Using Cybersecurity Risk Assessments to Prepare for Incidents

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Where organizations heavily rely on digital systems and data to conduct business operations, the risk of cybersecurity incidents has become more prevalent than ever. Therefore, it is imperative for businesses across all sectors to proactively assess their cybersecurity risks and take necessary measures to prepare for potential attacks or breaches.

We delve into the importance of using cybersecurity risk assessments as a fundamental tool in preparing for incidents, highlighting how organizations can identify vulnerabilities, determine potential threats, and develop robust strategies to safeguard their critical assets from malicious actors.

With a proactive approach through effective risk assessments, businesses can significantly enhance their overall security posture while minimizing the impact of cyber incidents on their operations and reputation.

Identifying Vulnerabilities and Threats in Cybersecurity

To effectively combat the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, businesses must first understand and identify their vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity risk assessments play a critical role in this process by providing organizations with a comprehensive view of their digital ecosystems. These assessments allow businesses to identify potential weaknesses in their systems, such as outdated software or lack of employee training.

Once vulnerabilities have been identified, it is then crucial to consider the wide array of threats that exist in the cyber realm. Threats can range from malware and phishing attacks to targeted hacking attempts by skilled hackers.

By understanding the specific threats that they are most susceptible to, organizations can prioritize their efforts and allocate resources accordingly.

This approach enables companies to develop robust defense strategies tailored specifically to address any vulnerabilities and mitigate potential risks before they turn into costly breaches or compromises.

Anticipating Cyber Incidents Through Risk Assessments

Scenario planning is a strategic tool that allows organizations to anticipate and prepare for potential cyber incidents through risk assessments. By conducting a thorough assessment of their cybersecurity risks, businesses can identify vulnerabilities within their digital systems and data networks.

This enables them to prioritize resources and take proactive measures to strengthen their defenses against potential attacks or breaches.

One key aspect of scenario planning is the ability to determine the potential threats that an organization may face. By analyzing historical data, industry trends, and current cybersecurity landscape, businesses can develop scenarios that simulate various cyber incidents such as malware infections, data breaches, or ransomware attacks.

These scenarios provide valuable insights into how these incidents could impact the organization’s operations, reputation, and financial stability.

Through this exercise of assessing risks and developing scenarios, organizations are better equipped to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation for cybersecurity measures. They can identify gaps in their existing security infrastructure and implement appropriate controls or countermeasures to mitigate the potential impact of cyber incidents.

Tools and Strategies for Thorough Analysis

Risk assessment frameworks are essential tools for organizations seeking to thoroughly analyze and understand the potential risks associated with cybersecurity incidents. These frameworks enable businesses to systematically identify vulnerabilities in their digital systems, assess the likelihood of threats, and determine the potential impact of such incidents. .

One key strategy in conducting effective risk assessments is the identification of critical assets and sensitive information within an organization’s infrastructure. This allows businesses to prioritize their efforts by focusing on protecting the most valuable assets from potential cyberattacks or breaches. These frameworks enable businesses to evaluate existing control mechanisms already in place, such as firewalls or encryption protocols, assessing whether they are sufficient or require enhancement.

Risk assessments provide organizations with data-driven insights that support long-term planning and decision-making processes related to cybersecurity. By understanding where vulnerabilities exist within their systems, companies can develop targeted strategies to mitigate risks effectively.

This may involve implementing additional technical controls or investing in employee training programs focused on raising cybersecurity awareness throughout the organization.

When implemented effectively, these assessments enable businesses across all sectors to proactively prepare for potential cyber incidents by identifying vulnerabilities, determining likely threats they face, and developing appropriate countermeasures accordingly.

This helps bolster an organization’s overall security posture while minimizing potential impacts resulting from cyberattacks or other malicious activities.

Cyber Resilience Starts with Assessment

Fortifying your digital defenses through cybersecurity risk assessments is crucial in today’s cyber landscape. As organizations heavily depend on digital systems and data for their operations, the risk of cyber threats and incidents continues to increase.

Through thorough assessments, organizations are able to identify weak points within their infrastructure and take necessary measures to strengthen them.

This may include implementing robust security protocols, updating software regularly, training employees in best practices, and establishing incident response plans.

Ultimately, a proactive approach towards assessing cybersecurity risks enables organizations to be more prepared in the face of potential attacks or breaches. It allows them to develop resilience against evolving cyber threats by constantly evaluating and improving their security posture.

By investing time and resources into these assessments, businesses can minimize the impact of incidents and protect themselves from financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal consequences associated with cyberattacks.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/using-cybersecurity-risk-assessments-to-prepare-for-incidents/

How Biometrics Can Help with Payment Processing, and Why Some Users Are Worried

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Self-service checkout registers are incredibly popular with Gen Z, and while there are differing opinions on them and their impact on the workforce, there’s no denying that they are here to stay. That said, there is much discussion on whether or not biometric payment processing would make for a more efficient method of checkout. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t, and it’s not welcome for either consumers or organizations.

Amazon One Palm Recognition Experiments with Biometric Payments

The world’s biggest online retailer also has brick-and-mortar stores, and there have been efforts to expand these offerings by providing more services. For instance, Amazon Go and Amazon Go Grocery locations give customers the ability to pick up prepared meals and groceries, all while just using their mobile devices to charge their purchases to their account. This simplifies the shopping process and makes it easier for customers to get what they need without the hassle of visiting the store.

On a similar note, Amazon Style once offered storefronts for selling clothing, and the company has also purchased Whole Foods for organic grocery options.

The most recent implementation Amazon has made to expand further is Amazon One, which is a biometric palm recognition technology that they are testing in the Seattle area. It is used at Whole Foods and Starbucks locations on a trial basis, as well as some convenience stores, retailers in airport terminals, and sports stadiums like Lumen Field.

