Please join us for an informative and valuable presentation on physical and data security topics by former regulators from the Ohio State Attorney General and Auditor Offices. The event provides an excellent platform for participants to exchange ideas and share experiences on security issues that face local government.

This half day seminar will feature a key note presentation from Former Wood County Prosecutor, State Attorney General and Auditor Betty Montgomery, with other informative presentations from past Senior Regulators, State Consumer Protection Section and a City Magistrate. The last presentation of the day will feature an IT security systems engineer that will discuss the most current events and threat recognition.

Click here to register, or for more information

In today’s electronic age, email communication has become the norm both professionally and personally. It’s quick, allows for conversations involving many people, keeps records of exchanges, and can accommodate any schedule. But with these many conveniences, come dangers as well. Users must beware of email scams. Designed to obtain your personal information, these messages often pose as legitimate emails. So, to help protect you from identity theft (and obnoxious spam!), here are five signs of a scam from Microsoft for online safety.

1. The email uses a generic greeting. A salutation like “Dear Customer” indicates that the sender does not know you, and therefore should not be trusted.
2. The message uses alarming or urgent statements requiring an immediate response. If you don’t reply within an abbreviated period, the email threatens dire consequences.
3. You are asked to provide sensitive information. This can be personal information, (like usernames, passwords, your residence, social security number, or date of birth) or financial information (like credit card or bank account numbers). Never give out identifying information through unsolicited contact.
4. Errors in spelling and grammar. These can include minor variations of an actual web address, called typosquatting or URL hijacking.
5. Discrepancies in outbound links. The message is from one address, but uses another address as the recipient. Or the message body includes a link, but the link text does not match the destination (you can check this by hovering your cursor over the link, or by right-clicking on the link and choosing Properties). These sorts of bait and switch methods

Once you’ve identified a message as spam, do not reply to it (even to unsubscribe). And remember to never open a suspicious attachment. Always practice discretion and caution online, and take steps to protect your personal information!  

Here’s a fantastic article by Business First on local non-profits utilizing the power of social media. Social media gives consumers and organizations a chance to carry on spontaneous, real-time conversations. It can generate free publicity while simultaneously connecting you to potentially exponential audiences. Non-profit organizations are particularly well situated to benefit from social media usage, since social media works best when it’s personable. There are tons of excellent resources available online too, to help you get started. As long as your content is interesting and your online presence is engaging, it’s hard to go awry. Your success is really up to you!

So check out this article, and be sure to start using these great free tools if you’re not already.

Do you or your organization use Twitter? A popular online platform for micro-blogging, Twitter allows for tiny posts of 140 characters or less, called “tweets.” Whether you’re a tech-savvy business looking to utilize Twitter’s social media power, or you’re an individual looking to interact with the online community and promote yourself professionally, Twitter can be a powerful tool. To be sure you’re maximizing your Twitter’s potential, know your terms and follow these basics. 

Terms

Followers – These are the people subscribed to your feed. They can see all of your tweets. If your profile is locked, only accepted followers can see your tweets; if your profile is unlocked, then all of your tweets are public.

Following – These are the people that you are subscribed to. You can see their tweets in your home feed, or by clicking on their profile. If their profile is locked, then you can only see their tweets if they have accepted your follow request.

@Username – Using @ in front of a username allows you to mention someone or reply to someone on Twitter. By using @, you can carry on conversations via Twitter, or direct attention to a person, event, or information.

RT – This is a retweet; it’s a re-post of someone else’s tweet. RT precedes the tweet you are reposting. When retweeting, you should also mention (@username) the original author of the tweet. RT is a way of spreading information and giving credit.

#topic – Hashtags are a way to categorize your tweets. You can then follow a specific keyword #topic using Twitter’s search engine.

