National Cyber Security Show 20 Apr 2024 2:19 AM (11 months ago)
Really excited to be attending the National Cyber Security show on the 30th April at the NEC in Birmingham.
It keeps you updated on the latest thereat snad how to combat them, also some great keynote speakers.
https://app.ingo.me/q/rzsxh
If you want to attend, its free. click on the link and register.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) recently experienced a significant data breach 14 Aug 2023 6:02 AM (last year)
This highlights the ever-increasing threat of cybercrime. This breach serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting sensitive data and implementing effective security measures.
While specific details regarding the PSNI data breach are limited, it is crucial to understand that cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in systems. In this case, it appears that hackers were able to gain unauthorized access to the PSNI’s data, potentially compromising sensitive information.
To prevent such incidents from occurring, organizations must prioritize cybersecurity measures. This includes implementing robust firewalls, regularly updating software and systems, and training staff on best practices for data protection.
LC Computers understands the urgency and seriousness of these threats. With their expertise in cybersecurity solutions, they can assist businesses in safeguarding their valuable data against potential breaches. Additionally, LC Computers offers training programs designed to educate employees on recognizing and responding to potential cyber threats effectively.
By partnering with LC Computers and taking proactive steps towards cybersecurity, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime and protect their sensitive information from unauthorized access or misuse.
New Microsoft OneNote Phishing Campaign Discovered 16 Mar 2023 7:20 AM (2 years ago)
New Microsoft OneNote Phishing Campaign Discovered
A new microsoft phishing campaign was found to be using Microsoft OneNote to send malicious files to unsuspecting users completely bypassing security controls on exchange servers. It is recommended that all users of Microsoft Exchange be vigilant for malicious attachments containing either .one files or links to unknown shares that could be used to share the files.
Within this campaign, hackers are uploading files to compromised SharePoint directories then sharing the malicious OneNote files in a daisy chain style attack further making the emails look legitimate. The attackers will then use the malicious OneNote files in order to upload a copy of the file to your SharePoint directory before sending out a mass email through the associated exchange account to further distribute the malware to other companies using similar software.
Some basic steps to mitigate this kind of attack are as follows.
1. Add .one and .msg files to your exchange attachment blacklist if they are not required by your organisation. If you are not sure give us a call.
2. Train your employees on exercising further vigilance for unknown attachments of any kind from any sender.
3. Implement mandatory 2 factor authentication on all your employee exchange accounts to prevent unauthorized access to your employees accounts should a link accidentally be clicked
If you or anyone you know suspects that you/they have been compromised, feel free to contact us and we can provide further advice on recovery and remidiation or even conduct an investigation into the breach to improve your security posture in the future.
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How’s Your Physical Security? 13 Feb 2023 2:06 AM (2 years ago)
Cybersecurity isn’t all anti-malware software and firewalls. It is also about physical security.
One of my favourite stories comes from an IT instructor, known worldwide for his training courses on IT certifications. A friend of his explained that he had obtained a new server and that it was configured so well, it was unhackable. His friend then proceeded to bet him that he would be unable to gain access into the server.
After a few failed attempts at trying to hack into the server and gain access remotely, he dressed up in a janitor’s uniform, walked into the building where the server was located, unplugged it and took it home.
A strong password may only be as strong as the locks on your door. Security locks, CCTV, staff awareness and physical security, in general, are just as important as the protection on your computer in cybersecurity.
If your physical security needs an update we can point you in the right direction.
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How To Share Your Calendar in Outlook 9 Feb 2023 3:19 AM (2 years ago)
As an Outlook user, you can share your calendar with your colleagues so that they can view your calendar next to theirs. You can even allow them to edit your calendar and update any appointments you may have.
In Outlook, switch to the calendar view by clicking on the calendar icon.
At the top of the page, select Share, and choose the calendar you want to share.
Note: You can’t share calendars owned by other people.
Enter the name or email address of the person with whom you want to share your calendar.
Choose how you want this person to use your calendar:
‘Can view all details’ lets the person see all the details of your events.
‘Can edit’ lets the person edit your calendar.
Select Share.
If someone shares their calendar with you, click Accept when you see the invite.
You can now toggle on/off the calendar to view it alongside yours.
The post How To Share Your Calendar in Outlook first appeared on LC Computers - Leave IT to us.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts For Productivity 9 Feb 2023 2:26 AM (2 years ago)
Using keyboard shortcuts can save you time and increase productivity. Some common shortcuts are Ctrl + C (copy), Ctrl + V (paste), Ctrl + Z (undo), and Ctrl + A (select all). Different apps have their own shortcuts. You can have a Google search to find out all the shortcuts that can be used on the apps that you use the most. When you get used to using shortcuts, time is saved from switching back and forth between your mouse and keyboard. You can find the shortcuts you like, start using them in your daily tasks and see the difference within just a few weeks.
Here’s one you can try today:
While using Microsoft Word, press ‘Alt’ on the keyboard. You will see some letters appear on the different tabs (File, Home, Insert etc.). You can now use the letters to navigate through Word and select the tools you need. Once you get familiar with letters and use your mouse less, you will become a speedy Word pro! This works with other Microsoft apps also.
