own Device, or BYOD, and it’s a great way to save capital while achieving the same levels of productivity from mobile technology.

How Does BYOD Work?

First, before we cover the benefits of BYOD, let’s discuss what it really is and how it works. A Bring Your Own Device policy is essentially a strategy that utilizes devices your employees already own to improve mobility and productivity for your organization. When implemented appropriately, a BYOD policy can eliminate the need for a business to purchase new hardware or pay for monthly service plans. Your employees are basically using their own devices to do work-related tasks, and this approach has plenty of benefits for businesses.

Improved Employee Satisfaction

Since BYOD programs give employees the ability to use their preferred devices for their work duties, they tend to experience much greater satisfaction and productivity as a result. If employees are using devices they are comfortable and familiar with, they are more efficient with their time. Additionally, BYOD gives employees a sense of ownership and responsibility, both of which can contribute to greater morale and brand loyalty.

Enhanced Employee Flexibility

With a BYOD policy in place, employees can move between their work lives and personal lives at a moment’s notice. They can respond to work-related tasks and emails even while out of the office or after hours, making them more accessible as a result. With this flexibility, both businesses and employees benefit from being able to better cover various work-related tasks, and if employees can manage their work/life balance appropriately, they can respond to time-sensitive requests much more quickly.

More Efficient Collaboration

With the right configurations and setup, businesses can deploy the same solutions they would use on company devices to employees’ personal devices, resulting in better use of these tools. Collaboration and communication can occur seamlessly, and with these systems in place, you can overcome the challenges that come from different geographic locations or time zones. Furthermore, the cloud allows businesses to implement platforms that can be accessed from anywhere on any device, provided that device has access to an Internet connection.

Greater Security

BYOD is often looked at as a security risk, but with appropriate policies and procedures in place, it can arguably be seen as even more secure. Thanks to advanced security tools, it’s possible to enforce strict security measures on employee-owned devices, including remote data wiping, encryption, and multi-factor authentication. Employees are also more likely to take responsibility for the security of their own personal devices than they would for company-owned devices, as they are the ones who bought the items themselves rather than the organization.

Despite all the benefits, the biggest one of all is that BYOD will save your business money, no doubt about it. If you’re ready to buy into the BYOD experience, consider working with Reciprocal Technologies to build your policies and procedures. Get started today by calling us at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/the-benefits-of-byod-beyond-cost-savings/

Essential Cybersecurity Audit Checklist for Your Business

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In today’s technology-driven world, ensuring the security of your business’ digital assets and sensitive information is paramount. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and prevalent, it is crucial for organizations to conduct regular cybersecurity audits to evaluate their existing security measures and identify potential vulnerabilities.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive checklist that covers essential areas to consider when conducting a cybersecurity audit for your business. By diligently following this checklist, you can fortify your organization’s defense against cyber-attacks and safeguard both yours and your customers’ valuable data.

Assess the Current Security Measures in Place

When assessing the current security measures in place, it is imperative to review all aspects of your organization’s digital infrastructure. This includes evaluating firewalls and antivirus software to ensure they are up-to-date and capable of detecting and blocking potential threats. It is also important to examine access controls and authentication systems for weaknesses or loopholes that could be exploited by cybercriminals.

Organizations should assess their network architecture to determine if there are any vulnerabilities in how data flows within the system. This involves a thorough examination of routers, switches, and other networking devices for any misconfigurations or points of weakness. Regular monitoring should also be implemented to detect any anomalies or unauthorized activity on the network.

Employee training and awareness programs must also not be overlooked when assessing security measures. Educating staff about phishing scams, social engineering tactics, and best practices for handling sensitive information can significantly reduce the risk of human error leading to a security breach.

By conducting a comprehensive assessment across all these areas, businesses can gain valuable insights into their existing security posture and identify areas that need improvement to strengthen against potential cyber threats.

Create a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan

One of the key elements in safeguarding your business against cyber threats is establishing a cybersecurity incident response plan. This plan outlines the steps and procedures your organization will take in the event of a security breach or cyber-attack. It serves as a roadmap for how to effectively detect, respond to, and recover from such incidents. A well-designed incident response plan not only minimizes the impact of an attack but also helps improve overall cybersecurity posture.

