The Best IT Home Checkup for Your PC

Network, Ophtek, pc checkup, Security, working from home, , , ,
21
Apr 2020

Millions of workers are now self-isolating and that means working from home for many people. But how do you make sure that your PC at home is healthy?

The luxury of working from an office is that the equipment there is regularly maintained and fairly new. However, when you have to work from home you will soon realize that your own equipment isn’t in the same shape. We’re all guilty of being a little lazy when we get home and IT maintenance certainly isn’t at the top of most people’s lists. But a little effort goes a long way when it comes to maintaining a PC.

And, best of all, you don’t need to be a fully trained IT technician to carry out a home checkup. In fact, it’s quick and easy as we’re about to show you.

 

How to Maintain Your PC with a Home Checkup

Working from home on your own PC is convenient, but it also puts you and your organization at risk. Therefore, make sure you maximize your productivity and safety by carrying out the following:

  • Install all Updates: We have a habit of ignoring PC updates at home as they get in the way of loading up Netflix. However, it’s important that complacency doesn’t creep into your IT activities at home. You need to make sure that all your software is up to date with the latest patches and firmware. Not only will this ensure that your software is secure, but it will enhance the functionality of your software. Most software will have an auto-update feature, so it’s crucial that this is activated. 
  • Check Your Router: The internet is vital when it comes to remote working. Without an internet connection you won’t be able to connect to your organization’s network. And this will leave you without any of the resources you need. So, it’s essential that your router is working and secure. A good connection is paramount, so you may need to adjust your router position to maximize the signal. And, to safeguard the security of your router, remove any default passwords and create something unique. 
  • Use Security Software: If you haven’t already got security software in place then this needs to be made a priority. It will protect your PC and, if you’re working remotely, strengthen the security of any connections to your business. There are a wide range of options when it comes to security software, so it can be daunting choosing one. It’s recommended that you stick to the industry leaders, so make a beeline to software developed by Kaspersky, McAfee and AVG. And you can rest assured that they provide plenty of free software.

Final Thoughts

The challenges of working from home are likely to be new for many employees. Thankfully, advances in technology mean that this is easier than ever. But you need to make sure that your PC at home is in excellent shape. It is, after all, your most valuable tool when it comes to working remotely. So, to guarantee a PC that is firing on all cylinders, you need to take note of the tips above.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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How to Keep Your Remote Workers Secure

Network, Ophtek, remote workers, Security, Security Threats, , , ,
25
Feb 2020

Advances in technology have created an environment where clocking in at the office is no longer required. But remote working is not without security risks.

Remote working is on the rise with many organizations offering this option to their employees. The benefits of remote working are numerous and apply to both employers and employees. But, away from the relative security of the office, remote working poses a number of security risks. Therefore, it’s crucial that your business finds a healthy balance. You need to develop a remote working environment which not only provides flexibility, but is also secure.

Achieving this combination is relatively easy. You just need to know how. And, thankfully, we’re going to show you how.

Keeping Remote Workers Safe

Remote workers are, to a certain degree, a law unto themselves. After all, working from a remote location means that immediate monitoring is next to impossible. So, you need to invest a certain level of trust. But we’re living in an age where cyber-attacks are reaching record highs. And this is why you need to help protect your employees in the following ways:

  • Security Training: Your employees are your main defense against security attacks, so they need the correct training to remain safe. And this applies to remote workers more than any other employee. Regular training on security protocols and updates on contemporary threats need to be put in place. 
  • Use Two-Factor Authentication: One of the surest ways to secure your remote workers is by putting two-factor authentication in place. This is a security procedure by which users have to provide additional information alongside a username and password. This can take the form of a PIN number sent to a mobile device or a secret question. It only takes seconds to pass two-factor authentication, but the enhanced security it provides is priceless. 
  • Monitor Devices Closely: It’s important to keep a regular eye on any company issued devices that are used remotely. For one thing, you need to make sure that your employees are working as they should be. But, when it comes to security, you should make sure you are analyzing their usage e.g. visiting malicious websites and connecting external devices such as USB drives. 
  • Implement a VPN: A virtual private network (VPN) is essential for remote workers. It’s difficult to guarantee that remote connections are fully secure, but a VPN solves this problem. Using multiple layers of encryption, a VPN protects any data being transmitted or received by remote workers. Therefore, data such as financial records and customer details will be secured from any external forces. 
  • Use Strong Passwords: This may sound simple, but a weak password is easier to crack than a complex one. However, this advice is ignored more often than you would think. So, you need to remind your employees of the importance of password security. And you need to prompt them to regularly change their passwords. Thankfully, creating strong and unique passwords is easy once you learn the basics. 

