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Here’s Why You Should Stick To Work-Specific Tools

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

When it comes to communicating with your team, it can be tempting to stick with what’s familiar. Apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger are quick and easy to use. And everyone already has them on their phones, right?

But while these tools are great for sharing vacation photos or planning a get-together, they’re not the best choice for work-related conversations. In fact, they could cause serious problems for your business.

You and your team often share information that’s sensitive – customer details, employee records, or even financial data. Sharing this kind of information over apps that aren’t designed for business use can be risky. Many of these apps don’t have the advanced security measures needed to protect your business from threats like cyber criminals or malware (malicious software designed to steal or damage your data).

If this happens on a personal app which doesn’t have the right security in place, your business could end up facing serious consequences. Losing access to important accounts or having private data leaked, for example.

Using business-specific communication tools, like Microsoft Teams, isn’t just about security, it’s also about keeping things organized. It lets you set up separate channels for different projects, share files securely, and even integrates with other apps you might be using. That means your team spends less time scrolling through endless chat threads and more time getting things done.

Personal apps can quickly get messy. Important messages get buried under GIFs and memes, and it becomes all too easy to accidentally share the wrong file – or worse, send something confidential to someone outside the company.

Switching to a proper business communication tool isn’t difficult, and it’s one of the best ways to protect your company’s information while keeping your team running smoothly.

Need help getting started with the right tools for your business? Get in touch.

The Ultimate Guide To Encryption Methods

Encryption is a method of securing information. It converts readable data into secret code. Only the right key can decode it. This guide will help you understand different encryption methods.

What is encryption?

Encryption is like a secret language. It converts regular text into unreadable text. This unreadable text is called ciphertext. Only people who have the right key will be able to convert it into normal text, called plaintext.

Why do we use encryption?

We use encryption to keep our information safe. It makes our data safe from hackers. This is very important for privacy and security.

How does encryption work?

Encryption uses algorithms and keys. An algorithm is a set of rules for solving problems. A key is somewhat like a password that unlocks the secret message.

There are two types of encryption: Symmetric encryption and asymmetric encryption. Symmetric encryption uses the same key for encryption and decryption. The same key is shared between the sender and receiver. It’s fast but less secure when the key is shared.

Asymmetric encryption uses two keys: a public key and a private key. A public key can encrypt a message, while a private key can decrypt it. It’s more secure since only the private key unlocks the message.

What are some common encryption methods?

  • AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)
  • RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman)
  • DES (Data Encryption Standard)
  • ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography)

How do we use encryption in everyday life?

Online Shopping. When you purchase online, your payment information is encrypted. This protects your credit card information against hackers.

Messaging Apps. Apps like WhatsApp use encryption to keep your messages private. Only you and the person you are chatting with can read them.

Email Security. Many email services use encryption to protect your emails from being read by others.

What are the challenges of encryption?

Key Management. If some person loses their key, they probably will lose their data.

Performance Issues. Encryption could slow down the systems since it needs processing power for encryption and decryption.

How can you stay safe with encryption?

Use Strong Passwords. Always use strong passwords for accounts and devices. That will make hacking difficult as it will take time to access.

Keep Software Up-to-Date. Regularly update your software to protect against security vulnerabilities in software.

Use Caution with Public Wi-Fi. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, avoid sensitive transactions unless you can encrypt your internet connection using a VPN.

Ready to secure your data?

Encryption helps protect your personal information from threats. Understanding different methods can help you choose the right one for your needs. If you need help securing your data, contact us today – info@mytechexperts.com.

Top Cybersecurity Threats Small Businesses Face in 2025

Cybersecurity is no longer a problem exclusive to large enterprises. Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals because they often have fewer resources to defend against sophisticated attacks. Being proactive about cybersecurity can mean the difference between thriving and struggling to recover from a serious breach. Here are the top ten cybersecurity threats your business faces in 2025 and tips to protect yourself.

