Green Bee 3

Have you heard? WhatsApp has a new update for Windows 11 (and 10). It brings some cool features, making it more adaptable and user-friendly on your desktop. There’s an adaptive interface, which hides the contacts list, giving the chat window full screen when needed. This makes reading and replying to messages easier, especially when you’re multitasking. WhatsApp's got a new pop-up chat feature, that lets you focus on individual conversations in separate windows. And there’s a new hamburger menu that keeps your contacts, statuses, and settings just a click away (it’s rumored to pave the way for exciting Meta AI integrations). But here’s the catch: While these updates are great for personal use, I need to remind you that WhatsApp isn’t the best tool for all your business communication - especially when discussing sensitive information. Even with its end-to-end encryption, it isn’t tailored for business needs or data protection standards required in certain industries. Its features are great for quick chats but it lacks the controls and integrations that business-specific platforms offer. If you’re handling sensitive data or need more robust communication tools, consider switching to a platform like Microsoft Teams. This is designed with business security and productivity in mind, offering features like larger group meetings, file storage, and more detailed user permissions. What do you use for internal communication in your business right now? #WhatsApp #NewUpdate #MicrosoftTeams https://lnkd.in/enNg-t66

Another new Android malware is stealing passwords and sensitive information. I’m sure you’re as sick of these new scams as I am. This malware is masquerading as popular apps like Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp, among others. So it’s important you know how to protect your business and personal data from these threats. Cyber criminals are creating fake apps that look just like the real deal. Once downloaded, these apps ask for permissions that let them take over your device. They can read your messages, access call logs, and worst of all, direct you to phishing sites to steal your login details. Imagine opening what looks like a legitimate app, and without realizing it, you've handed over the keys to your digital life. It’s easy to overlook the importance of app security, especially when you're running a business. But make sure you and your team are aware of the risks, and are cautious about what you download (and from where!). These are the red flags to watch for: - Unsolicited advice to download apps via email, text, or social media - Apps asking for unnecessary permissions - Apps not available on official app stores but offered via direct downloads Need a hand making sure your devices are secure? My team can help - get in touch. #CyberSecurity #Android #FakeApps https://lnkd.in/es76huRX

Here’s a hair-raising fact for you: Last year, major sectors including finance, IT, industry, and government, experienced more than two critical security incidents daily. Yes, you read that right: Every. Day. What's even more alarming? Nearly a quarter of these were inadvertently enabled by people, with attackers using methods like phishing (where they trick you into clicking malicious links) and exploiting remote services to sneak into systems. Attackers are getting smarter, using everyday tools on your computer to carry out what's known as 'living-off-the-land' attacks. They manipulate accounts and software vulnerabilities, and even trick employees into giving them access. The faster these incidents are reported, the quicker they can be stopped. On average, severe issues were reported in about 36 minutes – that's quick, but every second counts. Despite a drop in high-severity incidents, the risk hasn't decreased. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and damaging. It's crucial to not just have cyber security protection but to make sure it’s managed by experienced professionals. Automated tools are great, but I believe human expertise is irreplaceable for spotting and stopping the smartest attacks. As always, my advice is to 1) make sure everyone on your team knows the basics of cyber security, 2) have experts monitor your systems (my team can help with this), and 3) to keep your software up to date to avoid vulnerabilities. Get in touch if I can help you. #BusinessSecurity #CyberAware #TechHelp https://lnkd.in/ezdBYBxM

Microsoft is rolling out an update for OneDrive on the web, which you may be interested in - I certainly was. OneDrive offline mode is designed specifically for work (and school). As the name suggests, it allows you to access your important files even when you're offline. No internet? No problem! With this feature, you can open files marked as available offline, navigate to favorite files, and explore the home section of OneDrive, regardless of your connection. You can also perform essential file operations like renaming, sorting, moving, and copying, all without an internet connection. And the best part? Once you're back online, everything syncs up automatically. Microsoft has also supercharged the performance of OneDrive, delivering up to 3x faster loading times for viewing and interacting with files, whether you're online or offline. How? It’s all thanks to the magic of offline mode and the intelligent OneDrive Sync app, which cleverly stores a cache of your files' metadata locally. This feature is already available for Microsoft 365 business accounts. Just ensure you have the latest OneDrive sync app for Windows or macOS, and you're all set for the ultimate offline experience. And if that wasn't enough, this new offline mode perfectly complements the existing Files On-Demand feature, giving you even more control over your files. Now you can select files to always be available on your computer directly from your browser. How much of a productivity boost will this give you and your team? #Microsoft #OneDrive #OfflineMode https://lnkd.in/dCiPDvCX

It seems like BitLocker, Microsoft's software that protects your computer with encryption, might be causing a stir – and not in a good way. Windows 11's upcoming 24H2 update could be auto-enabling BitLocker during installation, even for people who might not want or need it. Why should you care? There are a few reasons… BitLocker encryption can put the brakes on your PC's performance, slowing it down by up to 45%. How? Windows 11 is constantly juggling encryption and decryption processes with your data, which can really affect your computer's speed. There is a silver lining. You can easily disable auto encryption by toggling off Device Encryption in your Privacy & Security settings. It's a simple fix that can save you a headache down the road. Of course, encryption is a great security tool, and one that you should consider implementing if you haven’t already. The trick is to choose the right encryption for your business, without compromising your devices’ speed. My team and I can help. Get in touch. #Microsoft #Windows11 #BitLocker https://lnkd.in/eQZVaCcb