When creating a cybersecurity incident response plan, there are several important components to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to clearly define roles and responsibilities within your organization during an incident. Assign specific individuals or teams with designated tasks such as analysis, mitigation, communication, and recovery. Additionally, it is essential to establish protocols for detecting and identifying potential security breaches promptly. This may involve implementing robust monitoring systems that can flag suspicious activities in real-time.

Ensuring effective communication channels both internally and externally is vital during an incident response process. Establish clear lines of communication between relevant stakeholders within your organization so that information about ongoing attacks can be shared swiftly and accurately. Additionally, maintaining contact with external parties such as law enforcement agencies or trusted vendors who can assist with investigations or provide specialized expertise when needed.

By developing a comprehensive cybersecurity incident response plan that encompasses these critical aspects along with other relevant considerations for your business environment, you can proactively address cyber threats while reducing their potential impact on your operations and reputation.

Update Passwords – Ensure they are Secure

One important aspect of conducting a cybersecurity audit for your business is updating passwords and ensuring their security. Passwords are often the first line of defense against unauthorized access to sensitive information. It is crucial to regularly update passwords, as outdated or weak ones can pose a significant risk to your organization’s digital assets.

When updating passwords, it is essential to follow best practices for creating strong and secure passwords. This includes using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Ideally, passwords should be unique for each account or system used within the organization to minimize the impact in case one password gets compromised.

It is also advisable to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to provide more than just a password – typically something they possess like a token or smartphone app-generated code – before gaining access. By adopting these measures and regularly reviewing password security protocols during cybersecurity audits, organizations can significantly enhance their overall security posture in today’s evolving threat landscape.

Updating passwords and ensuring their security plays a vital role in bolstering cybersecurity defenses for businesses. By following best practices such as creating strong and unique passwords while also implementing multi-factor authentication systems whenever feasible, organizations can mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats that constantly evolve in sophistication. Regularly including password updates as part of comprehensive cybersecurity audits will ensure that your business remains resilient against potential vulnerabilities in this technology-driven world we operate in today.

Conduct Vulnerability Scans Regularly

Conducting vulnerability scans regularly is a critical component of any cybersecurity audit for businesses. Vulnerability scans involve systematic scanning of networks, systems, and applications to identify potential weaknesses that can be exploited by cybercriminals. By conducting these scans on a regular basis, organizations can stay ahead of emerging threats and proactively address vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

Regular vulnerability scanning helps to ensure that all software and network components are up to date with the latest security patches. It enables businesses to detect any misconfigurations or weak points in their IT infrastructure that attackers could exploit. Identifying these vulnerabilities allows organizations to patch or fix them promptly, minimizing the risk of successful cyber-attacks.

Vulnerability scans provide valuable insights into overall system health and highlight areas where additional security measures may be needed. This gives companies an opportunity to assess their existing security controls and make necessary improvements based on the scan results. Regular vulnerability scanning is an essential practice in maintaining robust cybersecurity posture for businesses operating in today’s digital landscape.

Implement a System to Monitor Network Traffic

Implementing a system to monitor network traffic is an essential component of any comprehensive cybersecurity audit checklist for businesses. Network traffic monitoring involves tracking and analyzing the flow of data packets across a network infrastructure, allowing organizations to identify potential security threats and anomalies.

One crucial benefit of network traffic monitoring is the ability to detect unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities within the network. By closely scrutinizing incoming and outgoing traffic, businesses can quickly identify any signs of malicious intent, such as unusual or unexpected data transfer patterns or connections to known malicious IP addresses.

Implementing a system for network traffic monitoring enables organizations to gain valuable insights into their overall network performance. By examining bandwidth usage patterns, identifying bottlenecks or congestion in the network, businesses can optimize their infrastructure for better efficiency and performance.

Incorporating a system to monitor network traffic is integral to an effective cybersecurity audit checklist for businesses today. It assists in detecting potential security breaches and allows organizations to proactively strengthen their defense mechanisms against cyber threats. It also provides insights on optimizing network performance for improved operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Conducting regular cybersecurity audits is a critical aspect of protecting your business’ digital assets and sensitive information. With cyber threats evolving and becoming more advanced each day, it is essential for organizations to stay one step ahead by evaluating their existing security measures and identifying potential vulnerabilities. By following the comprehensive checklist provided in this article, businesses can ensure that they have implemented appropriate safeguards to fortify their defense against cyber-attacks.