Ransomware attacks

Ransomware remains one of the most damaging threats. Cybercriminals encrypt your business data and demand a ransom for its release. SMBs are targeted because they may lack robust backup and recovery systems. Preventative measures like regular data backups and strong endpoint security are critical.

Phishing emails

Phishing attacks trick employees into providing sensitive information, such as login credentials. These attacks have evolved to include highly personalized emails that are harder to recognize as scams. Employee training and email filtering tools can reduce the likelihood of a successful phishing attack.

Credential theft

Cybercriminals are constantly searching for login credentials to access business systems. They often steal these through phishing, malware, or by exploiting weak passwords. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) can significantly improve your security posture by requiring additional verification beyond a password.

Insider threats

Insider threats—whether malicious or accidental—pose a serious challenge for small businesses. Employees, contractors, or even former staff may misuse access to your systems. Limiting access to sensitive data and monitoring user activity can reduce the chances of insider incidents or account compromises.

IoT device exploits

As more businesses adopt Internet of Things (IoT) devices like smart cameras, thermostats, and inventory trackers, these devices have become a growing attack surface. Many IoT devices have weak security protocols, making them vulnerable. Ensure that all devices are updated regularly and segregated from critical business networks.

Supply chain attacks

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting SMBs by compromising third-party vendors or software suppliers. This can result in malware infections and data breaches without any direct attack on your business. Vetting vendors, limiting their access to your systems, and monitoring for suspicious activity can help defend against supply chain attacks.

Zero-day vulnerabilities

Zero-day vulnerabilities are newly discovered flaws in software that hackers can exploit before developers issue a fix. These vulnerabilities are difficult to prevent entirely but can be mitigated by keeping your software up to date and using security tools that detect abnormal behavior.

Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks

DDoS attacks flood a business’s network or website with traffic, causing service disruptions. While these attacks are often used to target large companies, SMBs can also be affected. Implementing DDoS protection services can prevent attacks from overwhelming your network and keeping you from doing business.

Social engineering scams

Social engineering involves manipulating people into revealing confidential information or performing harmful actions. Attackers may impersonate trusted contacts or authority figures to gain access to your systems. Training employees to recognize these tactics and verifying unusual requests can reduce risk.

How to protect your business

Understanding these threats is only the first step. Here are some actionable strategies to help secure your business:

Invest in Employee Training: Regularly educate employees on cybersecurity best practices and how to recognize threats.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding an extra layer of security to logins helps prevent unauthorized access.

Regular Backups: Ensure you have automated backups of critical data and test your recovery procedures.

Implement Network Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of your network can detect suspicious activity early, allowing you to respond quickly to potential threats.

Partner with a Managed Service Provider (MSP): A trusted MSP can monitor your systems, provide threat intelligence, and ensure security updates are applied consistently.

Cybersecurity doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By addressing these top threats and taking a proactive approach, your business can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and safeguard your operations in 2025.

Business Premium Is Your Next Smart Move

Running a business comes with challenges you might not expect, like phishing emails, stolen devices, or ex-employees still accessing your systems.

While Microsoft 365 Business Standard is a great package for getting work done, it doesn’t offer the advanced security and management tools needed to handle these risks.

That’s where Microsoft 365 Business Premium comes in.

Business Premium gives you everything you love about Business Standard – apps like Word and Excel, email hosting, Microsoft Teams, and OneDrive for cloud storage. And it adds powerful features to keep your business secure and efficient.

Take cyber threats, for example. Phishing emails, designed to trick you into clicking dangerous links, can install malware (malicious software) that locks your files or steals sensitive data. With Business Premium, Microsoft Defender for Business scans for these threats and stops them in their tracks. It’s like having a 24/7 security guard for your data.

Device management is another big advantage. If an employee loses their laptop, Business Premium’s Microsoft Intune lets you remotely erase company data, protecting your sensitive information. You can also set policies to ensure every device connected to your business is secure.

And then there’s protecting your confidential information. Business Premium uses Purview Information Protection to label sensitive files and control who can access them. Even if an email gets forwarded outside your company, the protections stay in place, safeguarding your data wherever it goes.

