How Microsoft Dataverse Helps Your Organization Store and Manage App Data Securely

Microsoft Dataverse is a software as a service (SaaS) solution capable of resolving wide-ranging data management and businesses’ storage issues. As an ever-increasing number of organizations generate a large amount of data, there is a need to manage it securely and efficiently. Thus, businesses can rely on Dataverse to handle varying types of data from multiple sources.

By switching to Dataverse, organizations eliminate the need to invest in extensive infrastructure. The complexity of handling various types of data from wide-ranging sources is due to the implementation of multiple security protocols and APIs. With the data platform, it becomes easier to bolster data protection, maintain compliance, maximize scalability, and manage data more efficiently.

You can count on Dataverse to work well with all data types and business applications. It provides access to advanced analytics features, enabling your teams to glean insights from the data. More importantly, anyone can use the platform because no coding is necessary. Additionally, the platform is secure, compliant, scalable, and globally accessible.

Advantages of Using Dataverse

Dataverse comes with a wide selection of benefits, including simplifying data management, compatibility with Microsoft Power Apps, and the availability of productivity tools. The tool stores the data and metadata in cloud storage systems, which provides a convenient way to manage the data.

Security is a significant benefit of using Microsoft Dataverse. It employs role-based measures to maximize data protection. Thus, there is no need to worry about unauthorized access to tables. On the other hand, the tool allows your team to access information stored in sources like Dynamics 365. Your team leverages convenient access to building apps faster.

Rich metadata is another advantage brought about by the tool. Dataverse employs data types and relationships via Power Apps. Meanwhile, you can rely on the platform to help facilitate business processes and maximize data quality, thanks to its superior logic and validation capabilities.

Likewise, you will find it easier to define workflows, calculated columns, operational processes, and critical business rules. When it comes to productivity tools, Dataverse integrates tables as plug-ins for Microsoft Excel. The integration bolsters productivity while facilitating data accessibility.

Work With All Apps and Data Types

Compatibility with all data types and apps is one of Dataverse’s key strengths. This benefit enables you to incorporate various data technology categories to suit your company’s needs. Some major categories include images, relational, data lake, search, non-relational, and file.

Visual design features let your team create, edit, and enhance data interaction. In turn, team members easily and quickly define workflows, tables, forms, relationships, and business rules applicable to your organization. Deep integration with various cloud services and connectors provided by Microsoft is a breeze. This capability enables connection to applications, popular SaaS solutions, devices, and systems.

Integration supports various business use cases, including working with Dataverse in a blockchain network. Also, you can extract information from a spreadsheet delivered to you as an email attachment. The tool works well with virtual tables, enabling Dataverse to display external data in real-time. As such, it becomes easier to execute data operations via a link to external sources.

When it comes to compatibility with apps, Dataverse enhances functionality, thanks to the Power Apps integration. The latter leverages Dataverse’s rich metadata to help users create advanced business applications using the low-code approach. Once app development is complete, they become available on Microsoft Teams, the web, mobile devices, and desktops.

Dataverse comes with the mobile offline capability, enabling you to develop business applications capable of handling data offline. As such, users interact, query, and collect data, even when the app is offline. The tool provides access to a REST-based API, which is useful for developing applications using custom code. With the application programming interface, it is possible to integrate data from Dataverse into existing business apps.

Integrating Data Into Dataverse

App development entails working with multiple data sources. In many cases, developers collect the data and store it in a single repository for added convenience. This approach also involves one logic set used to operate and maintain the data. Storing data in a single location allows the development process to work smoothly in Power Apps.

You can also use the data in Power Virtual Agents, Power Automate, and Power BI. Regular synchronization keeps the data link working between Dataverse, Power Apps, and other apps. The tool transforms and imports data using Power Query, which plays the same role as Power BI and Excel.

If you occasionally import data into Dataverse, you can use Excel and CSV files. However, this approach is not ideal for the regular import and export of data into the tool.

Dynamics 365 and Dataverse

Microsoft Dataverse securely stores data used by various Dynamics 365 apps, including Talent, Customer Service, and Sales. For this reason, you conveniently tap into your organization’s core operational data to create advanced applications. In turn, you no longer need to worry about integration to access metadata and data.

When your team defines business rules and logic, Dataverse allows the related tables to transmit the settings to apps developed via Power Apps. In the end, your team leverages data consistency to achieve the desired objectives. The consistency applies to all business applications, irrespective of the apps and devices used to access them.

On the other hand, team members with experience using Dynamics 365 and Power Apps can employ their skills across the Dataverse platform. Some reusable skills across the three platforms include creating forms, charts, and tables.

Analytics, Reporting, and Security

With Dataverse, you can prepare paginated reports and basic charts. Interoperability with Power BI simplifies the process of creating interactive reports and dashboards. At the same time, the platform provides access to advanced analytics with artificial intelligence capabilities. Thus, it bolsters your organization’s capacity to analyze data more effectively.

