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Monthly Archives: February 2022

hybrid workplace safety
Posted on Author Roxanne Demakis Categories Cyber Security

Hybrid Workplace Vulnerabilities: How to Promote Online Safety?

With the gradual lifting of restrictions, organizations have discarded remote work in favor of a hybrid workplace – a mix of an at-home and in-office policy.

This doesn’t come without its challenges. Least of which is how are you going to protect sensitive data and other online assets from the vulnerabilities of a hybrid workplace. 

Since security is always at the top of the list of priorities, in this article, we will explain what are the biggest hybrid workplace threats and five ways to promote online safety to a mobile workforce.

Let’s begin.

#1 Use a VPN

Virtual private networks (VPN) are products and services that create a private network from a public internet connection. This scrambles your browsing data and makes it almost impossible for hackers to decrypt your online activity.

With a series of encryptions and access controls, VPNs are a great deterrent to attackers from tracking movement online and stealing sensitive data.

VPNs are essential for securing public and shared wireless networks, especially if the Wi-Fi connection isn’t password protected (even with the new Wi-Fi 6 connection).

Using a VPN ensures that your wireless connection doesn’t provide easy access to your business data if no one is at the office.

hybrid workplace VPN

#2 Protect your passwords

While a VPN is an excellent tool, it’s only as strong as the passwords and passphrases that it’s meant to protect.

In fact, the Colonian Pipeline hack in 2021 was blamed on an attacker who gained entry to their data via an unused VPN. The issue: the VPN didn’t have multifactor authentication.

Multifactor authentication is a cybersecurity measure where several methods of identity verification are required for accessing valuable data behind password-protected accounts.

One way to resolve this problem is to use a password manager to protect your user and login data. 

If you’re looking to choose a password management solution for your business, make sure that it does include multifactor verification.

#3 Secure work-issued devices

Working in a hybrid workplace means that you and the people you work with will commute a lot between their home and office. It’s highly likely that they move their work-issued devices back and forth, which raises the chance of forgetting it at either location or losing it en route.

NOTE: Never use a personal device for business or to handle work-related data!

Hybrid Workplace Vulnerabilities

As convenient as it may be, a company device has more integrated security measures onto its hardware than your personal device.

If you’re downloading a file or app to a work-issued device, vet it and request permission to do so from your internal or managed IT professionals. Unknown files, apps, and programs have security gaps that make them an ideal gateway for cyber attacks.

Please read our full article on the 10 cybersecurity gaps you should know about (and how to fix each one).

#4 Educate staff and employees

Human error is the #1 cause of cyber attacks. This includes phishing scams and other serious threats to business data security, and all it takes is one wrong click.

In fact, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (and the rise of the remote and hybrid workspace) phishing attacks have risen by a staggering 55%.

Here are 5 clear signs of phishing attempts and how to react if you’re under attack.

Cybersecurity awareness is the first line of defense. So it’s vital to educate your staff on the best security practices, password protecion, personal device usage at the office, and how to identify security threats when they happen.

#5 Practice a Zero Trust policy

Zero trust is a security policy that’s exactly what it sounds like: TRUST NO ONE. This policy extends to all users, including business partners, employees, and even C-level executives.

Businesses that employ the Zero Trust model limit who has access to sensitive data and data sources. Staff that does have access to various sources, on the other hand, is heavily vetted before given access to that kind of information.

A basic mantra behind this concept is: If someone doesn’t need a particular piece of information, DON’T SHARE IT WITH THEM.

This means never sharing passwords and login data, especially via email, messaging solutions, or via video conference calls.

Hybrid Workplace Online Safety

Stay smart and secure

A hybrid work environment creates many vulnerabilities for your business, and managing your cybersecurity can be overwhelming if you don’t have a dedicated team running it.

But we’re here to help.

Demakis Technologies is a professional IT service provider that specializes in managed services, helpdesk support, and, yes, network and cyber security.

CONTACT US to get in touch with one of our IT security experts and gain a piece of mind in the knowledge that your business is well protected from online threats.

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Wi-Fi 6 vs. Ethernet
Posted on Author Roxanne Demakis Categories Tech – Business

Wi-Fi 6 vs. Ethernet: What Option Is Best for Your Office?

Whether your main concern is continuous internet access or high-speed internet, growing numbers of businesses like yours are looking for alternatives to Ethernet, like WiFi 6.

