Protecting Your Business from Social Engineering: A Comprehensive Guide

In today’s interconnected world, social engineering has emerged as one of the most significant threats to businesses, large and small. Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging this deceptive tactic to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information, leading to data breaches, financial losses, and significant reputational damage. This article explores the nuances of social engineering, the various forms it can take, and the measures businesses can implement to protect themselves effectively.

Understanding Social Engineering: The Human Factor in Cybersecurity

Social engineering is a method of cyber attack that preys on human psychology rather than exploiting technical vulnerabilities. Attackers manipulate individuals to gain unauthorised access to systems, networks, or sensitive data. Unlike traditional hacking methods that focus on cracking security software, social engineering takes advantage of human error, making it a particularly dangerous threat.

One of the key challenges in combating social engineering is its reliance on human psychology. Attackers exploit natural human tendencies, such as trust, fear, and curiosity, to achieve their malicious goals. For example, a well-crafted phishing email might exploit an employee’s fear of missing out on an important update or their curiosity about a too-good-to-be-true offer. This reliance on human emotions and behaviours makes social engineering a potent tool in the arsenal of cybercriminals.

The Evolution of Social Engineering Tactics

Social engineering tactics have evolved significantly, becoming more sophisticated and targeted over time. Understanding these tactics is crucial for implementing effective defence mechanisms.

• Phishing: Phishing is perhaps the most common and well-known form of social engineering. In a phishing attack, cybercriminals send fraudulent emails or messages designed to look like they are from a legitimate source. These messages often contain malicious links or attachments that, once clicked or downloaded, can lead to the compromise of sensitive information. Phishing is particularly dangerous because it can target a large number of individuals at once, increasing the likelihood that someone will fall for the scam.

• Spear Phishing: Unlike broad phishing campaigns, spear phishing is a more targeted approach. Attackers personalise their messages using information about the victim or their organisation, making the email or message seem more credible. This increased personalisation often leads to a higher success rate for the attackers.

• Whaling: A high-stakes variant of spear phishing, whaling targets high-level executives within an organisation. These attacks aim to extract substantial financial gain by tricking executives into transferring large sums of money or sharing highly confidential information.

• Business Email Compromise (BEC): In a BEC attack, cybercriminals impersonate a company executive or a trusted partner to deceive employees into transferring funds or disclosing sensitive information. These attacks are particularly effective because they exploit the trust and authority associated with executive roles.

• Smishing: Smishing is a form of social engineering that uses SMS or text messages to deceive victims. Just like phishing, smishing messages often contain malicious links or ask for sensitive information. Given the ubiquity of mobile devices, smishing has become a growing concern for businesses.

• Vishing: Vishing, or voice phishing, involves attackers using phone calls to extract sensitive information from victims. The attackers often pose as legitimate entities, such as banks or government agencies, to convince the victim to share confidential information.

• Pretexting: In pretexting, the attacker creates a fabricated scenario or pretext to obtain information from the victim. For instance, an attacker might impersonate a company’s IT department, claiming to need login credentials to resolve a technical issue.

• Baiting: Baiting involves enticing victims with a seemingly attractive offer, such as a free USB drive or software, which, when used, compromises the victim’s system.

• Tailgating: This tactic involves unauthorised individuals gaining physical access to restricted areas by following an authorised person. This type of social engineering exploits the trust or courtesy of employees who may hold doors open for others.

• Quid Pro Quo: In a quid pro quo attack, the attacker offers something in return for information or access. For example, an attacker might offer free tech support in exchange for login credentials.

The Devastating Impact of Social Engineering on Businesses

A successful social engineering attack can have severe consequences for any business. The immediate financial losses from such an attack are often just the beginning. Companies can also suffer long-term damage to their reputation, which can lead to a loss of customer trust and a decrease in revenue. Legal liabilities may arise if the attack results in the exposure of sensitive customer data, leading to costly lawsuits and regulatory fines.

Moreover, the theft of intellectual property can have lasting effects on a company’s competitive edge. When proprietary information or trade secrets are stolen, the business may lose its advantage in the market, which can be difficult to recover from. Additionally, data breaches caused by social engineering attacks can lead to the permanent loss of critical business data, further hampering operations.

Fortifying Your Business Against Social Engineering

To protect against the myriad of social engineering threats, businesses must adopt a comprehensive, multi-layered defence strategy that includes employee education, robust technical controls, physical security measures, and a well-prepared incident response plan.

Employee Education and Awareness

The first line of defence against social engineering attacks is a well-informed and vigilant workforce. Employees must be educated about the tactics used by social engineers and the potential consequences of falling for such attacks.

• Comprehensive Training: Regular security awareness training is essential. Training sessions should cover the latest social engineering tactics and equip employees with best practices for recognising and responding to potential threats. This training should be engaging and updated frequently to keep pace with the evolving nature of cyber threats.

• Realistic Simulations: Conducting simulated phishing attacks can help assess employee preparedness and highlight areas that need improvement. These simulations provide valuable insights into how employees might respond to real-world attacks and allow for targeted training to address weaknesses.

• Cultivating a Culture of Vigilance: It’s important to foster a culture where employees feel comfortable reporting suspicious activities without fear of repercussions. Encouraging a sceptical mindset and promoting the idea that it’s better to be safe than sorry can go a long way in preventing social engineering attacks.

