Cyber Hygiene: The Simple Habits That Keep Your Business Secure
When it comes to cybersecurity, it’s often the small, everyday steps that make the biggest difference. The latest research shows that 82% of breaches involve data stored in the cloud—and the majority could have been prevented with basic safeguards.
This is where cyber hygiene comes in. Think of it as your company’s version of daily handwashing. It may not be glamorous, but it’s absolutely essential. Without it, you’re leaving your business exposed to unnecessary risk.
Here are four foundational cyber hygiene practices every small and mid-sized business should put in place today:
1. Lock Down Your Network
Your network is the front door to your business. If it’s not secured, everything inside is vulnerable.
• Use firewalls and strong encryption to protect sensitive data.
• Hide your WiFi network (SSID) and protect it with a unique, complex password.
• Make sure your router itself is password-protected.
• For remote workers, require a VPN (virtual private network) to connect securely from outside the office.
These simple steps make it significantly harder for attackers to gain easy access.
2. Train Employees to Be Cyber-Smart
Human error is still the #1 cause of security breaches. That means training your team is one of the most effective defenses you have.
Your training program should cover:
• Creating and managing strong passwords
• Recognizing phishing attempts and suspicious emails
• Using multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever possible
• Safe browsing and data handling policies
When employees know how to spot risks, they’re far less likely to accidentally open the door to an attack.
3. Back Up Data — And Test It
Even with great security, incidents can still happen. That’s why backups are your lifeline.
• Back up all critical files regularly, including financial data, HR records, customer information, and databases.
• Store backups securely in the cloud or in an offsite server.
• Automate backups when possible — and test them to ensure they actually work.
If ransomware or a crash takes down your system, having verified backups could be the difference between recovery and permanent loss.
4. Limit Data Access
Not everyone in your company needs access to everything. In fact, restricting access is one of the easiest ways to protect sensitive information.
• Give employees access only to the systems and data required for their jobs.
• Remove access immediately during offboarding.
• Restrict administrative privileges to trusted IT personnel only.
By minimizing exposure, you reduce the chance that a stolen password or insider threat can cause widespread damage.
Why Cyber Hygiene Is Worth the Effort
Yes, implementing these measures takes planning and consistency. But the reality is this: the cost and disruption of a breach is far greater than the effort to prevent one. Investing a little time each week into cyber hygiene helps protect your data, your reputation, and your bottom line.
Ready to Strengthen Your Defenses?
If you’re not sure where your business stands, now’s the time to find out. At Quinn Technology Solutions, we offer a free Cybersecurity Risk Assessment that identifies hidden vulnerabilities, exposes gaps in your defenses, and provides you with a clear action plan to stay protected.
Your future self — and your business — will thank you.
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As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. While your computer will continue to function after that date, it will no longer receive critical security updates, patches, or technical assistance. That means the system you rely on daily could quickly become vulnerable to cyberattacks, viruses, and other threats. For many individuals and businesses, this is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a serious security risk. Outdated software creates an easy entry point for hackers and can cause major problems if you handle sensitive data. Compliance requirements, too, often demand that organizations stay current on operating systems to avoid penalties. Whether you’re a small business owner or simply someone who wants to keep their personal information secure, it’s essential to understand what this change means for you and what steps you should take next. Let’s break it down. Why Does This Matter? When Microsoft stops updating Windows 10, your device becomes more vulnerable. Without regular patches, the system cannot defend itself against newly discovered malware, ransomware, or viruses. Businesses that handle client or financial data especially risk breaches if they continue using outdated technology. Another challenge is software compatibility. Developers frequently update programs to match the latest operating systems. Once Windows 10 is phased out, you may find your favorite tools, apps, or software no longer run smoothly—or stop working entirely. Lastly, compliance is a critical concern. Industries such as healthcare, finance, and law