Maybe your Ethernet connections can no longer support your remote environment.

Maybe it’s hindering device and workforce mobility and you want to upgrade to WiFi.

Or maybe it’s something else entirely.

Whatever the case, we’re here to help you.

In this post, we compare standard Ethernet with the latest remote connection – WiFi 6.

So if you’re looking to switch to remote internet access in 2022, you’ll enjoy this post.

Let’s begin.

What is Wi-Fi 6?

wifi 6 device

Wi-Fi 6 is the next generation standard in wireless local-area networks (WLAN) technology. Also known as High Efficiency Wi-Fi, 802.11ax Wi-Fi routers operate up to 6 GHz bands that enable them to provide a 300% overall throughput-per-area improvement.

Wi-Fi 6 was originally built in response to the growing number of devices in the world. Wi-Fi 5 allows for 4 devices to send and receive the data simultaneously with no interruption. Wi-Fi 6 router improves this to 8 simultaneous Wi-Fi 6 devices.

802.11ax router’s enhanced Multi-User MIMO helps keep pace with expanding user needs.

Wi-Fi 6 standard allows for potentially faster connection speeds. The maximum speed of Wi-Fi 6 is 9.6 Gbps. That’s up from 3.5 Gbps on Wi-Fi 5.

Can Wi-Fi 6 truly replace Ethernet?

Wi-Fi speeds and concurrent device support have been improved with Wi-Fi 6. 

At the same time, Cat6 and Cat6A prices have decreased over the years. 

This has made ethernet connection and network cabling services more affordable. 

Should you exclusively use Wi-Fi 6?

It depends. 

Wi-Fi 6’s theoretical max speed to one device is 4.8 Gbps with 4 consecutive streams. 

Still, the vast majority of devices can only use one stream at a time. This capps them down to 1.2 Gbps under ideal conditions.

Also, as a device gets further from the WAP, the Wi-Fi signal gets weaker, causing the speeds to drop down quickly. 

Another thing is that the ideal condition means having one WAP connected to one device.

That’s not the case with using Wi-Fi at the office, as dozens of devices connect to any WAP at any time.

The structured cabling cost is much cheaper with only one or two cables needed per device. On the other hand, the equipment cost of the WAPs themselves can be very high.

They require business class POE switches to power them, software to manage them and an IT expert to monitor them.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Direct Connection

Ethernet

Direct connection allows each user the maximum possible data transfer speeds. Also, those speeds are independent from their other users.

Do you have servers with large file transfers inside your local network? 

If so, then a direct Cat6 or Cat6A connection’s speed outweighs any advantage of connecting to Wi-Fi.

Direct connection cables are also better for video conferencing.

Instead of stuttering and  dropped frames in a video call,  you’ll get a strong and stable connection. 

Still, there’s a downside to direct connections – cost.

One hundred users would need at least a hundred cables connected to three 48-port switches. The cost also includes:

  • A low voltage installer to run the cables
  • Networking hardware 
  • Need for large server rooms 
  • Organizing cabling and networking gear 

The good thing though, is that these costs can be mitigated by relying on cloud technology.

Thinking about migrating to the cloud? Here are 5 things you HAVE TO consider before cloud migration. 

What’s the best choice for your organisation?

The answer to this question depends on a couple of things. 

Your construction budget and networking infrastructure budget:

A good construction and networking budget allows you to get the best of both worlds. 

This means the benefit of both a dense Wi-Fi installation and unbeatable speed of ethernet.

If you need to cut some costs here, then focus on direct connections. 

You can do this only for those users who need fast data transfer, not all of them. 

Importance of mobility for your business:

If you need your teams to move throughout the office, then Wi-Fi connectivity is the best choice. Check if your laptops even have ethernet ports. 

Whether slower speeds will affect your productivity:

If a high speed data and large file transfer is required, then you need a direct connection. Consider upgrading to Cat6A cabling for the fastest connection. 

wifi 6 router

Looking for Help with Your Network Cabling?

So, after reading this post, maybe you’ve decided to go for the ethernet option.

In that case, you’ll have to deal with some network cabling. And that’s serious work.

But don’t worry!

We at Demakis Technologies can help you with that!

Our network cabling services can help you control costs and enhance your entire network.