How Welcome is Amazon One?

Biometrics usually makes things more secure and convenient, but despite these benefits, not all are on board for Amazon One. In fact, three-quarters of consumers are uncomfortable with the technology, and this number has only recently shown improvement over the past few years.

This solidifies that privacy and security are an evergreen concern for individuals. This could show improvement as younger generations grow to become a more prominent part of the consumer body, but as of right now, you’ll want to consider how differences in generational ideologies will change your consumer base, and the technology you provide to make their experience more manageable.

Let Us Help Your Business Implement Better Technology and Processes

If you want your business to use technology to improve processes and productivity, Reciprocal Technologies can help. To learn more, call us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/how-biometrics-can-help-with-payment-processing-and-why-some-users-are-worried/

Local Businesses at Risk to Lose Over $40k in 2024

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As the year winds down, it’s time to start looking at 2024 and what the year could mean for local organizations. It’s likely that most businesses are putting together their operational plans and marketing budgets, and all of that is certainly important, but there are some major situations at play that could cause your business to suffer from major losses and rack up huge expenses if decision-makers aren’t prepared for it.

2024 Will Be the Most Dangerous Year on Record Regarding Scams and Cybersecurity

You might notice that we’re being sensationalist in today’s blog. If you are a typical reader, you know we tend not to be, but this is important. We hope that we still have your attention and if you are a business owner, manager, or even an employee with a vested interest in the place where you work, we hope you take this seriously.

The truth is that every year is worse than the last when it comes to cybercrime, and by a significant amount. In 2021, ransomware alone cost victims around $20 billion. In 2024, that number is expected to be $42 billion. This isn’t a new statistic—we share this sort of stuff on our blog often. The problem is that human beings don’t think in billions. 

Instead, let’s put you in a room with four other people. Each of you represents a different company. If you share a building or plaza with four other businesses, picture that instead just to really get a sense for how impactful what I’m about to tell you is.

Five people, five businesses.

In 2024, four of you will be hacked. Four of the five businesses represented in the room will have a cybercriminal, scammer, or cybercriminal organization attempt to steal, change, or breach important company data.

If that doesn’t punctuate the severity of cybersecurity, we don’t know what else will.

Nobody Can Ignore the Rise in Scams and Online Threats Anymore

Go ahead and do a Google search for “loses $40k from hack.”

You will find hundreds of thousands of results, often different stories from different parts of the world. Right now, I’m seeing several from just this past month (keep in mind, Google searches custom-tailor your search results based on your search history, location, and a bunch of other factors, so most people don’t get the exact same results).

The point is, this is just one random number, and there are tons of reported situations where people or organizations were scammed out of a large sum of money. Look up “loses $20k from hack” or “hackers shut down business” and you’ll find plenty of coverage where this has happened to actual businesses and individuals across the country. This is a growing problem, and yet people generally aren’t taking their own security seriously, and while many businesses aren’t taking the proper steps either, most modern threats target the weakest link, which is the end user.

See the problem?

If we aren’t growing a security-first culture within our organizations, this problem is only going to get worse, and each year you are more and more likely to suffer from an attack. 

Take This Step in Securing Yourself

Often, we’ll encourage business owners to give us a call or set up a consultation so we can have a one-on-one to help your business take advantage of your IT or secure your business from threats. Let’s forget about that for a moment. We’re not trying to sell you anything or get you to meet us or anything. For now, let’s just get you and the people you work with a stream of educational information about cybersecurity. No salespeople, no follow-up—if you made it this far, just help us raise more awareness.

At the end of this blog post is a tag that says Security. When you click on it, it will take you to all of the posts on our blog that fall under this topic. That also gives you a sharable page you can give to others.

Click on Security below, and save that link as a bookmark, and visit it each week. Make a reminder in your calendar, if you have to. Visit that link, and go through a post or two, or check out the new content. 

On top of that, we ask that you please share this out with your employees, colleagues, and anyone that you do business with. We’ll dedicate time to continue building helpful content that educates business owners and decision makers, as well as their staff, to be better protected from threats to help your business avoid becoming a statistic.

Together, we can raise awareness to keep the businesses in our community safe.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/local-businesses-at-risk-to-lose-over-40k-in-2024/

Your Email Inbox is the Most Dangerous Part of Your Day

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The seamless functionality of email often leads individuals to take it for granted. Whether accessing Outlook or logging into Gmail, the delivery of emails seems effortless. However, the intricate and expansive network of systems essential for email operations often goes unnoticed, and understandably so, given its complexity.

Yet, if there’s no active management of your email system, no provision of protective measures for its underlying technology, and no assurance of continuous and proper configuration, your seemingly functional email might inadvertently expose you to unseen threats.

Security Needs to Be the Foundation of Your Business’ Email

Email, being the primary entry point for a majority of cyberattacks, underscores the importance of robust security measures. In 2022 alone, 75% of organizations fell prey to successful email attacks, ranging from spam and malware delivery to ransomware, data theft, and spoofing. Despite the appearance of stability in corporate email solutions, advancements in modern best practices and cybersecurity protections are crucial for maintaining the safety of inboxes.

While decision-makers might be tempted to overlook the need for email system adjustments, fortifying your email infrastructure is a significant step toward averting more severe and devastating issues.

Adding to the challenge is the fact that many businesses may have IT providers managing their technology but without a focus on email security or investment in tools for its protection against contemporary threats. Unfortunately, when a critical issue arises, the responsibility falls beyond the contractual scope, resulting in unexpected costs for the business.

This makes it crucial that you ensure your email’s protections, whether they are managed by an external provider or an internal resource. So, what constitutes a robust email security solution?

