Streamlining Your Business with CRM Systems: Why Now Is the Time to Make the Switch

Gone are the days of managing your business operations through a maze of separate folders and spreadsheets. According to a recent CNET article, more businesses than ever are embracing Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to streamline their operations. These tools offer a centralized platform for organizing all your business information, making your processes more efficient and improving customer experiences.

Why Are Some Business Owners Hesitant to Adopt CRM Technology?

With so many undeniable benefits, why are some business owners still hesitant to adopt CRM technology? The hesitation often stems from concerns about implementation and maintenance. Business owners might worry about how to troubleshoot issues or what to do if something goes wrong after the system is in place.

How OptfinITy Can Help You Implement and Manage CRM Systems

At OptfinITy, we understand these concerns and are here to help. If you’re looking to enhance your business operations but feel unsure about where to begin, we’ve got you covered. Not only can we assist in implementing CRM tools tailored to your needs, but we also provide 24/7 support to ensure everything runs smoothly. This allows you to focus on growing your business without the stress of managing the technical side.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re considering implementing a CRM system for the first time or already have one and need expert management, OptfinITy is here to help. Contact us today at 703-790-0400 or visit us online at www.optfinity.com to learn more about how we can support your business.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Don’t let outdated systems hold you back. Start working smarter with a CRM system backed by reliable support!

Web Browsers: Your Most Vulnerable Business Software

A recent TechRepublic article reveals that browsers face more cyber-attacks than any other type of business software. To protect your data and keep hackers out, take the following proactive steps:

Use Only Trusted Plug-ins and Extensions

Allow only reputable, business-related plug-ins and extensions, such as Java or Flash. Avoid less reputable, non-business-related tools, which often contain security flaws and expose your browser to unnecessary risks.

Configure and Maintain Java Security Settings

Set up a Java security configuration that works best for your servers and workstations. Regularly check for and apply updates to keep your systems protected.

Block Malicious Pop-up Ads

Watch out for pop-up ads that mimic virus alerts and urge you to download fake antivirus software. Configure your browser to block pop-ups by default. However, keep an option to allow them when needed, since some legitimate websites require pop-ups to function properly.

Manage Settings Centrally

Set all browser security settings from a centralized management system. This approach prevents employees from making unauthorized changes that could compromise browser security.

Detect Fileless Browser-Based Threats

Understand that many browser-based threats don’t involve files and often go undetected. Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity technologies. Use real-time code analysis and apply a filtered detection strategy that scans beyond downloaded files and attachments.

Need Help? Contact OptfinITy

If you feel unsure about managing browser security on your own, OptfinITy is here to help. Call us at 703-790-0400 or visit www.optfinity.com to learn how we can keep your browsers secure.

Does your business have a spare $2 million around to fix your computer problems when you get the next Ransomware attack? 

As you may have seen in the news, the city of Atlanta, George recently became a victim of the SamSam ransomware, shutting down operational systems. Unlike most ransomware, SamSam indiscriminately searches the internet for vulnerable servers by looking for weak passwords or passwords that rarely get changed and then infecting the system. While Atlanta didn’t pay the ransom, the cost to remediate the issue was calculated at $2,667,328 according to this ZDNET article.

While your business may require less than the city to remediate your problem, there are things you can do today to make sure that Ransomware doesn’t hurt your organization. This includes changing and using complex passwords, updating security patches, installing the proper security equipment and educating your employees.

For more information on some of the things you can do, give us a call and we can provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation assessments. We can be reached at 703-790-0400 or on the web at www.optfinity.com.

According to a recent CNET article, cybercrime is now costing businesses as much as $600 billion.  In fact, the most recent Ransomeware attack costs millions of dollars to the city of Atlanta to recover from that attack.   So what does a small business or non-profit organization do?

The most important thing you can do is to make sure you have a Great backup.  Not just a backup but a backup which automatically checks to make sure that the backup works.  You also should have in place the proper security software and devices and even more importantly, the proper training program for your employees on what to avoid.