Robust Technical Controls

Technical controls are critical in defending against social engineering attacks. These controls should be designed to limit the opportunities for attackers to exploit human error.

• Advanced Email Filtering: Implementing sophisticated email filtering systems can help block phishing emails and malicious attachments before they reach employees’ inboxes. These systems can significantly reduce the number of potential attacks that employees have to deal with.

• Strong Access Controls: Enforcing robust access controls is crucial for protecting sensitive systems and data. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), which adds an additional layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access.

• Network Segmentation: By segmenting your network, you can isolate critical systems and data, making it more difficult for attackers to move laterally within your network after a breach. This can contain the potential damage of a successful social engineering attack.

• Regular Software Updates: Ensuring that operating systems, applications, and security software are regularly updated is essential for closing vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Keeping your software up-to-date can significantly reduce your risk of a successful attack.

Physical Security Measures

Physical security is an often-overlooked aspect of protecting against social engineering attacks. However, it is a critical component of a comprehensive security strategy.

• Restricted Access: Limiting physical access to buildings and sensitive areas through the use of access controls and visitor management systems can help prevent unauthorised individuals from gaining entry. This reduces the risk of tailgating and other forms of physical social engineering.

• Security Awareness Signage: Displaying clear and visible security awareness signage can deter unauthorised access and reinforce the importance of following security protocols. These signs can serve as a constant reminder to employees and visitors alike.

Comprehensive Incident Response Planning

No matter how robust your defences are, it’s crucial to be prepared for the possibility of a successful attack. A well-developed incident response plan can help mitigate the damage and ensure a swift recovery.

• Detailed Incident Response Plan: Your incident response plan should outline the specific steps to take in the event of a social engineering attack. This includes identifying the key personnel involved in the response, defining their roles, and establishing communication protocols.

• Regular Testing: Regularly conducting incident response drills can help ensure that your team is prepared to handle an actual attack. These drills can reveal weaknesses in your plan and provide opportunities for improvement.

• Effective Communication Strategy: In the event of a breach, having a clear communication strategy in place is essential. This strategy should include guidelines for communicating with both internal and external stakeholders, as well as the media, to manage the fallout from the attack.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Prevention Measures

While the strategies outlined above form the foundation of a robust security posture, there are additional measures that businesses can take to further enhance their defences against social engineering.

• Data Encryption: Encrypting sensitive data ensures that even if it is stolen, it cannot be easily accessed or used by the attacker. Encryption adds an extra layer of protection that can be critical in preventing data loss.

• Strong Password Hygiene: Encouraging employees to create strong, unique passwords and use password managers can significantly reduce the risk of account compromise. Regularly updating passwords and avoiding password reuse across multiple accounts is also essential.

• Third-Party Risk Assessment: Conducting regular assessments of the security practices of third-party vendors and partners can help identify potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited in a social engineering attack. Ensuring that your partners adhere to the same high standards of security as your organisation is crucial.

• Mobile Device Security: With the increasing use of mobile devices for work, enforcing strict security measures on these devices is essential. This includes requiring encryption, enforcing strong authentication, and ensuring that security software is installed and up-to-date.

• Regular Security Audits and Assessments: Conducting regular security audits and assessments can help identify vulnerabilities and improve your overall security posture. These assessments should cover both technical and non-technical aspects of your security strategy.

The Human Factor: Psychology and Prevention

Understanding the psychological principles exploited by social engineers is key to effective prevention. By fostering critical thinking and scepticism among employees, businesses can build a more resilient defence against social engineering attacks.

• Critical Thinking and Scepticism: Encouraging employees to question unexpected requests, especially those that involve sensitive information or urgent actions, can help prevent social engineering attacks. Training employees to recognise and resist manipulation tactics is crucial.

• Empathy and Communication: Promoting a culture of open communication and empathy within your organisation can help reduce the effectiveness of social engineering attacks. When employees feel connected and supported, they are more likely to follow security protocols and report suspicious activities.

Emerging Threats and Countermeasures

The landscape of social engineering is constantly evolving, with new tactics emerging regularly. Staying informed about these emerging threats and adopting countermeasures is essential for maintaining a strong security posture.

• Stay Informed: Regularly monitoring cybersecurity news and updates can help you stay ahead of new social engineering tactics. Understanding the latest threats allows you to update your training and defences accordingly.

• Adopt Countermeasures: As new threats emerge, adopting the latest security technologies and practices is essential. This might include implementing advanced threat detection systems, using artificial intelligence to analyse behavioural patterns, or leveraging machine learning to identify anomalies.

Tailored Protection for Different Industries

Social engineering attacks can vary in nature depending on the industry. Tailoring your prevention strategies to address the specific risks associated with your industry is essential for optimal protection.

• Industry-Specific Training: Providing industry-specific training for your employees can help them better understand the unique risks they face. For example, employees in the financial sector may need to be particularly vigilant about BEC and phishing attacks targeting financial transactions.

• Customised Security Solutions: Depending on your industry, you may require customised security solutions that address specific vulnerabilities. Working with cybersecurity experts who understand your industry can help you implement the most effective defences.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Adhering to data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), is crucial in mitigating the legal and financial consequences of social engineering attacks.