You know what they say about all work and no play, right? Well, LinkedIn just announced the launch of a lineup of thinking-oriented games. Looking for a quick mental break between meetings or a fun way to unwind after a long workday? Look no further. These games are not just about entertainment; they're designed to give your brain a workout while developing connections with friends, colleagues, and business partners. LinkedIn has integrated games, knowledge, and news on its platform. From logic puzzles to word associations, there's something for everyone… * Pinpoint It: Can you guess the common category of five hidden words with only one revealed at a time? Challenge yourself to guess the category with as few reveals as possible. * Queens: Test your logic skills by placing queens on a grid so that each column, row, and region has only one queen without them touching each other. * Crossclimb: Combine trivia and word puzzles to fill out a crossword and word ladder. Rearrange words so that each word in the ladder differs by only one letter. These games, crafted by top puzzle makers Paolo Pasco and Thomas Snyder, are perfect for fitting into your busy work schedule. And the best part? They're not just for fun, they can also help you build deeper connections with other professionals. After playing, you can see which of your connections have participated, sparking opportunities to reconnect. Will you give these games a try? And would you encourage your team to do the same? #LinkedIn #BrainTraining #MentalBreak https://lnkd.in/gH82RpKE

Did you know that on this day back in 1946, something totally revolutionary happened in the world of audio? It's the anniversary of the first-ever demonstration of high-fidelity tape recording. Picture this: Jack Mullin, an electrical engineer (and all-round cool guy) wowed a crowd of fellow engineers in San Francisco with his new invention. Mullin used a German gadget called the AEG Magnetophon audiotape recorder (which he snagged as a 'war souvenir'), and refined the electronics using American technology. He then showed off the magic of tape recording, making a jazz band sound like they were playing live right there in the room. Fast forward to 1947, and Mullin's talents catch the attention of none other than Bing Crosby's tech team. They were on a mission to jazz up Crosby's radio show with some top-notch audio quality, and Mullin was just the man for the job. With Mullin's expertise and a little help from the folks at Ampex, they whipped up the legendary Ampex Model 200A – a game-changer in the recording industry. And the rest, as they say, is history. Ampex went on to win a Technical Grammy Award, and the world of music was never the same again. Who knew that a little tape and some creative tinkering could revolutionize the way we listen to music? It makes you wonder what technological advancements are yet to come our way. Any guesses? #TechHistory #HiFiTape #AudioTech https://lnkd.in/gGZ9_hMA

What’s your browser of choice? If you don’t say Microsoft Edge, I might be about to change your mind, because it just got even better. The latest version is here, and it's packed with some cool new features that'll make your browsing experience smoother than ever. First up, Edge now comes equipped with a built-in internet speed test tool. No more guessing whether or not your connection is fast – just a quick click, and you'll know if you're cruising at top speed or if it's time to call your internet provider. It's nestled right in your sidebar toolbox for easy access alongside utilities like a calculator, translator, and unit converter. This latest update also patches up a couple of security vulnerabilities, keeping you and your business safer. How do you get things rolling? Microsoft Edge takes care of business with automatic updates in the background. But if you're itching to get your hands on the latest and greatest right this minute, just head over to your Edge settings and hit the refresh button. #TechUpgrade #MicrosoftEdge #SpeedTest https://lnkd.in/gRMk5i-t

Uh oh, there’s another new type of malware on the prowl, and it's got your business's routers in its sights. Let me introduce you to 'Cuttlefish', the latest troublemaker. This little menace sneaks into your routers, sets up a secret tunnel (kind of like a VPN, but way more sinister), and starts stealing sensitive data like your login credentials. How does it work? Well, it's either exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities (new bugs that no-one has yet come across or started fixing) or straight-up brute-forcing its way into your routers. Once inside, it's game over for your privacy. Cuttlefish slips past security measures like a ninja, making it a nightmare to detect. Here are some quick tips to keep your routers locked down tight: * Make your password more secure. No more 'password123,' okay? * Keep your routers updated * Block remote access to your router's management interface * Stay vigilant for any logins from unknown sources * Encrypt your traffic * Inspect your devices for any unknown admin accounts If you’re in doubt or you simply want to check your security is good, my team can help. Get in touch. #CyberSecurity #Malware #routers https://lnkd.in/gnsb9zv6

Here’s some good news from Microsoft: They've just dropped new updates for File Explorer and Task Manager in the latest Insider Preview Build of Windows 11. File Explorer is getting a facelift. Microsoft's heard your complaints and they're saying goodbye to clunky navigation. Now, you can duplicate tabs with a simple right-click, making it simple to juggle multiple folders at once. No more third-party tools needed. They've taken care of the memory leaks that slow things down when you're digging through archive folders. And they've fine-tuned the spacing between your desktop icons - plus supercharged the search function for much faster results. Task Manager hasn’t been left out either. Microsoft's rolled out a load of updates to make it faster, more reliable, and easier to use. You'll now get clearer information when looking into your system's performance. They've addressed an issue where the Safely Remove Hardware option wouldn't function if Task Manager was open. Plus, they've made it quicker than ever to sort, prioritize and manage your tasks. These updates aren't just about making things look pretty… they're about making your life easier. Microsoft's laser-focused on refining the Windows 11 experience and making sure it works like a dream. While these updates are currently only available in the Windows Insider Preview program, the stable version release will be heading our way in the coming months. #Microsoft #FileExplorer #TaskManager https://lnkd.in/dx5H3bWk