Three Starting Points to a Secure Email Implementation

User education plays a pivotal role. While not a technical aspect deployable by the IT department, educating end users about cybersecurity risks is imperative. Phishing simulation, for instance, involves sending seemingly legitimate emails designed to mimic real threats. If an employee falls victim, the simulation provides gentle explanations, outlines risks, and offers training resources.

Meeting regulatory compliance standards is another critical aspect, as industries increasingly adopt their own guidelines. Email, often dealing with sensitive information, should not be a repository for data like financial credentials, health records, or credit card information. Implementing additional systems, such as third-party encryption tools and secure customer portals, ensures secure transmission of sensitive data.

Email backup is equally essential. While typical data backup devices may cover files, they might not extend to your email solution, especially if it resides in the cloud. Cloud-based email solutions typically offer built-in backup, requiring configuration, testing, and regular audits to ensure reliability. Documenting these processes provides decision-makers with peace of mind during disaster recovery planning, business continuity reviews, security audits, and insurance renewals.

Turn to Us for Assistance with All This, and More

Despite its apparent simplicity, overlooking email security can have disastrous consequences. For a comprehensive audit of your technology and to ensure there are no vulnerabilities, we strongly recommend reaching out to us at (317) 759-3972. Your proactive approach today can prevent potential threats from infiltrating your systems tomorrow.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/your-email-inbox-is-the-most-dangerous-part-of-your-day/

Five Controversial Technologies You Need to Be Careful With

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With many compliance and regulation laws existing in today’s business world, it’s no small wonder that ethical dilemmas surrounding business technology are more common than you might expect. Let’s go over five of the more controversial uses of technology so you can avoid facing them during the course of your operations.

Improper Use of Personal Information

Since data and information are now so digitized, the question of how it’s handled is a near-constant ethical dilemma. People, including yourself, readily hand over all sorts of personal details thanks to online shopping, social media, and really any online interactions. Companies can use this information to help the user have a better experience, but this brings up questions about how much data collection is too intrusive or a breach of privacy.

Personal data is incredibly valuable, and it can give your business a lot of insights to make better decisions, but it must also be used ethically. The lines for how to use this information can get blurry, so do your part to ensure that you aren’t contributing to the problem.

Poor Oversight and Accountability

Businesses often use a mix of third-party and proprietary technology, the combination of which can lead to inconsistencies and ambiguities for how data is governed, protected, and secured. There is a clear need for responsibility here, and it must extend beyond any single entity. There are advocates out there arguing for global governance, just like there are with other global issues like global warming.

The Misinformation Epidemic is Real

It’s easier than ever to spread information that is flat-out untrue, especially in the days of online information dissemination. Anyone can share anything on the Internet, and unless it is verified by a third party, it’s hard to know what to believe. Deepfake technology certainly does not help, either, as it fabricates very believable video and audio content that can have serious consequences and implications.

Artificial Intelligence

AI tools can be remarkable for business purposes, but there are some ethical challenges that have arisen from them. Here are a couple:

• Facial recognition technologies raise privacy, bias, and misuse issues.
• Job displacement builds concern about the impact on employment security and job creation.
• Health and action tracking raises ethical questions about monitoring and personal freedom.
• Bias in AI highlights the inherent human bias in technology development and its potential to perpetuate societal inequities.

Autonomous (Not Automated) Technology

Note that we are discussing autonomous technology like self-driving cars, weapons, and service drones rather than automated technology processes. Autonomous technology has the potential to change operations for a lot of businesses, but it also has some folks concerned about overreliance on programmed systems that are not properly managed or overseen. For example, an army of robotic soldiers or a fleet of self-driving vehicles with no one at the helm is quite concerning.

Technology is great, but only when it’s used ethically and effectively. Learn more about how you can do so by working with Reciprocal Technologies. Call us at (317) 759-3972 to learn more.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/five-controversial-technologies-you-need-to-be-careful-with/

How to Avoid Malware

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Malware has become an increasing threat, affecting individuals and organizations alike. With cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, it is essential for both casual internet users and tech-savvy professionals to understand the dangers of malware and how to effectively protect themselves.

We will delve into the world of malware, outlining its various forms and shedding light on preventative measures that can be taken to avoid falling victim to its destructive consequences.

By discussing key strategies and providing valuable insights, we aim to equip you with the knowledge you need to stay one step ahead in the ongoing battle against malware attacks.

Understanding Malware and Its Many Forms
Malware, short for malicious software, has emerged as a significant threat. Both individuals and organizations are vulnerable to its damaging consequences.

As cybercriminals continue to exploit vulnerabilities with ever-evolving techniques, it is crucial for everyone, from casual internet users to tech-savvy professionals, to grasp the dangers of malware and adopt effective protective measures.

We will provide clarity on various types such as viruses, worms, ransomware, spyware, and more. Exploring each form’s traits, giving you a better understanding of how these digital intruders operate.

How It Infiltrates Systems and Networks

Malware, short for malicious software, is a stealthy threat that infiltrates systems and networks with the intent to cause harm. Cybercriminals use various tactics to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to devices or sensitive information.

One common method used by malware is phishing attacks. These involve sending deceptive emails or messages that appear legitimate, tricking users into clicking on malicious links or downloading infected attachments. Once executed, the malware can execute its intended actions without the user’s knowledge.

Another way in which malware infiltrates systems is through drive-by downloads. This occurs when a user unknowingly visits a compromised website that contains hidden malicious code. The code automatically downloads onto the user’s device, infecting it with malware.

To avoid falling victim to malware attacks, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to take preventative measures.

