New Variant of XLoader Malware Runs in the Background and Steals Your Photos, Texts, and Other Data

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If you’re in the know about cybersecurity and, specifically, mobile malware, you might have heard the name XLoader in the past. The malware has gone through considerable versions and variations, allowing it to steal information from users in more than seven countries, but the most recent is incredibly scary.

Android encompasses a significant portion of the smartphone operating system market share, and any attack that targets it should be taken seriously. Normally, an Android malware first needs to be opened by the user for it to work. You open the infected app or file, which then launches the malware. However, this new version of XLoader is a bit different in that it can launch automatically.

Unfortunately, this new variant of XLoader can run in the background, meaning that the app doesn’t even have to be opened for it to run and perform all of its nasty tricks. It can extract data from infected devices relatively easily, including photos, text messages, contact lists, hardware information, and so much more.

According to McAfee, which discovered the malware, the threat spreads by shortened URLs in malicious text messages. These shortened URLs are designed to make detection more difficult for the user. If the user opens the link on their device, they’ll be prompted to download the Android APK file, which is a way to sideload apps on a device without installing them through the Google Play Store. If users install the app, they’ll find themselves with an infected Android device.

To avoid detection, the app impersonates Google Chrome and asks the user for permissions like sending and viewing text messages and running in the background. It will also ask users to assign it as the default SMS app. Furthermore, XLoader can extract more phishing messages and malicious links from Pinterest profiles. It will send the links to the infected smartphone in an effort to stay undetected.

Here’s the crazy part: the threat can use hard-coded phishing messages to trick the user into clicking on malicious links with bogus allegations of bank fraud if it cannot access Pinterest for whatever reason. It’s a very intelligent threat that has evolved over time, and it must be taken seriously.

You can limit the amount of risk associated with mobile malware like XLoader by avoiding sideloading apps in the first place and limiting the number of apps you download from the app store. Furthermore, we always recommend that you make sure Google Play Protect is enabled on your device.

To make sure it’s on, open the Google Play Store app. At the top right, tap the profile icon. Tap Play Protect and then Settings. Ensure Scan apps with Play Protect is on.

Be sure to educate your users about this threat and all other types of mobile malware, and take measures now to protect your business by calling Reciprocal Technologies at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/new-variant-of-xloader-malware-runs-in-the-background-and-steals-your-photos-texts-and-other-data/

Ways To Protect Your Business from Cybersecurity Threats with Managed IT and Cloud

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Cybersecurity threats pose a significant risk to businesses of all sizes. With the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, it has never been more important for companies to prioritize their online security measures.

Managed IT services and cloud solutions offer comprehensive protection from potential threats by providing advanced security protocols and data encryption techniques. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which businesses can safeguard their assets and information using managed IT services and cloud technology.

Join us as we explore cybersecurity defense strategies and discover how these innovative solutions can help protect your business against malicious actors.

The Growing and Evolving Cybersecurity Threats for Your Business

Cybersecurity threats have become more prevalent and sophisticated than ever before, posing a serious risk to businesses across all industries. From ransomware attacks to data breaches, the potential consequences of falling victim to cybercrime can be catastrophic for a company’s reputation and financial stability. With the rise of remote work and cloud-based solutions, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has only grown more urgent.

Managed IT and cloud technology offer businesses an effective way to protect their sensitive information from cyber threats. By outsourcing their IT needs to experienced professionals, companies can ensure that they have access to cutting-edge security tools and protocols that are constantly updated to defend against new threats. Storing data in secure cloud environments adds an extra layer of protection through encryption and strong authentication methods.

It’s crucial for organizations to stay informed about the evolving landscape of cyber risks and take proactive steps towards strengthening their defenses to safeguard their assets and maintain trust with clients or customers.

Cybersecurity Threats: The Sources, The Methods, and The Impacts

Cybersecurity threats come from many sources, including malicious actors such as hackers, cybercriminals, and even disgruntled employees. These threat actors exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or disrupt business operations.

Phishing attacks, malware infections, ransomware incidents, and DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks are just a few examples of common cybersecurity threats that organizations face daily.

To carry out their nefarious activities, cyber attackers employ various methods and techniques designed to evade detection and undermine existing security defenses. Social engineering tactics like spear phishing campaigns target individuals within an organization by tricking them into disclosing confidential data or installing malicious software.

Advanced persistent threats (APTs) involve sophisticated strategies aimed at infiltrating company networks stealthily over an extended period without being detected. Additionally, zero-day exploits take advantage of previously unknown vulnerabilities in software applications or operating systems to launch targeted attacks.

The impacts of cybersecurity threats can be severe and far-reaching for businesses that fall victim to these malicious activities. As such, implementing robust cybersecurity measures through managed IT and cloud solutions is essential for safeguarding valuable assets and mitigating potential risks in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Ways To Protect Your Business from Cybersecurity Threats

One of the keyways to protect your business from cybersecurity threats is by conducting a thorough assessment of your current cybersecurity measures. This involves analyzing your existing security protocols, identifying potential vulnerabilities, and evaluating how well-equipped you are to defend against cyberattacks. By understanding where your weaknesses lie, you can develop a targeted strategy to strengthen your defenses and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.

