Google’s new AI Overviews feature is designed to give quick, AI-generated answers to your search queries. While it might seem helpful, it also raises some serious data privacy concerns.

How It Works

When you search with Google while signed into your account, AI Overviews use your query to generate a summary. But here’s the catch: unless you change your settings, Google saves your searches, the AI responses, your feedback (thumbs up/down), and other data like location and device info—for up to 18 months.

Your Data Footprint Grows

Because this feature is tied to your Google account, it could access:

• Your Gmail content
• YouTube watch history
• Google Maps check-ins
• And more

This creates a deeply personalized profile—which could be vulnerable if your account is hacked, subpoenaed, or if data leaks.

Can You Turn It Off?

You can’t fully disable AI Overviews yet, but there are ways to limit them:

• Use a Chrome extension like Hide Google AI Overviews
• Add &udm=14 at the end of Google search URLs to get only regular results
• Switch to private search engines like DuckDuckGo or Brave

Final Thoughts

AI Overviews may save time, but they come at the cost of your data privacy. If you’re concerned about how much Google knows about you, it might be time to adjust your settings—or consider a different search engine. Have any questions? Reach out to us today at 703-790-0400.

It might surprise you to hear this, but your email, social media, and bank passwords could be floating around the dark web right now—and criminals can buy them for less than the cost of a dinner out.

Yep, just $81 a week is all it takes for cybercriminals to subscribe to a stream of stolen passwords and other sensitive data, and they’re using it to break into personal accounts like yours.

How Are Hackers Getting Your Info?

It’s not always some big, sophisticated hack. Often, it starts with a sneaky piece of malware called an infostealer—software designed to silently collect your saved passwords, credit card details, and even those special codes you get when using two-factor authentication (2FA). All of this gets sold on shady websites or private messaging groups like Telegram.

What does this mean for you? If you’ve ever reused a password or saved one in your browser, you could be a target without even knowing it.

It Costs Them Little—but Can Cost You a Lot

While hackers are spending just a few bucks a week, the damage they cause can be massive. Once they have your info, they can:

• Empty your bank account
• Lock you out of your email or social media
• Use your identity to scam others
• Access your work systems, putting your job at risk

It only takes one bad click or weak password to open the door.

How to Protect Yourself

Here’s the good news: you can fight back. Here’s how:

Stop using passwords when possible – Many services (like Google, Microsoft, and Apple) now offer something called passkeys, which are way more secure and can’t be stolen like traditional passwords.

Use a password manager – Let it create and store strong, unique passwords for you. No more repeating the same one everywhere.

Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) – This adds a second layer of security even if someone has your password.

Think before you click – Be extra cautious with unexpected emails, texts, or links.

Bottom Line

Hackers don’t need millions of dollars to pull off a cyberattack—they just need a few stolen passwords. But by changing the way you protect your accounts, you can stay one step ahead. Reach out to us today at 703-790-0400 or sales@optfinity.com to discover how OptfinITy can keep your network secure.

We’ve all been there—you delete a file, thinking you don’t need it, only to realize minutes (or days) later that it was actually important. The good news? If you’re using a Windows PC, there’s a good chance you can get that file back. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you recover accidentally deleted files in Windows.

Check the Recycle Bin First

The Recycle Bin is your first line of defense. When you delete a file, it usually goes there instead of being permanently erased.

To recover from the Recycle Bin:

• Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
• Find the file you want to restore.
• Right-click on it and select Restore.
  The file will be returned to its original location.

Tip: Use the search bar in the Recycle Bin window if you’re having trouble finding the file.

Use the ‘Undo Delete’ Shortcut (If You Act Fast)

If you just deleted a file a second ago, hit Ctrl + Z to undo the delete action. This only works immediately after deletion and before taking any other action.

Restore Previous Versions of a Folder

Windows sometimes saves older versions of your files and folders—especially if you have File History or System Restore turned on.

To restore a previous version:

• Navigate to the folder that used to contain the file.
• Right-click on the folder and choose Restore previous versions.
• Browse the list of available versions and click Restore to recover it.

 Note: This only works if File History or restore points were enabled before the file was deleted.

Use Windows File Recovery Tool (Advanced)

If the file is not in the Recycle Bin and no restore points exist, Microsoft offers a free command-line tool called Windows File Recovery.

To use it:

• Download it from the Microsoft Store.
• Run it via Command Prompt with specific parameters to search for and recover lost files.

⚙️ Example command:

winfr C: D: /n \Users\YourName\Documents\ImportantFile.docx

This tells the tool to search the C: drive and recover to the D: drive.

Pro Tips to Prevent Future Loss

• Turn on File History in Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
• Use cloud storage like OneDrive or Google Drive for auto-backup.
• Regularly create restore points and backups using Windows Backup.