Basics

1. Publicize your Twitter profile. Include a link to your Twitter in your email signature. Put a Twitter badge on your site. Let people know that you’re on Twitter! Visitors to your website and frequent email correspondents are likely interested in you or your services and products already. Why not capitalize on these contacts?
2. Personalize your Twitter profile. Fill out your bio. Add a profile picture. Customize your profile (colors and background). Start tweeting! Think quality over quantity.
3. Get involved. Twitter is about maintaining a dialogue. Ask questions, answer questions. Get and give referrals. Use a mix of interactions to keep your Tweets interesting; from retweets, to @replies, #topics to links, and original content. Avoid the temptation to over-promote yourself. Like in any conversation, one-sided chatter is boring, and you’ll lose followers. So keep it interesting.

Twitter offers a lot of different opportunities for meaningful interaction. Use Twitter to network, to track topics and keywords, to publicize announcements and events (like seminars or job openings), and to increase traffic. Keep these guidelines in mind, and have fun. Happy tweeting!

Follow CSC on Twitter.

By following a few simple guidelines, you can maintain your computer and keep it running smoothly and at top speed. There are tools available in Windows 7, Vista, and XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) to help efficiently maintain your computer and protect your privacy when you're online.

One: Free up disk space.

By using the Disk Cleanup tool you can free up space on your hard disk to improve the performance of your computer. The tool identifies files that you can safely delete, and then allows you to choose whether you want to delete some or all of the identified files. Typically, temporary Internet files take the most amount of space because the browser caches each page you visit for faster access later.

Two: Speed up access to data.

Disk fragmentation slows the overall performance of your computer. When files are fragmented, the computer must search the hard disk when the file is opened to piece it back together. The response time can be significantly longer. Disk Defragmenter is a Windows utility that consolidates fragmented files and folders on your computer's hard disk so that each occupies a single space on the disk. With your files stored neatly end-to-end, and without fragmentation, reading and writing to the disk speeds up.

Three: Detect and repair disk errors.

In addition to running Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmenter to optimize the performance of your computer, you can check the integrity of the files stored on your hard disk by running the Error Checking utility.

As you use your hard drive, it can develop bad sectors. Bad sectors slow down hard disk performance and sometimes make data writing (such as file saving) difficult, or even impossible. The Error Checking utility scans the hard drive for bad sectors, and scans for file system errors to see whether certain files or folders are misplaced. If you use your computer daily, you should run this utility once a week to help prevent data loss.

Four: Protect your computer against spyware.

Spyware collects personal information without letting you know and without asking for your permission. From the Web sites you visit to usernames and passwords, spyware can put you and your confidential information at risk. In addition to privacy concerns, spyware can slow your computer's performance. To combat spyware, you might want to consider using the PC safety scan from Windows Live OneCare. This scan is a free service and will help check for and remove viruses.

Five: Learn all about ReadyBoost.

If you're using Windows 7 or Windows Vista, you can use ReadyBoost to speed up your system. A new concept in adding memory to a system, it allows you to use non-volatile flash memory—like a USB flash drive or a memory card—to improve performance without having to add additional memory.

Compliance for the Savvy Business

According to a study done by the market researcher Gartner Group, an astounding 97% of all business communications are done via email. And a startling 80% of respondents ranked email as more valuable than the phone in business communications in a META Group survey. Email facilitates communication with multiple parties, generates written records of interactions, and allows for the mobile, prompt delivery of information and documents. With email such an active component of the modern company, email accessibility, security, and archiving have become key factors to the successful business.

Email accessibility and security are obvious concerns. Restrictions on email access can limit productivity and efficiency, but uncontrolled email access can put businesses at risk for spam, malware, and data loss or theft. But email archiving is just as important as email accessibility and security. Besides the internal benefits of information accessibility and saved disk space (archived emails are stored in a compressed format), email archiving helps businesses meet regulatory and compliance laws. Compliance is composed of three elements; data durability, data security, and ability to audit. Data must be retained in its original format. Data must be protected from physical damage and unauthorized access. And data must be easily accessible by authorized sources. Email archiving fulfills each of these aspects, protecting the business from hefty fines and severe penalties. So reap the benefits and ensure compliance; use email archiving.

As technology advances, so too must the protection.

Information technology has become an integral part of the education experience for students. It interfaces at all levels of the classroom, from students to teachers to administration. Technology is no longer a standalone component to a well-rounded education; technology is a means for connecting and strengthening all areas of the education process. But as technology plays a greater role in education and society in general, cyber security also becomes increasingly more critical.