Once you have completed a comprehensive assessment, the next step is to implement robust cybersecurity measures using managed IT and cloud solutions. Managed IT provides round-the-clock monitoring and support for your systems, ensuring that any suspicious activity is detected and addressed promptly. Cloud technology offers secure storage options for sensitive data, reducing the likelihood of breaches or data loss.

Protecting your business from cybersecurity threats requires a proactive approach that involves regular assessments and strategic implementation of advanced security measures. With the help of managed IT and cloud solutions, companies can fortify their defenses against cyberattacks and ensure the integrity of their sensitive information.

Managed IT and Cloud: A Comprehensive and Proactive Solution

Managed IT services and cloud solutions have revolutionized the way businesses approach cybersecurity. By outsourcing their IT needs to a team of experts, companies can benefit from round-the-clock monitoring, threat detection, and proactive security measures. This proactive approach helps identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors, reducing the risk of data breaches and other cyber threats.

Cloud technology plays a vital role in securing sensitive information by encrypting data both at rest and in transit. By storing data on remote servers maintained by third-party providers, businesses can ensure that their information is backed up regularly and inaccessible to unauthorized users. Cloud-based solutions offer scalability and flexibility for businesses looking to adapt to changing cybersecurity landscapes without significant capital investments.

With constant updates and improvements in security protocols, companies can stay ahead of potential risks while focusing on growing their business operations without fear of compromise or downtime due to cybersecurity attacks.

The Benefits of Managed IT and Cloud for Cybersecurity

Managed IT and cloud solutions offer businesses a range of benefits when it comes to cybersecurity. One of the key advantages is improved control and visibility over an organization’s network and data. By utilizing managed IT, companies can ensure that their systems are constantly monitored for any suspicious activity or potential threats. This proactive approach allows for quick detection and response to any security incidents, minimizing the risk of data breaches or other cyberattacks.

Cloud technology plays a crucial role in enhancing cybersecurity measures by providing secure storage and backup solutions for sensitive information. With data encryption techniques offered by cloud providers, businesses can rest assured that their valuable data is protected against unauthorized access or theft.

In the event of a security breach, cloud services also enable faster recovery processes, allowing companies to minimize downtime and maintain business continuity. Leveraging managed IT and cloud solutions can help businesses effectively mitigate cybersecurity risks and safeguard their digital assets from potential threats.

Why a Working with a Reputable Managed IT and Cloud Provider Matters

Working with a reputable managed IT and cloud provider is crucial for businesses looking to protect themselves from cybersecurity threats. These providers have the expertise and resources to implement advanced security measures that can help prevent attacks and keep sensitive data safe. By outsourcing these services to a trusted partner, companies can ensure that they are staying ahead of potential threats and avoiding costly breaches.

Reputable managed IT and cloud providers offer round-the-clock monitoring and support, giving businesses peace of mind knowing that their systems are being actively defended against cyber threats. This continuous monitoring allows for quick detection of any suspicious activity or vulnerabilities, enabling immediate action to be taken before any significant damage occurs. Partnering with a reliable provider also ensures access to the latest security technologies and updates, further enhancing the overall protection of a company’s digital assets.

Investing in cybersecurity measures is no longer optional – it’s essential. The peace of mind that comes with having robust cybersecurity measures in place is invaluable in protecting assets, reputation, and overall business success.

Secure Your Business with Managed IT and Cloud

Utilizing managed IT and cloud solutions can greatly enhance the security of your business in today’s landscape. By entrusting experts to monitor, manage, and maintain your IT infrastructure, you can ensure that your systems are protected against potential threats. Cloud technology offers a secure platform for storing and accessing data, with built-in encryption measures to keep sensitive information safe from cybercriminals.

Investing in managed IT services and cloud solutions is a proactive approach to safeguarding your business from cybersecurity threats. With advanced security protocols and constant monitoring by professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that your valuable assets are protected.

As technology continues to evolve and cyberattacks become more sophisticated, staying ahead of the curve with managed IT and cloud solutions is essential in securing the future success of your company.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/ways-to-protect-your-business-from-cybersecurity-threats-with-managed-it-and-cloud/

Who Has Your Data and What Are They Doing With It?

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Protecting personal data has become a critical concern as more and more people use Internet-connected accounts. While this tech has undoubtedly enriched our lives, it has also paved the way for unprecedented invasions of privacy, particularly by enormous technology companies that claim to be doing it for their own good. Today, we will explore how these giants compromise data privacy, raising questions about the balance between innovation and safeguarding our most sensitive information.

Data Monetization

One of the primary ways technology behemoths compromise data privacy is through the monetization of user data. Companies like Google, Facebook, and Amazon collect vast amounts of information about their users’ online behaviors, preferences, and interactions. This data is then used to create targeted advertising, generating substantial revenue for these companies. However, this process raises concerns about the extent to which users are aware of and consent to using their personal information for financial gain.

Opaque Data Collection Practices

Many tech giants engage in opaque data collection practices, making it challenging for users to fully understand how their information is being utilized. Complex privacy policies filled with legal jargon contribute to a lack of transparency, leaving users unaware of the extent to which their data is being harvested, stored, and shared. This lack of clarity erodes the fundamental principle of informed consent, a cornerstone of data privacy.

Invasive Tracking Technologies

Technology companies often employ sophisticated tracking technologies to monitor user activities across various platforms. Cookies, trackers, and device fingerprinting enable these companies to create comprehensive profiles of individual users, resulting in a detailed map of their online behaviors. While this information can undeniably enhance user experience through personalized services, it also exposes users to shady practices that have come to light multiple times in the past.

