Challenging assumptions for greater safety

May 2023

Message from Mike: Challenging assumptions for greater safety

The World Economic Forum recently reported that Baby Boomers usually have stronger passwords than their tech-savvy grandchildren in Generation Z. And as a result, their accounts are less likely to be breached. Does that idea surprise you?

It might, but it’s consistent with a lot of assumptions we make about cybersecurity. One, that it’s easy or simple to maintain (untrue). Or two, that knowing your way around software or the apps on your iPhone is protection enough (untrue – computer literacy doesn't equal cyber safety expertise).

Only learning what you need to know after an attack or incident is an unfortunate and usually costly place to be. So, if you haven’t set aside dedicated cybersecurity preparedness time for your business, I’d be happy to help you. And yes, that includes answering password-related questions.

Mike Skinner, CPA, CITP

Principal Consultant

Schedule time with Mike

Mike will be speaking at the Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce Skills for Success Speaker Series on June 28! Register to attend by June 23. He will dive into why businesses today must evaluate their cyber risks and have a reliable plan for when things go wrong.

ZDNet: A cyber caution about ChatGPT and AI

Earlier this year, ChatGPT reached 100 million global users, and the trend of using artificial intelligence tools across a variety of professional industries continues to grow. However, the more they’re used the more threats loom as a result of bad actors.

“Generative AI has helped bad actors innovate and develop new attack strategies, enabling them to stay one step ahead of cybersecurity defenses,” according to one ZDNET article.

“AI helps cybercriminals automate attacks, scan attack surfaces, and generate content that resonates with various geographic regions and demographics, allowing them to target a broader range of potential victims across different countries.”

STG Webinar: Cybersecurity Crisis Communications

Crisis Communications Webinar with Wilson Public Relations

This month’s webinar featured a discussion of crisis communication processes related to cybersecurity or cyber events.

STG Principal Consultant Mike Skinner and Wilson Public Relations Founder + Chief PR Officer Beth Wilson discussed how companies can communicate effectively with their employees, clients, and other business partners in the midst of a cyber event.

Watch Now

CNBC: Data extortion trending in cyber attacks

Cybercriminals are using stolen company data as a form of extortionate leverage in the latest waves of attacks, as CNBC reported recently. New SEC guidelines could help, mandating that companies disclose data breaches to their investors within four days and have at least one cybersecurity-experienced member of their boards of directors. But there’s plenty to know in the meantime about keeping yourself safe.

About Skinner Technology Group

We focus on enabling clients to fully leverage technology investments by providing the support and insights critical to safeguarding their business, critical data, and brand reputation while gaining return on investment from IT.

We partner with clients to navigate the challenges of IT operations, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, and business solution implementation.

Getting an assessment is a free way to check on your business’ cyber health.