It is unfortunate how often hackers utilize our simple systems for evil. If it weren’t for hackers, we could have the same password for every login, use the same email for personal and work, and use macros in Microsoft applications! Unfortunately, this isn’t the case because hackers really do use our simple systems for their attacks. As hackers’ skills continually impact how businesses operate, we have to up our defensive computer support.

Most recently, hackers have been using macros on Microsoft applications to disable security warnings and wreak havoc. It begins with a seemingly non-malicious phishing email featuring an attached document. Once the document is opened, if macros are allowed (or the user enables it, not knowing the repercussions), the macro code will be executed, stealing the user’s login, admin credentials, and data. Within moments, hackers can get to your entire network! If you don’t have IT support services already, you will after that attack!

To prevent this, use reliable anti-malware software, scan for malicious links, and in general, do not enable macros. Why such a blanket statement? Because the seemingly non-malicious emails are outside the skill set of anti-malware and anti-virus.

What if macros are one way your team handles project management? We recognize utilizing macros is a convenient tool to accomplish Microsoft tasks with a single command. It certainly increases productivity and saves you time! Thankfully, we have a solution for your small business.

As your outsourced IT support, we can allow clients to still use macros while protecting against hackers. We establish a trusted location within your network to allow necessary documents to run the tool. Said network location will only house and run trusted documents. These preventative measures save you from data loss and save money on disaster recovery. It is a system we use ourselves!

Lastly, if you’d like to protect your network even more so from what anti-malware and anti-virus cannot catch, our IT support Security Package features 24/7 monitoring of your network and Office 365, utilizing AI to detect suspicious activity. As an IT support company, we promise to not only tell you what to worry about but also provide the means to protect you from it. That way, you can take care of your business, while we take care of your IT!