often require up-to-date systems to meet regulations. Running an unsupported operating system could lead to costly fines or legal complications if you fail to meet security standards. What Are Your Options? If your device meets Microsoft’s requirements, the recommended step is upgrading to Windows 11. But not all Windows 10 computers are compatible with the newer software. If your PC doesn’t qualify, you have several choices: Buy a new Windows 11–compatible computer. This guarantees security and long-term support. Sign up for Extended Security Updates (ESU) . Microsoft will offer a short-term option for a fee—or free if you use OneDrive Backup—but this is only a temporary solution. Switch to a different operating system, like Linux. This may be a bigger adjustment but is an option for tech-savvy users. Ignore the change. This is the riskiest choice and not recommended, as it exposes your device to significant threats. Regardless of the route you choose, make sure to back up all your important files before making any changes. Cloud backups or external hard drives can protect you from data loss during the transition. Extended Security Updates (ESU) For those not ready to fully upgrade, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates for one year after the end date. This comes with a cost—$30 or 1,000 Microsoft Reward points—or for free if you activate Windows Backup with OneDrive. However, the free option comes with limited storage (5 GB), and you may need to purchase more if you store large amounts of data. Keep in mind, ESU is not a permanent fix. It buys you some extra time but should be seen as a bridge to a long-term solution like Windows 11 or a new device. The key is not to wait until after the October 14 deadline—sign up early to stay protected. Conclusion The end of Windows 10 support is a turning point for many users and businesses. While the system will still “work,” the lack of security updates and compatibility patches makes it increasingly unsafe to rely on. Planning ahead now can save you from bigger headaches later. Whether you choose to upgrade to Windows 11, invest in new hardware, or temporarily use Extended Security Updates, taking action before October 14 is crucial. Think of it as an investment in both your digital security and peace of mind. If you’re uncertain which path is right for you, working with an IT partner is the best step. Our team can evaluate your current systems, guide you through the transition, and minimize downtime. 👉 Schedule a FREE 10-Minute Discovery Call today, and we’ll map out the best options for upgrading before the Windows 10 deadline.
Your team may be returning from summer vacations, but cybercriminals never clock out. In fact, late summer is one of the most dangerous times for phishing scams — just as businesses are getting back into their normal routines, attackers ramp up their activity. Industry research shows that phishing attempts spike during this period, especially when scammers exploit travel-related emails and “back-to-school” themes. Here’s why your business is at greater risk right now — and what you can do about it. Why the Threat Level Rises Cybercriminals know how to capitalize on seasonal behaviors. In late summer, attackers often impersonate hotel booking confirmations, flight details, and even Airbnb messages. This surge aligns with end-of-summer travel and the return-to-school season, when inboxes are crowded with legitimate notices. Attackers take advantage of this noise. One study revealed a sharp increase in malicious domain registrations tied to the travel industry, many of which were flagged as phishing attempts. With more than 39,000 domains created in a short window, one in every 21 was identified as suspicious. It’s not just travel. Fake university emails, tuition payment notices, and back-to-school shopping confirmations also flood inboxes. Even if your industry isn’t directly connected to these themes, there’s always a chance an employee checking personal messages on a work device could open the door to an attacker. The Bigger Danger Phishing has become more advanced thanks to AI. Attackers are now using AI-generated text to craft convincing emails that are free of the typos and awkward grammar that once made scams easy to spot. This makes it far harder for employees to distinguish legitimate emails from malicious ones. It only takes one wrong click for your company’s data to be exposed — and the consequences can be devastating, from financial losses to reputational damage. Why the Threat Level Rises Cybercriminals know how to capitalize on seasonal behaviors. In late summer, attackers often impersonate hotel booking confirmations, flight details, and even Airbnb messages. This surge aligns with end-of-summer travel and the return-to-school season, when inboxes are crowded with legitimate notices. Attackers take advantage of this noise. One study revealed a sharp increase in malicious domain registrations tied to the travel industry, many of which