Third-Party Data Sharing

The practice of sharing user data with third-party entities is widespread among technology giants. Whether it’s sharing data with advertisers, business partners, or even government agencies, the potential for misuse and unauthorized access is a significant concern. Users may find their data traversing networks beyond their control, amplifying their risk substantially. 

Insufficient Security Measures

Despite the colossal amounts of sensitive data they handle, some tech companies have faced criticism for inadequate security. Data breaches and cyberattacks have become increasingly common, exposing user information in highly public ways. Weak encryption, poor password policies, and lax security protocols can turn these tech giants into vulnerable targets, putting user data at an elevated risk of being compromised.

While innovation continues to drive the development of groundbreaking technologies, we must demand greater transparency,  improved security measures, and ethical data-sharing and holding practices from these companies. 

While technology is undeniably at the center of most businesses at this point, it is important that you do what you need to do to protect your private information. For more great technology-related content, bookmark and visit our blog each week.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/who-has-your-data-and-what-are-they-doing-with-it/

Tip of the Week: How to Create Better Passwords

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Even though passwords are not the most reliable security measure out there these days, they are still important and the first line of defense against potential threats. Today, we want to discuss how you can make better passwords for all of your accounts.

Make Passwords Complex

The most secure passwords are complex, with over 12 characters, a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Additionally, these passwords will avoid using common words, like “password,” or other personally identifiable information. One trick you can use is to combine three words that have nothing to do with each other, then sub in numbers and symbols accordingly to make them more difficult to guess.

Don’t Replicate Passwords

People will often use the same passwords for multiple accounts, which really just defeats the purpose of using complex passwords. If you reuse passwords, then you’re basically saying, “If you can access one of my accounts, you can access the others, too.” You can use multiple complex passwords more easily if you use a password management tool to generate and store them. Reputable tools use encryption to protect your passwords, keeping them safe.

Frequently Update Passwords

Password security requires that you frequently update your passwords. The reason for this is simply that the longer you use the same old password, the more likely it is that someone will steal it. If you change it up occasionally, you are limiting the window for how usable a password is for a hacker. Of course, if you suspect that your password has been stolen somehow, you will want to change it immediately anyway.

Implement Multi-factor Authentication

You should not be relying exclusively on passwords to protect your accounts. You should also implement multiple other authentication factors, like biometrics, secondary passcodes sent to smartphones or email inboxes, and so on. This extra layer of security is crucial to keeping your accounts secure on the off-chance that your password has been compromised.

COMPANYAME can help your business implement password management solutions to keep your company safe. To learn more, call us today at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/tip-of-the-week-how-to-create-better-passwords/

Managed IT is the Best Way to Approach Business Technology

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Information technology, or IT, is an indispensable component for most contemporary businesses and serves as the backbone of their operations. To ensure a smooth operational infrastructure, it is crucial that businesses manage their IT in the most effective manner possible.

One such way businesses can do this is through working with a managed service provider, or MSP. These types of arrangements can provide businesses with clarity and ease of mind as it pertains to IT and operations.

Managed Services: A Better Standard for Managing IT

An optimized IT infrastructure will function leagues better than one that is not. You should strive for efficiency with your technology right from the start, as your infrastructure will only slow down as time progresses—particularly when new technologies make the older ones obsolete. You cannot avoid this, so it’s better to do what you can now to prevent it from occurring prematurely.

However, maintaining older technologies has its uses, especially when saving your organization money. That said, there does come a point when it’s no longer safe, financially, or operationally sound to do so. Preventative maintenance can only do so much, but what it can do is incredibly useful.

When it comes time to replace your IT, a managed service provider can help you implement the right tools for the job and future plans for upgrading.

Managed IT Helps You Optimize Costs

Give your team just the right amount of technology to meet their goals—no more, no less. Your team might have unrealistic expectations for the technology they need to complete their daily tasks, especially if their technology needs vary depending on their roles and responsibilities.

That said, if you consider that your team might have different skills, abilities, and roles within your team in the near future, your MSP can help you implement new technologies and solutions that align with your business’ evolving needs. It makes any investment on your part easier to scale accordingly.

MSPs can be incredibly important to any efforts to scale your business’ technologies, and you can make sure that all employees at your business get just what they need: no more and no less. This helps you optimize costs more efficiently.

There Are More Ways to Help Your IT, Too

Managed service providers can help your business in countless ways, so why not give us a call and ask? To learn more, call us today at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/managed-it-is-the-best-way-to-approach-business-technology/

A Winning Strategy for Implementing New Technology for Your SMB

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Have you ever tried to introduce new technology to your team, only to have your efforts at improving your business’ efficiency bounce off of your apathetic and frustrated employees who just don’t see the benefits? You’re not alone; it’s difficult to teach old dogs new tricks, as they say. Granted, it’s not impossible, and your team can (and should) be able to get on board with any new implementations, provided you do some initial legwork.

Here is one approach you can take to ensure your team sees the value of your new technology solutions and is ready to embrace them, too.

Make Sure There is a Need First

The best way to get your team on board is to implement a solution that they see a need for. Before committing to something that you want for your business, consider getting the opinions of your team. Ask them what they need to do their jobs more effectively and what some of the biggest struggles in their workflows are. While you cannot address all of their concerns at once, it helps to have many opinions when considering new opportunities for your office.