• Compliance and Security: Ensuring that your business complies with relevant data protection regulations not only helps avoid legal penalties but also enhances your overall security posture. Compliance measures often involve implementing strict data protection protocols and conducting regular audits.

• Regular Reviews: As regulations evolve, it’s important to regularly review and update your compliance measures to ensure that you remain in line with current legal requirements.

Building a Strong Security Culture

Creating a security-conscious culture is the cornerstone of effective social engineering prevention. By fostering a culture of security awareness and emphasising the importance of reporting suspicious activities, businesses can significantly enhance their resilience against social engineering attacks.

• Leadership Involvement: Leadership should actively promote and model good security practices. When employees see that security is a priority for leadership, they are more likely to take it seriously themselves.

• Ongoing Education: Security education should be an ongoing process. Regular updates, reminders, and training sessions help keep security top of mind for all employees.

• Incentivising Vigilance: Consider implementing reward programmes for employees who demonstrate exceptional vigilance or who identify potential security threats. Positive reinforcement can encourage a proactive security mindset.

Conclusion: Prevention is the Best Defence

In the fight against social engineering, prevention is always the most effective strategy. By adopting a holistic approach that encompasses employee education, robust technical controls, physical security measures, comprehensive incident response planning, and fostering a strong security culture, businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to social engineering attacks.

Investing in proactive security measures not only protects your business from immediate threats but also ensures long-term resilience in an ever-evolving cyber landscape.

Making Microsoft 365 Easier for Businesses

In today's fast-moving world, technology is super important for businesses. It helps them work faster, be more productive, and come up with new ideas. One tool that many businesses use is Microsoft 365, which is a group of online tools that help with all sorts of tasks. But using Microsoft 365 to its fullest can be tricky, so many businesses get help from experts through something called Microsoft 365 managed services. Let’s break down what this means and why it’s helpful.

What Are Microsoft 365 Managed Services?

Microsoft 365 managed services mean that a business hires another company, full of experts, to take care of their Microsoft 365 setup. These experts know the platform really well and handle important tasks like:

• Setting It Up: Making sure Microsoft 365 is installed and works just right for your business.
• Tweaking Settings: Adjusting the tools to make them easy to use and super helpful for everyone.
• Keeping It Safe: Protecting your business’s information from hackers and other online threats.
• Helping Users: Offering help whenever someone in your business has trouble using Microsoft 365.
• Watching for Problems: Keeping an eye on the system to catch any issues before they become big problems.
• Updating Software: Making sure everything is up-to-date so it runs smoothly and securely.

Why Use Microsoft 365 Managed Services?

Using Microsoft 365 managed services offers several benefits that can help any business, big or small:

1. Getting More Done

   • Better Performance: The experts fine-tune your system, making it faster and easier to use, so people can work without interruption.
   • Simplified Tasks: By automating repetitive jobs, employees can spend more time on important projects.
   • Easier Collaboration: Managed services make sure everyone in the business can easily share information and work together.

2. Stronger Security

   • Spotting Threats Early: Experts use advanced tools to detect and stop potential security problems before they happen.
   • Protecting Data: Important information is kept safe with strong security measures.
   • Following the Rules: Managed services ensure your business meets any industry-specific rules and regulations.

3. Saving Money

   • Smart Licensing: Experts help you choose the right Microsoft 365 licenses, so you don’t spend more than you need to.
   • Lower IT Costs: Outsourcing the management of Microsoft 365 means you don’t have to hire as many IT staff, saving money.
   • Predictable Costs: Managed services often come with clear pricing, making it easier to plan your budget.

4. Focusing on What Matters

   • Expert Help: With professionals managing Microsoft 365, your IT team can focus on bigger, business-related tasks.
   • Quick Reactions: With IT tasks handled by experts, your business can adapt faster to new opportunities or changes.

5. Growing with Your Business

   • Flexible Solutions: Managed services can easily adjust to your business’s needs, whether you’re growing or facing new challenges.
   • Supporting Growth: As your business expands, managed services can provide the necessary IT support to help you succeed.

Picking the Right Managed Service Provider

Choosing the best Microsoft 365 managed service provider is key to getting these benefits. Here are a few things to consider:

• Experience: Look for a provider that has a strong history of managing Microsoft 365 for other businesses.
• Security Measures: Make sure they have solid security practices to protect your data.
• Service Agreements: Ensure they offer clear agreements that promise fast and reliable service.
• Customer Support: Check that they offer good customer support and respond quickly to any issues.
• Pricing: Compare their prices and the services they offer to get the best value.

By teaming up with Solid Rock IT UK as your reliable Microsoft 365 managed service provider, businesses can fully use the platform’s capabilities, boost productivity, improve security, and stay ahead in the competitive market.

Unleash Your Productivity Powerhouse: Why Microsoft 365 is the Future of Work in 2024

The modern workplace is in flux. Remote work is the new normal, collaboration spans continents, and the need to stay agile and efficient is paramount. In this dynamic landscape, businesses are constantly seeking ways to empower their teams and optimize workflows. Enter Microsoft 365, a comprehensive cloud-based suite that's revolutionising the way we work.