Best Practices for Guarding Against Malware

One crucial strategy for guarding against malware is maintaining up-to-date security software on all devices used for internet browsing or file-sharing. Robust antivirus programs with real-time scanning capabilities are essential in detecting and removing any potential threats before they have the chance to infiltrate your system. Regularly updating these security solutions will ensure that you have access to the latest protection mechanisms developed specifically for combating emerging digital risks.

Practicing safe online habits plays a significant role in preventing malware infections. This includes being cautious when opening email attachments or downloading files from untrusted sources, as well as avoiding suspicious links embedded within emails or websites.

Employing strong passwords across all accounts and utilizing multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible adds an extra layer of security against hackers attempting unauthorized access.

By adhering to these prevention strategies – maintaining up-to-date security software and practicing safe online habits – individuals and organizations can minimize their susceptibility towards malware attacks significantly.

Detecting Malware Before It Inflicts Severe Damage

Recognizing the signs of malware before it inflicts severe damage is imperative. Users can detect early warning signs such as slow system performance, unexpected crashes, or unauthorized access attempts on their devices.

Unusual pop-ups or advertisements may also indicate the presence of malware. Regularly updating antivirus software and operating systems while practicing safe browsing habits are fundamental strategies for mitigating this threat.

Educating oneself about different types of malware such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware is essential to better recognize their potential impacts and how they operate.

Recognizing these signs allows individuals and organizations to take proactive actions like conducting regular security audits or implementing multi-layered security measures across networks.

The Role of Cybersecurity Training in Malware Prevention

To effectively protect their organizations from the growing threat of malware, it is important for employers to prioritize cybersecurity training for their employees.

Educating employees about the dangers of malware and how to prevent its infiltration can be a crucial step in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining operational continuity. Through comprehensive training programs, organizations can empower their workforce with knowledge on recognizing suspicious emails, avoiding malicious websites, practicing good password hygiene, and identifying potential threats.

Cybersecurity training plays a vital role in creating a security-conscious culture within an organization. Through interactive workshops or online courses, employees can learn about different types of malware such as ransomware, spyware, and phishing attacks.

They can understand the impact that these types of malware may have on both personal devices and corporate networks. By educating employees on how malware spreads through deceptive links or infected email attachments, they become better equipped to identify potential risks and take appropriate actions.

When everyone is well-informed about potential threats and knows what steps need to be taken to mitigate them before causing significant damage becomes second nature within an organization – significantly reducing vulnerabilities while improving overall cyber resilience.

Keeping Malware at Bay

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, individuals and organizations must stay vigilant against the danger of malware. Educating oneself about the various forms of malware is essential to understanding how it can infiltrate systems and compromise personal or sensitive information.

Implementing best practices such as regularly updating software, utilizing strong passwords, and being cautious when clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to malware attacks.

Adopting security solutions like antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems adds an extra layer of protection.

Practicing good cyber hygiene and fostering a culture of awareness within both personal and professional environments helps individuals minimize their chances of becoming victims of malware attacks.

Ultimately, it is up to everyone to take responsibility for their cybersecurity by actively engaging in cyber hygiene practices that keep them protected from malicious actors lurking online.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/malware-how-to-avoid-it/

A VPN Can Be a Useful Tool in Your Cybersecurity Efforts

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It can’t come as a surprise that businesses are starting to grow concerned about the potential of getting hit by a cyberattack. Just look at what’s happening out there. Literally millions of hackers trying to enter, steal, and sell your business’ data. To help protect their data, businesses should consider the adoption of a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which adeptly conceals data during its transit. Let’s take a look into some of the most compelling reasons why your business should embrace the use of a VPN.

Enhanced Encryption

At the core of VPN technology lies encryption, a robust safeguard that ensures the security of data in transit to and from your network. This encryption significantly raises the bar for unauthorized users attempting to steal or intercept your data.

Secure Tunneling Mechanism

Creating a secure tunnel for data transmission across the public internet, a VPN ensures the safety of your data even on unsecured networks. This feature allows you to utilize public Wi-Fi without the fear of your activities being monitored or tracked.

Data Integrity Assurance

VPNs play a pivotal role in guaranteeing the integrity of your data. By utilizing cryptographic hash functions, data sent over an encrypted connection remains untampered, providing a high level of confidence in its authenticity.

Anonymity Shield

By cloaking your real IP address and substituting it with your VPN server’s IP, a VPN renders your online activities anonymous. This proactive measure thwarts websites, advertisers, and potential threats from tracking your internet usage, safeguarding your privacy.

Public Wi-Fi Protection

Public wireless networks pose inherent risks due to their accessibility. A VPN acts as a protective shield, preventing interference with your work by outsiders while you’re connected to such networks.

Overcoming Geo-Restrictions

Although not a direct security concern, geo-restrictions can be inconvenient when you need to access specific content unavailable in your region. VPNs offer a secure avenue to bypass these restrictions, enabling you to access content securely.

Privacy Enhancement

VPNs contribute to privacy preservation by concealing online activities from Internet Service Providers (ISPs). This ensures that your ISP cannot monitor, log, or sell your web browsing data to interested parties.

If you want help securing your network, give the IT professionals at Reciprocal Technologies a call at (317) 759-3972. Our team of IT experts can help outfit your business with the reliable tools you need to secure your network and data. 

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/a-vpn-can-be-a-useful-tool-in-your-cybersecurity-efforts/

With Cybercriminals Utilizing Psychology, You Need To As Well

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Psychology—the scientific study of the mind and behavior—can provide some significant insights into which actions will ultimately be most beneficial to your company. What message will most effectively reach your clients, how can you inspire more motivation amongst your team, and what can you do to reach your goals more effectively?

Unfortunately, the modern cybercriminals that target businesses just like yours are going to be asking themselves the same questions. 

Enter the study of cyberpsychology (the study of how people behave online) and the insights it can provide in terms of how cybercriminals think, and how our defenses should be shaped in response.