Plan to Train and Educate Your Team

Employees will likely feel intimidated and overwhelmed by a blanket rollout of new technology or service, particularly if they are used to doing things a certain way. To ensure your team is confident in using your new technology, provide comprehensive training and education on the new solutions. If you can showcase and explain the benefits properly, your team will be more likely to jump on board.

Use a Pilot Program with Built-In Feedback Loops

Finally, before you fully implement a new technology solution for your business, consider doing a “trial run” of sorts with key stakeholders within your business. These small-scale trials will help you identify where issues reside within your implementation process and will help you address challenges before the solution is rolled out at large. We recommend selecting a group of enthusiastic employees who are ready and willing to try to learn something new that could change the way your business operates for the better. Listen to their feedback and take it to heart when implementing the technology for the rest of your business.

Let Us Help You Out

Introducing new technology can be stressful, but working with a trained and professionally managed service provider like Reciprocal Technologies can make it a lot easier for your business. We can help you conduct a needs assessment, design your implementation strategy, and train your employees on how to use your new solutions effectively.

To get started, contact us at 317-759-3972 today.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/a-winning-strategy-for-implementing-new-technology-for-your-smb/

How Digital Twins Can Improve Your Operations

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Do you know what a digital twin is? While it might be considered a relatively recent innovation, it’s still helpful for businesses that want to improve their workflows. Today, we want to define what digital twins are and what value a business might get from them.

Defining Digital Twins

In short, a digital twin is a virtual copy of a physical asset. The digital twin will use real-world data, refined and adjusted to your specific needs, to help you understand how a product, process, or environment might function. The digital twin uses actual data to help you view the projected results in a virtual environment, thus giving you space to make adjustments and experiment with minimal risk.

Your digital twin will use various technologies to collect, store, and process data in this way. Here they are:

• With the Internet of Things, you can collect and process information. The IoT will also update data in real-time, giving your digital twin the resources it needs to make the most accurate predictions possible.
• With the cloud, you have a secure location to store and access the data needed for your digital twin. This can also give you processing power to test the systems appropriately.
• Artificial intelligence, or AI, can provide your digital twin with an additional method to crunch the data required to function properly. This will improve the quality of its predictions.
• Similarly, extended reality–technology that can integrate a virtual world into the real world–can offer interesting opportunities to test your digital twin in a variety of unique ways.

How Your Business Can Use Digital Twins

Depending on your industry, you might use this technology in different ways. Consider the following:

Aviation

Using digital twins, manufacturers can simulate aircraft design and maintenance, testing how parts and designs work in commercial and military settings.

Agriculture

As the world’s population increases, so too does the need for technology to help manage the agriculture that will sustain it. Whether it’s resource optimization, weather modeling, livestock monitoring, or supply chain management, digital twins offer unprecedented innovation opportunities in agriculture.

Manufacturing

In much the same way as the aviation industry, manufacturing can take full advantage of digital twins to accomplish great things. Imagine the prototyping process, for example, and how costly it can be to build and test multiple versions of what could be failed products. Digital twins allow for this process to be streamlined and less wasteful.

Medical

In the medical industry, digital twins can help replicate expensive medical equipment in a virtual environment. This helps providers by ensuring they implement the right technology without spending time or resources on those that are not effective. Digital twins can also be used to diagnose issues or supplement clinical research.

There are many more ways to use digital twins, but these are some of the ones that jump out to us. Does this sound like something you might consider? We can help. To learn more, call us at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/how-digital-twins-can-improve-your-operations/

Data Backup Takes Center Stage on World Backup Day

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Every year on March 31st, World Backup Day serves as a dedicated occasion to emphasize the crucial role of regular data backups in ensuring the seamless continuity of information. While this awareness day effectively underscores a fundamental best practice, we staunchly advocate for an ongoing commitment to continually maintaining and protecting backups, extending beyond the confines of a singular day.

To enhance your comprehension of optimal backup procedures for your business data, let’s delve into key best practices drawn from the insights of World Backup Day.

The central tenet of World Backup Day is clear: cultivate a culture of consistently backing up data while emphasizing its significance. At the heart of a robust backup strategy lies adherence to the widely recognized 3-2-1 Backup Rule.

The 3-2-1 Backup Rule can be concisely encapsulated as follows:

• Ensure you possess a minimum of three copies of all your data. One of these copies serves as your operational dataset, the primary information set you actively work from, while the other two function as backups.
• Store your backup copies separately from your operational data, employing at least two distinct storage mediums to augment redundancy.
• Keep at least one copy of your data in an offsite location, preferably in the cloud, to safeguard against location-specific emergencies.

Implementing these principles resonates with the core message of World Backup Day and establishes a resilient framework for protecting data in emergency scenarios.

While achieving a comprehensive backup setup by World Backup Day may present challenges, it’s imperative to recognize that the importance of having a backup extends beyond a specific date. Reach out to us to explore how we can assist in establishing a reliable and efficient backup system for your business’ data. Contact us at 317-759-3972 for more details on securing your data.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/data-backup-takes-center-stage-on-world-backup-day/

Bridging the Digital Divide: How VoIP Connects All Regions of the World

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Communication plays a crucial role in connecting people and ideas. However, economic disparities and geographical limitations can create a divide, hindering access to vital communication channels for various regions.