The platform taps into the power of Azure Active Directory to manage users’ access rights. Doing so enhances data security and your environment. You can opt to associate access rights settings with individual users or teams and business units. Microsoft Dataverse also allows granular security controls by restricting access at the column level.

The Need for Your Business to Set Up Network Security Is Urgent

In the early 20th century, if a crook wanted money, they’d rob a bank or steal a woman’s purse on the street. Real masterminds might devise an elaborate heist to hold up a Brink’s truck or befriend a millionaire, then make off with their riches.

Today, these crooks look much different. That’s because an increasing number of them are not out on the street taking gold, jewelry, and cash. They’re sitting behind desks, somewhere in an unknown room where they will probably never be found, hacking your data.

Why data?

If you didn’t realize it already, data is now one of the most — if not the most — valuable commodities on earth. And if you’re not protecting yours, you’re making yourself and your business a huge target for cybercriminals.

“Since when does every business need network security?”

Businesses, small and large, ask this question a lot.

“Since when do we have to have all this network security? I’m trying to run a business here. Why is everyone telling me to focus my attention on firewalls, data loss protection, adware, ransomware, phishing scams, etc.?”

We get it.

To help orient yourself to the critical importance of network security, however, you need to think of it this way: Say you own a jewelry store — a brick-and-mortar jewelry store. Are you going to pay attention to security? Are you going to invest in security cameras and highly durable doors, windows, and locks? Are you going to have a robust alarm system? Perhaps even a security guard on standby to investigate possible burglaries?

Of course, you are.

Well, the same preventive and recovery protocols need to be arranged for any business that deals either publicly or privately on the Internet.

Certainly, there was a “Wild West” phase of the Internet where cybercriminals hadn’t quite mastered their own art of hacking systems and stealing or corrupting data.

That phase is over.

Now, if you don’t have “locks on your doors and windows,” so to speak, you’re a sitting duck for a host of security issues that could bring your business to the ground.

“But my business is small/mostly offline/not in a typically lucrative industry. Do I still need network security then?”

Yes. Absolutely.

All businesses — no matter the industry or size — should have robust network security to protect their valuable IT data and network systems.

One thing to remember is that network security isn’t just to prevent hackers from stealing or corrupting your data. This is certainly a big issue that you want to prevent. However, network security also ensures business continuity.

Say, for example, a cybercriminal is able to hack your system but doesn’t obtain your data. That’s great, but they may have upended your network or impacted your ability to access your data for a time, which can severely impact your business productivity. Network security solutions incorporate data storage and critical backups that can be used if you lose access. These are crucial if you are ever hacked, but they are also useful if, for example, a technical problem crashes your system or a huge storm upsets your ability to access your network.

“What else can network security solutions do?”

Network security solutions can also improve your business’s performance. Managed service providers who know their industry inside and out have the best technologies at their disposal. Ideally, they also know your industry inside and out, so they can make recommendations on the best tools to enhance your productivity and ultimately, your profitability.

Finally, if you are in an industry that requires network security compliance (for example, if you are in possession of medical patient data or personal financial information), you already know that you need to abide by specific regulations in order to ensure personal privacy and data protection. Your managed service provider can help you establish compliance as well.

“Where should I go for the best network security solutions?”

It’s always good to look for a managed service provider in your specific industry. They’ll have experience with similar companies and be able to recommend the best technologies and security solutions for you and your company.

SOC 2 Type 1 vs. Type 2: Here Is What You Need To Know?

Cybersecurity continues to occupy a prominent spot in companies’ priority lists. As such, companies commit substantial amounts of money to bolster cyber defenses. Norton’s 2019 data breach report revealed that bad actors breached 4.1 billion records in the first half of the year.

Breaches can lead to significant reputational damage and financial losses. Hence, information security is a critical concern for organizations irrespective of whether they outsource IT functions or handle them internally. Thankfully, organizations can mitigate the risks by hiring service providers with a SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2 report.

Organizations need to understand the differences between SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2.

What is SOC 2?

Service organization control (SOC) 2 reports come in two types: Type 1 and 2. They form part of an auditing framework, which helps maximize data protection by ensuring that third-party service providers adhere to standard practices when handling clients’ sensitive information. Many organizations have a mandatory requirement for reports when hiring service providers. This approach safeguards data privacy and security.

What is SOC 2 Type 1?

A Type 1 report covers the relevance of design controls and a description of a service provider’s approach. On the other hand, the Type 2 report focuses on the effectiveness of a service organization’s controls.

One of the key aspects of Type 1 is that it considers the specifics of an approach or system based on a particular timeline. The auditor presents a detailed report ‘as of’ date after reviewing relevant documentation. Software as a service (SaaS) firms need to prove that they implement best practices.