Understanding Threats Makes It Easier to Defend Against Them

“Know thy enemy.” This advice from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War has stuck around for a reason: it works. Understanding an opponent allows you to more accurately predict their behavior and build a strategy to counter their reactions. From the battlefield to the boardroom to cyberspace, this is a pretty stable constant, and illustrates how cyberpsychology can help make cybersecurity protections more effective.

That’s the goal behind efforts like the Reimaging Security with Cyberpsychology-Informed Network Defenses (ReSCIND) program, which has been implemented by the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects activity (or IARPA). By studying the actions of cybercriminals, the program is intended to identify the weaknesses that these cybercriminals have and use them to minimize the efficacy of attacks and ruses.

For instance, by understanding how a cybercriminal is likely to act, it becomes possible to influence those behaviors and manipulate a cyberattack into being less effective by targeting dummy machines, all while defensive measures are activated and data about these attacks is collected.

While This Technology Isn’t Widely Available Yet, We Can Help Fulfill Its Role

While this kind of technology won’t be widely available for at least three to five years, that doesn’t mean you have no other options to help you improve your security. We’re here, for instance.

In addition to keeping an eye on your network to catch threats that manage to slip past the extensive cybersecurity measures we’ll maintain on your behalf, we’ll work with you and your team to help prepare them to spot signs of phishing attacks. We’ll do whatever we can to undermine a cybercriminal’s attempts to use cyberpsychology against you and your business.

Learn more about our services by giving us a call at (317) 759-3972 today.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/with-cybercriminals-utilizing-psychology-you-need-to-as-well/

A Few Strategies That Can Help Reduce Your Printing Costs

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Printing has been a major part of most businesses for a long time. It’s how ideas were shared for decades. The past couple, however, have seen the need for printed resources go way down, but that often doesn’t stop businesses from wasting useful capital on unnecessary printing. This month, we thought we’d give you three tips to help you reduce your printing costs, month after month.

Implement Print Management

Nowadays, software has become so important for businesses as it helps organize and automate things. Managing your business’ printing is much, much easier if you can track and manage printing activities, set quotas for how much employees can print, and basically set guidelines for the use of printers in the workplace. Some really useful features that print management can provide include:

• User authentication – Require employees to authenticate themselves before printing, which can discourage unnecessary or unauthorized printing.
• Print job tracking – Monitor who is printing what, when, and where, allowing you to identify areas where cost-saving measures can be applied.
• Print job routing – Route print jobs to the most cost-effective devices, such as black and white printers for text documents and color printers for marketing materials.
• Print quotas – Set limits on the number of pages or color prints each user or department can produce, encouraging more responsible printing practices.

Encourage Digital Workflow and Paperless Practices:

It’s easier than ever to build a workplace culture that values paperless processes. It is important to encourage employees to think twice before printing and consider alternatives that won’t use printed pages. Some of these alternatives that can cut down on printed resources include:

• Digital documentation – Store, share, and collaborate on documents digitally, reducing the need for hard copies.
• Email and electronic signatures – Utilize electronic signatures and email for approvals and contracts instead of printing, signing, and scanning.
• Cloud-based storage – Store documents in the cloud, making them accessible from anywhere, reducing the need for physical copies.
• Use PDFs – Share documents in PDF format, as it is more easily viewed and shared electronically.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Printers

Businesses absolutely have to print some things, and some businesses are reliant on printers for their sustainability. If the organization can’t help but print, investing in energy-efficient printers and finding recycled resources can go a long way toward helping you reduce costs and the negative effect it has on the environment. Considerations you should make include:

• Energy-efficient printers – Modern printers are designed to consume less energy when in standby mode and during printing. Look for printers with Energy Star certification or other energy-efficient features.
• Duplex printing – Use printers that support automatic duplex (double-sided) printing to reduce paper consumption.
• Compatible supplies – The use of remanufactured ink and toner cartridges, is often more cost-effective.
• Recycle and reuse – Recycle empty ink and toner cartridges, and encourage employees to use both sides of printed paper before recycling.

By implementing these tips, you can reduce printing costs over the long term while also promoting more sustainable and efficient printing practices within your organization. If you would like help understanding what you need to do to implement a print management program or if you would simply like to have a conversation about your business’ technology, give our knowledgeable consultants a call today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/a-few-strategies-that-can-help-reduce-your-printing-costs/

Why Your Business’ IT Needs to Play Nice with Its Strategy

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A company’s IT strategy plays a pivotal role in shaping its entire operational approach. This underscores the critical importance of meticulously crafting your organization’s IT strategy. Beyond merely aligning your IT resources and support with your business objectives, a tailored IT strategy empowers you to adapt to the specific conditions in which you operate and devise practical solutions to your unique business challenges. But the advantages don’t end there; let’s outline several compelling reasons why businesses should consider customizing their IT strategy to harmonize with their core business initiatives.

Integration that Supports Business Objectives

A customized IT strategy ensures that your technology investments and projects closely mirror your organization’s overarching business goals. It allows IT departments to prioritize initiatives that directly contribute to the company’s success. Decision-making revolves around technology acquisition and support, guided by how well it aligns with your business objectives.

Specific Technology to Fit Your Needs

Each organization grapples with its distinct set of requirements, obstacles, and opportunities. A personalized IT strategy paves the way for crafting a technology landscape precisely tailored to address these specific needs. Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, you create technology that is finely tuned to your unique demands.

Agile Scalability

A custom IT strategy can be tailored to accommodate your organization’s evolving needs. It builds the flexibility to adapt swiftly to shifting circumstances, allowing you to scale your technology infrastructure up or down as required. Given the dynamic nature of today’s business environment, this flexibility is a substantial asset that can’t be understated.