were flagged as phishing attempts. With more than 39,000 domains created in a short window, one in every 21 was identified as suspicious. It’s not just travel. Fake university emails, tuition payment notices, and back-to-school shopping confirmations also flood inboxes. Even if your industry isn’t directly connected to these themes, there’s always a chance an employee checking personal messages on a work device could open the door to an attacker. The Bigger Danger Phishing has become more advanced thanks to AI. Attackers are now using AI-generated text to craft convincing emails that are free of the typos and awkward grammar that once made scams easy to spot. This makes it far harder for employees to distinguish legitimate emails from malicious ones. It only takes one wrong click for your company’s data to be exposed — and the consequences can be devastating, from financial losses to reputational damage. What You Can Do to Stay Protected The good news: you don’t have to be caught off guard. Businesses can reduce their risk significantly with proactive measures. Here are practical steps to strengthen your defenses during peak phishing season: Scrutinize emails carefully. Look beyond spelling mistakes — check the sender’s address, the actual link behind any hyperlink, and whether the message feels urgent or out of place. Verify links before clicking. Hover over URLs and look for odd endings (.today, .info, etc.) that often indicate a scam site. Go directly to the source. Instead of clicking links in emails, type the company’s website into your browser. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA). Even if a password is compromised, MFA keeps critical data locked down. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi. If you must use it, connect through a VPN to prevent exposure. Separate personal from professional. Employees should avoid accessing personal email or social media on company devices. Work with an MSP. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools can identify and stop phishing attempts before they spread across your network. Don’t Let One Click Cost You Everything Phishing attempts are becoming more sophisticated every day, and late summer is when attackers are at their most aggressive. The best defense is a combination of employee awareness, strong security systems, and a trusted partner to back you up. 👉 Start the season secure — book your FREE Cybersecurity Assessment today
Cyberattacks aren’t just a big-business problem anymore. In fact, today’s hackers are increasingly going after small and mid-sized companies. Why? Because they’re usually less protected and more likely to pay when targeted. The harsh reality: while a massive corporation may be able to absorb the fallout, most smaller organizations would struggle to recover. According to IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report , the average breach now carries a staggering price tag of $4.88 million. That figure covers everything from lost revenue and operational downtime to legal expenses, ransom demands, and long-term reputation damage. Pretty sobering, right? But here’s the encouraging news: businesses now have access to smarter protection tools that can catch intrusions before they spiral into disasters. A Next-Level Layer of Protection Enter endpoint detection and response (EDR). Don’t worry about memorizing the acronym—just think of it as an always-on digital bodyguard. Unlike traditional antivirus programs, which only recognize known viruses, EDR constantly monitors your endpoints—logins, file activity, and unusual behavior. If suspicious activity occurs (for example, ransomware attempting to spread across systems or a login attempt from an unfamiliar location), EDR intervenes immediately to stop the threat. Why You Need It More Than Ever Cybercriminal tactics are evolving quickly. They’re no longer just trying to “break in”—they’re logging in with stolen passwords, hiding malicious code in everyday files, and exploiting simple employee mistakes. EDR is designed to detect and neutralize those advanced threats before they can cripple your business. Protection That’s Becoming Mandatory Here’s something many owners overlook: more and more cyber insurance providers now require EDR (or similar solutions) as a condition of coverage. Without it, your claim could be denied—similar to how home insurance expects you to have a smoke detector installed. Don’t Leave It To Chance If you’re unsure whether your company is adequately protected, now is the time to act. Our team can assess your environment, explain your options in plain English, and help ensure you’re not leaving the door open to cybercriminals. Because when the average incident costs $4.88 million, “better safe than sorry” takes on a whole new meaning. Want peace of mind? 👉 Schedule a free discovery call with us today. We’ll show you where your defenses stand, highlight any gaps, and give you practical next steps—no confusing jargon, no pressure, just clear answers.