These tools aren’t just nice to have, they’re essential for modern businesses facing growing cyber security threats. The added cost is a small investment for the confidence that your team, data, and reputation are protected.

Upgrading to Business Premium can help prepare your business for the future. If you’re ready to take that step, it’s worth every penny. We can help you get started – get in touch.

Should You Use A Password Manager?

Password managers keep our online accounts safe. They store all our passwords in one place. But are they hackable?

What are password managers?

Password managers are like digital vaults: they save all your passwords inside themselves. You need only remember one master password to then gain access to all of your other passwords. This makes keeping a lot of accounts much easier to handle.

Dedicated password managers are difficult to hack if configured properly. While hackers are always hunting for ways to steal your information, a properly configured password manager has a complex password and two-factor authentication. This makes it very difficult to crack.

You can protect your password manager by using a strong master password. The master password is the “key” that unlocks all of your other passwords. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, or better yet, a secure passphrase that is easy to remember, but hard to guess.

Be sure to enable two-factor authentication. 2FA adds an important layer of security.

What happens if a password manager gets hacked?

If you’ve set up your password manager properly, the chance of it being hacked is extremely low. However, if your password manager is compromised, you should:

  • Change your master password immediately.
  • Determine which accounts could be affected and change their passwords as well.
  • Consider shifting to another password manager.
  • Keep up to date with any security news about your manager.

The benefits of using a password manager usually outweigh the risks. They help you create strong, unique passwords for each account.

Choosing a reputable password manager with good reviews and security features is key. Do some research before deciding which one to use.

Using a password manager will go a long way in enhancing your online security. If you need help in selecting which one, give us a call at (734) 240-0200.

Are Your Tech Tools Helping Or Hurting Your Business?

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

In the rush to stay competitive, businesses have been trying out new tech tools left, right, and center. It’s great to embrace change. But here’s the thing: Having too many tools – or the wrong kind – can create more headaches than solutions.

That means lots of businesses are now stuck with a jumble of software that doesn’t play nicely together, making work slower and more frustrating than it should be.

Over the past few years, companies have thrown tools at every problem:

• HR needed a way to track time off requests… there’s software for that
• Finance needed help with tax compliance… another tool added to the mix
• Add in the scramble to adapt to remote work and fast growth, and suddenly, every department has its own tool

The result? A patchwork quilt of systems that just don’t connect.

Now the focus is shifting to working smarter, not harder, and those cracks in your tool stack are showing. Instead of helping your team, too many disconnected tools are slowing them down. Data gets stuck in silos, workflows feel clunky, and employees are juggling software. To make matters worse, you’re likely paying for tools no one’s even using.

So, what can you do?

Look at the bigger picture. Think about consolidating your tool stack. Cut out the extras and focus on systems that work together smoothly. When your tools are aligned, your data flows properly and your team can do what they do best.

It’s not just about saving money (though you’ll probably do that too). It’s about making work easier and more efficient. Automation can also help you spot inefficiencies and connect the dots between systems, so everything runs more smoothly.

If your team isn’t working as efficiently as they could, before you start pointing fingers consider that your stack might be the reason.

We can help you create a tool stack that helps, not hinders, your workflow. Get in touch.

Act Now: The Clock Is Ticking For Windows 10

Still using Windows 10? It’s time to start planning for a big change. Microsoft has announced that this October will mark the end of support for the operating system.

That means no more security updates, no bug fixes, and no technical support.

While your computers won’t suddenly stop working, staying on Windows 10 after its end-of-life date could put your business at serious risk.

Without regular updates, your systems will be more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Cyber criminals love to exploit old, unsupported systems because they know the weaknesses won’t be fixed. If you handle sensitive customer data or financial information, this is a huge red flag.

On top of that, software compatibility could become a problem. New applications will be designed with Windows 11 and future systems in mind, meaning your current setup might not be able to keep up.

The result? Slower workflows or even critical tools that stop working entirely. And if something goes wrong, you’ll be on your own – Microsoft won’t be there to help.