Cybersecurity audits not only help identify potential weaknesses but also allow businesses to make proactive changes and improvements to their security posture. By regularly assessing and updating security protocols, organizations can minimize the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access. It is important to prioritize the implementation of strong passwords policies, secure network configurations, robust antivirus software, continuous employee training programs, as well as monitoring systems that detect any suspicious activities.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/essential-cybersecurity-audit-checklist-for-your-business/

Lessons Learned from Amazon’s Latest Scam Email Warning

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If you are an Amazon Prime subscriber, chances are you received an email from the online marketplace warning users of scams that take advantage of offerings and brand recognition. We thought it would be interesting to look at the advice shared by this message to see if it matches up with our own recommended best practices.

What Does the Amazon Email Recommend?

This communication largely focused on scams related to Amazon’s brand services in some fashion. One example included in this communication includes “Prime membership scams” and “Account suspension/Deletion scams.”

The email stated that a Prime membership scam might include references to issues with membership in the program or further fees charged to the account in question. Victims might have to confirm or dispute a charge, and they might provide payment information to do so.

According to the official company email: “Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information for products or services over the phone.” If the company does require action, the user will be directed to visit the official website or application to check for legitimate communications made through their Message Center. They can then manage their account status in this way.

In relation to account suspension or deletion scams, the communication describes these messages as texts, emails, or phone calls that try to convince users that they must provide account access in the form of credentials or payment information.

Amazon’s official stance, as per the communication issued in the previously mentioned email, states that “Amazon will never ask you to disclose your password or verify sensitive information over the phone or on any website other than Amazon.com.” They request that individuals authenticate any such communication through their secure Message Center.

Some Other Amazon-Recommended Tips (Including Our Hot Takes)

Additionally, Amazon furthered their advice with the following, quoted directly from their message:

“1. Trust Amazon-owned channels.
Always go through the Amazon mobile app or website when seeking customer service, tech support, or when looking to make changes to your account.

2. Be wary of false urgency.
Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they’re asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now.

3. Never pay over the phone.
Amazon will never ask you to provide payment information, including gift cards (or “verification cards,” as some scammers call them) for products or services over the phone.

4. Verify links first.
Legitimate Amazon websites contain “amazon.com” or “amazon.com/support.” Go directly to our website when seeking help with Amazon devices/services, orders or to make changes to your account.”

These Measures Are Great Starts

In general, these tips are aligned with the best practices we espouse day after day. For reference, here is what we would recommend:

• When you respond to a message, always confirm that you are working with confirmed and official channels of communication outside of the specified message. You should never respond to any message you believe to be a phishing scam. Instead, manually go through the company’s website to find their official message center or the sender’s actual contact information. Reach out through secure, secondary methods when in doubt.
• Be skeptical of any urgent language used in messages, as this is indicative of a common phishing scam that tries to convince users that action is necessary, and necessary now. This is a farce, and it pushes users to take action before they can tell if it’s in their best interest.
• Not all over-the-phone payment requests are going to be fraudulent, but as far as official business is concerned, you can be sure that no self-respecting business is ever going to ask you to pay in gift cards—especially if the brands are in conflict.
• Avoid clicking on links in any email that you suspect is a scam. Instead, navigate to the official website through ordinary means, then proceed with your business as usual.

Don’t Limit Your Scam Knowledge to Amazon-Exclusive Issues

While it’s great to see Amazon remain proactive with informing its users about security best practices, we would like to take a moment to reinforce the fact that scams are not Amazon-exclusive. They will come at you from all angles, whether in your home life or your workplace. You’ll want to have various protections in place in addition to your security knowledge. That’s where we come in.

Reciprocal Technologies can help to educate your employees while also working with your IT department to equip your business with the best security tools and measures on the market. To learn more, call us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/lessons-learned-from-amazons-latest-scam-email-warning/

Your Business Can (and Should) Use Technology to Streamline Operations

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Your business should always strive to prevent interruptions and issues related to operations. With the right technology and appropriate management of it, you will find that you experience far fewer of them. Let’s examine some strategies you can use that will help you build better processes and how technology can aid in this.