If you’re a business owner or manager, you’ve probably heard a lot about cybersecurity. It’s the process of protecting your data, systems, and devices from hackers, viruses, and other online threats. But there’s another word that pops up in the same conversations: compliance. And if you're like many people, you might wonder—what’s the difference, and why do I need to worry about both? The truth is, cybersecurity and compliance are closely connected, but they’re not the same thing. And in 2025, both are more important than ever if you want to run a secure, successful business. What is Cybersecurity? Cybersecurity is all about keeping your business safe from digital threats. Think of it like putting locks on your doors, installing a security camera, and using an alarm system—but for your computers, cloud services, and data. Cybersecurity helps prevent: Hackers breaking into your systems Viruses and malware that destroy data Phishing scams that trick employees into revealing sensitive information Ransomware that locks your files and demands money to get them back It doesn’t matter how small or large your business is— every company is a target . And the truth is, hackers often go after smaller businesses precisely because they tend to have fewer defenses. What is Compliance? Compliance means following a set of rules or regulations that apply to your business—usually set by the government, your industry, or clients. These rules are in place to make sure you’re doing everything necessary to keep customer data safe and treat that data responsibly. Depending on what you do, you might need to follow: HIPAA – if you handle health information PCI-DSS – if you accept credit card payments CMMC or NIST – if you work with government contracts GDPR – if you handle data from people in the EU Staying compliant shows your clients and partners that you take security seriously—and it helps you avoid major fines or lawsuits. Some companies can’t even legally do business with you if you’re not compliant with certain standards. Why You Can’t Have One Without the Other Some people think that if they’re “secure,” they must also be compliant. Others believe that if they’re “compliant,” their data must be safe. Unfortunately, neither is necessarily true. A company might check all the boxes for compliance but still get hacked because their defenses weren’t strong enough. Another business might have a great IT security setup but miss one small regulation—resulting in costly fines or legal issues. You need both. Compliance sets the baseline for what you must do. Cybersecurity goes beyond that to protect you from everyday threats. What Happens If You Don’t Get This Right? The risks are big—and they’re growing: According to Cybersecurity Ventures, 60% of small businesses shut down within 6 months of a data breach. Regulatory fines can range from thousands to millions of dollars. Once your reputation is damaged, it's incredibly hard to earn back trust from clients and customers. Even worse? Threats are becoming more sophisticated every year. In 2025, cybercriminals are using AI tools, fake login pages, and targeted scams to trick employees or break into your network without you even knowing. So What Should You Do? The good news is that you don’t have to figure this out on your own. Here are a few practical steps you can take today: Understand which rules apply to your business. We can help you figure this out—whether it’s HIPAA, PCI, or something else. Create a security plan that includes firewalls, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and more. Train your team. Most breaches happen because someone clicks on a fake email or uses a weak password. Simple training makes a big difference. Keep good records. Document your security steps, system checks, and any changes you make. This helps if you ever face an audit. Use tools that simplify compliance. Many systems today can automate reports or alert you to issues before they become a problem. We Can Help You Make It Simple Let’s face it—this can all feel overwhelming. You didn’t start your business to manage compliance documents or worry about hackers. That’s where we come in. At Quinn Tech, we make cybersecurity and compliance simple and affordable for businesses of all sizes. Our team monitors your systems, keeps your data protected, and helps you stay compliant with the rules that apply to your industry—so you can focus on what you do best. 📅 Worried about security or unsure if you’re compliant? Schedule a free consultation with our team today. We’ll walk you through what you need and how we can help.
Cyberattacks aren’t just targeting big corporations anymore—small and mid-sized businesses are now squarely in the crosshairs. In 2025, cybercriminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to exploit common vulnerabilities, especially in businesses without a full-time IT security team. A recent nationwide scan by cybersecurity experts reviewed 20,000 randomly selected small businesses across the U.S. The results were eye-opening: many had no idea they were vulnerable to new, hard-to-detect threats like spoofing, clickjacking, and sniffing. Let’s break down what these threats look like and how to guard against them.
