Paying and filing taxes is already annoying without the threat of refund fraud or identity theft. But phishing schemes, especially during tax season, have become so widespread that you’ve probably already received spoofed emails or calls during the last few years.
Gearing up for phishing scams in tax season
What private browsing can and can’t do
As you surf the web, it’s nearly impossible to keep your internet activity completely private. Certain websites collect personal information for marketing purposes and your browser keeps track of all the websites you visit. But that browsing information can also fall into the wrong hands, which is why you should consider using private browsing if you want to keep your online activities to yourself.
Quick recoveries with external IT support
Small-business owners with limited financial resources have to manage their office IT on their own. Although this might work for a while, it can grow into a massive problem when the business starts expanding. At that point, you’ll want to focus on that expansion, not repairing tech problems.
Equifax finds more users hit by major breach
Everyone thought the worst was over when credit-reporting agency Equifax revealed that the credentials of 145.5 million people in the US were leaked. However, the company recently discovered that there are more victims from the major breach. Here’s everything you need to know.
Safe web browsing requires HTTPS
How many times this month have you paid for something online using your credit card? Was each payment page secured by HTTPS? If you’re not 100% certain, you’re a prime target for identity theft. The padlock icon in your web browser’s address bar is immensely important and it requires your attention.
Chrome users panic as new scam spreads
During the previous quarter, fake Chrome notifications urging users to dial a tech support number have grown dramatically. Research reveals that this tech support scam could possibly use an Application Programming Interface (API) to freeze the browser, convincing the user to get in touch with the support line and share their credit card details.
Single Sign-On: The Answer to User Management
Everyone hates making passwords. From complexity requirements to minimum lengths, each new account brings its own set of headaches. If this problem is reaching a boiling point, Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions can help. They’re secure, easy-to-manage, and do away with the need to manage a long list of usernames and passwords.
Enlist IT help when installing CPU updates
When it comes to security updates, time is usually of the essence. The longer you wait to install a fix from a vendor, the higher the risk of being compromised. But in the cases of the Meltdown and Spectre flaws, you might be better off waiting until a more reliable patch is released.
Critical browser vulnerabilities discovered
According to security researchers, a bulk of the world’s computer processors have gaping flaws. The flaws, grouped under the term ‘Spectre,’ affect many critical systems including web browsers like Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox. Here’s a quick rundown of these major vulnerabilities and what you can do to secure them.