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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Snatch Malware Proves That Safe Mode Isn’t so Safe

malware, Network, Ophtek, Ransomware, Security, Security Threats, , , ,
14
Jan 2020

We’ve all had to boot into safe mode on our PCs at some point and you would assume it’s a safe environment. But the Snatch malware is proving otherwise.

Safe mode is a configuration mode that you can request your PC to boot into at startup. In safe mode, your PC will only execute essential applications. The functions of your PC will be limited, but it’s the perfect environment for fixing problems and removing various forms of malware. But it appears that Snatch is a brand of malware which can thrive in safe mode.

Snatch is a multi-factor threat which can cause real damage to your business, so it’s a slice of malware that you need to be protecting yourself against. To give you a head start, we’ve put together a quick lowdown on Snatch.

What is Snatch?

Snatch is a newly discovered malware variant which contains two key threats: a ransomware function and the ability to log and steal user data. It’s not the first piece of malware to come loaded with these threats, but its infection strategies are unique. Using brute force attacks, Snatch is targeting the PCs of various organizations. So far, this sounds far from unusual as brute force attacks are a fairly conventional form of hacking. But Snatch has a unique strategy.

Following the initial infection, Snatch forces the PC to reboot. And it’s at this point that Snatch informs the PC to boot into safe mode. It’s believed that this unusual, yet clever, step is initiated in order to avoid anti-virus software which is often disabled in safe mode. From here it can execute its malicious payload. Snatch will then begin encrypting files and demanding ransoms that have been as high as $35,000. There is also evidence that surveillance threats are present in Snatch, so data harvesting is likely to start once the infection is unleashed.

Protecting Yourself from Snatch

The Snatch malware has the capability to cause extensive damage to your organization in terms of both finances and credibility. It’s also disturbingly efficient as it deletes any volume shadow copies of the files it encrypts. By deleting these volume shadow copies, Snatch is ensuring that it’s impossible to restore the encrypted files. Therefore, it’s crucial that you protect your PCs from Snatch by:

  • Practice Good IT Security: The backbone of any secure network is based upon the actions of those using it. And this is why it’s important that all your users understand the basics of IT security. By embracing these practices it’s possible to keep your PCs protected from the majority of majority of malware.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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What are the Most Common Computer Network Problems?

Data Security, Internet, IT Best Practices, Network, Ophtek, Windows Server, wireless network, , , ,
10
Sep 2019

 

Getting to grips with problems relating to your computer network can be a frustrating affair, but it’s one which is likely to happen on a daily basis.

Computer networks are, after all, highly complex systems that comprise various components and are in use by multiple users. These structures may bring many benefits, but they can also be a recipe for disaster. And, if your network fails or experiences any issues, then your organization’s productivity is going to be affected.

Your main objective, with your computer network, should be to keep it online and functioning correctly. But you can only do this if you know what the most common computer network problems are, so let’s take a look:

  • Slow Connectivity: If there’s one thing that frustrates an employee then it’s slow connectivity over a network. PCs can grind to a halt and even the simplest task can take an age to complete. It’s often caused by large file transfers, so a limit should be put in place on the size that is permitted e.g. no email attachments that total more than 20mb as a standard rule. Sometimes this lag can also be caused by faulty network cards, so it’s important to investigate this possibility. 
  • IP Conflicts: Each PC on your network should have a unique IP address such as 209.85.255.255, but sometimes two PCs can be assigned the same IP address. And this can create major connectivity issues for both parties. Sometimes these conflicts will work themselves out, but you can help speed up the process. Restarting the router is the simplest approach as it should assign new IP addresses to every PC on the network. 
  • Unable to Connect to Local Printer: Printers on a network tend to be shared by multiple users, but occasionally an error can arise that leaves people unable to access the printer. This problem is often caused by a sharing issue whereby different security settings between PCs and the printers fail to agree with each other. When this occurs it’s recommended that you check firewall settings and that your Windows network adapters have printer sharing enabled. 