Contact Us to talk with one of our experts and see what solutions we can provide you with. 

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cloud security
Posted on Author Roxanne Demakis Categories cloud, Security

Cloud Security: How to Mitigate Threats to Your Cloud

Cloud computing has become a staple in every industry:

Be it remote or at the office, people (including you) use the cloud to communicate, share data, collaborate, complete tasks, and, basically, do their jobs.

But how secure is your cloud network?

In this article, we explore some of the most common threats. But also the strategies and techniques you can use to mitigate them.

So if you’re looking to bolster the security of your cloud-based infrastructure, you’ll find useful information in this article.

Let’s begin.

What is cloud security?

Cloud security refers to a set of measures designed to protect cloud-based infrastructure, applications, communication channels, and data.

These solutions protect company’s data in cloud environments from malware, hackers, and unauthorized user access or use.

Why is cloud security important?

Cloud computing security is critical for any company. It helps you to keep your cloud app security safe from cybercriminals, attacks, and other missuse.

Maintaining a solid cloud security assists you in reaping the benefits of cloud computing, which are now widely recognized as essential in any business. 

Here’s why cloud security is crucial for your organization:

cloud data protection

#1 Lower operational and administrative costs

These services help you to save money on ongoing administrative and operational costs.

A cloud service provider (CSP) handles your security needs, eliminating the need for in-house teams to perform manual security updates and configurations. 

You will also have more robust security because the CSP will have expert staff on hand to handle any security issues you may have.

#2 Improved overall reliability

You need a secure method of gaining immediate access to your data. 

Cloud security managed services ensure that authorized users have easy access to your data and applications. 

You’ll always have a dependable way to access your cloud applications and data, allowing you to respond quickly to any potential security issues.

#3 Centralized security approach

Cloud security centrally manages all your applications, devices, and cloud data protection. 

A centralized control point makes it easier for cloud-native security companies to perform tasks like: 

  • Implementing disaster recovery plans 
  • Streamlining network event monitoring 
  • Improving web-based filtering

4 Common Cloud Security Threats

Let’s go over 4 common threats you need to be aware of.

#1 Breach of data

According to a recent study, nearly 80% of survayed companies had experienced at least one cloud data security breach in the previous 18 months.

In fact, 43% of them reported 10 or more breaches for the same period. 

Security misconfiguration, lack of visibility over access-settings and activities, as well as identity and access management (IAM) permission errors were among the top concerns expressed by the survey’s 300 CISOs.

#2 Employee threats

These are cloud security threats posed by employees in your organization. 

More precisely, those with valid access to your cloud network security, such as employees, contractors, business associates, and even executives. 

This article states that insider threats cause 60% of data breaches.

#3 Data sharing

Cloud platforms make it extremely simple for users to share files and folders containing sensitive data. 

Many CISOs are concerned about such an open approach to file sharing because links to shared files and folders can easily be stolen or sent to the wrong recipient. 

#4 Security misconfiguration

According to research, 67% of respondents cited misconfiguration as the top concern about cloud server security. 

This is not surprising given the number of data breaches caused by incorrectly configured secure cloud storage containers.

Misconfiguration example is not changing default settings and leaving default passwords unchanged. 

cloud security managed services

How to Mitigate Cloud Security Threats?

So how can you mitigate threats to your cloud infrastructure?

Here are four strategies you can deploy right now:

#1 Multi-Factor authentication 

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is extremely useful in protecting user accounts on the cloud. 

Traditional authentication systems rely solely on something the user knows, such as a username and password. 

By contrast, MFA adds another layer of security by requiring the user to provide additional information.

Usually, a security code is sent to the user’s mobile phone, which they must enter to log in.

#2 Data encryption

Data encryption seems obvious, however, it is surprising how few businesses actually encrypt their data. 

A simple but effective way to protect your sensitive data in the cloud is to ensure that all sensitive data is protected by data cloud encryption. 

#3 Sensitive data classification

If you want to keep your sensitive data secure, you must first understand what sensitive data you have and where it is kept. 

A data classification tool may be provided by your cloud service provider.

The tool allows you to create, configure, and publish “sensitivity labels” or use the “auto labeling” feature.

#4 File sharing restriction

Preventing users to share links to folders containing multiple files, as some of these files may contain sensitive data. 