Risk Management

By taking into account an organization’s specific risks and security requirements, a customized IT strategy can facilitate the implementation of robust security measures, disaster recovery plans, and compliance procedures. These measures are designed to safeguard critical data and systems, ensuring the continuity of your business operations.

The Optimization of Business Resources

Customized IT strategies empower organizations to optimize the efficient utilization of IT resources, including personnel, infrastructure, and software licenses. This not only curbs wasteful spending but also ensures that IT resources are employed effectively, furthering many of your business objectives as more care is taken to things that can create revenue.

If you’re considering customizing your IT strategy to align with your business needs a professional perspective is necessary. The consultants at Reciprocal Technologies possess the expertise to assess your technology landscape and your overall business landscape. They can assist you in crafting a more agile and tailored IT strategy that caters to your unique requirements. To explore how our services can benefit your organization, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/why-your-business-it-needs-to-play-nice-with-its-strategy/

4 Ways to Get More Productivity Out of Your Smartphone

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Smartphones are incredible productivity tools that anyone can take advantage of for personal computing or business purposes. Thanks to the large amount of mobile applications available, there are countless ways that people can reimagine various aspects of their lives for the better. To help you out, we’ve put together four of our favorite smartphone tips that you might find useful.

Organize Applications

First, you need to be strategic about setting your phone up for productivity. You can start with your applications, organizing them according to your workflow. Depending on your organization’s settings, you might be able to set up a work profile that keeps your apps separated from your personal apps, helping you keep things nice and tidy. You can additionally keep your apps stored in folders on the home screen, making them easier to find when you need them most. We also recommend that you uninstall or hide apps that are rarely used so they don’t make things more difficult for you.

Be Strategic with Notifications

Let’s face it; you don’t need notifications for every single app. In fact, we bet you can turn off 80 percent of your notifications and get by just fine. Better yet, you might even find yourself enjoying fewer distractions from all the notifications. We recommend you mute or disable notifications from all but only the most essential apps. This will help you stay focused.

Use Your Productivity Apps

Productivity applications can make all the difference in how you approach your daily tasks. Some businesses implement productivity apps to be used on specific platforms, while others will implement them to be used more broadly, or even on mobile devices exclusively. Be deliberate with how you implement these apps, and you can get all kinds of benefits from using them. For example, you can implement note taking, task management, or calendar apps to keep your work in order.

Leverage the Cloud

The cloud gives you and your employees the opportunity to work without the tethers of the traditional office environment. With this freedom to work anywhere, you can be productive whenever and wherever you want. Additionally, the cloud has all the solutions you can imagine readily available with an Internet connection. It’s a great way to free up computing resources for things that matter on your office network without sacrificing functionality.

Reciprocal Technologies can help you build an infrastructure that takes mobile devices into account, thereby creating for you an opportunity to change your operations for the better. Get started by contacting our technicians at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/4-ways-to-get-more-productivity-out-of-your-smartphone/

Tip of the Week: Managing All Aspects of Your Phone Can Keep Battery Life from Being a Problem

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We’ve all experienced the frustration of a drained smartphone battery, and if not, you’ve likely become accustomed to constantly carrying a charger. But what exactly leads to the rapid depletion of a smartphone’s battery?

It turns out that several factors influence a smartphone’s ability to retain and sustain a charge over time. Let’s explore these factors and discuss how to address them.

Impact of Smartphone Hardware on Battery Life

The hardware composition of each smartphone model varies, influencing its overall battery performance. For instance, the size of the battery plays a crucial role—larger batteries can store more power and are expected to last longer. The display size also matters, with larger screens requiring more power for illumination, especially when brightness is set higher. Additionally, the refresh rate of the display and the activation of features like Bluetooth contribute to increased battery usage.

The device’s chipset is another determinant of battery life. While newer chipsets offer improved efficiency and faster performance with less heat generation, any hardware usage results in a drain on the battery, especially with frequent use.

In essence, any involvement of hardware contributes to a draw on the battery, and this draw becomes more significant with increased utilization of the corresponding hardware components.

Impact of Smartphone Software on Battery Life

While hardware enables a smartphone’s functionality, it is the software that allows practical use of the device. However, software can also strain the battery, as it necessitates the engagement of hardware resources. Some apps actively consume battery power during use, while others operate in the background, steadily depleting battery life.

The operating system (OS) also plays a role, with a newer OS generally operating more efficiently. Nevertheless, the constant execution of background tasks exerts a continuous pull on the battery reserves, resulting in a gradual reduction of battery life over time.

Impact of Smartphone Condition on Battery Life

It’s important to acknowledge that newer devices generally perform better. Each charging cycle removes a fraction of a second from the overall battery life. Additionally, a hot battery operates less efficiently than one at room temperature, and the use of a smartphone contributes to its heat generation. Therefore, maintaining a moderate temperature for your smartphone and avoiding leaving it in a hot car can positively impact battery life.

Key Takeaways

Several factors can accelerate the depletion of your smartphone’s battery:

• Hardware – Minimize screen time and deactivate connections like Bluetooth when not in use to preserve battery life.
• Software – Close applications entirely when not actively in use or minimize their background activities to extend battery life.
• Environment – Keep your smartphone at a controlled temperature to minimize environmental impact on the battery.

By following these tips, you can optimize your smartphone’s battery life, ensuring it remains active and available for a more extended period during the day. If your business needs help with their mobile policy, the IT professionals at Reciprocal Technologies can help. Give us a call today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/tip-of-the-week-managing-all-aspects-of-your-phone-can-keep-battery-life-from-being-a-problem/

iOS 17 Has a Lot of Interesting New Features to Explore

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Generally speaking, each new iteration of any given operating system will offer some enhancements and improvements to the user’s experience, often via new features. iOS 17, the latest version of Apple’s mobile operating system, is no exception. Let’s go over some of these new features now.