In turn, the report confirms proof of compliance to the auditing process set out by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Service organizations derive a wide selection of benefits from obtaining the report. For instance, SaaS companies gain a competitive edge, and the report assures potential clients that the firm complies with AICPA procedures.

Small and large organizations need assurances that a service provider keeps their data safe. Working with a SOC 2-compliant vendor bolsters confidence, particularly for organizations handling sensitive customers’ financial or medical information. It is no surprise that there is an ever-increasing demand for SOC 2 Type 1 reports.

Service providers receive the report immediately after completing a readiness assessment. In contrast, the process of obtaining SOC 2 Type 1 reports takes up to 12 months.

What is SOC 2 Type 2?

Type 2 reports provide superior assurance regarding the compliance of service organizations.

Vendors undergo a comprehensive assessment than with SOC 2 Type 1. AICPA procedures for Type 2 cover a service provider’s internal control practices and policies.

Thus, vendors showcase the highest compliance level when it comes to data security and control systems. SOC 2 Type 2 compliance makes it easier for SaaS firms to work with larger corporations. Vendors adhere to the best practices regarding processing integrity, availability, data privacy, and security.

Although obtaining these reports can be time-consuming and relatively pricey, service providers can stand out from the competition.

Key differences between SOC 2 Type 1 vs. Type 2

The most obvious difference between the two reports is the duration of the assessment process. While Type 1 audits cover controls for a specific date, Type 2 audits encompass an extended period ranging between six and 12 months. The latter assesses operating effectiveness for the specified period.

Type 1 audits concentrate on the design effectiveness of a service provider’s controls. Additionally, auditors assess the applicability of the vendor’s internal controls. These measures should be sufficient to achieve specific objectives.

Vendors need to commit more time, effort, and resources to obtain the Type 2 report compared to Type 1. On the upside, the extra effort can prove worthwhile on the market. Companies are happy to work with vendors that take data security and privacy seriously. Likewise, insurance firms, partners, and other stakeholders can also find this approach appealing.

Closing Thoughts

In a nutshell, the two audits cover procedures and controls implemented by service providers to ensure data security and privacy. When it comes to differences, coverage timeline is the main factor that distinguishes one from the other. Although service organizations can skip Type 1 audits and start with Type 2, experts recommend going through Type 1 as the starting point.

Attempting to obtain the SOC 2 Type 2 without undergoing Type 1 can prove complicated. During the assessment process, your team will likely struggle to showcase controls and policies while demonstrating that the controls have been functioning effectively for a minimum of six months.

Undergoing the Type 1 audit undoubtedly prepares your team for the Type 2 audit. You get a feel of how the SOC assessment process works. It becomes easier to identify areas that require improvement. In addition, you can establish control objectives.

Can You Automatically Record Microsoft Teams Meetings?

If you’ve ever been annoyed by the fact that every time you start a new meeting with Microsoft Teams, you have to manually enable the program to record the meeting for later use, you’re not alone.

A quick Google search will show you that this question — and the frustration that goes along with it —is all over the Internet. Moreover, with Microsoft Teams being used more now than ever before because of COVID-19, the issue has become even more pressing.

The truth is most people who use Microsoft Teams want to be able to automatically record their meetings, and why wouldn’t they? Recorded meetings can be used for follow-up studying when teaching virtual classes, and they’re often needed for legal reasons in order to ensure industry compliance. Plus, some people just like to have their recorded meetings on file in case they need to go back and revisit a topic or concern that was already discussed.

So, let’s get to the question at hand: Can you automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings?

Well, you’re probably not going to like the answer we have for you.

If you’re looking for a way to automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings, you are unfortunately out of luck. Alternatively, you’re simply going to have to wait because this feature doesn’t currently exist.

Why Can’t You Automatically Record Microsoft Teams Meetings?

This is a question we can’t quite answer, but if you do ever find out the reason why Microsoft Teams has not allowed users to automatically record meetings, please let us know.

Otherwise, you’ll have to ask Microsoft and their engineers about it.

Manual Meeting Recording: The Struggle Is Real

Naturally, the fact that you can’t automatically record Microsoft Teams meetings is a problem for many people. Even though recording is still an option if you do it manually, it’s easy to forget to set this feature up before starting the meeting. When this happens, you’re completely out of luck. Indeed, there’s no way to go back in time and record a meeting that’s already happened.

The Internet at large is frustrated with this. Any company or individual user who uses Microsoft Teams on a regular basis has probably wondered about this feature. Many of these individuals and employees have voiced their concerns on Reddit and Microsoft Teams forums. You can find lengthy back-and-forths between everyone from tech experts and software engineers, to professionals and laypeople — all trying to figure out the best way to code in this feature or use a third-party program that will enable the automatic recording.

