SIM2K

In July, we discuss how AI is gathering data from multiple sources to "learn" and posing the potential for privacy issues. We also cover how the EU is at odds over Threads (the Meta version of Twitter, or "X") over, again, privacy issues. Windows 11 is gaining share as the end of Windows 10 gets closer, so companies need to be considering an update strategy going into the next year. At the same time, Windows may be moving to a Cloud-delivered model wherein you can access "your" Windows from any device, with all the data, apps and programs with it. Finally, we look at the storms that rolled through Indiana and the subsequent outages that impact businesses – with no power, servers and PCs went dark and there was potential for data loss, so we offer suggestions. See this issue at sim2k.com.

The May issue of SIMformation is now available at sim2k.com. We present the business case for IT security spending. While it is viewed as a cost, not a profit center, ignoring security can be a hit to the bottom line in terms of mitigation, loss of productivity and reputation, so we stress the need to budget for security. Speaking of budgets, Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will go out of support in 2025, so companies need to consider upgrading to Windows 11 which comes with hardware requirements that may prompt spending on new PCs, so plan now. We also look at the continuing issue of AI development and cover the steps the European Union is taking and what that might mean in the US. There are fake Chrome updates circulating that prompt users to download a zip file that contains a data mining trojan, so be aware and know how Chrome and other browsers update. And, there are "lazy" cybercriminals now sending out threatening ransomware e-mails – but don't actually encrypt your files. We have what to look for here. Finally, Twitter has changed its checkmark verification process, and Samsung may be moving from Google search to Bing to take advantage of ChatGPT.

SIM2K – Technology Consultants – Adapting Technology to your Business Needs SIM2K provides IT consulting services to the Indiana community as well as a wide range of technology-related products. Our focus is on ensuring that all of your business needs are met. We can provide all of your management and technology solutions.

The March edition of SIMformation is now up on our website, sim2k.com. Many small businesses think that they won't be targeted by malware as they are "too small" – which is exactly what the cybercriminals want you to think. We have a discussion on why SMBs need to be as security aware as enterprise businesses. We also look at how AI is being incorporated into more and more technology, like MIcrosoft's Bing Chat. Apple looks to be moving to USB-C and not their Lightning Cable, but will apply a "Made for iPhone" security requirement for these USB cables. The LastPass hack's root has been discovered, and shows what lengths criminals will go to find ways through security. And several major Cloud providers had outages last month, so we have some cautions on relying on the Cloud for your critical business applications.

Our November SIMformation is now available at sim2k.com. We have a "how to" discussion on improving how you use your Windows Search feature. We also discuss the CHIPS Act and whether it will be a boon to the tech industry. There was a reported Russian Denial of Service attack on several US airport websites, and the White House convened a summit of nations to discuss combatting Ransomware. Plus other news from the world of IT.

The August edition of SIMformation is now available at sim2k.com. We discuss how cyber insurers are cracking down, ensuring applicants are truly taking security seriously and implementing basic steps like two-factor authentication. We also look at recent attacks on Indiana healthcare institutions, and new encryption standards coming that may help better defend against these types of attacks. We preview Wi-Fi7 and what that may mean for greater speeds and improved traffic management in an office setting. And, a "man in the middle"-type ploy coupled with phishing attempts could be a way to get around MFA measures, so we have what to look out for in this type of exploit.