Cybercriminals have found an easier way to get inside small business networks, and it doesn’t involve “hacking” in the way you might imagine. Instead of breaking down digital doors, attackers are simply logging in with stolen usernames and passwords—and it’s working. This growing trend, called an identity-based attack, is now one of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to systems. From phishing emails to overloaded login requests, attackers are counting on a simple mistake to get past your defenses. A 2024 cybersecurity report revealed that two-thirds of major security incidents last year were tied to stolen credentials. Even major corporations like MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment were breached this way. If billion-dollar companies can be compromised, small businesses are especially at risk. How Hackers Are Sneaking In Stolen passwords are the starting point, but cybercriminals are using increasingly clever tricks to steal credentials: Phishing Emails & Fake Login Pages: Employees are tricked into typing credentials into convincing but fraudulent websites. SIM Swapping: Hackers hijack phone numbers to intercept text-based security codes. MFA Fatigue Attacks : Attackers flood a user’s device with login approvals until they accidentally click “Accept.” Third-Party Exploits: Vendors, help desks, and personal devices are often targeted as weak entry points. Once a hacker has one valid set of credentials, they can move quickly—and often undetected. Four Essential Steps to Protect Your Business You don’t have to be a cybersecurity expert to defend against these threats. Start with these practical measures: Use Strong Multifactor Authentication (MFA): App-based or hardware key MFA is far safer than SMS codes. Upgrade now if you’re still using text message authentication. Train Your Team to Spot Attacks: Most breaches start with a human mistake. Regular phishing simulations and security awareness training dramatically reduce risk. Restrict Access to Sensitive Systems: Employees should only have access to the tools they need. Limiting permissions minimizes damage if credentials are stolen. Ditch Weak Passwords: Encourage the use of password managers, or better yet, move toward passwordless authentication with security keys or biometrics. The Bottom Line Today’s hackers don’t need to brute-force their way in—they just need one valid login. The good news is that strong identity security can stop most of these attacks before they start. Our team helps small businesses build security systems that are simple for employees but tough for attackers. 💡 Let’s secure your business. Schedule your free consultation today: 👉 Book with Quinn Tech
As summer wraps up and students return to school for a fresh year of learning, it’s a good time to ask: When was the last time your team received a refresher course? Cybersecurity is not a one-and-done effort. Just like students need review to retain what they’ve learned, your employees need regular training to protect your business. In fact, human error still accounts for the majority of successful cyberattacks. That’s why annual cybersecurity training isn’t optional—it’s essential. At Quinn Tech, we recommend every business prioritize these four foundational cybersecurity trainings for every employee in 2025: 1. Email & Phishing Awareness Email remains the #1 way attackers infiltrate businesses. Employees should learn how to spot phishing scams, avoid downloading unsafe attachments, and know what to do if they receive a suspicious message. Even if an email appears to be from someone familiar, one click on a malicious link could compromise your entire network. 🔍 Tip: If something seems off, don’t guess—forward the message to your IT team or provider to verify its safety. 2. Password Security & Multi-Factor Authentication Weak or reused passwords are low-hanging fruit for hackers. Train your staff to use complex, unique passwords and avoid using the same credentials across systems. Better yet, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure an added layer of protection across all critical platforms. 🔐 Consider using password managers to simplify strong credential management for employees. 3. Social Media & Public Communication Oversharing on social media can expose your business to risk. Train your team to never use company email addresses for personal accounts, and avoid posting sensitive internal details online. Even casual comments can lead to data leaks or social engineering attacks. 4. Data Protection Responsibilities Every employee plays a role in protecting sensitive data. Whether it’s client records, payment info, or internal strategy docs, your staff should understand their responsibility to handle information securely—and the potential consequences if they don’t. 📁 Mismanaged data isn’t just a risk—it could lead to lawsuits, regulatory penalties, and reputation loss. Keep Your Team Sharp. Protect Your Business. Regular cybersecurity training isn’t just best practice—it may be required for insurance eligibility and customer trust. Whether your business is just starting to formalize security protocols or you need help updating your training strategy, we’re here to help. 💡 Let’s secure your business. Schedule your free consultation today: 👉 Book with Quinn Tech
When businesses think about improving their IT security, the first instinct is often to invest in software upgrades or close technical vulnerabilities. While those steps are important, they’re only part of the equation. The reality is this: even the best tools can’t protect your business if your people aren’t on board. Cybersecurity isn't just an IT issue—it's a company-wide responsibility. To truly protect your data and systems, you need to create a culture of security. That starts at the top. Leadership must set the tone by modeling strong security habits and supporting policies that keep the business safe. When leaders treat IT security as a core value, the rest of the team follows. It’s also critical to integrate security training into your onboarding process. Every new hire should understand their role in protecting company data from day one. Don’t stop there—offer ongoing training and annual refreshers to keep security top of mind for your whole team. When your employees are empowered to recognize and respond to threats, your business becomes significantly harder to breach. Creating a security-first culture won’t just improve your defenses—it will build a smarter, more resilient organization. Need help building a stronger IT security culture in your business? Schedule a free consultation with Quinn Tech to explore how we can support your team and strengthen your IT defenses.