Fortunately, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has emerged as a powerful tool that bridges this gap by providing affordable and reliable connectivity to even the most remote areas.

We’ll explore how VoIP technology revolutionizes global communication, empowering individuals and communities to connect easily.

Breaking Down Your Business Walls of Communication with VoIP

Effective communication is key to success within businesses. However, outdated communication systems and limited bandwidth can create barriers that hinder collaboration and productivity. With VoIP technology, businesses can break down these walls by providing affordable and efficient connectivity regardless of location.

Gone are the days of relying on expensive long-distance phone calls or dealing with unreliable landlines. VoIP allows businesses to make high-quality calls using an internet connection, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines and reducing costs significantly.

Cloud-based VoIP solutions offer flexibility and scalability, allowing businesses to easily expand their communication capabilities as needed.

Businesses can connect seamlessly with clients and colleagues across the globe. Whether it’s conducting virtual meetings or collaborating on projects in real-time, VoIP facilitates instant communication without any limitations imposed by distance or economic factors.

This not only boosts productivity but also fosters a sense of connectivity among teams working remotely.

Making Global Communication Affordable for Everyone

In the past, global communication was often limited to those who could afford expensive international phone rates or relied on traditional telephone lines that were only available in major cities.

This created a significant barrier for those who need access to communication channels.

VoIP technology leverages the power of the internet to facilitate voice calls, video conferences, and messaging at significantly lower costs compared to traditional telecommunication systems.

By utilizing existing internet infrastructure, VoIP enables seamless global connectivity regardless of geographic location. This affordability opens up new possibilities for education, healthcare services, business opportunities, and social connections even in resource-constrained areas.

With advanced features such as call forwarding, voicemail transcription, conference calling, and virtual phone numbers offered by VoIP providers like Zoom Phone or RingCentral Engage Voice API, businesses can efficiently operate across borders without worrying about exorbitant expenses.

Also, educational institutions can now conduct distance learning programs across different time zones – all thanks to cost-effective connections enabled by VoIP.

As this technology continues to evolve and become more accessible globally, we can look forward to a world where everyone enjoys equal opportunities for connection and collaboration.

Embracing the Flexibility and Scalability

The future of communication lies in the flexibility and scalability of VoIP. As technology continues to advance, traditional phone lines are becoming obsolete, making way for more efficient and cost-effective solutions like VoIP.

With VoIP, individuals and businesses can make calls through an internet connection rather than relying on traditional phone networks. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of location and accessibility.

VoIP offers scalability options that allow businesses to expand their communication capabilities as needed. Unlike traditional phone systems that require physical installations and additional hardware as businesses grow, VoIP can easily accommodate increased call volumes without significant infrastructure changes.

This scalability not only saves costs but also ensures seamless communication across any geographical boundaries.

VoIP – Your Ally in Creating a Connected Business Space

VoIP technology is a powerful ally in bridging the digital divide and creating a connected business space. By providing affordable and reliable communication services, VoIP enables individuals and communities from all regions to have access to vital communication channels.

This not only helps bridge the gap between economically disadvantaged areas and more developed regions but also facilitates global connectivity.

With VoIP technology, businesses can expand their operations beyond geographical limitations. The ability to make cheap international calls allows companies to reach new markets around the world without incurring exorbitant costs.

Features like video conferencing enhance collaboration and breakdown barriers between teams located in different parts of the globe.

VoIP has revolutionized global communication by making it more accessible, convenient, and cost-effective for everyone. It has become an essential tool for both individuals seeking connectivity and businesses looking to expand their operations globally.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/bridging-the-digital-divide-how-voip-connects-all-regions-to-the-world/

Recycling Your Technology is the Way to Go

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Recycling your technology is something that you may not put too much thought into, but the facts are that a lot of the technology we use can be really harmful to the environment if it isn’t recycled properly. This month, we are going to go into what happens to your old tech and how having a plan for recycling your old tech can help.

What Happens When You’re Done with Your Tech?

For the most part, the technology that gets thrown away is disposed of like most other garbage: Burnt or put into landfills. This isn’t good. With people using technology so much, it results in over 40 million tons of eWaste per year; and that figure is just going up. Technology often contains some materials that can seriously damage the environment. Metals like lead, cadmium, mercury, and more can make their way into groundwater and can result in some pretty gnarly birth defects and health issues. 

What Responsibilities Do Businesses Have with Their Technology Waste?

Businesses are at their best when they maintain an ethical code. Businesses are responsible for recycling technology to reduce electronic waste’s environmental impact. By implementing efficient eWaste recycling programs that align with corporate sustainability goals and contribute to conserving valuable resources and reducing harmful pollutants, businesses can set a positive example and do their part to help reduce the problem at hand. 

What’s the Right Way to Recycle Technology?

To recycle technology responsibly, businesses should start by using local eWaste recycling programs or drop-off locations. Before you bring in your devices, removing personal data from them is extremely important. Disassembling electronic components and separating materials such as metals, plastics, and glass before recycling can really help, but if you don’t want to take the time to do this, getting it into the hands of a responsible recycling outfit will do. Businesses that really want to make their tech useful should explore opportunities to donate or repurpose functional devices to extend the lifespan of technology whenever possible.