  • Faulty Cables: A computer network relies on cables to facilitate its connectivity. And when just one cable fails it can have massive implications for your network. However, it’s easy to overlook cables as the source of network issues. People tend to concentrate on software and hardware troubleshooting first. Nonetheless, investigating the condition of cables in the affected network area is vital. Cables can easily become dislodged or damaged, so sometimes the fix can be as simple as plugging them back in or replacing. 
  • Weak Wi-Fi Signal: If you rely on wireless connections in your organization then you will be well aware of the issues caused a weak signal. This can often be caused by environmental issues such as the presence of a microwave or even the layout of an office. It’s important to eliminate these factors to identify the cause of the fault. Alternatively the connection issues could be caused by out-dated firmware, so make sure all updates are installed. 

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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5 Warning Signs that Your Network Has Been Hacked

Cyber Security, Hackers, Hacking, Network, Ophtek, Security Threats, , , ,
11
Jun 2019

A hacked network spells trouble for any organization, so it’s crucial that you understand the warning signs which indicate your network has been hacked.

When it comes to reducing the damage caused by a hacked network then speed is of the essence. Hackers work quickly and even if you only shave a few minutes off the time taken to recognize an attack it can make a huge difference. However, the warning signs that accompany a network breach aren’t necessarily obvious due to the technology at play and the stealth tactics adopted by hackers. Thankfully, these indicators can easily be learned and it doesn’t have to be by going down the tough road of experience.

That’s why we’re going to help you get prepared a for damage limitation strategy by discussing five warning signs that your network has been hacked.

The 5 Signs of a Hacked Network

Vigilance is an essential part of keeping your network secure, but due to the complexities of IT it’s difficult to keep an eye on everything at all times. However, by understanding the following warning signs you’re putting yourself in a much better position to protect your network:

  1. Mouse Cursors Moving On Their Own: With a breached network comes the possibility that remote hackers will take control of your PC. Therefore, it’s possible for them to assume control of a desktop and being interacting with it. The most obvious sign of this is a mouse cursor moving around on its own and clicking on files/folders.
  1. Encrypted Files: Ransomware is a major problem for businesses due to the obstacles it throws up by encrypting files. And that’s why if you’re suddenly unable to open files or they’re displaying an unusual filename extension it’s quite possible you’ve been hacked. Naturally, due to the infectious nature of ransomware, you’ll want to identify this network hack before it spreads further into your organization and locks up even more files.
  1. Reports of Unusual Emails Being Sent: One of the most popular methods for spreading malware is through email. Taking advantage of contact lists in email clients, malware can soon spread itself around the world with relative ease. So, if you receive reports from contacts that your organization has been sending suspicious emails from genuine addresses then it’s time to investigate. 
  1. Increased Network Traffic: The amount of traffic that your network experiences will tend to ebb and flow depending on the time of day, but it should average itself out most days. However, when you’ve been hacked then there’s a good chance that your network traffic will skyrocket as your resources are used to power other hacks such as DDoS attacks. Therefore, keeping a close eye on your network traffic and identifying any unusual activity should be an integral part of your network security. 
  1. Security Software Disabled: Hackers like to make their attacks as easy as possible, so one of their first moves upon gaining access to a network is to disable any security software in place. This allows them to operate freely and reduce the chance of getting caught. If you notice that your anti-malware software, or indeed any application has become disabled, then it needs reporting immediately to identify who has done this and why.

For more ways to secure and optimize your business technology, contact your local IT professionals.

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