What Should You Do if You’re Frustrated by Teams’ Lack of Automatic Recording?

For many, the only alternative is to use a different video conferencing program like Zoom.

Zoom came on the scene relatively quickly after COVID-19 caused basically everyone to start working and video conferencing from home. Many people like its easy-to-use interface and modern features — one of which is the ability to automatically record meetings.

You can go into the settings on Zoom and predestine all video conferences, meetings, classes, and sessions to be recorded. Alternatively, you can choose only certain types of meetings, conferences, etc. to be recorded.

If you like Microsoft Teams, however, or if your company or organization uses Microsoft Teams and doesn’t want to change, there’s really nothing to be done right now. You simply have to wait for Microsoft to catch up and add this feature to the program. A few commenters have hinted that there’s talk of adding the auto-record feature at Microsoft. Unfortunately, nothing firm or official has been released as of now.

For most of us, therefore, we’ll probably just continue to leave sticky notes on our screens that read “don’t forget to record the meeting!” Until the next update … fingers crossed!

Has Your Organization Been Breached By Solarwinds Malware?

Although mainstream media coverage of the massive Solarwinds hack seems to indicate the danger is over, the sophisticated hackers may still be hiding in plain sight.

Microsoft recently uncovered at least three strands of malware deployed by the alleged Russian hackers. This new revelation raises alarms across industries that the Solarwinds attacks may not be over. The question business professionals need to be answered is whether their network has been breached and if cybercriminals are actively copying and selling digital assets on the dark web.

What Is The Solar Winds Hack?

Highly skilled cybercriminals reportedly penetrated a Solarwinds system known as “Orion.” These stealth hackers managed to insert malicious code into its software products that were inadvertently dispersed to the outfit’s 33,000 customers in the form of updates.

This code created secret backdoors that allow digital thieves and spies to infiltrate wide-reaching networks, including government agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and Treasury Department, among others. The so-called Solarwinds attacks were not limited to government targets. Malicious code has been identified in private sector organizations, and the full breadth of the cyberattacks remains unknown.

So pervasive and potentially destructive is the Solarwinds attack that congress held hearings to get a handle on its business and national security implications. Under intense questioning by lawmakers, an official from the Solarwinds reportedly blamed the breach on an intern who ignored the corporation’s cybersecurity protocols. According to news reports, the intern used the weak password “solarwinds123” and posted it online. Cybersecurity experts attribute upwards of 95 percent of breaches to human error.

Who Has Been Impacted By The Solarwinds Attacks?

To say the attacks blindsided private businesses and government agencies would be something of an understatement. Government-vetted firms such as FireEye were compromised due to the sophisticated methods used to hide the malicious code in software updates. The widespread embarrassment from organizations previously considered among the most secure has led many to believe critical information continues to be withheld. Much of the information released about the devastating breaches fails to identify the organizations that have been breached.

On the one hand, working with Solarwinds as a vendor or customer does not necessarily mean that an organization suffered a breach. But by that same token, the supply chain nature of the cyber-attack suggests that outfits outside direct Orion software users could be infected right now. That’s largely because congressional hearings and investigative reports indicate the hackers possess heightened skills, appear well-funded, and demonstrate a determination to hide in networks as long as possible to pilfer off digital assets and valuable personal data. Solarwinds appears to be an ongoing cybersecurity nightmare that should worry industry leaders.

How To Know If You Suffer A Solarwinds Breach?

As Microsoft and others continue to ferret out malicious strands of code, cybersecurity responses are being developed. Industry leaders who are concerned their organization may have been compromised enjoy access to open-sourced CodeQL queries. These are being rolled out by Microsoft to investigate incidents of Solarwinds Orion Malware laying hidden in networks.

Microsoft offers concerned parties free access to its cybersecurity software that was crafted to hunt down this malware. Decision-makers would also be wise to take the following proactive measures to ensure the integrity of their digital assets.

• Enforce Strong Password Policies
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication For Employee Login
• Backup Data To Cloud & Offline Resources
• Monitor Third-Party Controls & Interactions
• Develop A Company-Wide Cybersecurity Policy
• Require Employees To Undergo Cybersecurity Awareness Training
• Maintain Enterprise-Level Firewalls & Virtual Private Networks

The Solarwinds attack highlights how clever, well-financed hackers can infiltrate seemingly impenetrable defenses such as the Department of Homeland Security. That’s why it’s essential for organizations to harden their cybersecurity defenses and deter emerging threats. However, the average business with even sound cybersecurity protections in place was no match for these Russian hackers. If you are concerned your network has been compromised through the Solawinds supply chain or by other threat actors, contact a cybersecurity expert and have your system analyzed and penetration tested.