Here's a glimpse into the heart of Microsoft 365:

The cornerstone of M365 remains the iconic productivity suite – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. But here's the magic – these applications are now cloud-based, enabling seamless collaboration in real-time. Multiple users can edit documents simultaneously, eliminating the need for cumbersome version control.

• Embrace the Power of Teams: The true game-changer in M365 is Microsoft Teams. It's more than just a video conferencing platform; it's a collaborative hub that integrates chat, file sharing, task management, and third-party applications. Teams fosters a dynamic digital workplace where brainstorming sessions, project discussions, and instant messaging flow effortlessly.

• Store, Share, Secure: Hail OneDrive and SharePoint Gone are the days of worrying about lost USB drives or outdated file versions. OneDrive provides individual cloud storage accessible from any device, ensuring your important documents are always at your fingertips. For team-based document management and collaboration, SharePoint shines. It offers secure document libraries, version control, and robust search functionality, keeping your team on the same page.

• Enterprise-grade Security: Breathe Easy Security is a top priority for any business. Microsoft understands this and has made security a cornerstone of M365. From multi-factor authentication and data encryption to advanced threat protection, M365 safeguards your data and keeps your business safe.

• Always Up-to-Date: Innovation at Your Fingertips Unlike traditional software with infrequent updates, M365 offers the advantage of automatic updates. This ensures you always have access to the latest features and security patches, keeping your tools cutting-edge and your team empowered.

• Scalability Made Simple: M365 caters to businesses of all sizes. Its flexible subscription plans allow you to choose the applications and storage that best suit your needs. As your business grows, you can easily scale up your M365 plan to accommodate your evolving requirements.

The Synergy Effect: How M365 Unleashes Unparalleled Productivity

M365 isn't just a collection of apps; it's a carefully orchestrated symphony designed to maximize your team's potential. Here's how:

• Effortless Collaboration: Break down information silos and foster seamless teamwork. With real-time co-authoring, shared calendars, and integrated chat in Teams, communication and collaboration become effortless, regardless of location

• Farewell to the 9-to-5 Grind: M365 empowers a truly mobile workforce. Access documents, join meetings, and stay connected with colleagues – all from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. This flexibility fosters a healthy work-life balance and boosts employee satisfaction.

• Enhanced Communication: Streamline communication with built-in features like video conferencing, instant messaging, and threaded conversations in Teams. Eliminate the back-and-forth email fatigue and ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Knowledge Management Redefined: OneDrive and SharePoint offer a centralized platform for storing, organizing, and sharing documents. This empowers knowledge sharing within teams and eliminates the time wasted searching for lost files.

• Simplified IT Management: For IT departments, M365 is a boon. Cloud-based deployment eliminates the need for complex on-premise installations and software updates. This frees up IT resources to focus on strategic initiatives.

The Cost Equation: Unveiling the ROI Advantage

M365 offers a compelling return on investment (ROI) for businesses of all sizes. Here's why:

• Subscription-based Model: Eliminate the upfront costs of traditional software licenses. With M365, you pay a predictable monthly fee, making budgeting easier.

• Reduced IT Costs: Cloud-based deployment minimizes the need for expensive hardware and software maintenance. IT teams can focus on more strategic tasks.

• Improved Employee Productivity:

Why M365 is the Winning Move

In today's dynamic business landscape, agility and adaptability are paramount. Microsoft 365 equips you with the tools and resources to thrive in this ever-evolving environment. Here's a glimpse into the future of work with M365:

• AI-powered Workflows: Expect artificial intelligence (AI) to play an increasingly prominent role in M365. Imagine AI-powered assistants that automate tasks, anticipate your needs, and suggest relevant information.

• Immersive Collaboration: The lines between physical and digital workspaces will continue to blur. Expect advancements in virtual and augmented reality to create more immersive and collaborative experiences within Teams and other M365 applications.

• Enhanced Security Landscape: As the cyber threat landscape evolves, M365's security features will become even more sophisticated. Expect advanced threat detection, real-time security monitoring, and proactive measures to safeguard your data.

• Taking the Leap: Getting Started with Microsoft 365

Ready to unleash the power of Microsoft 365 in your organization? Here's how to get started:

• Assess Your Needs: Before diving in, take some time to understand your specific business needs. Identify the challenges your team faces and how M365 can address them.

• Choose the Right Plan: M365 offers a variety of subscription plans catering to different business sizes and needs. Carefully evaluate your requirements and select the plan that best suits your budget and workflow.

• Embrace a Learning Culture: M365 is a powerful suite with an abundance of features. Invest in training for your employees to ensure they can leverage the full potential of the platform.

The Future of Work is Now

Microsoft 365 is more than just a collection of applications; it's a transformative force shaping the future of work. By embracing the power of M365, you can empower your team, streamline workflows, and unlock unparalleled levels of productivity. So, are you ready to step into the future? Embrace Microsoft 365 and watch your business soar!

Additional Considerations:

Remember, successful implementation of M365 requires careful planning and change management strategies. Ensure your team is on board and receives adequate training to maximize the benefits of this powerful platform.

Empowering Your Workforce in the Evolving Landscape

In today's dynamic business environment, maximizing productivity and fostering seamless collaboration are paramount for success. Microsoft 365 emerges as a powerful solution, equipping your organization with the tools and technologies to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of work.