Final Thoughts

Losing files doesn’t always mean they’re gone forever—especially in Windows. Whether you use the Recycle Bin, File History, or a recovery tool, acting quickly improves your chances of getting those files back.

OptfinITy can help your organization with regular backups. Reach out today to learn more: 703-790-0400.

A new and serious threat to Android users has been uncovered, and it’s spreading fast. According to a recent report by Integral Ad Science, as many as 2.5 million malicious Android apps are being installed every month, tricking users and hijacking their devices in the background — all while appearing perfectly safe.

What’s Happening?

This threat, dubbed “Kaleidoscope” for its constantly shifting nature, is a sophisticated form of ad fraud that targets Android users in a sneaky way. Here’s how it works:

• Benign apps are uploaded to the Google Play Store without any malicious code.
• Replica apps, modified with malicious software, are then distributed via third-party app stores or direct downloads.
• Users are often lured into installing these malicious versions through ads, messaging apps, or social media links.
• Once installed, the apps display aggressive, full-screen ads — even when you’re not using them — and send fake ad interactions to generate revenue for cybercriminals.

These apps impersonate legitimate applications and use a dangerous Software Development Kit (SDK) to camouflage their true intent, making them harder to detect and remove. The SDK is being updated and even inserted into older apps that were previously caught, making a return under a new name.

Why This Matters

Not only are these apps intrusive, they also slow down your phone, drain battery life, consume data, and violate your privacy — all while profiting off your device without your knowledge.

If left unchecked, this kind of threat doesn’t just impact individuals. It damages the advertising ecosystem and erodes trust in mobile apps.

What You Can Do

The good news? Protecting yourself is simple, if you’re cautious:

Avoid third-party app stores unless absolutely necessary. Stick to the Google Play Store whenever possible.

Don’t download apps through links sent in text messages or social media ads — especially those promoting “too good to be true” offers.

Check reviews before downloading any app. If something seems off or inconsistent, trust your instincts.

Use a reputable mobile security app to scan your phone for malicious activity.

Review the list of known infected apps and delete any you recognize immediately. (Check the latest list from Integral Ad Science or cybersecurity news sources.)

Final Thoughts

Kaleidoscope is the latest reminder that mobile security matters. Even when an app looks safe, it might be hiding something dangerous underneath — especially when downloaded outside of trusted sources.

Cybercriminals are evolving their tactics — but so can you. Stay alert, stay informed, and take control of your mobile device’s security.

If you’re planning to fly within the U.S. or visit a federal building, starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. But as that deadline approaches, scammers are on the move.

Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.

What is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID is a special version of your driver’s license or state ID that meets new federal standards. If your ID has a star in the top corner, you’re probably good to go!

Without a REAL ID (or a valid passport or other approved ID), you won’t be allowed through TSA security checkpoints for domestic flights starting next May.

Scammers Are Taking Advantage

Cybersecurity experts are warning that scammers are using the REAL ID deadline to trick people into handing over personal information.

Here’s how they do it:

• Fake emails or texts that look like they’re from your state DMV
• Phone calls offering to “expedite” your REAL ID for a fee
• Fake websites that ask for your Social Security number, address, and more

Your DMV will NEVER:

• Call, text, or email you out of the blue asking for payment
• Ask you to click on links to provide personal info
• Offer “express” REAL ID services through third parties

If you get one of these messages, do not click and do not respond. Instead:

• Report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Center
• Tell the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Check your state’s DMV website directly for updates

How to Protect Yourself

To stay safe, follow these simple tips:

1. Go straight to the source – Only trust information from your official state DMV website (ends in .gov).
2. Don’t pay anyone online unless it’s through the official site.
3. Look out for spelling mistakes or odd email addresses – they’re signs of a scam.
4. If something feels off, trust your gut and double-check before clicking or replying.

What if I Don’t Have a REAL ID Yet?

Don’t worry! You can still fly with a valid U.S. passport, a military ID, or another TSA-approved document. And even after May 7, 2025, you can still go to your DMV to get a REAL ID.

Final Tip

As the deadline gets closer, it takes a few minutes to:

• Check your current ID for the REAL ID star
• Visit your state’s DMV site to make an appointment (if needed)
• Remind your family and friends to be cautious of scams

Being prepared — and informed — is the best way to protect yourself.

Do you use sticky notes, spreadsheets, or memory to remember your passwords at work? If you do, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, it’s a bad and potentially dangerous habit, that could leave your information vulnerable to cybercriminals and prying eyes.

That’s where password managers come in.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your organization?