Inclusive Work Environment Is Vital for Digital Transformation

As an ever-increasing number of companies implement a digital transformation, decision-makers need to adopt viable ways to transition successfully. Creating an inclusive work environment is undoubtedly one of the best ways to achieve this objective. Many organizations find it easier to create the workplace of the future by embracing diversity.

In doing so, they create a people-centric, inclusive work environment that leverages digital solutions to supercharge efficiency and productivity. The best part is that such an environment is more likely to attract the best talent in various fields.

IT experts recommend keeping things simple and implementing changes incrementally. Critical aspects like employee well-being and mental health also play an integral role in bolstering inclusivity. This aspect is vital for remote work because many workers often feel stressed and grapple with concentration and motivation challenges.

Thus, managers and executives need to foster a workplace rooted in flexibility and empathy. Successful transitions require executives to adopt bold measures capable of driving meaningful change.

Inclusion as a Top Business Priority

Although many companies stepped up diversity and inclusion efforts, there is still considerable room for improvement. According to a recent diversity report, approximately three percent of Fortune 500 companies release diversity information. This figure shows that many organizations express interest in boosting inclusion and diversity, but progress is sluggish.

To implement meaningful changes, organizations should put in considerable effort. A diverse workforce enables companies to solve problems more effectively and enhance innovation.

Your organization should reinvent its talent pool by examining future staffing requirements from a digital transformation perspective. The future requires a more diverse workforce capable of handling challenges more dynamically. Pick a team that is ready to handle the current and future digital trends. Team members should bring considerable digital competencies.

Long-term success depends on strategies that enable your company to attract the right talent steeped in digital transformation. The new talent can help existing staff embrace digital transformation while transferring critical skills. Agile talent plays an essential role in preparing your organization for the future.

The Role of CIOs and HR Managers

Chief information officers and human resources managers play a pivotal role in implementing diversity and digital transformation plans. This dynamic duo needs to work closely to ensure that employee engagement, culture, and the work environment leverage technology.

Diversity and inclusion strategies share similarities with gamification, which empowers businesses to attract and retain highly skilled professionals. Human resources departments play a vital role in implementing gamification by embracing technology. This approach is also critical when it comes to digital transformation and diversity.

Hiring digitally inclined, diverse team members is more important than just following a trend. It represents a cultural shift capable of propelling your business to long-term success. Many business leaders, including CIOs and HR managers, boost their reputation by implementing successful diversity and digital transformation policies. The cultural revolution leads to improved operating efficiency, increased productivity, and higher profits.

To achieve overall success, you need to formulate viable plans. Furthermore, it is vital to outline timelines and milestones to help your team gauge the plan’s effectiveness.

Business Cases vs. Cultural Revolution

Many organizations grapple with the idea of justifying digital transformation and diversity initiatives based on specific business cases. In the end, some businesses struggle to make progress while trying to identify business cases. Thus, the process becomes a waste of time. Experts recommend skipping the business case and focus on the cultural evolution.

Understanding the role of diversity and inclusion in overall business success helps decision-makers concentrate on the ultimate prize. Digital transformation and an inclusive work environment represent the future of work. Your team does not need to make a business case since complex organizational structures and communication systems drive today’s corporate ecosystem.

Companies gain useful insights by tapping into analytics powered by augmented reality and artificial intelligence. Companies should focus on embracing this reality without making a business case. Digital transformation encompasses various aspects of customers’ and the workforce’s activities. On the other hand, transformation requires the support of a diverse workforce capable of making meaningful contributions.

Once you consider these two aspects, your team has proven a business case. Thus, eliminating the need to spend time deliberating the topic. Experts recommend getting on board or risk missing out on a significant opportunity for your company. Additionally, assess the downsides of diversity parity and the benefits of a digitally connected work environment.

Also, consider how the entire workforce and customers benefit from the initiative. The right decision does not depend on information in spreadsheets and presentations. Focus on the human aspects.

How To Have a Successful Zoom Call

When the world went into lockdown, it effectively shut down business for a little while. In the legal world, however, you can’t just stop. This led to law firms and courts using Zoom to conduct hearings and trials. Naturally, this caused some issues. If you are not comfortable with Zoom, you run the risk of making a fool of yourself unintentionally. Follow this guide to ensure your Zoom meeting goes off without a hitch.

Familiarize Yourself

The more you know about a product, the easier it is to use. This is true with Zoom. If you know you will have to do Zoom calls, you need to understand how to use the program. You DO NOT want to wait until the last minute and try to figure everything out. Zoom offers free, unlimited 45-minute sessions, so it is easy to go in to explore the options.

Audio and Video

When you are participating in a Zoom call, it is essential that you know how to turn your microphone on and off. When you turn on Zoom, it will prompt you to turn your volume on. You can turn it off by clicking on mute in the lower left-hand corner.