But Windows 11 is here, and it’s built to make your business run more smoothly. From stronger security features to smarter productivity tools, the upgrade is packed with benefits… and it’s free!

Before making the move, you’ll need to check if your current computers meet the requirements for Windows 11. Not all Windows 10 devices will be compatible, but it’s easy to find out using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.

If some devices don’t make the cut, it might be time to invest in new hardware. While that sounds like a big step, newer machines offer better performance and security, saving you headaches down the line.

The key to a smooth transition is starting early. Back up your data, check compatibility, and plan your upgrade timeline so it doesn’t disrupt your team.

Making the move now means you’ll avoid scrambling later. And of course, you’ll set your business up for success with a system designed for the future.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to begin, we can help every step of the way. Get in touch.

What Is Threat Exposure Management (TEM) And Why Do You Need It?

Threat Exposure Management (TEM) is an important cybersecurity tool. It helps organizations find and fix weak spots in their digital systems. TEM outsmarts hackers before they break into your network.

Importance of TEM

Cyber attacks keep getting worse. Hackers always find new ways to break in. TEM helps businesses spot problems before they become big issues.

TEM allows you to:

  • Find weak points in your network
  • Fix issues quickly
  • Reduce your risk of cyber attacks

How TEM works

TEM uses special software to scan your entire network. It finds places hackers could attack and helps you fix these weak spots.

Continuous monitoring

TEM keeps looking all the time. This way, you can find new problems as soon as they appear.

Risk assessment

TEM finds which weak spots are the most dangerous. This helps you fix the most important ones first.

Main parts of a TEM program

Asset discovery

This finds all devices and software on your network. You can’t protect what you don’t know about!

Vulnerability scanning

This looks for open weak spots in your system. It’s like checking for unlocked doors and windows in your house.

Threat intelligence

This provides insights into new hacker techniques, helping you stay informed about what to watch out for.

Remediation planning

Once you find the vulnerabilities, you need a plan to fix them. TEM helps you make good choices on how to patch these spots.

Benefits of TEM for your business

Better security

Finding and fixing weak spots makes your whole system much safer and more resilient.

Cost savings

Stopping an attack before it happens can save you a lot of money. Dealing with the aftermaths of cyberattacks often comes with expensive costs.

Peace of mind

With TEM, continuous monitoring ensures your system is always under watch. This can help you worry less about cyber attacks.

What to look for in a TEM solution

A good TEM tool should:

  • Be user-friendly, ensuring that all team members, regardless of their technical expertise, can easily navigate and utilize the tool.
  • Provide immediate results, enabling quick and effective decision-making to address potential threats as soon as they are detected.
  • Integrate seamlessly with your existing security infrastructure, enhancing overall protection by working in harmony with other security tools and systems.
  • Generate clear and comprehensible reports, presenting findings in an easily digestible format that facilitates understanding and action.

Getting started with TEM

  • Check your current security setup to understand your existing vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
  • Find a TEM tool that fits your needs, ensuring it aligns with your security goals and integrates well with your current systems.
  • Set up the tool and start scanning your environment.
  • Make a plan to fix the weak spots you find, prioritizing the most critical issues.
  • Keep scanning and improve your security continuously, regularly updating your strategies and tools to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Want to learn more about how TEM can help your company? Contact us today for help staying safe in the digital world.

Securing Remote Access Technology: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know

Remote access technology has become essential for modern businesses. Whether your employees work from home, connect to the office while traveling, or access critical systems after hours, secure remote access can greatly enhance productivity and flexibility.

However, without proper security measures, it can also open the door to significant risks, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Here’s what small business owners need to know about securing their remote access technology.

Why secure remote access matters

Remote access allows users to connect to your business’s network or systems from anywhere. While this connectivity is convenient, it also presents a larger attack surface for cybercriminals.

Hackers often target remote access solutions because they can be a weak link in your cybersecurity strategy if not properly secured.

The consequences of a breach can be devastating: financial losses, reputational damage, and even legal penalties for failing to protect customer or employee data.