Clear Your Messages of Verification Codes

Nowadays, it is fairly typical for basic multi-factor authentication to be used as a means of securely accessing various accounts, often with access codes sent as email and text messages. You’ve more than likely dealt with these codes and had these messages stack up in your respective inboxes.

iOS 17 includes a setting that will automatically delete these messages once the codes have been entered via AutoFill. By accessing your Settings, then Passwords > Password Options, you’ll find Verification Codes and the option to Clean Up Automatically. This will cause codes inserted via AutoFill to be automatically deleted from the Messages or Mail applications once used.

Enhanced AirPod Features

We’ve all been there: we’ve either seen someone fumbling with their AirPods as a conversation starts, or we’ve been that person ourselves. Fortunately, those with the second-generation AirPods Pro and who have iOS 17 installed can enjoy a few new features, including Conversation Awareness. Conversation Awareness allows the aforementioned AirPods to sense when the wearer speaks, lowering the volume of your media and background noise while amplifying voices in front of you. Paired with Adaptive Audio and Personalized Volume, iOS 17 has made AirPods that much more capable.

Siri’s Gotten Some Upgrades, Too

“Hey, Siri.” “Hey, Siri.” “Hey, Siri.” The wake word for Apple’s famous assistant has always been part of the whole phrase, but iOS 17 removes the need to say “hey.” Furthermore, if a user has a string of queries they’d like to pose to Apple’s assistant, it is no longer necessary to start each with the wake word “Hey, Siri” or even “Siri.”

Finding Certain Messages is Easier

Chances are pretty good that you have hundreds—if not thousands—of messages accumulated in your Messages application. This would make it predictably challenging to find a particular message. That is, without iOS 17. The updated operating system now incorporates a Search function for Messages, allowing the user to find messages based on the contact that sent it, if a link was involved, if a message included a photo, and more.

This is Just a Sample of What the Latest Version of iOS Has to Offer

We encourage all users to keep their software updated for security reasons, but having so many additional features is a great bonus. Hopefully, you find a lot of utility added to your device.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/ios-17-has-a-lot-of-interesting-new-features-to-explore/

Hacked Social Media Accounts Are Bad for Your Business

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Social media has become deeply ingrained in today’s culture, from business to personal connection. Businesses stake their reputation on the platforms, and individuals and families use them to connect with one another in ways they never were able to before. This is why it’s so scary to think about what would happen if an account were hacked or taken over.

Let’s look at how social media hacks are disruptive and potentially catastrophic to a business owner.

Take Social Media Attacks Seriously

For a reference point, consider how much you share on social media. You’ve probably shared quite a lot over the years, if you’re like most people. You might have even shared a little more than you would prefer or expect, not all of which was intentional. These cyberattacks tend to be pretty effective because you don’t think of them as a cyberattack, but as a person you might know reaching out for help, or some other social engineering scam.

Phishing attacks leverage social media all the time specifically to take advantage of unwary businesses and individuals. Sometimes phishing attacks can take over an entire account. What would you do if your business’ Facebook page got hacked? Let’s look at what might happen.

Your Business is at Risk of Social Media Hacks

If your business falls victim to a social media hack, you can expect the following to happen:

Deleted Content and Unexpected Ad Charges

If your business’ social media account is hacked, you might lose access to a valuable tool that helps you communicate with your clientele. You also lose an outlet of communicating with them about your services, too, and all of your time spent working on these accounts and followings won’t mean anything. The attacker might even waste your advertising dollars to distribute their own attacks, further ruining your good reputation.

Distribution of Scams and Inappropriate Content

Social media attacks could use your accounts to distribute content that others might find distasteful. Not only will they ruin your reputation, they will also post content that could go against the community standards, putting your account in further jeopardy.

Lost Access to Important Resources

Facebook gives users the ability to access other accounts with the same login information, and while we don’t advocate for you to do this, well, there’s a chance that you already have—and hackers are going to use that to your detriment.

Your Social Media Could Get Kidnapped!

Cybercriminals know how valuable your social media accounts are, and they are willing to extort money out of you to make a profit off of it. If your social media accounts are compromised, you can expect a hacker to try to make money off your misery.

How You Can Keep Your Business Accounts Safe

The same password and account access best practices for your business accounts can be applied to social media. We also recommend multi-factor authentication methods whenever possible, as well as constant monitoring for suspicious activity.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/hacked-social-media-accounts-are-bad-for-your-business/

Microsoft is Working to Revolutionize Long-Term Data Storage

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Considering the amount of data created on a daily basis, there will eventually come a time when the amount of data will outweigh our ability to store it. The technology giants at Microsoft are taking the initiative to find a solution to this dilemma, and they are working with the University of Southampton in England to make this vision come to life.

One project on their radar for the future is Project Silica, a method of storing data using quartz glass. The theory here is that the storage medium can allow for a long-term, high-density storage solution that can stand strong in the face of environmental challenges and the cruel, slow, unflinching march of time.

Consider what we know about your typical methods of data storage, hard drives and magnetic tape. They both have their shortcomings, chiefly in the form of long-term data retention and durability. Silica glass, however, can potentially store data for much longer and withstand harsh environments that hard drives and magnetic tape could only dream of. The technology, which is incredibly interesting, uses femtosecond lasers to encode data into tiny glass discs that create three-dimensional structures inside the glass itself.

Here are some of the advantages that Project Silica includes:

• Durability: Silica glass can withstand a ton of punishment in terms of heat, humidity, and radiation, making it an ideal solution for long-term storage.
• Density: Since the density of data stored on silica glass is so much higher than normal, it makes for a great compact storage medium.
• Longevity: Project Silica has a goal of creating a storage system that can last for centuries, allowing it to preserve information that could be lost to time.
• Energy efficiency: Once the data has been etched into the glass, it no longer needs a constant supply of power, making for an efficient method of data storage.