If you are unsure of what you are doing to keep you organization safe and would like a free security assessment, please give us a call at 703-790-0400 or on the web at www.optfinity.com. Don’t wait until a threat strikes.

Making sure your website is updated with the latest patches is very important as new vulnerabilities are discovered almost daily – so what happens when the latest update stops your updates from working?

On Monday, WordPress released version 4.9.3. The very next day, WordPress released version 4.9.4. Although version 4.9.3 fixed 34 bugs, it also introduced a new bug that prevents automatic background updates from updating automatically! This bug causes WordPress to encounter an error when attempting to update itself to the latest version.

Four years ago, WordPress added the self-update feature allowing users to keep their website secure and bug-free so users have not had to think about updates. This means that there are millions of unmanaged WordPress sites that expect their site to automatically update itself.

So, if you are an admin of a website running WordPress, make sure to update now or if you need help with your website, give OptfinITy a call at 703-790-0400.

It’s the Holiday Season once again, but remember it is also a holiday for the bad guys as well, but not in the way you might think. Hackers go into scam-overdrive mode during this time of the year to prey on the heavy shopping done by consumers. This time of year is the busiest for on-line shopping and scammers are out to get rich off of your money. So what should you look out for?

There are too-good-to-be-true coupons that offer free or discounted phones, tablets, and countless other cool items all over websites and social media; don’t fall for them! Make sure the offers are from a legitimate company. While you’re at it, watch out for alerts via email or text informing you that you just received a package from FedEx, UPS or the US Mail.  These notifications will then ask you for some personal information; don’t be fooled into giving them anything!

The price of security, especially now, is constant alertness and willingness to fight back. Remember to only use credit cards online, never debit cards, as your liability is limited with a credit card and the money does not come straight out of your bank account. Be super-wary of spam email with crazy good BUY NOW offers and anything which looks slightly “off”.  Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.  And if you’re still wanting to take advantage of that offer, double check with the company directly.

If you think you might have been scammed, stay calm and call your credit card company right away, nix that card, and get a new one.  It is always better to be safe than sorry.

The Hidden Threat to Wireless Networks

Most of us use wireless networks (Wi-Fi) daily, but many don’t realize that every wireless device is at risk of being hijacked. Wireless networks initially relied on a protocol called WEP, which proved insecure. This led to the development of WPA2. While WPA2 was designed to protect networks and devices, a newly discovered vulnerability, “KRACK” (Key Reinstallation Attack), has exposed its flaws.

What is KRACK?

KRACK allows hackers to eavesdrop on compromised network traffic. To exploit this vulnerability, hackers must be within physical range of a device. Once connected, they can decrypt network traffic, hijack connections, and inject content into the traffic stream. This threat doesn’t come from overseas hackers but from individuals who could be nearby, such as someone at a cafe or outside your office.

Secured Connections Offer Some Protection

The good news is that connections between your device and secured websites, such as your bank, remain safe. These sites use HTTPS, which adds an extra layer of protection. Additionally, because the vulnerability exists at the software level, fixing it is straightforward. Major vendors, including Microsoft, have already released patches to address this issue.

Steps to Protect Your Devices

Update Your Devices

Ensure all wireless devices have the latest security patches. This includes desktops, laptops, routers, wireless access points, and mobile phones. Businesses should rely on trusted IT management companies to handle device updates and maintain ongoing security. Optfinity has already updated or is in the process of updating all client devices to safeguard against KRACK.

Practice Safe Browsing in Public

When using public Wi-Fi, switch to your cellular data network or use your phone as a password-protected hotspot. If that’s not possible, use a VPN to secure your connection and limit your exposure to hacking.

Stay Informed and Protected

For more information on protecting your devices, sign up for our newsletter or contact us for a free security assessment. Reach us at sales@optfinity.com or call 703-790-0400.