We Can Help

At Reciprocal Technologies, we have relationships with companies that can help any organization responsibly recycle any technology they are looking to discard. If you would like to talk to one of our knowledgeable consultants about transforming your technology recycling strategy, give us a call today at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/recycling-your-technology-is-the-way-to-go/

What Are the Big Benefits that Outsourced Managed Services Give You?

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Your IT team plays a crucially important part in your business machinations. However, many small and even medium-sized businesses may not have the in-house resources to effectively cover their needs. If this could easily describe your business, you might want to consider outsourcing some of your technology management needs to a managed service provider. 

A managed service provider, like Reciprocal Technologies.

What Does Working with an MSP Give My Business?

There are plenty of benefits that subscribing to a managed service provider’s offering can bring, whether the MSP is simply adding to your internal team members or serving as your completely outsourced IT department.

Improved Skill Sets

Let’s say your internal team is great at resolving the technology issues that your team regularly deals with and has a plan to efficiently replace technology as it ages out. That said, maybe their cybersecurity knowledge isn’t as up-to-date as it perhaps should be.

Working with an MSP can help resolve shortages like this one or any others you may encounter. Whatever your current deficits are in regard to your business technology, the team that an MSP gives you access to can help you resolve them. This is because the MSP’s team is regularly working with various businesses that provide them with various challenges to overcome. As a result, the MSP is especially motivated to ensure that the team members they have assisting you are trained in everything possible… otherwise, the biggest benefit of working with them is limited, if not made redundant.

To avoid this, an MSP is motivated to keep their team fully trained in a variety of needs, making them more capable of serving you.

Improved Service Quality

On a related note, the MSP is equally motivated to ensure that every member of their team is instructed to provide you with the highest-quality services available. Let’s say that your MSP is charged with freeing your IT team from handling the support requests the rest of your team sends in. This means that the issues are being addressed without forcing your IT team to juggle tasks.

As a result, your IT team can be more effective in everything they do, whether that’s helping your business innovate or ensuring the rest of your team has what they need to do their jobs. Working with an MSP eliminates the need for them to multitask, as you effectively have another team added to your workforce.

Improved System Operations

It’s not exactly news that businesses regularly have to turn on a dime. Whether a sudden influx of opportunities pours in or new compliance requirements are suddenly applicable to your processes, an MSP can step in and make any needed changes. Maybe your business suddenly needs a few more people working with a specific software or entire software suite. An MSP can negotiate with a vendor to get you exactly what you need—often at a better price, to boot.

In terms of your compliance, a good MSP like Reciprocal Technologies will likely have had its finger on the pulse and will already be in the process of adjusting your IT to meet the new requirements. Keep in mind, too, that part of what makes the MSP so cost-effective is the fact that they work with multiple businesses. You may not be the only business a new compliance applies to.

This only motivates the MSP to address the new compliance requirements (or any other change) that much faster—ultimately benefiting you.

This is Far From What a Managed Service Provider Offers

Learn about some of the other benefits by reaching out to Reciprocal Technologies! We’d be more than happy to discuss how we could help your business. Give us a call at 317-759-3972!

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/what-are-the-big-benefits-that-outsourced-managed-services-give-you/

How to Approach Network Security Like a Pro

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Network security is an incredibly nuanced topic with a lot of specifics that must be addressed. Still, today, we want to give you some actionable items that you can use to take an active role in improving network security for your business. Let’s dig into some of the essential dos and don’ts of network security for small businesses.

Network Security Dos

Invest in a Robust Firewall and Antivirus Solution

Perhaps the most obvious security “do” is to implement preventative security solutions that keep threats out of your network while also allowing you to detect those that do make it through. A firewall can actively protect your network endpoints, while antivirus can detect and eliminate potential threats.

Update Systems and Software

Security threats constantly adapt and evolve to exploit recently discovered vulnerabilities. It’s your job to make sure these vulnerabilities get patched in a timely manner before threats can take advantage of them.

Implement Strong Access Controls

You can prevent a lot of security issues simply by controlling who can and cannot access specific types of data. You can limit data access based on the user’s role while also implementing multi-factor authentication. The latter asks for multiple authentication measures, like a smartphone passcode or biometric credential, ensuring that the password is not the only thing securing your business.

Network Security Don’ts

Ignore Employee Training

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a small business is failing to train your employees on how to practice basic security standards in the workplace. Phishing is on the rise, and with social engineering tactics becoming more and more nuanced, you need to train your team on how to identify them. It also helps to adopt a password security policy, too!

Rely on Network Security Alone

While you can theoretically prevent most hacks just by being proactive with your protections, you should not rely on your security solutions alone to save you. It helps to also have data backup systems in place just in case something truly devastating happens, and you need to perform a system restore. This is a best practice in general, as backups will save you from all kinds of other disasters, like weather phenomena and hardware failures.

Sweep Issues Under the Rug

If your employees accidentally allow a security threat to make its way into your system, you want them to feel comfortable coming forward to report the incident. While monitoring tools can, in most cases, help you identify the threat, you need your team to be willing to own up to mistakes without fear of punishment. Sweeping issues under the rug is a surefire way for them to worsen over time, so address them as early as possible.

