Computers Nationwide Newsletter | February 2023
๐Ÿค” Is your SMB using AI yet?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the buzzword across every industry these days.

This technology (like ChatGPT) has become increasingly important for business operations around the world.

๐Ÿ’ญ You're probably wondering:
Should my business be worried about AI?

In the past few years, our team has seen incredible results from AI: predicting threats, detecting behaviors, improved analytics, incident response, and real-time problem solving.

But that's when it's used for good.

It's reasonable to be skeptical when cybercriminals can use these same tools for their dirty work.
๐Ÿค– 83% of companies consider using AI to be a high priority for 2023.

As a business owner, it's important to be aware of the benefits and the risks of AI. But researching the pros and cons of AI probably isn't high on your to-do list.

So we've already done the groundwork for you...

Quick Overview: Using AI for Business

Advantages:
โœ… Faster data analysis and analytics to aid in quicker decision-making and complex troubleshooting.
โœ… Machine learning algorithms can analyze data from various sources to identify and respond to security threats in real time.
โœ… Better customer service using automation (such as chatbots) for quick replies.
โœ… Learn from previous security incidents and studies patterns to improve threat detection for cyber and physical attacks.
โœ… Boosted employee productivity and efficiency due to automating repetitive tasks.

Threats:
โ›” Hackers create "botnets" to hijack internet-connected devices and install malware.
โ›” Cybercriminals are using AI to unleash more sophisticated denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks that are increasingly difficult to combat.
โ›” "Deepfake" videos and audio are used to impersonate an individual for identity fraud, account takeovers, and spreading misinformation.
โ›” AI is creating more convincing phishing emails and websites.

Safety Tips:
๐Ÿ”’ Make sure you have a strong cyber security policy in place, and that all employees are aware of it and understand it.
๐Ÿ”’ Use AI technology to your advantage for strengthening IT and cybersecurity, but be cautious about the information you share with AI-powered systems.
๐Ÿ”’ Keep your software and systems up to date, and make sure you have a good cyber security strategy in place.
๐Ÿ”’ Train your AI system regularly and monitor it for unusual activity.

Let CN Bring Your Workplace Up To Speed
The number of businesses that are using AI has grown by 300% in the past 5 years!

Technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Don't let your workplace fall behind.

CN is loving all of the advancements AI has brought to our clients through:

Ready to join the AI revolution? Wondering how you can use these tools to your advantage in 2023?

Let's talk: (847) 419-9900
Recent Blogs

Looking to keep your business updated on the latest cyber security trends? From mobile endpoint security to the rise of cyber insurance, our friends at Security Magazine have compiled the top cybersecurity predictions and trends to watch for.

๏ปฟAs you build your cybersecurity resilience strategy for the year, don't miss out on these must-know predictions from CISO's across the globe!
Not sure how to implement these key insights?
The best approach is a proactive one!
๐Ÿ“ฒ Give us a call: (847) 419-9900
As technology and threats evolve, itโ€™s vital to ensure your companyโ€™s security protocols are current to protect your data, your devices, and your bottom line. This will involve patching any gaps, adopting new technology, and converting to a zero-trust environment.

Not sure where to start or what needs updating? Fortunately, the pro's at CN are here to lead the way with the ultimate cyber security checklist to help you do just that!

Ready to protect your business from cyber threats in 2023?

Tax season has begun and it typically comes with an uptick in tax-related scams. In 2022, there were close to 8 million reports of suspicious activity related to income tax filing and identity theft.

92% of tax returns were filed electronically last year; clearly cybersecurity is more important now than ever!
๐Ÿ‘€ Learn how you can protect yourself this filing season:

  1. Keep all machines clean. Having updated software on all devices that connect to the internet is critical.
  2. Turn on multi-factor authentication. Many popular email services and financial institutions provide this security option, in which you are prompted to enter a code (sent via text or email) after logging in.
  3. Make better passwords. Short or easy-to-guess passwords are like giving cyberthieves your banking PIN. Use longer passwords that use a combination of capital and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.
  4. Get savvy about Wi-Fi hotspots. Public wireless networks are not secure!
  5. When in doubt, throw it out. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails.
  6. Think before you act. Ignore communications that implore you to act immediately โ€“ especially if you are told you owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly. 
  7. File securely. Only submit your taxes on secure https sites. But remember, just because a website URL contains https doesnโ€™t mean the site is legitimate.
  8. File early. The IRS only accepts one tax return per Social Security number. If you file early, it becomes impossible for another tax return to be filed using your personal information.


Make sure your team is armed with the best internet safety and security practices!

Contact us to lead security awareness training at your workplace: (847) 419-9900

๐Ÿ˜ Psst...we're hiring!
Looking for the next step in your tech career?

The Computers Nationwide team is growing! We're hiring for a variety of positions from Account Management, Field Techs, and more.

Start the year off on the right track! Do you know what your current IT team is doing for your business?

We can help identify what your IT risks and vulnerabilities are, with no obligation. Fill out the form on our website for your FREE IT risk assessment.

โœ”๏ธ Youโ€™ll receiveโ€ฆ
  • A detailed analysis of your current technology
  • An action plan to address operational deficiencies
  • A detailed budget plan and scope of work
๐Ÿค– Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming businesses across every industry.

Automation and its useful insights are giving organizations more time to focus on growing and optimizing other areas.

โš ๏ธ But this tech is also exposing SMBs to increased privacy concerns and new cyber risks.

Wondering how your workplace can harness the power of AI? CN's got you covered!

๏ปฟStay ahead of the curve while we protect your business from all angles: (847) 419-9900


Computers Nationwide is proud to serve businesses of all sizes in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Partner with the experts for all of your technology needs in 2023!
Connect With Us on Social Media
Contact Computers Nationwide Today!
Call (847) 419-9900 or Email [email protected]