January 2025 Newsletter
Car dealerships across New York are now required to meet new compliance standards set forth by the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Safeguards Rule. This federal regulation mandates stricter security protocols to protect customer data, directly impacting how car dealerships operate in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and beyond. Non-compliance comes with hefty penalties—up to $50,000 per violation—making it essential for dealerships to understand and adhere to these requirements.
Here’s a closer look at the key aspects of the FTC Safeguards Rule and how car dealerships in Western New York can stay compliant.
How Is Your Cybersecurity Game? Must-Know Tips for 2025
Strengthen your passwords. Think of passwords as the locks protecting your digital life—make them strong and unique.
Keep your software updated. Software updates are like vaccinations for your devices—they protect you from the latest threats.
Enable two-factor authentication. Adding this extra layer of security is like installing a second lock on your door.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi. Using public Wi-Fi without precautions is like having a private conversation in a loud, crowded room—anyone could be listening.
Spot phishing scams. Watch out for fake emails and messages—it’s like avoiding a con artist trying to reel you in.
Back up your data. Regularly saving copies of your files is like keeping duplicates of critical documents in a safe place.
Review privacy settings. Your privacy settings act like shades for your windows, giving you control over what others can see.
Educate your family on cybersecurity. Teaching good cyber practices is like showing kids how to cross the street safely—everyone benefits.
Stay proactive and protect your digital footprint in 2025!
Catch of the Month: Fake Ticket Scams
Buffalo Bills fans are some of the most passionate in the league, but with the excitement of game day comes the risk of fake ticket scams. Scammers prey on eager fans by selling counterfeit tickets through unofficial websites, social media, or online marketplaces. These fake tickets can leave fans disappointed at the gates and out of pocket.
How to Defend Yourself:
- Buy from Verified Sellers: Purchase tickets only from official team websites or trusted platforms like Ticketmaster or StubHub.
- Watch for Red Flags: Be cautious of deeply discounted prices or sellers pressuring you to act fast—these are common scam tactics.
- Verify Before You Buy: Check the ticket details, seller reviews, and transaction terms before committing to a purchase.
- Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid paying with cash, gift cards, or wire transfers. Stick to secure methods like credit cards or PayPal.
By staying alert and using trusted sources, you can ensure your game day experience is all about celebrating the Bills—and not falling victim to scams.
Live Training for Leaders: How to Use Copilot in Teams
Wed, February 5th @ 12 PM
Boost productivity with Microsoft Copilot by simplifying meetings, streamlining chats, automating tasks, and enhancing collaboration with AI-powered efficiency.
First Line of Defense Against AI Attacks
Learn to identify critical AI attack vectors, like adversarial attacks and data poisoning, and use tools like anomaly detection to enhance cybersecurity. Train your team as the first line of defense to mitigate AI security risks effectively.
How to Implement AI Securely in Your Business
Master the strategic deployment of AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot across your team to enhance business processes. Learn to use the right prompts for optimal results and implement key strategies to securely integrate AI, safeguarding your business from cyber threats.
MVP In The Community
We’re excited to make a difference in the Western New York community by supporting The Ronald McDonald House. By preparing meals for their guests, we’re helping to bring a little comfort to families when they need it most. It’s just one way we’re proud to give back and show we care.