Get Started with Network Security Solutions Today

We know your business has better and more lucrative things to worry about than network security, so why not outsource all of that responsibility to Reciprocal Technologies? We can implement the best solutions on the market, train your employees on best practices, and continuously monitor for potential issues. All you have to do to get started today is call us at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/how-to-approach-network-security-like-a-pro/

Avoid Sending Sensitive Information Over Email

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A single oversight can potentially nullify the effectiveness of your cybersecurity measures. For instance, even if you’ve implemented security measures like multifactor authentication, a phishing scam or certain malware variants could grant unauthorized access to your email, compromising all the data stored in your inbox.

The severity of these attacks escalates, particularly when sensitive information is exchanged through emails. Once hackers gain access, they have unrestricted visibility into all the information. Let’s go into the types of data that should never be casually stored in an email for precisely this reason.

What Types of Information Should Never Be Stored in an Email?

Various categories of data should not be included in emails for several reasons. Firstly, emails are inherently unprotected, and we’ve previously highlighted the ease with which a user’s email content can be illegitimately accessed. Moreover, your control is limited to your own inbox. An email’s duration in someone else’s inbox is unpredictable, providing ample time for the information it contains to be pilfered.

It is crucial that certain types of information are exclusively shared through secure means, and any emails containing them should be promptly deleted. We can establish rules (based on your Microsoft 365 license) to periodically scan for such information and attempt to delete messages containing it. Nonetheless, constant vigilance is essential to ensure that these types of data are not sent or stored in the body of an email or as an attachment.

• Government-Issued ID Numbers – Whether from a driver’s license, Social Security number, passport, or any other government-issued identification, this data can serve as a key to open numerous doors for a cybercriminal, granting them significant power.
• Bank/Financial Account Numbers – Access to an email containing the numbers identifying a user’s financial accounts puts attackers halfway to accessing those accounts. This information could enhance the effectiveness of phishing attacks.
• Credit/Debit Card Numbers – Continuing the trend, cybercriminals gaining access to these numbers can make fraudulent purchases, with no consequences for themselves.
• Protected Health Information – Access to this data infringes on a person’s privacy and could be exploited to make life challenging. Additionally, these records often contain a wealth of personally identifiable information, amplifying the impact of their theft. Healthcare information is one of the most protected types of data, under several compliance standards.
• Documents Protected by Attorney-Client Privilege – Similar to health information, these documents contain significant sensitive data, and their privacy is legally protected. Exceptions to this privilege are rare and do not include cybersecurity incidents.
• Passwords or Authentication Credentials – Completing the list, sharing passwords or authentication credentials via email is a significant risk. Cybercriminals gaining access to these details can potentially compromise all the aforementioned resources.

It’s extremely important for you and your team to keep this list in mind when using email. Additionally, it is not sufficient; robust cybersecurity measures are imperative to safeguard sensitive information. If you would like some help outlining your business’ security strategy contact the IT professionals at Reciprocal Technologies today at 317-759-3972.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/avoid-sending-sensitive-information-over-email/

6 Crucial Strategies for Effective File Sharing

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Your business runs on its data, and as such, you need a sound strategy for sharing files and other important information to ensure collaboration goes off without a hitch. You must also do all of this while protecting your sensitive data. What are some best practices that SMBs can utilize for file sharing? Let’s go over them.

Cloud Storage

A reliable file-sharing system that utilizes cloud computing can be an excellent way to conduct business. Some of the most noteworthy names have cloud platforms specifically designed to help businesses share and collaborate online, as long as users have an Internet connection. They are great centralized platforms that can make real-time collaboration a breeze.

Access Control

File sharing is also made more secure through the use of access control tools. Chances are that different people within your organization will require different access levels, depending on who they are and their roles. You want to have the ability to restrict who can view, edit, and share files based on what users do for your business. Additionally, you’ll want to have the ability to edit these permissions in real-time so collaboration isn’t too hung up in bureaucracy.

Encryption

Encryption is a way to make sure that files are secure when they are located in the cloud or transferred to and from your network. This extra layer of security will prove especially useful if you have workers who are consistently out of the office for remote work or travel.

Strong Passwords

You can never underestimate how useful training your team on password protection is—especially for shared files that could potentially house sensitive or confidential information. Strong passwords and password management tools make this process a lot easier.

Collaboration Tools

A collaboration tool is a great way to get a lot of value out of your technology investment, particularly if it all integrates with your file-sharing services. A good centralized tool will integrate and provide options for how you control file sharing and version control, and the best tools will ensure that there is no needless access to files.

Regular Backups

Perhaps the best thing you can do to keep your file-sharing processes from getting disrupted is to take regular backups of your files. This will help minimize data loss. In general, not having data backup is a huge red flag that puts your business at great risk, so take action today to ensure you are doing all you can to protect your company’s future.

Not sure if you’re handling file sharing right? Let us help. To learn more, call us at PHONENUMBER.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/6-crucial-strategies-for-effective-file-sharing/

Are Foldable Phones Valuable Enough to Justify the Cost?

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One of the biggest trends in mobile technology is the incorporation of foldable displays allowing device manufacturers to create interesting products. While this innovation is undeniably cool, do these foldable devices actually provide the benefits they are marketed for; namely enhancing productivity?  

How Does This Foldable Tech Work?