As more members of Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) enter the workforce in 2025, employers are encountering new cybersecurity challenges tied to the habits and expectations of this digital-first generation. While Gen Z is the first full generation to grow up immersed in smartphones, Wi-Fi, and social media, that familiarity doesn’t always translate to strong cybersecurity awareness. In fact, Gen Z’s always-connected lifestyle can increase workplace vulnerabilities. Raised in a culture of instant sharing and online networking, many Gen Z employees tend to blur the lines between digital trust and security. According to Entrepreneur , a significant number of Gen Zers struggle to distinguish between online and real-life relationships—a fact cybercriminals can exploit by crafting convincing fake profiles to extract sensitive information. Common Gen Z Cybersecurity Weaknesses One of the most concerning risks is password security. A recent Harris Poll found that 78% of Gen Z individuals reuse the same password across multiple accounts—a rate significantly higher than older generations. This opens the door to credential-stuffing attacks that can impact both personal and company systems. Other common vulnerabilities among Gen Z employees include: Poor understanding of safe browsing habits Limited awareness of phishing and tracking tactics A casual attitude toward data privacy How Businesses Can Prepare If your company hasn’t already hired Gen Z employees, it likely will soon. Rather than waiting to encounter these cybersecurity issues firsthand, the time to act is now. Establish a Cybersecurity Training Program: Start by creating a comprehensive and up-to-date cybersecurity training program. This training should be mandatory for all employees—new and existing—and should be refreshed regularly to reflect evolving threats and technologies. A strong workplace culture around cyber hygiene begins with consistent education and clear expectations. Promote a Cyber-Secure Culture: Lead by example. When Gen Z employees join your team, they should see cyber-safe behaviors modeled by managers and coworkers. Encourage safe digital habits like verifying links before clicking, avoiding public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks, and recognizing common social engineering tactics. Implement Password Managers: Given Gen Z’s tendency to reuse passwords, your business should require or strongly encourage the use of password manager tools. These programs generate and store complex, unique passwords that are far more secure than common phrases or repeated credentials. Consider a Managed Services Provider (MSP): To take cybersecurity protection to the next level, many businesses are turning to Managed Services Providers, like Quinn Technology Solutions. An MSP can provide: 24/7 system monitoring Data encryption and backups Firewall and network protection Security awareness training tailored to your team Proactive threat detection and response Be Proactive, Not Reactive Cybersecurity isn’t something to address once a breach happens—it must be woven into the fabric of your operations, especially as your team grows to include digital natives with new habits and expectations. Preparing now for the cybersecurity risks Gen Z brings will protect your business and ensure a smoother onboarding process for this emerging generation. Don’t wait. Call us today to help you build a cybersecurity strategy that protects your business from tomorrow’s threats.
The FBI, cybersecurity experts, and state officials have recently raised alarms about a new wave of toll road-related scams sweeping across the United States. These deceptive attacks, commonly known as “smishing” (SMS phishing), have targeted consumers with fraudulent toll payment notifications. What started as a simple scam to steal personal information has now escalated, with severe consequences not only for individuals but also for businesses. The typical toll road scam begins with an unsolicited text message claiming that the recipient has an unpaid toll or delivery charge requiring immediate payment. These messages usually contain a link that appears to direct the victim to a legitimate payment page. However, these links redirect users to fake websites designed to harvest sensitive personal data, including credit card numbers, bank account details, and even Social Security numbers. Scammers often use a sense of urgency in their messages, claiming that failure to pay will result in higher fees or other severe consequences. These fake notifications sometimes extend beyond toll payments, incorporating fraudulent delivery services, making the scam appear even more legitimate. The aim is simple: to trick individuals into entering their sensitive data quickly, without taking the time to verify the authenticity of the request. The scope of these scams has grown rapidly, with cybersecurity organizations such as Unit 42, McAfee, and the FTC reporting an alarming uptick in incidents across the country. Major U.S. cities, including Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Orlando, are among the hardest-hit regions. In some areas, local government officials, including Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, have even personally been targeted, issuing public warnings to residents about the threat. According to McAfee, these scams are not just limited to one area but are spreading to new regions at an alarming rate, with new reports surfacing each week from places like Detroit, Denver, and San Francisco. These scams are expected to continue their rapid growth as cybercriminals refine their techniques. A major shift in the tactics of cybercriminals is the increasing focus on mobile devices. As Zimperium, a cybersecurity firm, warns, cybercriminals are moving to a “mobile-first attack strategy.” With smartphones becoming the primary