Unleashing Potential: Core Applications for Enhanced Efficiency

• Microsoft Teams: Foster a collaborative hub where communication flourishes. Teams centralizes instant messaging, video conferencing, file sharing, and task management, streamlining workflows and boosting project execution.

• Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint: Empower your workforce with the familiar and industry-standard suite of applications for document creation, data analysis, and impactful presentations.

• Outlook: Streamline communication and information management with a robust email and calendaring solution that integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft 365 applications.

• OneDrive: Ensure secure and accessible cloud storage for files, enabling remote workforces and fostering seamless collaboration.

• Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features for a Competitive Edge

• Enhanced Security: Mitigate security threats with enterprise-grade protection features built into Microsoft 365.

• Improved Accessibility: Foster an inclusive work environment with accessibility features that cater to diverse needs.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Gain valuable insights from your data with Power BI, empowering data-driven decision making.

• AI-Powered Workflows: Automate repetitive tasks and streamline processes with intelligent features powered by Microsoft 365's AI capabilities.

The Future of Work: A Connected and Collaborative Ecosystem

Microsoft 365 fosters a future of work characterised by:

• Enhanced Flexibility: Empower your workforce to work from anywhere, on any device, while maintaining seamless connectivity and productivity.

• Unparalleled Collaboration: Break down silos and foster a collaborative culture with integrated applications and real-time communication tools.

• Scalability and Cost-Effectiveness: Benefit from a subscription-based model that scales to your business needs, ensuring cost-effectiveness.

• IT Services for a Smooth Transition

Our IT services ensure a smooth transition to Microsoft 365, including:

• Migration Planning and Execution: Our experts will meticulously plan and execute your migration to Microsoft 365, minimizing disruption and ensuring a seamless transition.

• User Adoption and Training: We provide comprehensive training programs to empower your workforce to leverage the full potential of Microsoft 365.

• Ongoing Support: Our dedicated support team is available to address any queries or challenges you may face throughout your Microsoft 365 journey.

• Unleash the Potential of Your Workforce

Embrace the future of work with Microsoft 365. By partnering with our IT services team, you can unlock the full potential of this powerful suite, empowering your workforce for success in the years to come.

Contact Solid Rock IT UK today to discuss your Microsoft 365 migration journey!

Top 5 Powerful Productivity Tools For Small Business Success

Productivity in the workplace can be easily stifled by the various tools we end up using for daily activities. From messaging apps to finding content stored in Dropbox or collaborating on cloud docs, the strain can become overwhelming. 

Boosting your productivity doesn't necessarily require shuffling between apps and to make any progress at work. 

If productivity is important for your work, then you could benefit from these top five amazing business tools. Become more effective at smashing daily targets and recover lost time. 

Check out our top 5 powerful productivity tools for small business success. #productivity #business #work

Windows 11: Microsoft’s brand-new operating system is here

Windows 11 signify the first major upgrade software platform and boasts crucial technology roadmap elements for business and consumers alike.

Updates from around the web indicates that Windows 11 marks the turning point of computing technology in the history of Windows on personal computers such as desktops and laptops.

With the advent of the pandemic, the nature and frequency of computing device has changed dramatically. Every business and household have witnessed a rapid transition of PCs being used for regular activities to becoming an integral part of daily lifestyle. 

More people and organizations are now using PCs and Macs for shopping, entertainment, social activities and business.

The design of Windows 11 reflects the growing drive for social changes and online interaction that is now becoming common place since 2020.

The need for increased productivity and social cohesion is one of the major factors being tackled by Microsoft in Windows 11, as it seeks to enhance user experienced within a single computing environment and digital interface.

Introducing: Windows 11

The video below of Windows 11 highlight some of the key functionalities for the many different user scenarios.

Windows 11: What’s new?

Windows 11 has a fresh interface, with a simplistic appearance packed with features and updates for increased productivity. Some of the main changes include:

Simplified start menu and taskbar that are cantered on the base of your display screen, similar to how they appear in Apple MacOS. Additionally, Windows 11 fully embraces cloud technology and Microsoft 365 - again like taking a page out of Apple's iCloud design. This makes it easy for recent files to be consistently synced and consistently displayed across devices.

Personalised widgets have now replaced the use of live tiles for news, events, weather and many other common features.

There is also the presence of snap layouts to simplify the opening of multiple windows at once. This feature enables users to adaptation for different screen sizes and efficient working.

Snap Groups facilitate historical retention of apps used which are displayed in the Taskbar similar to the grouped download used by Apple MacOS. Users can easily minimise and access group icons with a single click instead of controlling them individually.

Customisation and the creation of different desktops based on user preference or use case scenarios such as school, work, entertainment...etc.

Microsoft Teams is a native application for Windows 11 operating system, allowing computer users to easily collaborate with others from the taskbar. Outlook and the calendar app are also natively available for users for easier communication, similar to how it's done in MacOS versions.

Updates file sizes have now been reduced by 40% and run seamlessly in the background for better user experiences.

The heath check app has been revamped with notification prompts that suits the current system specs and application setup. Major changes reflected includes brightness power saving modes and screen brightness.

Users can now download Android apps, onto their Windows 11 devices via the Microsoft Store and Amazon App Store.

Gaming components have also been optimised for better performance and graphics features, including a new Game Pass app to buy and manage games.