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An Essential Piece Of Equipment 9 Feb 2023 2:21 AM (2 years ago)
Let’s be honest, technology isn’t cheap. A power cut that fries your two-week-old computer is a nightmare. When we buy computers, gaming consoles, servers, surveillance systems, and network equipment, we spend as much as we can afford to get the best possible. We’re willing to spend more for something that will last but overlook a critical element.
Power surges, brownouts, power cuts etc. can severely damage your computer equipment. When buying new equipment, it is recommended to expand your budget, if possible, to add in a UPS.
A ‘UPS’ is an abbreviation of ‘Uninterruptable Power Supply.’ A UPS could save your bacon once or a hundred times in it’s lifetime.
What does a UPS do? When a power cut takes place, a UPS’s built-in battery will kick in within milliseconds and keep any connected machinery turned on. How long it stays on for depends how much money you spend. However, the aim is not to run your systems on it until the power is up and running again, but to allow you the time needed to safely shut down a system, protecting against damage and sometimes data loss.
Consider this essential piece of equipment for you home, office, or both. Email info@lccomputers.co.uk for a quote.
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Add This To Your Backup Schedule 2 Feb 2023 2:48 AM (2 years ago)
Add this to your backup schedule.
System files can become corrupted and stop you from booting into your computer. You may keep backups for this type of situation, but if you have a lot of data this is a long process to restore it all.
Issues can arise after updates, installation of programs, deletion of critical system files etc. ‘System Restore’ or ‘System Protection’ allows you to put the computer back to a working state.
To check if System Protection is enabled. Click the Start button/Windows logo and type ‘Create a restore point.’
You will be greeted with a dialog box. If you look in the white box, you will see either On or Off next to the C: drive. If it is turned off, select ‘Configure’ which will bring up another dialog box. Here you can select ‘Turn on system protection.’ After closing the dialog box, if your computer is in a good working state, you can select ‘Create’ to create a restore point.
Restore points will be created automatically when system changes are made and older restore points are deleted when the designated space fills. However, if you are about to make changes and would like to make sure your restore points are up to date, you can manually create a restore point here and name it as you wish. Click ‘Apply’ and close the dialog box. You now have one less thing to worry about.
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Reducing Back Pain 2 Feb 2023 2:35 AM (2 years ago)
Is your workplace set up correctly to reduce back pain?
Sitting at a desk all day can cause, back, neck, and shoulder pain, eye strain and general discomfort. Let’s talk ergonomics.
Ergonomics:
Defined as the science of fitting a workplace to the user’s needs, ergonomics aims to increase efficiency and productivity and reduce discomfort.
Have you set up your workplace correctly to reduce back pain? 4 tips to reduce back pain with ergonomics.
- Setting up your screen: If your computer screen is set too high or low, this could contribute to shoulder or neck fatigue at the end of a long day. The top of the screen should be set at eye level; this way you do not have to consistently look up or down.
- Posture and keyboard techniques: Adjust your keyboard to a height where your elbows are bent approximately 90 degrees and your shoulders do not slump.
- Ergonomic chair: Consider using a chair with a backrest that supports the curve of your lower (lumbar) back. Sit back in the chair and position your thighs horizontally to your knees at hip level. Rest your feet comfortably on the floor or a footrest.
- Computer Glasses: If you use progressive lenses in your glasses, a slight head tilt is needed for these glasses to function. This tilting action may be the cause of your fatigued neck. Consider asking your eye doctor for glasses that can be worn while at your desk.
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Is Your Security Info Up To Date? 2 Feb 2023 2:30 AM (2 years ago)
WARNING:
Are your account details up to date?
If you use a Microsoft account, Hotmail/Outlook account, Gmail account, or any account for that matter, this is a reminder to keep your security details up to date for recovery purposes.
Sometimes these accounts will ask for verification routinely, or to be able to access confidential information within your account. If your phone number or secondary email address is not kept up to date, you could be denied access to your account, and sometimes this is the end of the road.
In some situations, this could put a computer out of action for a period of time.
Example:
‘Bitlocker’ is a feature of Microsoft Windows that allows you to encrypt the entire hard drive, making it unreadable should your laptop ever be stolen. Although this is enabled by the user normally or by the company you work for if it is within their policies, many claim that they have never enabled it and that the computer must have done it automatically. In this case, the user does not know the passkey that unlocks the hard drive. If the computer is linked to a Microsoft account, the recovery key to access the machine and the data on the hard drive is sometimes stored within that account. However, to access the key, you will need to verify you are who you say you are via your phone number on the account. If this is an old phone number that you no longer have access to, then you will not be able to retrieve the key should your computer ever ask for it. Goodbye data. Microsoft, however, will allow you to request to update the phone number on the account. Once changed, it can take up to 30 days for this change to be approved. Therefore, if your computer is asking for the Bitlocker recovery key when you turn it on, you could be locked out of it for up to a month before being able to check the Microsoft account for the required key.
In other situations, not having updated security details can make an account inaccessible and unrecoverable. Check your information and update it if necessary to avoid these consequences.
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