Why Your Organization Needs a Password Manager

Before diving into selection criteria, let’s quickly highlight why a password manager is essential:

• Stronger security: Enforces complex, unique passwords for every account.
• Time savings: Eliminates password resets and reduces support tickets.
• Team collaboration: Allows secure sharing of credentials across departments.
• Compliance: Helps meet industry standards like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR.

Key Features to Look For

When evaluating password managers, keep the following features top of mind:

1. Enterprise-Grade Security

Ensure the solution uses zero-knowledge architecture and end-to-end encryption. Your provider should not be able to access your data—ever.

2. Centralized Admin Controls

Look for a dashboard that lets IT manage users, monitor activity, and enforce company-wide password policies.

3. Single Sign-On (SSO) and MFA Integration

Password managers that support SSO and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) offer extra layers of security and simplify user experience.

4. Role-Based Access

You should be able to define who gets access to which passwords or vaults. Granular access control is key to preventing insider threats and accidental breaches.

5. Audit Logs & Reporting

Visibility is crucial. Choose a manager that logs password usage and access history so you can quickly identify suspicious activity.

6. Ease of Use and Cross-Platform Support

Adoption is everything. If it’s not user-friendly across all devices (desktop, mobile, browsers), your team won’t use it.

7. Secure Password Sharing

A good password manager allows employees to share passwords or notes without revealing the actual credentials.

8. Scalability & User Management

Make sure it’s easy to onboard and offboard employees, assign groups, and scale as your team grows.

• compliance, with features tailored for highly regulated industries.

Questions to Ask Before Making a Decision

• Does this align with our compliance requirements?
• How easy is deployment and employee onboarding?
• Is customer support responsive and helpful?
• What’s the cost per user—and does it scale with our needs?
• Can we test a trial version before committing?

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right password manager isn’t just an IT decision—it’s a business-critical one. The right solution will reduce security risks, improve productivity, and lay the foundation for better cyber hygiene across your organization.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider working with a trusted IT partner like OptfinITy who can help you assess your needs and implement the best solution for your business.

Despite Google’s strong security, a new phishing scam is slipping through. It’s a reminder that no one is fully safe from cyber threats.

The Subpoena Gmail Attack: What Happened?

Attackers sent emails from what looked like a real Google address — no-reply@google.com — claiming a subpoena required Google to release your account data. The email passed all of Google’s security checks, including DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) authentication. It even appeared in the same thread as legitimate Google security alerts, making it incredibly convincing.

Remember: Google will never ask for your password, 2FA codes, or account credentials.

What To Do If You Were Targeted

Think you clicked on something suspicious? Here’s what to do right now:

1. Change your Google account password and check your recovery options (email and phone) for unauthorized changes.
2. Call your bank and any linked financial institutions. Let them know about the breach so they can monitor or freeze accounts if needed.
3. Lock down your security:
   • Enable 2FA
   • Use a passkey for sign-ins
   • Turn on Chrome’s Enhanced Safe Browsing
4. Report it: Contact local police and submit a report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

Worried about security gaps in your organization?
Call us at 703-790-0400 for a free consultation on your cyber strategy.

Imagine if we didn’t have a consistent way to track problems with our technology—no standard system to warn us about bugs or security issues. That’s exactly what could happen soon, and it affects everyone who uses a computer, phone, or any device connected to the internet.

A program called CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) helps cybersecurity experts all over the world find, label, and fix security problems in software and hardware. It’s like the global dictionary for tech issues—and now it’s at risk of shutting down.

What’s Going On?

MITRE, the nonprofit organization that runs the CVE program, announced that their funding will end on April 16, 2025, unless the government renews their contract. That means new security problems may stop being added to the CVE list.

While the existing list will stay online for now, no new updates could leave systems—including yours—more vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Why Should You Care?

Even if you’ve never heard of CVEs before, they quietly help keep your digital life secure. Here’s how:

• Updates & Patches: When your computer or phone says, “a security update is available,” it often comes from something listed in the CVE system.
• Antivirus & Security Tools: Many of the tools that protect your devices use CVE info to detect and block threats.
• Faster Fixes: When security teams and software companies speak the same “language” for problems, they can fix them faster—keeping you safer.

If CVEs stop getting updated, it could slow down how quickly these problems are found and fixed.

What’s Being Done?

The good news? A new nonprofit group called The CVE Foundation has been created to keep the program going. But it’s still early days, and there are a lot of unknowns about how it will all work.

What Can You Do?

You don’t need to be a tech expert to stay protected. Here are a few simple tips:

• Always install software updates as soon as they’re available
• Use trusted antivirus or security software
• Be extra cautious with suspicious emails, links, and downloads
• Ask your IT team (if you have one) about how they’re staying on top of security

Cybersecurity can seem overwhelming, but it starts with small habits. Staying informed—and up to date—is one of the best ways to protect yourself.