Foldable tech isn’t limited to mobile, but for our purposes today, we will strictly stick to that form factor. The technology was introduced a few years ago and was immediately popular, not just because it was a new thing (although that helped), but because it provided a whole new interface for people to potentially do more. There are two major innovations that make these types of devices possible. They are:

• Organic Light-Emitting Diode – Foldable devices use OLED displays because they can be made flexible. Unlike traditional LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays), OLEDs emit their own light, allowing them to be more flexible and thinner.
• Polymer Substrates – Flexible OLED displays use polymer substrates instead of glass. These substrates are more pliable, allowing the display to bend without breaking.

Couple this with cutting-edge processors, graphics systems, and a developing market for such devices, and the technology presents users with interesting new options. There are many different new considerations manufacturers need to take into account when building a foldable phone. How do they make them affordable enough for the average consumer? How does the hinge system work after opening and closing the devices thousands of times? What apps are optimized for that form factor? Manufacturers and software developers have done their best to find the answers.

What are the Pros and Cons of Foldables?

Pros

With more real estate to work on, users can do more than with a standard screen on your average mobile device. That’s the basic value proposition for the use of a folding phone. If you are constantly asked to use productivity apps on your phone, getting a folding phone will undeniably have some benefits.  

Unfortunately, that benefit is seemingly the only one; and while it is a substantial improvement over your average mobile device, the only additional positive is that the new form factor makes mobile software developers come up with new and innovative ways to use these larger displays.

Cons

There are quite a few questions that revolve around the form factor itself, such as dust and water resistance, reliability of the hinges, and the inevitable crease that forms in the center of the folding display. Another is the question of price. Most foldables are being sold for a premium price. The Samsung z Fold 5, for example, is sold retail for around $1,800 with standard specifications. That is an enormous price for any smartphone and if you are paying that money for a device that is significantly more delicate than a standard phone that has most of the same features, better battery life, better camera experience, et al; you may find yourself regretting the decision. 

At COMPANYNAME, our expert technicians can help you establish a mobile strategy that can include all types of technologies that you may not think of, while also ensuring you have everything you need in any situation. Give us a call at PHONENUMBER to learn more about everything we can offer.

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/are-foldable-phones-valuable-enough-to-justify-the-cost/

How Do Hackers Get Around Multi-Factor Authentication?

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Data security is one of those things that you have to stay out in front of. Hackers and scammers are changing tactics and getting a little more sophisticated as time goes on and it creates a pretty difficult situation for most IT administrators. Utilizing multi-factor authentication (MFA), two-factor authentication, or whatever it is called by the application you are using has become a great way to add an extra layer of security to organizational data protection efforts. Today, we will discuss the benefits of this strategy and why it isn’t a be-all, end-all to your overall security.

MFA is a technology that requires users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing sensitive information or systems. This could involve something the user knows (password), something the user has (security token or mobile device), or something the user is (biometric data). This multi-step verification makes it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access, but as with any other password-protected account, the security isn’t 100% reliable. Let’s take a look at three major benefits. 

Reduced Risk of Unauthorized Access

With traditional password-based authentication, the risk of unauthorized access is higher, especially if passwords are compromised. MFA mitigates this risk by adding an additional layer that goes beyond just relying on passwords. Even if one factor is compromised, an attacker would still need the other factor to gain access.

Protection Against Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks often target passwords by tricking users into revealing them. MFA adds an extra barrier, as even if a user’s password is obtained through phishing, the attacker would still need the additional factor to access the account. This helps protect businesses from falling victim to phishing schemes.

Fulfilling Compliance Requirements

Many industries and regulatory bodies have established security standards that require businesses to implement robust authentication measures. MFA is often a key component of meeting these compliance requirements. Adhering to such standards not only ensures the security of sensitive data but also helps businesses avoid legal and financial consequences.

How MFA Can Be Exploited

As useful and complex as multi-factor authentication is, accounts that have it can still be exploited. Let’s take a look at a few ways hackers circumvent MFA.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

In a MitM attack, hackers intercept communication between the user and the authentication system. They can capture the MFA code during the transmission process which gives them immediate access to the account and any data that can be accessed by the breached user. 

Sim-Swapping

By convincing a mobile carrier to transfer a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card, hackers can receive MFA codes sent via SMS. This method requires social engineering skills to trick the carrier’s customer service representative.

Credential Stuffing

Only a problem when people reuse passwords across multiple accounts, credential stuffing is when attackers obtain username and password combinations from data breaches on other sites. They can then use these credentials to access accounts, even with MFA enabled.

Using Keylogger Malware

Malware is a big problem. Malicious software can be used to record keystrokes, capturing both usernames and passwords, as well as MFA codes. As with most malware attacks, users are completely unaware that their system is infected; and, in this case, completely in the dark about their actions being monitored.

Vulnerabilities in MFA Implementation

In some cases, vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the MFA implementation itself may be exploited by attackers. This could involve flaws in the way MFA codes are generated, transmitted, or verified. 

Even though we’ve taken the time to outline some of the ways hackers get around MFA-protected accounts, it is still important that you implement them on every available password-protected account. This includes logging into your workstations and laptops at the office. It gives users the best chance at keeping their data (and often organizational data) secure. 

The IT professionals at COMPANYNAME can help your business get the tools you need to keep your data secure and help you set up the best strategy on each account to do just that. Give us a call at PHONENUMBER to learn more. 

from: https://reciprocaltech.com/blog/how-do-hackers-get-around-multi-factor-authentication/