You will want to be muted whenever you are not talking, so any background noises you have are not disturbing the meeting. You will also want to make sure that you remember to unmute yourself every time you go to talk. A trick is to hold the spacebar down if you will only be speaking for a brief period.

You also want to be aware of how to turn the video on and off. When you enter the meeting, you will want your video to be on, and generally, it will stay on the entire time. However, if something comes up, and you don’t want your background showing for whatever reason, you can turn off your video by clicking stop video.

Background

Zoom has a background feature, and you can set virtually any image as your background. You can choose something as simple as a colored background, select an image on your device, or download premade zoom backgrounds and upload them.

You can set your background ahead of time by going into your zoom settings and selecting virtual background. You can also do it when you are in the meeting. If you click on the video arrow, you can choose the background and select an image there.

Sharing Screen

Depending on the settings of the person hosting the Zoom, you may have the ability to share your screen. You will want to try this out because you have to have the window you are trying to share actively open in order to share it. Otherwise, when you click on Screen Share, you won’t have access to that tab.

Screen share also has a whiteboard function. So you can essentially share a whiteboard and either write or type information on it. It will then display on everyone else’s screens who are in the Zoom.

Finally, you can also share multiple screens at the same time via the screen share option.

Waiting Room

If you are hosting a zoom, you will want to enable a waiting room. This means that anyone who enters your zoom link will be placed in a virtual waiting room and cannot enter until you allow them to. This is helpful because it allows you to control who does and does not enter the Zoom. It is common for people to try to “Zoom Bomb” meetings and do inappropriate things. With the waiting room, you can only let in people you know are supposed to be there.

Personal Meeting Room

If you will be hosting a lot of Zoom calls, you should set up a Personal Meeting Room. This is your own private zoom, and you can call it whatever you want. It starts with https://zoom.us/my/, and then you fill in how you want it to end. You will want to keep it simple, so people can easily remember it. Whenever you need to host a meeting, you open up your Zoom application and click start, and it will begin the Zoom. You can then let in anyone trying to access the Zoom.

Touch-Up

If you look exhausted or have poor lighting, you can use the touch-up feature to provide a soft-focus on your screen. This helps you look professional and polished in very little time. To access this feature, go to Zoom settings and then click video, and finally select touch-up my appearance.

Filters

Zoom does have a variety of filters you can use during your video call. To access them while in Zoom, click on the arrow next to the video icon and select filters. You can select any filter that is listed there. To turn the filter off, go back into the same area and click on none under filters.

Practice

Once you have played around with Zoom’s different features, set up a practice Zoom call with someone. It really does not matter who. Go through the different Zoom features while you are on the call, and make sure you know how to turn everything on AND off.

Zoom Master

It’s also a good idea to have someone in the company be a Zoom Master. This means they know Zoom inside and out, and if you are having any issues, you can call them to save the day. Make sure this person is always available during any Zoom calls, so you aren’t frantically trying to find someone to fix your issue.

If someone in your company isn’t willing to do this, reach out to your IT department and have them explain everything to you to make sure you have a thorough understanding of how everything works. If your IT department doesn’t do this for you, reach out to us, and we will be happy to help.

We want to help you with your technology needs. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Does Your Workforce Create Strong Passwords & Have a Plan B Cybersecurity Defense?

As the old saying goes, “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” Unfortunately, the new saying is that a business network is only as secure as its employees’ passwords.

Despite widespread knowledge that hackers exploit weak passwords to breach entire systems, trusted workers still use ones that are easy to guess at and repeat them across platforms. If that seems counterintuitive, business leaders may want to consider these statistics.

• The two most commonly used passwords remain “iloveyou” and “sunshine.”
• Approximately 23 million people use the password “123456.”
• More than half of workforces use the same password for personal and business purposes.
• Upwards of 57 percent of phishing email scam victims do not change their password.
• One-third of people stop doing business with organizations responsible for compromising their credentials.

What seems stunningly illogical about rampant password protection failures stems from this statistic: Approximately 90 percent of internet users say they are worried about getting hacked due to a compromised password. Industry leaders may be left scratching their heads. But as a decision-maker responsible for ensuring the integrity of digital assets, something needs to be done. You can set company policy that educates team members about how to create and remember strong network passwords. If that doesn’t work, there’s always Plan B.

How To Educate Employees About Strong Passwords

Getting workers to create powerfully secure passwords may not be that difficult. Insisting on a series of unrelated letters, numbers, and characters will fend off most hackers. On the other hand, team members will likely lose productivity, resetting a difficult-to-remember login profile. Fortunately, a happy medium can be achieved without too much difficulty.