How to download Windows 11?

There is a minimum system requirement for computers to operate on Windows 11. If you are using Windows 10, it is possible for some computers to upgrade to Windows 11 for free, especially on modern laptops and PC.

Eligible devices will be receiving regular Windows 11 upgrade notifications from Microsoft over the coming months. 

Provided your computer is meets the required specification, installing Windows 11 will not present, much challenges for you to get started. 

Like its predecessor, Windows 11 will require periodic updates to ensure optimal performance and continued system security.

It is also possible to visit the Windows 11 download page and perform a manual upgrade from Windows 10.

Support for Windows 10 will continue to be available from Microsoft until 2025. Once the cut-off date arrive, users will still be able to operate their computers as normal but will no longer receive active support or security updates. 

Hopefully by then most computers would've been changed to newer system or upgraded to Windows 11 to avoid unexpected interruptions.

Keeping Windows 11 up-to-date

One of the most important resources for keeping Windows 11 up to date is to have internet connection. Microsoft has designed their operating systems to periodically check for updates and in some cases do the initial downloads then prompt users to complete the installation and system restart where necessary. 

As a system user, you can also check for pending or optional updates available for your device and perform complete the relevant setup manually.

Additional details for Windows 11 can be obtained directly from Microsoft or Solid Rock IT UK. If you are considering upgrading your computers, laptop or other related systems simply contact us today.

Why two monitors are better than one when working from home

With many office workers now operating from home, the need for a proper workstation setup has become more important during these unprecedented times. This is a new era where it is more acceptable for office-based workers to transitioned to remote working environment.

Embracing a new home office and technology equipment setup goes beyond having a fully functional workstation, it also requires home IT users to benefit from proper ergonomics, posture and visual resources that would normally be confined to office spaces found at work.

For many users, this includes having the correct desk, chairs with arm rest and seating capabilities that support remote working activities for long hours.

The advantages of using two monitors instead of one screen also becomes crucially important, especially if as a remote working user, you are living in a small home with limited space but still need to requires focus on specific activities yet work quickly and access information that promote progressive work experiences.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of using two monitors when working from home and how this relates to common practice of using a single screen.

Does Dual Monitors Work for Business and Home Setup?

Users who often rely on two display monitors already appreciate the advantages of multiple computer screens and the value they bring to the table. However, anyone who are yet embark on this journey can easily become familiar with the new interactions and the benefits that follows.

So, what do you consider to be the practicalities of working remotely with two monitors in these unprecedented times? 

It is estimated that it takes up to two weeks to become familiar with how best to use two monitors and how best to boost your productivity and work ethics efficiency. If you are unsure how to get started with dual screen setup for your computer, why not ask our IT support company in London for help today?

The Benefits of Dual Monitors

The main benefit of using two screens is increased productivity and more display screen real-estate for easy navigation through content and applications. 

Working remotely is not the same as in the office and although customising your work space to be similar, the atmosphere element is still missing. At home, it’s easy to get distracted and lose motivation, so there has to be deliberate effort to focus on activities and having a real desire for productivity each day.

Research shows that people who use two displays will complete computer related activities in significantly less time than those who operate from a single screen monitor. This remains true across desktops and laptops. 

The act of minimising one application of file to access content can take more than a few seconds and if your attention is diverted for more than 3 minutes, then expect this time to increase to around twelve minutes easily.

The ability to work from dual monitors is a key element for maintaining focus. A typical use case of dual screen for most people is being able to have their emails open on one screen while working on documents or surfing the internet on the second display monitor - such a lovely feeling, don you think?  

Some users claim that having a second monitor enable them to collaborate with colleagues and partner in meetings, thereby increasing their communication and creative capabilities. This essential results in getting more work done in less time.

Given the evidence presented above, it is clear that the benefits of dual monitors within a remote working or office setting is priceless. In fact, it is also being bantered about in the grapevine that having a dual display setup enhances one's ability to multitask effortlessly. 

We've seen users needing to copy files between folders or different documents use the two-monitor setup to make this exercise painless. Dual screen configurations are generally more pleasant to use and mimic longstanding practices used by traders or engineering practices who use multiple displays to visualise and interact with content.

What Resources are Required for a Dual Screen Computer Configurations?

Setting up a second monitor on a computer isn't that difficult as our imagination may have led us to believe and having the right London IT support companies to help with your technology need can make the process seems like a breeze over.

Setting us dual screen on a laptop simply require your device to have a graphics card that can accommodate simultaneous connection from two monitors. 

With PCs, adding a second display to an existing computer could mean installing a second graphics card if free slots are available, or upgrading the existing graphics card to one that support dual display. 

It is common to find most dual display configurations using 22 inches monitors but not everyone has the physical space to accommodate this, so smaller screen size is perfectly acceptable too.

To get help on purchasing a secondary monitor for your computer or laptop for business or home use simply click here.

How to Setup Your New Screens

Setting up a second monitor is pretty easy and, in most cases, can be completed in less than one hour. If you require a larger display screen outfit for your computer screen setup, our Solid Rock IT experts are available to help every step of the way.

At Solid Rock IT UK, we provide computer support in London and surrounding areas for business and homes, with onsite appointments and remote IT services available for hardware and software technology challenges. 