If someone requires access to a folder containing multiple files, they must make a request to the administrator or other appropriate personnel. 

You can also make sure that all user-created links are set to expire after one week.

cloud security services

Get Help from a Trusted IT Specialist

You shouldn’t need to stress out about guarding your critical business data against these and other threats.  

That’s the job of IT professionals.

At Demakis Technologies, we have the strategic knowledge, skills, experience, and tech to protect your company’s critical data on the cloud, including cloud cybersecurity.

CONTACT US to get a peace of mind that lets you invest your time and energy into what really matters – growing your company.   

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chatbots and conversational AI
Posted on Author Roxanne Demakis Categories Tech Trends

Chatbots vs. Conversational AI: What’s the Difference?

In this post, we will explain the difference between chatbots and conversational AI. You will get an understanding of what each of the terms means, how they relate to one another, as well as some of their key benefits.

Let’s begin!

What’s the difference between Chatbots and Conversational AI?

Conversational AI refers to the technology and tools that enable computers to simulate real human conversations. 

Chatbots, on the other hand, are programs that can use conversational AI to communicate with humans. But they can rely on other technology, as well. 

What is a chatbot?

A chatbot is a program that mimics human conversations in order to improve the quality of customer experience. 

Chatbots can function either on pre-built conversation flows or with the help of natural language processing (NLP) and artificial intelligence that enables them to get a better understanding of user intent.

chatbot

Rule-based chatbots

Rule-based chatbots are the most basic chatbots out there. They function with the help of pre-set rules: if a user asks question “A”, the chatbot replies with answer “A”. 

Sometimes the conversation flow is designed in the form of a decision tree that gives clients the option to choose the answers based on their use cases. 

Rule-based chatbots somewhat resemble automated phone menus that prompt the users to go through a series of choices that guide them towards the information they need.

AI chatbots

AI chatbots (or contextual chatbots) utilize NLP, machine learning, or both, to recognize user intent and respond to it in a meaningful way. 

It’s the type of chatbots that has the ability to learn from every interaction with customers, so their ability to provide quality service actually increases with time. 

What is conversational AI?

Conversational AI is a term that describes AI-powered communication technologies that include chatbots and virtual assistants such as Amazon Alexa.

The technology helps deep learning algorithms understand human language and recognize user intent.

Thanks to NLP and machine learning, conversational AI platforms are able to recognize textual and audio inputs and facilitate the creation of realistic conversations. 

The goal behind every AI chatbot online is to create a feeling of real human interaction.

conversational artificial intelligence

How do chatbots relate to conversational AI?

Conversational artificial intelligence can be used to power chatbots. But not every chatbot can be described as a conversational chatbot.

Simply put, not all chatbots are considered a type of conversational AI. 

For example, rule-based chatbots that rely on pre-built scripts are not designed using conversational AI technology. 

A conversational AI chatbot can be very useful when it comes to mirroring human conversations for the sake of improving the user experience.

Chatbots & Conversational AI: Examples in Customer Service

Both rule-based chatbots and conversational AI agents can make a huge difference in the quality of customer service. 

Let’s take a look at some useful chatbot and conversational AI examples:

Domino’s ordering assistant chatbot

When the chatbot market started getting attention, Domino’s was actually one of the first businesses that put a Facebook Messenger bot in charge of taking orders through live chat.

The bot is also capable of tracking delivery times and redirecting customers to live agents whenever needed.

The chatbot named Dom is also present on other communication channels such as the company’s website and app, as well as Google Home and Alexa.

Amtrak’s virtual travel assistant powered by AI

Amtrak’s virtual assistant called Julie, also known as Ask Julie, has been an invaluable tool when it comes to helping travelers find all the necessary information without having to contact customer support.

Since the time Julie was launched, the platform has made an 8x return on investment by reducing the company’s customer service costs by a total of $1 million. 

There was also a 25% growth in the booking rate, as well as 30% more revenue than with bookings completed through other forms.

Customers can reach Julie through Amtrak’s website, or by calling the company’s phone number.

chat with AI bot

Improve your Customer Service with Conversational AI

According to NewVoiceMedia, US businesses lose $75 billion per year due to the poor quality of their customer service.

That’s why more and more companies choose to implement AI chat into their customer service sectors. 

Many businesses saw significant improvements after they’ve included a conversational bot in their customer service teams. 