Passwords do not necessarily need to be obscure. They just need to be difficult for hackers to unveil. A password employing 8-10 characters can be hard to crack if done cleverly. For example, the too common “iloveyou” can be tweaked to “iLuv2Make$,” which could be a tough one. That’s largely because it uses untraditional “Luv” in place of the spelled-out word, employs uppercase letters, a symbol, and a number. All an employee has to do is remember the phrase “I Love To Make Money” as a trigger.

Repeated passwords also need to be addressed. Consider training those under your leadership to make variations on one primary password. In this case, it could include “uLuv2Make$2” or “iH82owe$.”

It’s also important to share the reason that complex passwords are necessary. Hackers have a toolkit at their disposal that typically includes brute-force and dictionary techniques. When brute-force attacks try to run every conceivable combination of letters and characters possible. This tends to be time-consuming, and digital thieves are likely to give up when faced with strong passwords. Dictionary attacks run common words at the profile. If your worker’s password is “sunshine,” consider your network breached.

How Can Business Leaders Implement a Plan B?

Practical business leaders learn that human error ranks among the top reason things go sideways. Cybercriminals send out thousands of scam emails, knowing someone will open one, download a malicious file, or respond with critical information. Someone will make a mistake. Given that your financial future can be one mistake away from ruin, organizations are using multi-factor authentication as a fallback defense.

Multi-factor authentication requires employees to receive and enter a secondary code before gaining access to the network. This may be sent to another device that hackers cannot access. In some instances, an email alert is sent that must be approved. Even if someone foolishly uses “password123,” a cybercriminal would still need to know the authentication code or approve login access to upend your network.

If you are concerned about password security, consider working with a managed IT professional to educate employees about password protection, and install multi-factor authentication just in case.

What Is PCI Compliance?

You’re probably reading this because you looked up information on PCI compliance. This article explores how you can meet PCI requirements and secure your clients’ sensitive cardholder data.

Today’s business world is highly regulated, and while this has its upsides, there is a great deal of pressure on businesses to stay compliant with all the relevant standards. If your business processes, stores, or transmits credit card information, you need to ensure you meet all the PCI requirements.

PCI non-compliance poses a frightening host of risks such as:

• Compromised data that can harm your clients and business
• A severely damaged brand image
• Account data breaches that could result in lower sales, and destroyed relationships
• Lawsuits, government fines, insurance claims, payment card issuer fines

If you aren’t PCI compliant, don’t panic just yet. Our team has assembled this article to share what you need to start your journey towards PCI compliance. Let’s first define some important terms.

What Is PCI Compliance?

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) is a set of requirements designed to create a secure data environment for any business that processes, stores, or transmits credit card information. It’s a legal requirement and assigns two compliance levels for service providers (third-party vendors) and four for merchants (brands). Behind its launch in 2006 was the need to manage PCI security standards and bolster account security throughout the transaction process.

What Is PCI DSS?

The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI DSS) is an independent body that administers and manages the PCI DSS. It was created by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and Discover. However, the responsibility of enforcing compliance falls on the payment brands and acquirers.

How Can You Achieve PCI Compliance?

PCI compliance involves consistently adhering to the PCI Security Standards Council’s guidelines (PCI DSS). PCI DSS has the following six major objectives:

1. Maintain a vulnerability management program
2. Build and maintain a secure network and systems
3. Regularly monitor and test networks
4. Protect cardholder data
5. Maintain an information security policy
6. Implement strong access control measures

Apart from 78 base requirements and over 400 test procedures, PCI compliance also has 12 key requirements.

What Are the 12 Key PCI DSS Compliance Requirements?

1. Use and Maintain Firewalls: Firewalls are highly effective in preventing unauthorized access to private information.
2. Proper Password Protections: We recommend keeping a secure device/password inventory and implementing basic precautions like regularly changing passwords.
3. Protect Cardholder Data: By encrypting data and performing regular scans to ensure no unencrypted data exists.
4. Encrypt Transmitted Data: Even data sent to known locations need to be encrypted.
5. Use and Maintain Anti-Virus: This is required for all devices that interact with primary account numbers (PAN).
6. Properly Updated Software: This includes firewalls, antiviruses, and any other piece of software.
7. Restrict Data Access: Cardholder information should be exclusively “need to know.”
8. Unique IDs for Access: These enhance security and reduce response time in case data is compromised.
9. Restrict Physical Access: Cardholder data needs to be kept in a secure physical location and access locked.
10. Create and Maintain Access Logs: You must document any activity involving cardholder information and PAN.
11. Scan and Test for Vulnerabilities: This will help you identify potential weaknesses at any stage of your compliance efforts.
12. Document Policies: Everything needs to be recorded, from equipment to software to authorized employees to access logs, and so on.

Need Reliable IT Support with PCI Compliance?

Our experienced team is eager to help your organization achieve PCI compliance and safeguard your sensitive cardholder data.

Contact us now to schedule your first PCI compliance consultation.

Getting Started With Microsoft Teams?