Our team of IT specialists are able to help your business with fully managed IT support as well as independent advice for IT consultancy requirements that can improve operations of your organisation strategy. Get in touch today to find out more.

How to recover permanently deleted files

It is likely that we will all at some point accidentally delete files and data during the course of our lives. If this happen to you for the first time, the experience can be seriously daunting and the anguish incomparable, but for those users who are seasoned – “oops, I’m gonna delete your files” decision – or unexpected error situation, the anxiety is less impacting.

 

Accidentally deleting files can result in permanent data loss, but doing so doesn’t mean the information is gone forever. With the progression of computer technology and tools for recovering loss data, it is now possible to access accidentally deleted files as it will still exist until it has been overwritten. Here’s why:

Permanently deleted data isn’t actually completely deleted

Whenever files are removed from a computer folder, desktop, recycle bin or other locations, the space the location where the file originally reside is simply marked as available but the data still reside on the hard drive. This will continue to be the case until new files are either copied to the drive or there has been major saving of data on the affected media. This principle remain the same for external (portable) media and internal hard drives.

 

How to recover permanently deleted files

So, if the deleted files are still on the how is it possible to get your lost data back and what steps should you take?  Whenever you accidentally delete data from your drive, the first and most important step is to stop using the drive and focus data recovery techniques to get your files back. The main question here is, what data loss prevention measures could you introduce to ensure this doesn't happen again?

If you are looking get your lost data back, here are some options you could try:

Use recovery software to get your lost data back

Most data recovery software have utilities that can help you scan the drive and detect and restore your lost data via a do-it-yourself route. The main thing to bear in mind is that some of tools are there are difficult to use and, any physical installation to your drive could result in the required data being wiped out completely as result of that space being taken over by the recovery software.

Whilst the data is freshly deleted, as long as you don’t use the drive – even if this is 10 years later – the data should still be there and it’s likely that data recovery can get your lost files back.

 

Reach out to a data recovery company

Enlisting the help of a data recovery specialist can result in you spending more for the service, but at the same time it presents a better option for peace of mind where critical data is at play. Data recovery company are able to draw upon years of experiences of undertaking these kind of services and will most likely to have ore sophisticated tools to get the job done profession and with greater accuracy.

 

Morale of the data recovery story

Always back up your data whenever possible and if it’s a single file, try emailing a copy to yourself for safe keeping just in case the backup media fail unexpectedly – seriously, this can happen, so no joking around.

Complement your physical storage media with cloud technology to help with storing your data, so in the event of a complete system failure, its easy to login to your cloud account and continue to access the required files.

 

Overall, whenever there is an accidental data or file deletion, avoid the temptation of saving new information on the storage media until your files have been recovered.

What's Your Data Recovery Needs?

Solid Rock IT UK offers data recovery services across media types and we would love to hear about your lost data issue so we can help get your lost data back. Get in touch today.

Can Apple Macs Get Viruses?

 It is well known globally that Windows computers can get viruses and this applies to all models and brands, the growing threats from cyber security attack is real, whether they be laptop desktop or notebooks or netbooks. Practically all desktop PC and laptop computers are prone to virus attacks if they run Microsoft Windows operating system.

Virus infection on computers can bring about data loss, but this is just one of the many drawbacks that can happen to an infected machine. There are cases when computers start to exhibit very slow performance and irritating popups. Statistics also shows that some computers with virus infection could also lead to unexpected financial losses for the owner / user if left unchecked. 

For several years there is a common concept amongst Mac users that Apple desktop such as iMac and their laptop counterparts - MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and MacBook - cannot be contaminated with viruses. 

This ridiculous false claim has been so widely spread to consumers to the point that many don't see the need for having antivirus or malwares solutions installed to protect their systems against these looming security threats.

This notion of false virus-proof protection feature being built into the Mac operating system has led many users opting for these devices over their Windows PC counterpart.

With the rapid spike of virus infection spreading across computing device types it is becoming clearer to most Apple users that the operating systems used by Macs have flaws that hackers can exploit and leveraging them is simply less profitable when compared to Windows.

Why Did Apple Computer Users Thought Macs Couldn't Be Infected with viruses?

In the early days of computer popularity when Windows became the operating system of choice, it was only logical that cyber attackers see these system as lucrative attack targets. This more is evident in the commercial world  the vast majority of computers purchased were running Microsoft’s operating systems which effectively increases opportunities as a hacker playing ground. With that ais, how do you deal with cybersecurity challenges affecting Apple Mac computers?

With Apple Mac now taking centre stage as the main computer hardware in many business such as creatives, post production, media and others, the perception of an immune system is gradually fading into thin air. There are now more viruses being developed frequently for the Mac OS platform due to their increased popularity an in the coming years, it is likely that attack trends could increase by multiple-folds.

What type of viruses can infect Macs?

Viruses exploiting flaws in Mac operating system are becoming more sophisticated and agile in their behaviour and impact on Apple computers. as users are silently being exposed to different Mac system exploits, it will be quite some time before these attacks become easily identifiable.

In 2019 alone, the number of Mac infections on Apple devices has seen user's  devices being infected with malware, trojan horses, spyware and many other computer virus that were once only applicable to Windows computer operating systems. 

