Connect with us

Technology

Top remote working cyber risks and solutions

Published

on

Remote work (Image credit microsoft)

The Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) outlines safer online meeting and home network measures

Home-based workers are at increased risk of cyber attack, but there are several measures they can take to reduce risk.

This is according to Bryan Baxter, a corporate IT business development manager and IITPSA KZN chapter committee member, who was addressing an IITPSA KZN Chapter webinar last week.

The webinar, focusing on cybersecurity and etiquette for remote work and meetings, outlined a significant shift in cyber risk facing companies and their employees.

“The abrupt move to remote working and cloud has driven many companies to try and do in a matter of months what others took years to achieve,” Baxter said.  This move has strained IT resources and highlighted vulnerabilities in home IT environments, which cyber criminals were taking advantage of.

“Security and communications at home are typically not sufficient for corporate usage,” Baxter warned.

Reducing home worker cyber risk

Corporate data is at risk in home user environments due to common vulnerabilities in home networks, and the fact that many users were unaware that their personal information may already have been compromised, Baxter said.

Baxter said key risks among remote workforces included vulnerable endpoints, data leakage, password compromises, the use of shadow IT, a lack of corporate VPNs and insecure meeting solutions.

“A layered defence approach is needed to protect users, data, networks, devices and technology,” he said. “IT professionals need to make users’ lives easier and they must make it easy for end users to stay secure, or we will see the emergence of shadow IT and greater risk.”

He recommended a number of ways to mitigate risk in home user environments: “Enhance user awareness training, implement stronger two-factor authentication and keep personal and work systems separate. Corporates should ensure that they have classified their data and that sensitive data is adequately protected from employees working at home. Regularly backing up both work and private data is essential. Use a VPN to access important systems, and secure home routers and wireless devices.

Updated endpoint protection such as anti-virus and host based firewalls are important. These are now moving to more advanced threat protection such as ERD or endpoint detection and response. This is important because standard AV does not pick up shell scripting compromises.  Home systems must be patched and kept up to date, and ideally home users should create separate admin and user accounts on their home computers.”

He also emphasized the need to change the default admin password on the home router; enable WAP2 encryption; and use a strong password for the home wireless network.

Also Read African Women in GIS (AWiGIS)- Our Story

Selecting safer virtual meeting solutions

With a webinar participant poll revealing that 38% of participants most often use Microsoft Teams, 42% use Zoom, and 9% use Google Meet for video conferencing, Baxter noted that selecting the right solutions for enterprise use was crucial for security and data protection.

He highlighted cases in which meetings had been compromised and videos of meetings posted online. “If you’re going to have a board meeting or talk about your financial results, you need to think about the solution you’re using,” he said.

“Enterprises need to look first at the vendor – asking what is their support like, and can you trust them. Then consider the solution – asking how good is the product, how is it rated and how secure is it?” Considerations should include whether the solution was fit for purpose, its cost and the ease of integration and mobility options.

Factors that should be considered include whether the video conferencing solution offers full end to end encryption, where data is be stored and whether this data would remain private, if meetings could be password protected, the level of host control to mute, block and drop attendees, the visibility of attendees, and if information could be protected from unauthorised modification, access and disclosure.

Etiquette for online meetings

Baxter recommended several basic measures to improve security and effectiveness of online meetings: “Test the technology before the meeting; have a plan and agenda; appoint a moderator; only invite participants who need to be there; and lock the conference and put passwords on entry. Inform participants if you are recording the meeting and introduce everyone at the beginning. Participants should have a clean, work appropriate background for the video call;  be aware of their audio and video settings; they should look into the camera and not at themselves while speaking; and they should  eliminate distractions and focus on the agenda: be present, mute your mic when not speaking and don’t do other work during the meeting,” he said.  

The IITPSA KZN chapter webinar was one of a series of new webinars IITPSA is rolling out to enhance communication and knowledge sharing among members. The Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) CEO Tony Parry noted that the Institute is also increasing the frequency of its new Tabling Tech webinars, designed to give in-depth insights into emerging technologies.