What drives workplace performance? A few years ago, a Stanford study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology suggested that workplace performance was driven by collaboration. In fact, just the thought of collaboration was enough to improve performance. One interesting statistic: 64% of employees working collaboratively had higher success rates than those working independently.

So, what drives successful collaboration? It’s the people collaborating as much as it’s the program used to facilitate collaboration. A program that cultivates different ways to communicate, share, and grow is fundamental to success. Microsoft Teams has been proving to be critical to this end. Here’s how you get started using it.

What Is Microsoft Teams?

Microsoft Teams is a Microsoft 365 tool that allows you to meet, chat, call, and collaborate with anyone and everyone in the workplace and beyond. Microsoft Teams is more than a collaboration tool but an inclusive program with tools to create “teams” of people and content. It’s where Slack and Zoom meet, plus much more.

Though Microsoft Teams is rather new, launched in 2017, its growth has been exceptional––a testament to its unique and handy features. The number of daily active users, according to Statista, has doubled this year, “from 32 million users on March 12, 2019, to 75 million as of April 30, 2020.” Part of the growth is driven by the coronavirus pandemic but much of it, too, is simply based on the quality of the program.

How Do You Get Started with Microsoft Teams?

To get started with Microsoft Teams, you must be a cloud-based Microsoft 365 suite customer––the program is included free of charge though you can upgrade it for a fee and receive much more in the way of features.

An Overview of the Free Version of Microsoft Teams

The features included in the free version of Microsoft Teams include:

• The ability to involve up to 500,000 members (per organization)
• File storage of up to 2 GB per user and 10 GB of shared storage
• The ability to allow guests access to the program
• Person-to-person and group online audio and video calls and channel meetings
• Unlimited chat messaging
• Unlimited searches
• Background blue on video calls (to protect privacy)
• Channel meetings––these are the groups you create
• The ability to shared screens during video-conferences and chats
• The ability to schedule meetings

Microsoft Teams is also thoroughly integrated with most other Microsoft Programs, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, OneNote, Planner (Tasks), Microsoft Lists, and Power BI. So, if your company already benefits from Microsoft 365 (or wants to start benefiting from it), it’s time to start incorporating Microsoft Teams.

An Overview of the Paid Version of Microsoft Teams

The paid version of Microsoft Teams includes all of the above and much more.

• Scheduled meetings that are integrated with your company’s Exchange calendar
• The ability to involve potentially unlimited members with an enterprise license
• File storage of up to 1 TB per user
• The ability to record the meeting (available with Microsoft Stream)
• The ability to make phone calls and/or audio-conferencing
• The ability to host online events for up to 10,000 participants
• Cool first line worker features, like Shifts, Walkie Talkie, and more
• A set of useful administration tools, like:
  • Tools to manage users and apps
  • Usage reporting fro Microsoft 365 services
  • 99.9% financially-backed SLA uptime
  • User settings that are configurable and customizable.
• 24/7 phone and web support
• Additional compliance and security features

Recommended Steps to Get Started with Microsoft Teams

You may be anxious to get started with Microsoft Teams today and, as a consequence, may want to ditch the other programs you have. But you should roll out the new program with a plan, not as a knee-jerk decision.

It’s recommended that you:

1. Prepare to sample Microsoft Teams by preparing your network, including licenses for all participants and configurations for Microsoft 365 or Offie 365 domain, Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and OneDrive for Business
2. Create a few teams and channels (two or three). For the sake of clarity, a team is the group of people assigned to one goal while a channel is the collaboration space within the team where members get the work done.
3. Select a small group of people to use these teams and channels.
4. Install both the desktop and mobile applications so that both experience and feedback are comprehensive.
5. Monitor the members’ usage and analyze their feedback.
6. Create a plan based on this data to roll out the program to everyone in the organization.

Starting small means you can “test” it out on certain members of your company and get a good feel of the program and all that it has to offer. This process will also provide insight into how Teams work but also how to deploy the program across the whole of your company.

Why Choose Microsoft Teams?

It’s not about choice but about performance. Today, we need tools that are functional, strategic, and cost-effective. Microsoft Teams offer these things and more. For example, rather than having to spend all morning sorting through emails that are related to a number of different projects, Teams cuts out this mindless work for you by sorting information into the appropriate channels, so all messages related to the one project are already there within the work station of that one project.

Also, as work spaces diversifyy and grow, Teams promote transparency. It can be a huge challenge to keep all employees or the relevant employees updated on what’s going on organization-wide or project-specific. Teams keep everyone in the loop and minimize the need for excessive and redundant emails. As such, employees can focus more on getting work done then spending time trying to figure out how to get the work done. Teams is essentially a way to optimize productivity.

To get started on Microsoft Teams, get Microsoft Office 365. If you already have it, then download the program and start implementing the benefits of it today.