While Project Silica is still in its research and development phase, it has also been tested with a proof-of-concept, showing that the future of this technology could very well become a reality. However, it might be some time before it is practical and commonplace. In the meantime, we can help you with any of your current data storage needs, and you can trust us to stay on top of the industry. To learn more, call us at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/microsoft-is-working-to-revolutionize-long-term-data-storage/

You’ll Be Surprised at the Art That Has Been Made Using Excel

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Defining art can be a challenging task, particularly in light of the constantly evolving techniques and mediums. At its core, art can be succinctly described as the creative expression of an individual using some form of medium.

Japanese artist Tatsuo Horiuchi provides a unique illustration of this concept, utilizing a medium that is familiar to both art enthusiasts and outsiders. His artistry takes a very literal and unconventional path, however. Instead of traditional materials like clay or paint, he crafts his artwork using the cells within a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.

Tatsuo Horiuchi’s journey into this distinctive art form began after retiring from his career as a medical equipment engineer. Seeking a creative outlet but lacking the conventional art supplies and the inclination to invest in them, he turned to a readily available tool: Excel. Although he had never used the software for artistic purposes, Tatsuo embarked on a journey of self-education, exploring the software’s features and discovering how to employ various tools to achieve different artistic effects. He repurposed the autoshape feature for the overall design, transformed the graph-focused line tool into trees, and utilized the fill tool to create shading that added depth to his paintings.

Over the years, through diligent self-learning, Tatsuo’s artistic process evolved. Starting in 2000 with the aspiration to create artwork worth sharing within a decade, his initial years were dedicated to mastering Excel’s tools to create recognizable shapes and objects. The subsequent three years saw him combining these elements into coherent images. In 2006, his talents earned him recognition when he won the Excel Autoshape Art Contest.

Since then, Tatsuo’s art has graced the walls of prestigious institutions like the Gunma Museum of Art, sharing this honor with renowned artists such as Monet and Renoir. View some of his works here. 

This story conveys an important message that technology can be harnessed in various innovative ways. While it might not turn your team into award-winning artists, it can significantly enhance your business operations and ensure compliance with regulations.

At Reciprocal Technologies, our expert team has been assisting businesses in Indiana with their IT needs. We are ready to help you make the most of technology to improve your processes. To learn more about our managed IT services and how they can benefit your business, give us a call today at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/youll-be-surprised-at-the-art-that-has-been-made-using-excel/

It’s Helpful to Understand New Technology

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With technology taking center stage for most businesses over the past couple years, you might consider yourself fairly knowledgeable about most business-related technology out there. Still, we want to cover five that are the most trendy and, coincidentally, pretty great for business, too. Let’s dive in.

Smartphones

Most people have a smartphone at their disposal—at least, seven billion people do, which is about 86 percent of the entire world’s population. These handheld electronic devices are essentially compact computers that have revolutionized the way people communicate, work, and access information. Thanks to cloud computing, access to nearly all important services can be achieved while mobile, and with the ability to make calls, send texts, and connect to the Internet, people have so much power in their hands for all of their communication needs. With so many apps available, and features such as touch screens, high-definition cameras, and powerful processors, smartphones are paving the way for productivity.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is an aspect of computer science that focuses on creating intelligent systems that can perform tasks traditionally delegated to humans. Several types of technology are integrated into AI, including deep learning, machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, all of which contribute to the technology’s ability to learn from data, recognize patterns, and make decisions. AI can be leveraged in all kinds of ways such as in virtual assistants, healthcare diagnostics, and even financial analysis. It’s changing the way that businesses operate while also creating conversations about the ethics and morals of using it, so that’s how you know it’s a major game-changer in the tech world.

Cloud Computing

Through cloud computing, the way individuals access technology has been changed forever. Services and media can be accessed on-demand through the Internet from across a large network of remote servers and computing resources, allowing businesses the freedom to implement all kinds of neat technologies that were previously limited to the in-house network. Users can leverage cloud computing for storage, data processing, and application hosting, all of which can be done in a scalable, flexible, and cost-effective way. This opens up more opportunities for individuals or businesses to pay for what they need, and nothing more. If you can think of it, chances are you can use the cloud to access it.

The Internet of Things

With the Internet of Things (IoT), typical devices that would normally not be connected to the Internet suddenly have a lot more functionality than they have ever had before. This Internet connectivity allows them to communicate across networks and with each other, allowing for the collection and exchange of data. Users can also remotely control these devices or monitor them as needed. This is all accomplished through the use of embedded sensors, communication hardware, and microprocessors that can be fitted to the devices in question. Common examples of Internet of Things devices include appliances, wearable devices, and industrial machinery and vehicles. As such, it can be used in unique and interesting ways across industries. While it does open up conversations about privacy and security, the convenience factor sure does make it an easy sell.

5G

The fifth generation of wireless technology is a considerable step forward for telecommunication. 5G offers faster data speeds, lower latency, and increased network capacity compared to previous iterations of wireless technology. 5G networks allow for faster downloads and smoother streaming, but they also give people access to more powerful IoT options such as devices capable of remote surgery, automated vehicle operation, and others. It also has ramifications for healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing that could be profound in the future. Granted, 5G networks do present some issues, including infrastructure challenges, regulatory considerations, and concerns about security and privacy, but they can be worked around.

How does your business manage technology? If you’re unsure if you can handle it all on your own, Reciprocal Technologies can help. Learn more by giving us a call at (317) 759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/its-helpful-to-understand-new-technology/