The clients show no resistance when they chat with AI bot. In fact, they appreciate the speed with which an AI chat bot is able to resolve their issues.

If you feel like your organization could benefit from chatbots and conversational AI, follow our blog to stay ahead of competitors or get in touch with one of our tech specialists for further assistance.

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AI in banking and finance
Posted on Author Roxanne Demakis Categories Tech Trends

7 Practical Uses for AI in Your Financial Company

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we interact with money in finance.

Using AI in banking and finance is a way to meet customers’ demands who desire more convenient, safer, and more innovative ways to access, spend, save, and invest their money in finance.

In this article, you’ll learn how you can use the benefits of AI in finance.

Let’s start!

What is AI and Machine Learning?

AI has been shown as a beneficial resource for businesses, increasing the efficiency and quality of work produced. 

The term AI refers to any software designed to function similarly to the human brain. 

Machine learning, a type of AI, is a program that changes based on the information fed into it to train it and the feedback it receives from the humans who developed it and those who are using it. 

AI software with machine learning capabilities can provide a faster research process while providing reliable investment recommendations. 

Machine learning for financial services can significantly reduce operating costs and allow people to focus on making the best possible, informed suggestions for their clients.

Practical Application of AI in Finance

Now that you have a better understanding of AI let’s look at how you can apply artificial intelligence in finance.

#1 Evaluating investment opportunities

For a human, combing through massive amounts of data and comparing hundreds of data sources to one another is a difficult task.

With AI, this task can be done faster, with greater accuracy, and without bias. 

AI finance solutions can even project the success rate/potential opportunity for each of the proposed options.

It’s beneficial to use AI for financial services firms because they can then devote more time to opportunities with a high probability of success and less time going through data that will most likely be ignored.

AI in finance

#2 Processing RFPs, loans, and credit requests 

Opportunities are presented to financial services firms in the form of a Request for Proposal (RFP). 

Because AI can use both unstructured and structured data sets, simply scanning your RFP will allow a machine to read it and learn whatever is required to develop your desired answer. 

That eliminates the need for the time-consuming data submission process. 

As more RFPs are processed, the data lake grows, implying that your machine is becoming smarter and smarter as it is used.

#3 Trading and financial advisory

It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence is frequently used in trading because it analyzes patterns within large data sets. 

AI-powered finance solutions can go through data faster than humans, which speeds up the process and saves significant time.

AI technology and finance will allow you to stay on top of the latest financial trends or review your portfolio. 

#4 Fraud detection and prevention

One essential operation that already benefits from machine learning is fraud detection.

A machine’s ability to track and compare numerous data points while instantly comparing the data to previous transactions on an account is incomparable to a human doing the same job.

Fraud detection AI systems in finance examine a person’s purchasing habits and raise an alert if something contradicts your usual spending habits.

#5 Risk assessment and risk management

Machine learning algorithms are being used by banks and apps to determine a person’s loan eligibility and provide personalized options. 

The advantage is that AI is not biased and can make a loan eligibility decision quickly and accurately.

Risk management is always a challenge in banking. 

Machine learning in finance can now assist experts in using data to identify risks, save the workforce, and make future planning easier with better information. 

#6 Preventing cyber attacks

People want to know that their money and personal information will be kept as safe and secure as possible. 

Human error is thought to be responsible for up to 95% of cloud breaches. 

Artificial intelligence can help companies improve their security by analyzing and determining standard data patterns and trends and alerting them to inconsistencies or unusual activity.

#7 24/7 customer services

Customers can ask questions at any time of day or night, thanks to artificial intelligence and the prevalence of virtual assistants and chatbots.

They don’t have to wait to speak with a person. 

AI increases productivity by reducing the time and effort spent on generic customer queries, allowing teams to focus on longer-term projects that drive business innovation.

artificial intelligence in finance

Ready to use AI in your Finance Business?

With the popularization of AI, it’s no surprise that AI in the finance sector is taking off.

Especially now that COVID-19 has changed human interaction. 

Using AI in finance has had a profound impact by streamlining and consolidating tasks and analyzing data and information far faster than humans.

Experts predict that it will save the banking industry approximately $1 trillion by 2030.
If you want to know more about Artificial Intelligence and its use in business, stay up to date by reading the latest trends in technology and business on the Demakis Technologies blog.

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