Your Company’s Social Media Might Be Compromising Your Business Data!

Your Company’s Social Media Might Be Compromising Your Business Data!

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

Social media has evolved into a cornerstone of small business strategy, offering unparalleled opportunities for marketing, customer engagement, and brand building. For many small businesses, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are not just tools; they are vital arteries that connect them to their customer base and the wider market. However, this dependency on social media comes with a significant caveat: heightened vulnerability to cyber threats.

According to a survey released last year, more than 50% of businesses encountered at least one cyberattack that originated from social media platforms.

Small businesses, in particular, face a unique set of challenges in this arena. Often operating with limited resources and cybersecurity expertise, they become attractive targets for cybercriminals. These criminals exploit social media to orchestrate attacks ranging from phishing scams to malware distribution, capitalizing on the lesser-guarded digital fronts of smaller enterprises. The impact of such breaches can be devastating, leading to loss of customer trust, financial damage, and in severe cases, the closure of the business.

Learn more: How BCT Consulting can help backup and restore your data in the event that it’s stolen

The Social Media Security Challenge

Social media platforms, by their very nature, are designed for sharing information. However, this openness can be a double-edged sword for businesses. Cybercriminals often exploit these platforms to orchestrate attacks, ranging from phishing scams to the spread of malware. A study by Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report highlights that 83% of breaches involved external actors and the three primary ways in which attackers access an organization are stolen credentials, phishing and exploitation of vulnerabilities — a number that has been growing with the increased use of social media for business purposes.

Learn more: How BCT Consulting can help you protect your data with data encryption 

Entry Points for Breaches

Phishing Scams. Cybercriminals often use social media to send phishing messages, which appear to be from a legitimate source but are designed to steal sensitive information.

Malware Distribution. Social media can be used to distribute malware, either through direct messages or through compromised ads.

Account Takeovers. Hackers can gain access to a company’s social media account and use it to disseminate harmful content or steal sensitive data.

Partnering with BCT Consulting for Enhanced Cybersecurity Health

Maintaining good cybersecurity health is a continuous process that can be challenging, especially for small businesses. This is where BCT Consulting steps in, offering tailored solutions to enhance your cybersecurity posture.

Our cybersecurity services include top-tier data encryption to safeguard your sensitive information. This ensures the security of your business and customer data, even in the event of account compromises. Our encryption solutions are key to maintaining data integrity and confidentiality, providing a crucial defense against cyber threats.

Complementing our encryption services, we also offer comprehensive backup strategies. Our team expertly tailors these strategies to your business needs, ensuring regular data backups and quick restoration in case of a cyber incident. This approach not only minimizes potential data loss but also guarantees business continuity, keeping your operations resilient in the face of cyber challenges.

By partnering with BCT Consulting, small businesses gain access to expert guidance and state-of-the-art cybersecurity measures, ensuring that their social media and broader digital operations are secure against evolving cyber threats.

For more insights into cybersecurity and the latest in tech trends, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

Your Child’s Text Could Cost You Thousands! New Scam Unveiled.

Your Child’s Text Could Cost You Thousands! New Scam Unveiled.

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

A new deceptive tactic in phishing scams known as the “Broken Phone Scam,” has seen a recent rise in attention, posing significant risks to unsuspecting individuals. This scam, which cleverly manipulates human emotions and trust, involves fraudsters sending text messages to victims, pretending to be a known contact, such as a family member or friend, who has damaged their phone and urgently needs financial assistance.

This deceptive tactic preys on the goodwill of unsuspecting individuals, leveraging social engineering to extract money. BCT Consulting aims to shed light on this scam, empowering our readers with the knowledge to stay protected.

The Mechanics of the Scam

The scam typically begins with a text message from an unknown number. The sender claims to be a friend or family member who has supposedly damaged their phone, rendering them unable to use their usual contact number. They often express urgency, stating they need immediate financial help to pay for a new phone or a repair. The convincing nature of these messages, often personalized with information gleaned from social media or other sources, can easily deceive recipients into believing the request is legitimate.

How to Protect Yourself

This scam has seen a rise in various regions, as reported by CTV News Barrie. Victims, under the impression of aiding a friend, find themselves financially defrauded. The scam’s effectiveness lies in its exploitation of trust and urgency. By impersonating someone close to the victim, scammers bypass typical skepticism. The urgent nature of the request further clouds the victim’s judgment, prompting quick action.