device for many people to manage their personal and financial affairs, they are more likely to click on suspicious links in text messages than in emails. This makes individuals particularly vulnerable to scams, as it’s much easier to fall for a scam in the smaller format of a text message, where it’s harder to spot red flags like suspicious web addresses or odd characters in the link. As the shift to mobile continues, the risks associated with smishing attacks are growing exponentially. While these scams primarily target individuals, the consequences can be far-reaching: Financial Losses : Victims who enter payment information on fraudulent websites may find themselves with stolen money. Scammers can use the stolen data to make unauthorized charges or engage in further fraudulent activities. Identity Theft: Beyond immediate financial harm, these scams can lead to long-term consequences, such as identity theft. Personal details like Social Security numbers, addresses, and dates of birth can be exploited to open fraudulent accounts, affecting victims' credit scores and financial security. Reputational Damage : For small business owners or self-employed individuals, falling for one of these scams could lead to reputational damage. Clients and partners may lose trust in those who have been compromised, leading to potential loss of business or opportunities. While the immediate victims of these toll payment scams may be individuals, businesses are also at significant risk: Data Breaches: When a business owner or an employee falls victim to a scam, cybercriminals can gain access to sensitive company data. This includes customer information, financial details, and business banking credentials. A data breach can have far-reaching consequences, including legal action, regulatory fines, and loss of intellectual property. Financial Impact: Businesses that process payments through mobile devices or online platforms may be exposed to fraudulent charges if scammers gain access to payment details. The financial impact extends beyond immediate losses, as businesses may also incur additional costs in fraud detection and securing systems to prevent future breaches. Damage to Customer Trust: Trust is the foundation of any business, and it can be severely damaged if customers learn that a business has been tricked by scammers. Negative reviews, lost customers, and a tarnished reputation are just some of the fallout a company could face after such an incident. Legal Liabilities: Businesses are required by law to protect their customers’ and employees’ sensitive data. A breach due to a scam could expose a company to lawsuits, fines, and scrutiny from regulatory bodies. Data protection laws like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation — a data privacy law enacted by the European Union) and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act — a data privacy law enacted by the state of California) make it clear that businesses are responsible for securing private information. It’s essential to recognize the warning signs of a toll payment scam before falling victim: Suspicious URLs: Fraudulent links often contain misspelled or altered domains designed to look like legitimate toll websites. Be wary of links with extra hyphens or unusual characters (e.g., geauxpass-la.com instead of geauxpass.com). Urgency: Scammers use urgency as a tactic, pressuring victims to act immediately. Legitimate companies will never pressure you into paying an overdue charge through a text message. Unusual Payment Requests: If you are asked to enter payment details on an unfamiliar website or if you receive a pop-up indicating your card was declined, this is a red flag. Scammers may use these methods to capture payment information. If you receive a suspicious toll payment text message, it’s essential to follow these steps: Do Not Click the Link: Never engage with unsolicited texts, especially those containing links or asking for payment information. Verify the Source: Always reach out to the toll agency directly using a known, legitimate phone number or website. Do not use the contact information provided in the text message. Report and Delete: Use your phone’s “report junk” feature to report the scam, or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). Once reported, delete the message to avoid accidental clicks in the future. Secure Your Accounts: If you have entered any personal information or payment details, immediately take steps to secure your accounts. Change passwords, monitor bank statements, and report any suspicious activity. Both the FBI and FTC offer clear advice for anyone who believes they’ve been scammed: File a Complaint: Report the scam to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov. Include details such as the phone number the text originated from and the website provided in the message. Verify and Protect: Always check your accounts using legitimate websites, and contact customer service via known methods. Delete the Scam Text: Once you've verified and reported the scam, delete the message to avoid future risks. As toll scams continue to evolve, it’s vital to stay vigilant and protect your personal and business data. These scams are no longer just a nuisance; they can result in significant financial and reputational damage. Whether you’re an individual trying to protect your finances or a business owner safeguarding company data, it’s crucial to verify any unsolicited messages and avoid clicking on suspicious links. By following the recommendations of cybersecurity experts and authorities, you can better protect yourself from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams. Doffman, Zak. "FBI Warning: Delete New Texts On Your Phone." Forbes, Forbes Media, 11 Mar. 2025, www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2025/03/11/fbi-warning-delete-new-texts-on-your-phone/.