We are seeing an overwhelming amount of customers getting scammed. They receive a call that their computer has been compromised, and the caller indicates they are from Microsoft. They instruct customers to use a free remote program to allow them access so they can check. Never give someone access to your computer that you do not know, or trust, this is the first indication, because Microsoft has its only remote desktop support system built in, so they wouldn't need an freeware program to do so. Next they pop up a bunch of PRE-Created images that make it appear you have several viruses. Then say they can remove them for $199.99. (Bare in mind our PC Tune-up/Virus Removal is just $55). At this point they install a free Mcafree or other anti-virus, and then look through your folders and files (not sure what they are looking for). They then indicate you are good to go and they end the call. We have had several customers indicate then weeks later they will see their mouse moving around, windows popping up late at night and other indications that their computer is being remoted when they are not active on it. DO NOT fall for this scam, and if you know someone that has been taken, please have them get a hold of us, so that we can ensure the remote access is removed, and no one is remotely capturing keystrokes and other valuable information from you, or your family.
The elements of a traditional business network usually starts with a File Server and end with the user's desktop. For years this has been the best and most reliable way of sharing your files across your network while maintaining security and providing the maximum productivity in your work force. In the age of the ever growing Internet we have seen a shift, from the traditional ideas to the Cloud. What is the Cloud? The Cloud is sharing your files through the Internet, through Internet based servers. Utilizing the Cloud removes the traditional server and creates a cross platform access to your data anywhere you have internet access. Is the Cloud right for my business? Absolutely, the Cloud offers several great benefits to small businesses. The biggest advantage is files are always secured and backed up. Most businesses lack a backup and in turn it costs them precious downtime if their data is lost. Most Cloud providers Google, Microsoft, ETC. have millions of dollars in servers and redundancies to ensure your data is always safe. With the Cloud you are not limited to one computer, or one platform. You want to adjust a document on the go, you can access on your smart phone adjust it, then email it to your customers. In the age of high speed internet accessing the Cloud is more streamline and allows you to operate as easy as checking your email. Costs is another big factor that helps most Small Businesses. Traditional server based networks require IT Staffing, Maintenance, Proactive Backups, and the hardware. These all significant costs, many of which are not executed correctly. For instance most companies we initially provide our services to, have no redundancy with their backups. An Act of God would cause their whole business to stop, potentially crippling their business in a matter of seconds. The Cloud removes these uncertainties and provides fast access to your data, even if your office is no longer standing. Our society has become mobile; shouldn't your business? The Cloud allows you to access your data anywhere, extending your office wherever your employees may be. This improves productivity and ease of access, to better your business. Besides user access fees that some Cloud companies charge their literally is no ongoing fees. Am I trying to say you don't need us or our fellow IT Service Providers, of course not, these systems still need administration, and help to utilize them to the best benefit of your business, but the cost in doing so is far less then a traditional network. Truth be told traditional networks are still needed for any Server Application driven environment, unless that applications developer has created a cloud based system. However, most businesses today utilize a Server strictly for basic documents, spreadsheets, presentations, etc. Waiting for catastrophe is never the best way to implement a better practice. My business was created on the aspect of preventing customers headaches and loss of business. This is a goal easily achieved through the use of technology. The Cloud movement only benefits your business, and will help improve security, reliability, and productivity. If your not ready to make the move, at least look into Cloud based back-up systems, most companies store their backups onsite, if the server is lost, what are the chances your back up would be safe? Residential customers can also benefit from moving to the cloud. Crashed hard drives, damaged laptops, theft, or acts of god can also damage most personal computers as well, and lose precious data. Utilizing Cloud based backups, or Cloud based office products, can keep your documents, pictures, and other important elements safe. You can also access these elements throughout your different devices streamlining your personal data and allowing you to truly pitch those thumb drives! The best selling point, GOOGLE provides it's Google Drive and Docs for FREE! Allow your business to reach for the Clouds, and truly the sky is the limit! |
From the Desk of:Joshua J Rockey Archives
March 2020
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