► Verify the Sender. If you receive such a message, contact the person on their known number or through another method to confirm their identity.

► Be Skeptical. Approach unexpected requests for money with caution, even if they seem to come from known contacts.

► Educate Others. Share information about this scam, especially with those who may be more vulnerable.

Stay Cybersecure with BCT Consulting

The Broken Phone Scam is a stark reminder of the evolving nature of cyber threats. At BCT Consulting, we emphasize the importance of staying informed and vigilant, providing updated information, training, and tools to help individuals and businesses recognize and avoid falling prey to such scams. By understanding and spreading awareness about such scams, we can collectively fortify our defenses against these digital predators.

For more insights into cybersecurity and the latest in tech trends, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

Pioneering the Future at the Clovis Community College STEM Career Fair

Pioneering the Future at the Clovis Community College STEM Career Fair

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

STEM careers are the cornerstones of innovation and progress, shaping our present and sculpting our future. Join BCT Consulting, powered by Xobee Networks in celebrating innovation and opportunity in these fields, this Thursday, November 16th from 11 AM to 2 PM PT at Clovis Community College, building AC1 in the Open Computer Lab.

As a leader in the technology sector, we’re excited to participate in the Clovis Community College STEM Career Fair. This event symbolizes more than just a meeting of minds; it’s a beacon of opportunity for both the current and upcoming generations.

We’re the #1 MSP in the Central Valley and growing! With over 5,000 clients across California, a robust team of over 100 employees nationwide, and a history of financing over 10 innovative companies, our presence at the STEM Career Fair is not just about recruitment; it’s about inspiring a new wave of tech enthusiasts.

Learn More: Careers in Technology at Xobee Networks

We believe in the power of technology to change the world. Our fields of expertise, including cybersecurity, data science, cloud computing, network engineering, IT consulting, and web/app development, are not just careers – they are pathways to making a tangible impact in the tech landscape.

We invite passionate and driven students to visit our booth at the STEM Career Fair. Engage with our team, learn about our groundbreaking projects, and discover how a career with us is not just a job – it’s a journey into the heart of innovation.

Why Choose a Career in Technology with Xobee Networks?

Choosing a career with us means embracing change and leading it. The technology sector is an ever-evolving industry in that we are not just participants but trailblazers. We offer a dynamic, exciting, and growth-oriented career path, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

The Clovis Community College STEM Career Fair is more than an event; it’s a starting point for aspiring STEM professionals. We are eager to meet the bright minds ready to embark on a fulfilling career path in technology. Together, let’s explore the endless possibilities and shape a future where technology and innovation lead the way.

 

As we gear up for this exciting event, we extend an open invitation to all students with a passion for STEM. Visit us at the Xobee Networks booth, where your journey towards a groundbreaking career in technology awaits. Let’s innovate, inspire, and lead together into a future bright with possibilities.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

Will Your Data Survive the Next Unprecedented Natural Disaster?

Will Your Data Survive the Next Unprecedented Natural Disaster?

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

Our planet has been witnessing a dramatic shift in the pattern and intensity of natural disasters. Reports from leading scientific communities around the globe indicate that Earth’s climate is entering a phase of “uncharted territory” and the future is to be unlike anything we’ve experienced before. This new era, marked by unexpected and severe natural disasters, poses a significant threat not only to our physical world but also to the digital realm that underpins modern businesses.

Learn more: How BCT Consulting can help stormproof your data with disaster recovery solutions

Small Businesses Will Be First to Suffer Without Contingencies In Place

For small businesses, these unforeseen natural events can be particularly devastating. The loss of physical infrastructure is visible and often the immediate focus, but there’s an invisible, yet equally critical aspect that tends to be overlooked: data vulnerability. In an age where data is the lifeblood of commerce, its protection and recovery are not just a technical necessity but a fundamental pillar of business survival and resilience. Major corporations know this and have off-site data protection and backup recoveries in place, should their physical store and on-site servers experience total data loss.

Unpredictable Events, Predictable Consequences

The climate crisis is characterized by its unpredictability. However, one predictable outcome of these events is the disruption they cause to digital infrastructure. Businesses can face total system failures due to storms, wildfires, earthquakes, and more — leading to significant data loss. This is where the importance of robust data recovery and protection strategies comes into play.

For small businesses, any period of downtime can be financially crippling. Data loss due to natural disasters can lead to extended periods of operational paralysis. Having a reliable data recovery plan ensures that your business can bounce back with minimal downtime.