Look for Bottlenecks

First, you’ll want to look for bottlenecks in your operations and processes. Bottlenecks are areas where there is something getting in the way of your processes being as efficient as possible or where a slowdown of some sort is occurring. If you can analyze bottlenecks in your processes and systematically address them, your efficiency should improve as a result.

Optimize Workflows

On a similar note, your workflows will flourish if they are built intentionally and you have eliminated the aforementioned bottlenecks. Begin with a map of your current workflows, then look for any unnecessary steps. You could potentially automate tasks or eliminate inefficiencies to address these challenges. Technology can often play a part in this process, as well.

Improve Communication

With proper communications systems and protocols in place, you’ll be able to work toward greater transparency across your business. Through team meetings, status updates, and feedback sessions, your business’ employees can all work toward goals while keeping each other apprised of updates as they occur. This should help to cut down on misunderstandings and delays in workflow.

Build Better Training Processes

Training and development for your team will prove crucial as you work to improve your processes. Your business can benefit by providing employees with the skills and knowledge they need to do their jobs effectively. It can also be fruitful for everyone involved to provide personal and professional growth opportunities. In this way, you foster a growth mindset that can build your business’ potential in the long term.

Invest in Your Technology

The right technology can be used to further facilitate effective workflows and processes, from training and development to eliminating inefficiencies. To learn more, call us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/your-business-can-and-should-use-technology-to-streamline-operations/

BYOD Does More than Save You Money

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Organizations are always trying to get more efficient. One way that businesses are able to accomplish this is by utilizing mobile computing. This used to mean that businesses would have to spend a bunch of money purchasing phones, data plans, and the like for their employees. Some time ago, businesses started to realize that they could improve their mobile strategies without this massive expense by enacting a BYOD policy. Let’s discuss what a BYOD policy is and how it does more than just save a business money. 

What is BYOD?

Before we get into the benefits of BYOD, we should clarify what exactly it is. A Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy is a strategy that enhances the mobility of an organization by utilizing its employees’ mobile devices for productivity. It effectively eliminates the need for a business to purchase mobile devices and pay for monthly service plans. Your staff will use the devices they depend on day-in and day-out. Let’s look at some of the benefits of a comprehensive BYOD policy.

Employee Satisfaction

BYOD programs empower employees by allowing them to use their preferred devices for work-related tasks. This freedom of choice not only increases job satisfaction but also enhances productivity. When employees have access to devices they are comfortable with, they can work more efficiently, leading to improved outcomes. Moreover, BYOD encourages a sense of ownership and responsibility among employees, further boosting morale and loyalty.

Flexibility

BYOD enables employees to seamlessly transition between work and personal life. With their own devices, they can respond to work-related tasks and emails while on the go, even outside of regular working hours. This flexibility benefits both employees and the company as it not only provides better coverage of business tasks, not only helps employees strike a better work-life balance but also ensures continuity and timely responses to critical business matters, ultimately benefiting the organization.

Improved Efficiency and Collaboration

Using their own device, organizations can set it up so that employees can access familiar applications and tools, resulting in increased efficiency. With BYOD, employees can collaborate and communicate effortlessly, bridging geographical barriers and time zones. Cloud-based platforms and collaborative tools enable real-time collaboration, this enhances organizational teamwork and innovation. Consequently, the organization can achieve higher productivity levels and decisions can be made faster.

Enhanced Security

Contrary to popular belief, BYOD can actually enhance security measures within an organization. With proper policies and protocols in place, businesses can enforce strict security measures on employee-owned devices. Remote data wiping, encryption, and multi-factor authentication can be implemented to further protect sensitive information. Additionally, employees are more likely to take responsibility for safeguarding their own devices (as they’ve likely paid $1000+ for them), reducing the risk of data breaches or device loss.

Obviously, the biggest benefit of a BYOD policy is the cost savings of having to purchase mobile hardware and service plans, but as you can see it can be a major benefit in many ways. If you would like help enacting a BYOD policy for your business that can boost productivity and efficiency, while taking into account the security of the network, give the IT professionals at Reciprocal Technologies a call at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/byod-does-more-than-save-you-money/