Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning allow computers to learn and perform tasks without explicit programming. They are increasingly used in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, to automate processes, improve decision-making, and gain insights from data.
Weighing the Pros & Cons
There are many benefits to using AI can bring to SMBs. However, there are also ethical concerns that businesses must consider when using these technologies.
The Pros of AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) can bring several benefits to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Some potential benefits include the following:
Increased efficiency: AI can automate repetitive tasks and processes, freeing time for employees to focus on higher-value work.
Improved decision-making: AI can analyze large amounts of data and provide insights and recommendations, helping businesses make more informed decisions.
Enhanced customer experience: AI can be used to improve customer services, such as through chatbots or virtual assistants, or personalize marketing efforts.
Cost savings: AI can help businesses reduce costs by automating tasks and processes and improving efficiency and productivity.
Competitive advantage: By adopting AI, SMBs can gain a competitive advantage over businesses not using these technologies.
AI has the potential to help SMBs increase efficiency, improve decision-making, enhance the customer experience, and achieve cost savings. It is important for businesses to carefully consider how AI can be integrated into their operations in a way that aligns with their goals and values.
The Cons of AI
The potential impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning on society are varied and complex. These technologies have the potential to bring significant benefits to society, including increased efficiency, improved decision-making, and the ability to solve complex problems. However, they also have the potential to create new challenges and unintended consequences.
Some potential impacts of AI and machine learning on society include the following:
Job displacement: AI and machine learning can automate tasks previously performed by humans, leading to job displacement and potentially increasing unemployment.
Bias: AI and machine learning systems can perpetuate and amplify existing biases, leading to unfair outcomes and discrimination.
Privacy: As AI and machine learning systems collect and analyze large amounts of data, there are concerns about the potential for this data to be misused or for individuals’ privacy to be violated.
Security: As AI and machine learning systems become more prevalent, there is a risk that malicious actors may target them or that they may be used to carry out cyber attacks.
Ethical concerns: AI and machine learning systems have the potential to make decisions that have ethical implications, and there are concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency in their decision-making processes.
Overall, businesses and society need to consider the potential impacts of these technologies carefully and ensure that they are being used responsibly and ethically. This may involve implementing guidelines and best practices, as well as engaging with stakeholders such as employees, customers, and regulators.
A TRUSTWORTHY TEAM HERE FOR YOU
Partnering with an IT agency that values Trust, Teamwork, and Respect as we do a PGH Networks will put you on the path to utilizing the best technology suited for your business and industry.
Contact us today if you want to discuss the benefits our team of IT veterans can bring to your business.
Cybercrime continues to be on the rise each year, as it adapts and anticipates user behavior. Hacking as a service, and the dark web generate billions of dollars from individuals and organizations because of this.
Many business are aware of needing cybersecurity measures in place and a deep adoption of it’s best practices. But aside from that, preparing for a cyber incident can be overwhelming to many organizations.
Thankfully the United States Secret Service – Cybercrime Investigation Department put together an Introductory Guide that helps lessen the confusion for business leaders. Below are a few key factors that stood out to us.
Establish Liaisons and Partnerships
The resources that are available to businesses for cybersecurity are unfathomable. Begin by identifying law enforcement agencies responsible for combating cybercrime within your geographic area. Determine what cybersecurity information and resources they have available publically or through partnership initiatives for your. PGH Networks is a trust partner to many local and regional businesses and is happy to assist.
Create a Cyber Awareness Culture
it is important to continually learn about existing and emerging cyber threats and risk management strategies by participating in cybersecurity events and educational programs. Reach out to us to schedule a Security Awareness Training for your team today! In addition, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) provides cybersecurity awareness training for the general public.
Develop, Execute, Test a IR Plan
Developing an Incident Response plan with specific and concrete procedures is necessary. Importantly, executing and testing the program is just as critical.
To start, the IR plan should include the following:
An IR Team consists of decision makers, critical personnel (senior management, legal counsel, human resources, corporate security, IT security, public relations), and if needed, a retained IR firm. If having the services of an IR firm, collaborate with the IR firm on your organization’s IR Plan and review their processes.
Assignment of specific tasks and timelines for the completion of critical tasks.
Contact information for the members of the IR Team, day and night, and how to proceed if they are unreachable or unavailable.
Want to learn more? Download the free guide for additional information on Preparing for a Cyber Incident.