In a world where client data is a valuable asset, its protection is directly linked to customer trust. In the face of environmental unpredictability, businesses that demonstrate a commitment to data integrity and security stand to maintain and even grow their customer base.

Weatherproof Your Data with Cloud Coverage

Cloud technology and off-site data protection not only offer security against physical threats but also provide enhanced accessibility. By storing data in the cloud, small businesses can ensure that their valuable information is not tied to a single physical location that could be compromised by unforeseen environmental events; offering a layer of security that is resilient to physical disruptions, ensuring that data remains accessible and intact, regardless of what happens at the physical business site.

In times of unexpected disruptions, businesses can maintain continuity by accessing their data remotely from any location. This flexibility is crucial for small businesses, allowing them to adapt and respond swiftly in dynamic situations. Whether it’s shifting to remote work during a crisis or needing to access critical data from a different location, these technologies ensure that businesses remain agile and operational.

Learn more: How BCT Consulting can secure your data off-site in our encrypted and secure cloud

BCT Consulting Can Help Secure & Protect Your Data

At BCT Consulting, we understand the challenges posed by this new era of environmental unpredictability. Our specialized services in data recovery and protection are designed to provide small businesses with peace of mind, knowing that their data is secure against the most unexpected of events.

► Comprehensive Data Recovery Solutions. We offer state-of-the-art data recovery services that ensure your business’s data can be retrieved and restored, even in the event of total system failure.

► Proactive Data Protection. Our approach goes beyond recovery. We believe in proactive protection, implementing strategies that shelter your data against potential threats, and ensure business continuity.

► Customized for Your Business. We recognize that every business is unique. Our solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs and challenges of your business, ensuring optimal protection and recovery.

In the face of increasing environmental unpredictability, securing your business data is not just a technical task – it’s a critical step in ensuring the resilience and continuity of your business. BCT Consulting is here to guide and support you in fortifying your business against these unseen challenges, helping you to thrive in an era of uncertainty.

Contact one of our highly skilled technicians now to learn how you can protect your business data and safeguard your financial future.

BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

Think That Email is From a Client? Think Again! New Impersonation Scam Revealed!

Think That Email is From a Client? Think Again! New Impersonation Scam Revealed!

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

Recent scam attacks have seen a surge in popularity, and even the most savvy and mindful of security-conscious companies are falling prey to it: Email Reply Chain Attacks. This method of cyber assault has gained notoriety for its cunning use of hijacked legitimate email conversations to spread malware or phishing links.

“Security experts have noted that AI-generated phishing emails actually have higher rates of being opened — [for example] tricking possible victims to click on them and thus generate attacks — than manually crafted phishing emails.” — Brian Finch, Pillsbury Law

Phishing emails are a dime a dozen, and most people can spot them with a trained eye. But thanks to the advent of AI, and an increase in knowledge surrounding the tricks of old, scammers have proven particularly crafty and resourceful when it comes to fooling somebody whom they may not have fooled in the past with typical run-of-the-mill phishing attacks.

Learn more: How BCT can protect your email inbox

What Are Email Reply Chain Attacks?

The attack begins with a bad actor compromising an email account, achieved through various means such as credential dumping, credential stuffing, password spraying, previous data breaches, or by some other means. Once inside, the attacker lurks, monitoring conversations and waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

The effectiveness of this technique lies in its exploitation of trust. Unlike traditional phishing attempts that might raise immediate red flags, these attacks are stealthy insertions of malicious content into ongoing, trusted conversations. The attacker, masquerading as a familiar participant, sends a seemingly relevant email complete with malicious attachments or links. To the recipient, this looks like a normal email, from a trusted client with an ongoing relationship, and feels natural, so they open the attachment without assuming anything is amiss.

Through Email Replay Chain attacks, scammers can gain access to valuable, private, and sensitive information if a small business is unsecured.

How Do Scammers Use This Technique

In a typical scenario, a hacker infiltrates the email of some random company. For example: Jason’s email from a landscaping firm has been compromised. Spotting a conversation between Jason and Sandra, who works at a retirement home that Jason recently serviced, the hacker sends her a malware-laden file through Jason’s account. Before Jason detects the breach and Sandra suspects foul play, her system is compromised, endangering resident data, and private information.