Technology security must focus on the unique difficulties and needs of the K-12 education environment when targeting solutions. The increased connectivity that comes with technology also puts schools at risk for viruses and malware, data loss/corruption, and system misuse (like illegal file sharing). These issues mean that schools can be exposed to federal law and regulation violations, loss of sensitive or restricted information, and civil issue liabilities. A comprehensive security solution must include conventional safeguards like intrusion prevention, but should also protect against Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. It also needs to handle the fluidity of the modern network perimeter. Laptops, remote and wireless access, email, web-connections, and G3 smart phones that utilize IP all contribute to a constantly changing and variable environment. So take the proactive approach-make sure your security is up to date and meeting your needs before problems arise!

For this second installment in my blog series on utilizing social media, I will address some simple tips you can employ to help boost your LinkedIn profile’s visibility. If you missed the first part of this series, you can read it here.

• Customize your URL. When you register with LinkedIn, a randomly generated URL is created for your profile. However, LinkedIn allows you to personalize this URL. By using a customized URL, you can improve accessibility to your profile. A personalized URL is simpler, making it easier for others to remember, and optimizes your search engine rankings as well. You can make this quick fix by going to “Edit my Profile” on your account, and clicking “Edit” next to “Public Profile partway down the page.
• Add a picture. Adding a picture to your profile helps others identify you. This is beneficial when adding connections with people you already know. It’s also helpful when others search your profile. A picture makes your profile more memorable. Just make sure that your picture is business-appropriate and not too large- LinkedIn’s profile images are small.
• Capitalize on your email signature. Consider updating your email signature to include a link to your LinkedIn account. This can help generate profile views, connections, and recommendations! It can also be a tactful way to keep your resume at the forefront of professional interactions. It would be strange to attach your resume to all email communications, but this link offers identical information without the social taboo. Just make sure that your LinkedIn is current.
• Reach out. Don’t be afraid to draw on colleagues. Make connections, offer recommendations (and request your own), and contribute productively to discussions in groups.

These are a few very quick and easy tips that can help increase your returns on your LinkedIn profile. Whether you’re seeking new sales opportunities, networking with others, or looking to get hired at a new job, improving your LinkedIn’s potential can facilitate your success.

Taking a proactive approach to your IT infrastructure adds strategic value to your organization. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should be proactive with your organization's IT strategy

Technology is critical to the success of your organization. Make sure your technology is an asset in meeting your company’s goals, and not an expense!

The keen observer might have noticed a recent change here at CSC; our brand new logo! Since 1992, CSC has been providing IT services to business, non-profit, government, K-12, and higher education organizations. Our forward-thinking attitude is a fundamental basis to everything we do. It’s evident in our proactive approach to IT. It’s why we work hard to keep abreast of new technologies, so that we can advise you on the latest trends.

At CSC, we’re dedicated to ensuring your technology enables you to achieve your organization’s goals. With that same commitment to the future, CSC has updated our logo. Join us as we celebrate over a decade of service as your chief technology office, and look to a decade and more of continued excellence!

Market experts predict that 2010 will be “the year of the cloud;” but why should you and your company make the jump to the cloud?

The cloud is not a new concept; as a metaphor for the internet, it’s been around for a while. But new uses and applications in the cloud are gaining traction in the IT sector and beyond. Momentum is growing for a new technological status quo, as companies see the benefits of device neutral data accessibility. With cloud computing, organizations can increase capacity and add capabilities to meet the needs of an ever-changing technological landscape without the massive financial burden. They have all the benefits and flexibility of new technology without the drain from investing in updated infrastructure, licensing new software, or training and staffing new personnel.

Cloud computing also allows for incredible mobility; because data is accessed remotely, users can operate from anywhere, not just within the confines of the office. This means quicker turnaround times, less downtime, and the ability to work on the go. It also helps protect the data. Off-site data storage ensures that your data is safe, even if your organization suffers damages such as theft or flooding. Increased productivity combined with data security; with these sorts of advantages, it’s easy to see why cloud computing is quickly becoming an integral part of the savvy organization’s IT management plan.

