October 2024 Newsletter

Cybersecurity incidents are constantly making headlines. Organizations everywhere are reacting by investing heavily in security solutions. But here’s the real question: Are you truly protecting your company, or are you wasting money on ineffective, generalized cybersecurity measures?

Far too often, businesses are quick to implement a one-size-fits-all approach to security. But not every asset in your organization has the same value, so why treat them all equally? Would you use an expensive vault to secure something of minimal value? Of course not. The same logic should apply to your cybersecurity investments. Each asset needs a customized approach to security that fits its value and risk profile.

As an executive, you may think cybersecurity is an IT problem, but in reality, it’s a critical business decision that demands your attention. Protecting the company’s digital assets starts with understanding their value to the business, not just slapping on security measures indiscriminately.

Key Settings to Optimize Your Microsoft 365 Use

Microsoft 365 offers a wide array of features, but to truly harness its potential, it's important to fine-tune the settings. Here are some practical ways to optimize your Microsoft 365 experience for better efficiency and security:

Streamline Email with Outlook Tools
- Enable Focused Inbox: This feature helps you prioritize your inbox by filtering out less important emails, making it easier to focus on what matters.
- Create Organizational Rules: Set up custom rules to automatically sort emails into folders or mark them as read, reducing inbox clutter.
Boost Team Collaboration with Microsoft Teams
- Organize Conversations with Channels: Structure your team discussions by creating channels dedicated to specific topics, projects, or departments.
- Tailor Notifications: Customize your notification preferences in Settings to ensure you stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
- Use Tabs for Fast Access: Add tabs for frequently used documents, apps, or websites within Teams to streamline your workflow.
Safeguard Your Data
- Implement Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Policies: Set up DLP policies to detect and protect sensitive information from breaches.
- Secure Mobile Devices: Ensure that mobile devices accessing Microsoft 365 are secure by using Microsoft Business Premium and managing them with Intune.
Personalize SharePoint for Better Organization
- Utilize Document Libraries: Set up document libraries in SharePoint to keep files organized, with separate libraries for different teams or projects.
- Leverage Site Templates: Use pre-built templates for team or project sites to simplify the setup process and ensure consistency.
Enhance OneDrive Productivity
- Sync Files for Offline Access: Enable offline syncing in OneDrive so important files remain accessible without internet connectivity.
- Use Version History: OneDrive's version history feature allows you to recover previous versions of documents, which can be a lifesaver in the event of data loss or ransomware attacks.
Take Advantage of Advanced Features
- Automate Workflows with Power Automate: Use Power Automate to create workflows that handle repetitive tasks, saving time and boosting efficiency.
- Analyze Data with Power BI: Connect Power BI to your Microsoft 365 apps to build interactive reports and gain insights from your data.
- Leverage Copilot for AI Assistance: Microsoft’s Copilot, powered by AI, can significantly speed up various tasks, making your workflows more efficient.

Catch of the Month: QR Code Scams in Unsolicited Packages

Scammers are sending packages or "gifts" through the mail that contain a QR code. The package looks innocent, but scanning the code allows the scammer to gain access to your phone, exposing personal data like bank details, contacts, and more.

How to Defend Yourself:

Do NOT scan QR codes from unknown packages.
Report any suspicious deliveries to local authorities or the postal service.
Always be cautious when receiving unexpected items, even if they seem legitimate.

Stay vigilant and protect your data!

Source: https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/beware-of-new-scam-involving-unsolicited-packages-qr-codes-inside#:~:text=If%20you%20do%20scan%20it,this%20new%20scam%20is%20concerning.