Partnering with an IT agency that values Trust, Teamwork, and Respect as we do a PGH Networks will put you on the path to having strong security in place. Our knowledgeable team of IT veterans is constantly reviewing potential threats and industry recommendations, allowing us to address concerns quickly.
Contact us today if you want to discuss the cybersecurity status of your organization or need assistance developing and executing a response plan.
TechTarget best defines Digital Trust as “the confidence users have in the ability of people, technology and processes to create a secure digital world. Digital trust is given to companies who have shown they can provide safety, privacy, security, reliability, and data ethics with their online programs or devices.”
AREAS OF DIGITAL TRUST
PRIVACY – No peeking! Providing your customers with peace of mind that their data is not unnecessarily shared or saved.
SECURITY – Ensuring there is no threat to customers’ data or any party involved.
IDENTITY – Customers are provided anonymity to protect their “real” identity unless otherwise approved.
PREDICTABILITY – Predicting any risk or negative impact that may be foreseen in the future helps to create “in the event of…” plans.
RISK MITIGATION – Accounting for any potential risk that may affect the customer.
DATA INTEGRITY – Ensuring all data collected is complete, accurate, handled properly, and secure.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIGITAL TRUST
Digital trust will separate dependable, secure companies from the herd. Trust building is guaranteed to make sure your clients feel safe giving their business to your organization. Turning a blind eye to digital trust will make your organization crumble because of the rapid development of digitization we face daily. One in ten consumers stopped doing business with companies that did not protect their data.
Privacy, Security, Identity, Predictability, Risk Mitigation, and Data Integrity all go hand in hand to create the perfect establishment of Digital Trust.
PGH CAN HELP
Partnering with an IT agency that values Trust, Teamwork, and Respect as we do a PGH Networks will put you on the path to success. Our knowledgeable team of IT veterans is constantly reviewing potential threats and industry recommendations, allowing us to address concerns quickly.
Contact us today if you want to strengthen your reputation among your customers!
The holiday season is in full swing, with many shopping online and in person. Cybercriminals know the increase in traffic and shopping behaviors change this time of year due to the chaos of the holidays and the need to get the “perfect gift.” The guard may be down for many consumers, but it is no reason to let your best cybersecurity practices fall waist side.
We’re here to remind you of ways to shop safely this holiday season!
Review Your Bank Statements
The National Cybersecurity Alliance recommends “Your first line of defense against identity theft and fraud is to pay close attention to your financial records, like bank statements and credit card transactions.” Our team recommends placing a temporary freeze on your credit with each reporting agency to prevent any new lines of credit from opening in your name.
This can be quickly done by going to the following credit bureau sites:
The worry of fraud has led to a 17% increase from 2021 for consumers who feel they would abandon their cart, according to the 2022 Holiday Shopping Report. Some red flags to look out for when shopping are:
Suspicious or poor reviews of items or sellers.
Pricing that is much lower or higher than the standard for the product.
Seller pressuring you to make the purchase quickly.
Unnecessary information is being collected.
It may hurt to do, but abandon your cart if you notice these red flags.
Avoid Public WiFi
Public WiFi may seem extremely convenient and harmless when shopping this holiday season, especially when finding a better deal online than in the store. However, connecting to public WiFi should be avoided.
We recommend using a VPN (a virtual private network) or your mobile device as a hotspot if you must buy a few gifts or log in to your financial accounts while away from home.
Businesses should be aware of the characteristics of the new client operating system, Windows 11.
Windows 11 is built on the same foundation as Windows 10. Windows 10 users can easily upgrade to Windows 11 without any hassle. It updates what you already know and feel at ease with.
BENEFITS & REQUIREMENTS OF THE NEW OS
You can discover the new Windows 11 features that make accomplishing your goals more accessible, faster, and more enjoyable. Utilize simple tools to help you improve your productivity and optimize screen space on your desktop. With Windows 11, you can create, work with others, and secure your data. Play the newest games with realistic-looking visuals. Windows 11 enables you to play the game how you want. The feature update for Windows 11 is called 22H2. All features and fixes from earlier cumulative updates for Windows 11, version 21H2, the first Windows 11 release version, are all included.
Downloading Windows 11 has many advantages, like the ability to run Android apps, strong video game updates, fantastic window layout options, and prettier, more consistent designs.