Many products and services can be offered in the cloud. From long-standing practices like web hosting, to newer transitions such as email hosting, and CRM hosting, cloud computing isn’t just a new buzz word for 2010. It’s a concept that’s revolutionizing how organizations of all sizes utilize IT.

Last Wednesday Apple finally unveiled its much anticipated new product- the Apple iPad. At just half an inch thick, and one and a half pounds in weight, this multitouch device features a large 9.7 inch screen and crisp LED-backlit display. Designed for media consumption, the iPad is ideal for checking email, viewing photos, watching videos, and surfing the internet. At a surprisingly low entry price of $499, analysts suspect it will give the e-reader market in particular a run for its money.

Early criticism has surfaced however, regarding the iPad’s inability to multi-task. As with the iPhone, the iPad only allows for one window at a time. "It looks very nice but having no Flash, camera or multi-tasking, and very limited business apps makes it look more like a companion device so far," says John Eaton, president of Eaton & Associates. But even as a simple companion device, the iPad has already generated interest in the tablet market. Only time will reveal the iPad’s success; will it prove to be as revolutionary as the iPod? Wi-Fi models begin shipping in late March, 3G models begin shipping in April.

Postponed Due to Weather, Rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 25.

Data is one of your business’s most important assets; are you doing everything you can to protect it? CSC will be partnering with the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce and Microsoft to present a lunch and learn on business data security. We’ll discuss the latest productivity enhancements being offered by Windows 7, and explore the safety and security improvements that Windows 7 provides.

Utilizing these current technologies can help improve your company’s data security and reliability. Learn how to help minimize common threats, and maximize your use of mobile devices for your business’s on-the-go technology needs. Discover how Windows 7 can facilitate daily tasks, from easily sharing files and devices, to finding information quickly. Windows 7 can help you stay productive and protected, letting you focus on your business.

Please see the Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce’s web site to register by February 14th for this exciting and informative event! There will be a live demo of Windows 7, a demo station where you can explore Windows 7 yourself, drawings for some great technology-based door prizes for participants, and our Microsoft experts available on hand to answer any questions. So mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 16th February 25, 11:30 am to 1 pm at 6161 Busch Boulevard, Suite 300.

Register Here

Staying current can cut costs.

Many of us believe that we can’t afford to invest in new technology right now.  However, recent studies show that the cost of maintaining old technology could be more expensive than we imagine.  Outdated technology has a much higher susceptibility to viruses, incurs higher electricity costs, and enjoys less performance power.  And this doesn’t even take into account the decreased productivity and downtime that unreliable technology brings! Memory is often limited too, as is running speed; even a memory or RAM upgrade can only take an old machine so far.  Instead, consider investing that money in a technology update.  

Almost every school in the United States is struggling financially because of sharp declines in income and sales taxes caused by high unemployment rates and falling consumer spending from the recent economic depression. This is the first time that we have seen budget cuts hit at all levels of education

The federal stimulus package might have saved thousands of teaching jobs in education, but now thousands more are in peril as a result of lingering budget crises in states from coast to coast. These include positions in areas such as virtual-school programs, higher-education funding, and other school initiatives. “The federal stimulus funds have helped schools, but not as much as hoped," says Mark Bielang, president of the American Association of School Administrators (AASA).

When asked how their districts are using federal stimulus funds to bring about education reforms, 47 percent of respondents said that these funds are merely filling budget cuts and are not enough to support new innovations.

"This year is bad, but next year could be worse," says Daniel A. Domenech, AASA's executive director, in a statement. "School districts are bracing themselves for a 'one-two punch' as they budget for the 2010-11 school year. They will be facing tough questions about items, programs, and personnel that can be cut with the least impact on student achievement, considering what--if any--economic recovery is in store at the state and local levels, and contemplating the anticipated end of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds."

Educators will be asked to cut more next year. These cuts will be necessary due to declining state revenues caused by the ongoing national economic downturn. The budget cuts will hit programs like bussing, online education, and school closings. The city of Columbus has decided to close nine schools next year.

As jobs in education struggle, so too does our education system itself.