The good news is that implementing secure remote access methods doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and practices, you can greatly reduce your risk while enabling your team to work efficiently from anywhere.

Key strategies for securing remote access

Use strong authentication methods

Passwords alone are no longer enough to protect remote access. Instead, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to verify their identity using two or more factors, such as a password, a smartphone app, or a fingerprint.

This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for attackers to gain access, even if a password is compromised.

Deploy a virtual private network (VPN)

A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between a remote user and your business network. This ensures that sensitive data, such as login credentials or customer information, cannot be intercepted by hackers.

Ensure your VPN is configured properly and use strong encryption protocols to maximize its effectiveness.

Limit access privileges

Not all employees need full access to all systems. Use the principle of least privilege to limit access based on each user’s specific role. By restricting what employees can see or do within your network, you reduce the potential damage if their credentials are ever compromised.

Keep software up to date

Outdated software can contain vulnerabilities that hackers exploit to gain unauthorized access. Regularly update remote access tools, operating systems, and any third-party applications your business relies on.

Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you don’t miss critical security patches.

Educate employees on cybersecurity

Even the most secure systems can be compromised by human error. Train your employees on best practices for cybersecurity, including recognizing phishing attempts, creating strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious links or downloads. An informed workforce is one of your strongest defenses against cyber threats.

Monitor and audit remote access activity

Use monitoring tools to track who is accessing your network and when. Unusual activity, such as login attempts from unfamiliar locations, can be an early warning sign of a potential breach. Regular audits can help you identify and address vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

The cost of neglecting security

Some small business owners hesitate to invest in secure remote access solutions, viewing them as unnecessary expenses. However, the cost of a data breach or cyberattack often far exceeds the cost of preventive measures. Beyond financial losses, you could face downtime, lost trust from customers, and even regulatory fines.

By prioritizing secure remote access, you’re not only protecting your business but also demonstrating to clients and partners that you take cybersecurity seriously. This can enhance your reputation and give you a competitive edge in an increasingly digital world.

Take action today

If your remote access technology isn’t as secure as it should be, now is the time to act. Consult with IT professionals to evaluate your current setup, identify vulnerabilities, and implement a security plan tailored to your needs.

With the right measures in place, you can enjoy the benefits of remote access without compromising your business’s security.

The Number One Threat To Your Business? Ransomware

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

Imagine this: You’re starting a normal day, coffee in hand, ready to tackle your to-do list. Suddenly, a red screen flashes on your computer, and a message pops up: “Your files have been encrypted. Pay up to get them back.”

That’s ransomware, a cyber attack that’s fast becoming the number one threat to businesses worldwide. It’s become a top choice for cyber criminals because it’s profitable, easy to deploy, and very effective.

Cyber criminals get their ransomware software onto a computer, often from something as simple as a link in a phishing email (that’s an email pretending to be from a trusted source). When clicked, it installs software that gives them access to your system, files and even backup locations.

They lock your files, making them unreadable. The cyber criminals demand payment, usually in cryptocurrency, and promise to return access once they’re paid. Some even threaten to leak sensitive info if you don’t comply.

It’s scary and the consequences for any business are huge. It’s not just the loss of data. It’s expensive, time-consuming, and could break the trust you enjoy with your customers and suppliers.

So, how do you keep your business safe?

The good news is that basic security practices can go a long way. Start by training your team not to click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments. Regularly updating applications and security software is also crucial as it closes security gaps cyber criminals might try to exploit.

Most importantly, create a reliable backup system. Set up isolated, “cold” backups that are disconnected from your main system. So, if an attack hits, your data remains untouched.

Regularly test these backups to make sure they work when you need them. In a ransomware attack, being able to restore your data from a safe backup can save your business from costly downtime or ransom demands.

Ransomware is serious, but a proactive approach can make all the difference. With the right prep, you can keep your business running smoothly. If you’d like help with that, get in touch. Call us at (734) 457-5000 or email info@mytechexperts.com.