At the end of 2021, Windows 11 became available to eligible Windows 10 devices. Therefore, it could currently be implemented into any device that it supports. Most devices purchased in the last 18-24 months will be compatible with Windows 11. Working with an IT professional, like PGH Networks, will help verify which devices meet or exceed Windows 11 requirements to ensure compatibility.
PGH CAN HELP
If you are interested in upgrading your organization, contact our trusted IT Experts to unlock your full potential through technology today! Existing clients may submit a Help Ticket Request here.
As you know, the threat landscape is evolving rapidly. And much like any other evolving industry, job positions and roles are growing with them to meet the demands of the culture.
It is easy to assume the role of a hacker when learning of cyber breaches or attacks. However, there are ten main types of hackers, classified on their skill level and motive of intent. Those ten types are Black Hat, White Hat, Grey Hat, Script Kiddies, Green Hat, Blue Hat, Red Hat, State/Nation Sponsored, Hacktivists, and Malicious Insider or Whistleblower.
Black Hat
Best described as ‘the villain.’ This type of hacker you imagine sitting in their basement, wearing a black hoodie. These hackers have ill intentions and are considered dangerous.
Sending phishing messages
Executing cyberattacks
Stealing and selling data
Carrying our financial fraud
Blackmailing victims with ransomware attacks.
White Hat
The “knight in shining armor.” This type of hacker uses their skill set for good to protect individuals and organizations.
Identifies and repairs vulnerabilities in a network before cybercriminals discover them.
Implements effective cybersecurity within a network to ward off cyber threats.
Created cybersecurity tools like anti-malware, antivirus, firewalls, etc., to secure a network.
Grey Hat
Welcome to the grey area. A Grey Hat hacker falls between black and white hat for intent. They might not have malicious intentions but hack networks without the owner’s consent.
Identifies and repairs vulnerabilities
Offers recommendations and solutions again vulnerabilities
Enhance defenses against cyber threats.
Script Kiddies
“The juvenile.” Script Kiddies are amateurs who do not fully understand or know the hacking process. They attempt to hack systems based on scripts from fellow hackers. They intend to prove their worth to their peers.
Green Hat
The “intern,” if you will. This type of hacker is slightly new to the hacking world. They are driven by the desire to prove their worth to fellow hackers, much like the Script Kiddies. However, they intend to learn and become full-fledged, respected hackers.
Blue Hat
The “Bully.” Their goal is to humiliate or embarrass their target and will not stop until they are successful, using hacking as a weapon. They are the go-to person if you want to deploy cybersecurity measures like penetration testing to secure your networks.
Red Hat
The bad guy that you might want to be friends with, possibly. A Red Hat hacker is similar to a white hat as they have good intentions of saving people from cyberattacks but are ruthless when dealing with Black Hat hackers.
Breaks into a Black Hat hacker’s network to disrupt cyberattack plans
Launches malware against the evil hackers
Tightens the cybersecurity of a network against cyber threats.
State/Nation Sponsored Hackers
Hello, 007. State and Nation Sponsored Hackers work for the government. They use their skillset to obtain sensitive information from other countries to be prepared for any danger to their own country.
Hacktivist
The opposite of 007. These hackers work against the governments to obtain data and use it for personal political, or social gain. Hacktivists will pose themselves as well-intentioned Activist with deep-rooted, secret motives.
Malicious Insider or Whistleblower
The “Insider.” This type of hacker is typically an individual working in an organization that can expose confidential information. The motive of exposure is either due to a personal grudge or because the illegal activity has been discovered and needs to be brought to light.
ZERO PERCENT UNEMPLOYMENT
Ethical hacking jobs are in demand due to the rise of cyber threats and data breaches. Businesses are eager to protect their assets, and insurance companies are increasing the cybersecurity requirements of organizations. A few examples of ethical hacking careers are:
Penetration Tester
Vulnerability Assessor
Information Security Analyst
Security Analyst
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Ethical Hacker
Security Consultant
Security Engineer/Architect
Information Security Manager
There is no difference in the high demand for illicit hackers as well. Comparitech provides a breakdown of the most common dark web hacking requests, illustrating that the need for bad actors is not declining either.
STRENGTHEN YOUR DEFENSES
Connect with our team today to set up a free network assessment to locate areas of vulnerabilities within your network. Our team of experts can provide insight and recommendations to strengthen your defenses today!