To avoid detection, attackers often manipulate email rules, diverting replies to alternate folders or even setting up keyword filters to delete any emails that might expose the breach. This can leave victims ignorant of such breaches for prolonged periods, especially if they don’t check and maintain their emails regularly.

Why Small Businesses Must Be Wary

The subtlety of these attacks makes them highly effective. They bypass the usual red flags of phishing emails, such as poor grammar or irrelevant content — the usual suspects for obvious phishing attacks. Instead, they present as legitimate contributions to ongoing discussions, making even the most cautious and well-trained employees vulnerable. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to these scams because they typically don’t invest in a cybersecurity budget, have a dedicated security team, and/or know how to train their staff against these threats.

To protect your enterprise, it’s crucial to implement robust security practices:

BCT Consulting: Your Shield Against Cyber Threats

At BCT Consulting, we specialize in safeguarding small businesses from sophisticated cyber threats like Email Reply Chain Attacks. Our Hosted Exchange and email protection services are tailored to intercept and neutralize advanced threats before they reach your inbox.

► Secure Email Hosting. Our Hosted Exchange service provides a fortified email environment, scanning and filtering every message for potential threats.

► Comprehensive Email Protection. We offer advanced threat protection, spam filtering, virus and phishing detection, coupled with user education to create a vigilant and informed workforce.

► Cutting-edge Technology. Our solutions leverage the latest in industry standards and state-of-the-art tools to help you stay ahead of cybercriminals.

By partnering with BCT Consulting, you can ensure that your business is equipped with the tools and knowledge to deflect these hidden threats. Secure your operations, educate your employees, and maintain vigilance to keep your business one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Contact one of our highly skilled technicians now to learn how you can protect your inbox from scammers.

BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

How Scammers Are Using ChatGPT to Sound Like You in Emails

How Scammers Are Using ChatGPT to Sound Like You in Emails

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

ChatGPT has gained global recognition as a prominent tool, providing AI-powered natural language text services to a vast audience. However, its widespread adoption has also attracted the attention of cybercriminals who are exploiting the chatbot’s popularity to deceive unwary individuals.

Before tools like ChatGPT, the easiest way to identify if an email was a scam or not was to examine how it was written. Red flags such as poor English and grammar, and a vague interpretation of your company, position, or job duties would be dead giveaways that somebody was not who they seemed.

“With these new AI technologies that help people write, it’s almost impossible to discern some of these fishing attacks from a legitimate email at this point.”Alex Hamerstone, TrustedSec

How Scammers Pretend to Be Your Company CEO

Capable of producing highly convincing natural language text, ChatGPT, and other generative text AI models, have created a paradigm shift in the phishing scam industry. While these innovations have ushered in a new era of possibilities, they have also opened the floodgates to a wave of sophisticated scams, where fraudsters exploit these technologies to craft deceptive emails and messages.

Learn more: How BCT can protect your email inbox

Pulling from interviews, social media, press releases, and more, scammers can generate convincing scripts that mimic the tone, writing style, and company knowledge of your CEO. This has led to a surge in phishing attacks, where malicious actors send emails or messages that appear to be from trusted entities, with the intent of stealing sensitive information or deploying malware.

The Threat to Small Businesses

The best and most secure decision you can make when avoiding any form of cyberattack — whether it’s scammers, viruses, ransomware, or more — is to invest in a cybersecurity budget. Small businesses, often lacking the robust cybersecurity infrastructure of larger corporations, are particularly vulnerable to these AI-generated scams. The personalized and convincing nature of these fraudulent communications makes them difficult to detect, increasing the likelihood of employees falling victim to these schemes. This not only puts the company’s sensitive data at risk but can also result in financial losses and damage to the business’s reputation.

To combat the threat of AI-generated scams, small businesses must fortify their digital defenses, and this is where email protection services come into play. Hosted Exchange, for instance, provides a secure and reliable email hosting solution, complete with built-in security features designed to filter out malicious content and protect users from phishing attempts.

Learn more: How BCT can protect your email from spam, viruses, and more

Contact BCT Consulting Today & Protect Your Business

As scammers continue to harness the power of generative text AI models to execute sophisticated scams, the importance of robust email protection services and VoIP phone services cannot be overstated. BCT Consulting can help protect your businesses from these rising threats. We can help you safeguard your assets, and ensure the security and integrity of your business communications.

Contact one of our highly skilled technicians now to learn how you can protect yourself from scammers and spam calls.

BCT Consulting now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

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