Online scams have become increasingly sophisticated and prevalent. One of the most common tactics employed by scammers is to trick unsuspecting users into clicking on malicious links or calling fraudulent numbers. These scams can have serious consequences, including loss of personal information, financial fraud, and even complete control over your devices.

Common online scams with a number of recent clients have involved a pop-up message prompting you to call Microsoft. This message often claims that your computer is infected with a virus and requires immediate attention. However, these messages are typically scams designed to steal your personal information or install malware on your device.

Here are some tips to help you protect yourself from these scams:

1. Be cautious of unexpected pop-ups: If you see a pop-up message claiming that your computer is infected or that you need to update your software, be wary. Do not click on any links or call any numbers provided in the message.
2. Verify the sender: If you get a phone call from an unknown or unrecognised number and their request sound strange, hang up. If you receive an email or text message that seems suspicious, double-check the sender’s address or phone number. Look for any typos or inconsistencies that might indicate a scam.
3. Do not call unsolicited numbers: If you receive a call from an unknown number, do not provide any personal information or follow their instructions. If you are unsure whether the caller is legitimate, hang up and call the company directly using a number you know is correct.
4. Keep your software up-to-date: Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications to ensure that you have the latest security patches.
5. Use strong passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Consider using a password manager to help you manage your passwords securely.
6. Read more from Microsoft about how to protect yourself from these scams.

If you have already fallen victim to a scam, it’s important to take immediate action. Remove any apps or programs the scammers told you to install. Contact your bank or credit card company to report any fraudulent charges and change your passwords for all of your online accounts. You can also call or email me to help you regain access to your device if you have been locked out, scan and remove any malware from your devices, and help recover stolen account credentials.

To learn more about how to protect yourself from online scams and fortify your devices, please contact me. I can provide you with personalised advice and assistance to help you stay safe online.

Our homes are getting smarter with connected devices offering convenience and automation at every turn. With this convenience comes a new responsibility: keeping these smart devices secure from potential breaches. Hackers are constantly evolving their tactics, so it’s important to stay ahead of the curve. Here are some essential tips to fortify the security of your smart home as you add more smart devices to your home:

Smart Home Fundamentals:

• Smart Passwords: Strong, unique passwords are your first line of defence. Avoid using the same password for multiple devices and consider a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Keep your passwords private – don’t share them with anyone and be wary of any phishing emails or smishing messages requesting your login credentials. In addition, change the default passwords of simple smart devices away from the manufacturer’s defaults. Hackers can find the user manuals online which often contain default passwords.
• Patchwork Protection: Just like software on your computer, smart home devices often require firmware updates to address security vulnerabilities. These updates can patch holes that hackers might try to exploit. Enable automatic updates whenever possible or check for updates regularly to ensure your devices are patched and protected. You can also read our blog on patching promptly.
• Two-Factor Tango: If your smart home devices offer two-factor authentication (2FA), enable it! This extra layer of security adds a code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password, making unauthorised access much harder. Even if a hacker obtains your password, they won’t be able to log in without the additional code.

Smart Home Network Nuances:

• Guest Network: Create a separate guest Wi-Fi network for visitors on your router. This prevents them from potentially accessing your personal devices on the main network, adding an extra security layer. If a guest’s device is compromised by malware, it won’t have access to your sensitive data on the main network.
• Virtual Vigilance: Some smart home devices, like security cameras, offer remote viewing capabilities. However, be mindful of where you stream this footage. Avoid accessing your home cameras on public Wi-Fi networks, as these networks are often less secure. Consider using a VPN for added security when accessing your cameras remotely. A VPN encrypts your data traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept.

App Alertness:

• Mind the Mobile App: Many smart home devices are controlled through mobile apps. Download these apps only from official stores (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) and be cautious of any third-party apps claiming to enhance your smart home experience. Stick with the official apps from the device manufacturer – these apps are more likely to be secure and have undergone rigorous testing.
• Encryption Emphasis: Look for smart home devices that offer encryption capabilities. Encryption scrambles your data, making it unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the decryption key. This adds an extra layer of security to your smart home communications.

By following these tips, you can transform your smart home from a potential security risk into a well-fortified haven. A little education and vigilance go a long way in protecting your home and your privacy. Stay informed about the latest security threats and update your smart home defences accordingly.

Smart home getting smarter? If you need help setting up and securing your smart devices, contact me for a free initial consultation to discuss your smart home ideas and questions.

In today’s digital world, where new threats emerge constantly, staying on top of cybersecurity can feel overwhelming. But here’s a simple yet powerful tip that can significantly improve your online security posture: patching promptly.

Why Patching Matters

Software updates, often called patches, address vulnerabilities in programs and operating systems. These vulnerabilities are like cracks in your digital armour, and hackers are constantly searching for them to exploit. Patching promptly closes these gaps, making it much harder for attackers to gain access to your devices and data.

Patching Process:

• Update awareness: Be aware of when software updates are available. Your mobile phone, tablet, laptop, PC/Mac operating system, and other programs will notify you automatically of new updates. It’s a good practice to also check for updates manually every now and then just in case.
• Prioritise updates: Don’t ignore update notifications. Install them as soon as possible, especially for critical security patches. These updates address vulnerabilities actively exploited by attackers, so installing them promptly is vital.
• Enable auto-update: Whenever possible, enable automatic updates for your operating system, web browser, and other software. This takes the pressure off you remembering which program needs to be checked for updates and when, and ensures you’re always protected with the latest security fixes as they are released.

Patching Benefits

By patching promptly, you benefit from:

• Enhanced Security: By patching vulnerabilities, you significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks that exploit these weaknesses.
• Smoother Performance: Software updates often include bug fixes and performance enhancements. Patching regularly can make your devices run faster and more efficiently.
• Improved User Experience: Many updates bring new features and functionalities to the table. By patching promptly, you gain access to these improvements and enjoy a better overall experience.

Remember: Keeping your operating system, web browsers, and software up to date is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. Make it a habit to stay updated for a more secure and enjoyable online experience.

Bonus Tip:

While patching is a cornerstone of good cyber hygiene, consider adding another layer of security: a reputable password manager. Strong, unique passwords for all your accounts are essential. A password manager helps you create and store these passwords securely, eliminating the risk of breaches due to password reuse. 1password.com is one example of a password manager solution but there are many options available.