Although by their default nature the Apple operating system has traditionally been more secure than Windows, it also reported that many IT professionals are encountering infected Macs more than ever. 

Here at Solid Rock IT UK, we’ve serviced numerous Apple Mac desktop and laptop computers that have lost data because of unexpected viruses infection over the last three years. In 2020 alone, the trend of cyber threat to computer systems has increased significantly, due to more people working remotely online during the pandemic period.

How Can Viruses Cause Data Loss on an Apple Mac System?

In some cases, virus infection on an Apple computer can render data on the device to become inaccessible for any number of reasons. To date, the most common tactics used by cyber attackers is the notion of encrypting a user's hard drive via malware or total device failure. 

Depending on the degree of encryption or virus attacks, there is usually the possibility to recover data from your Macs unless but the ability to seek professional help quickly is more that not the deciding factor for successful data recovery.

As we enter the new era of working from home, remote working and cloud computing, there are continuous threats introduced by cyber crime  for businesses, public bodies, charities and individuals alike. There are no longer save haven for computer and mobile users of any class as all are now target for data loss, cyber attacks and identity theft in the digital progressing world.

The best advise for users of Apple Mac OS, Android, Linux and Microsoft Windows system is to 

• Be constantly vigilant when using your system and connecting to wireless networks.
• Refrain from downloading anything from unfamiliar sources.
• Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.
• Be mindful of the cyber threat and hacking schemes at play to compromise your system. 

That said, following the above security guidelines does not guarantee a infection free system, since by its very nature your device is a computer and being connected to the internet doesn't make it immune to infections and cyber attacks.

But What Can I Do if I Have Lost Data Because of a Virus Attack?

Get in touch with Solid Rock IT UK We offer a dynamic range of virus removal services and data recovery across all Apple Mac computer and laptop models. We are able to diagnose the security threat impacting your system and determine the best course of action for getting you lost data back.

When was the last time you had a Mac system health check to determine the integrity of your computer against malicious attacks and possible virus infection?

Computer Repairs London - Outsourced IT Support for PC & Mac

Searching for computer repair near me may be your best bet to find PC experts who are able to fix your laptop, desktop computer or Apple Mac in the current season. Getting help for repair computers or laptop require consideration of the cost for computer fix and justify the means of actually going ahead with the service. 

Getting your system up and running properly again is good when the costs doesn't exceed the price of a new device, or if you have sentimental attachment to your broken computer PC or Apple Macintosh.

There are numerous computer repair shops in London, but not all offer the convenience of onsite PC fix or remote laptop repairs, which means that home computer repairs are often carried out at the computer shop and not within the comfort of your own office or home.

It is understandable that many broken PC and laptops with faults that happened during early stages of the pandemic will now require expert computer technician help as the lockdown eases, with schools and universities look to resume studies.

No one expected the effects of COVID-19 would take this long as such, it becomes more feasible to fix your computer than buying a new one to reduce costs and inconveniences.

With many people now working from home for longer periods, the need for mobile computer engineers is becoming more important for both business and residential IT Support. Many users who are remote working may at some stage, require urgent computer services via onsite computer repair near me, where and engineer visit your location, diagnose the computer issue and carry out the relevant PC fix to mend broken computers and laptops.

Fixing laptop and computers can sometimes seems easy, but there are those occasions where broken PC will require more technical expertise to overcome the underlying computer maintenance challenges facing the user and that makes rock solid rock sense.

At Solid Rock IT UK, we repair computers across all models and brands. Our IT support engineers are experts at laptop repairs, computer services, Mac Support and wireless networking.

We fix computers with hardware and software faults, including broken screens, hard drive issues, WIFI not working properly, software corruptions and many other symptoms.

With you as our customer means there is no need to fuss about the underlying IT technicalities of computer repairs as we take care of those detailed aspects for you. Our main aim is to get your system up and running properly again and as quickly as possible.

Amongst the many reputable IT support company London customers love, we are considered one of the best customer choice for responsive and expertise. We love to help our customers with Apple Mac Support London, outsourced IT support, computer repairs and data recovery via onsite and remote IT services.

Based in South East London, enable us to provide ongoing business IT Support in London and surrounding areas for companies and residential customers alike. Your dependence on technology for daily business activities, home working and IT project solutions delivery means we have your interest at the forefront of everything we do with outsourced IT support for ongoing peace of mind.

If you are looking for computer repair shops near me, our engineers are readily available to help you every step of the way. We remove the need for you to travel to computer stores, leave your device for repairs and then go back to collect it later. We come to you, thereby simplifying the PC repair shop process and make technology work for you. 

If you are looking for emergency IT support, most of our computer services can be delivered on the same day of calling, or via pre-booked appointment where a later date is required that suits your availability and schedule.

Tech repair is what we do daily and you can also consider us as your computer fixers for all Mac repairs, all-in-one desktop fix, laptop services or server maintenance.

The next time you need computer repairing, simply get in touch and let our expert IT support engineers fix your computer or Apple Mac faults.

Trends in Artificial Intelligence

Popularity of intelligent systems owe their success to artificial intelligence as the core entity for effective operations. Our theory is that these intelligent systems are actively connected to computer networks via the internet or interconnected databases emended within their "cerebral-sphere" for quick information access and decision support.