Issued by ITP communications on behalf of the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA)

Technology

EMURGO Africa Unveils EMURGO Labs

Published

on

EMURGO Africa, the investment and commercial arm of Cardano in Africa, today announced the launch of EMURGO Labs, a dedicated development entity for emerging Web3 technologies. The Labs is designed to support the growth of established and nascent Web2 and Web3 organizations. EMURGO Labs is set to spearhead the digital transformation across borders, leveraging the transformative power of the Cardano blockchain.

This will will serve as the central hub for fostering the growth of both established and burgeoning Web2 and Web3 organizations throughout the region. By leveraging the unparalleled power and potential of the Cardano blockchain, EMURGO Labs aims to empower innovation, facilitate cross-border expansion, and contribute to the overall expansion of the global blockchain ecosystem.

“The launch of EMURGO Labs marks a significant step forward in our mission to unlock the transformative potential of blockchain technology in Africa, Middle East and GCC,” said Ahmed M. Amer, CEO of EMURGO Labs. “Through comprehensive support services, strategic partnerships, and industry-leading expertise, I am confident that EMURGO Labs will become the premier destination for Web3 ventures seeking to thrive in this dynamic region” added Amer.

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

EMURGO Labs is dedicated to delivering a broad spectrum of services, meticulously designed to meet the evolving needs of the digital era, enabling organizations to seamlessly migrate from Web2 to Web3 while also enhancing and expanding the capabilities of already established Web3 entities.

  • Blockchain Solutions Development: Partnering with global enterprises, startups, and accelerators, EMURGO Labs is at the forefront of investing in and developing groundbreaking blockchain solutions with real world use cases
  • Custom Software Development: Tailored software solutions are crafted to drive digital transformation, propelling enterprises into the future.
  • UI/UX Design: With a focus on user-centric design, The Labs ensures intuitive user experiences and sleek interfaces for Cardano blockchain applications, setting a new standard in usability and aesthetics.

Aiming to engage a broad spectrum of stakeholders, from Web2 and Web3 startups, banks, and large corporations to governments and the wider business community, The Labs is strategically positioned. By appealing to investors, blockchain enthusiasts, media, and policymakers, it is poised to become a pivotal player in the global blockchain ecosystem.

Continue Reading

Technology

LG Electronics unveils latest state-of-the-art home appliances

Published

on

LG Electronics continues to set new standards in consumer electronics with the unveiling of its latest lineup featuring sleek, minimalist designs tailored to enhance the modern lifestyle.

In a world where technology seamlessly integrates into daily routines, LG Electronics understands the importance of design that not only complements living spaces but also elevates them. With a commitment to innovation and aesthetics, LG’s new range of products embodies the perfect balance of form and function. From cutting-edge Televisions to state-of-the-art home appliances, LG’s minimalist design ethos shines through in every product. With clean lines, premium materials, and intuitive interfaces, consumers can enjoy both sophistication and simplicity in their everyday interactions.

“We believe that great design should enhance the user experience, not distract from it,” said Mr. Hari Elluru, Head, Corporate Marketing, LG Electronics, West African Operations. “Our latest lineup embodies our dedication to creating products that seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles, providing both style and substance.”

At LG, we have the latest designs, very durable and innovative products for every household, and it’s for this reason that, to prevent the incidence of the paradox of choice, we curated some budget-friendly home appliances we believe will make living comfortable for you.

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

Smart TV

Why go to the cinema when you can create a cinematic experience in your home? When friends and family visit you, you can entertain them either by watching content together on an LG TV or by connecting your game with the LG TV so you can have an immersive experience. As far as picture and sound quality goes, LG TVs deliver only the best. So, immerse yourself and treat your guests to unforgettable TV experiences by investing in any of LG’s range of smart TVs. And what is more? Its ThinQ app feature is there to help maximize your TV experience in such a way you can’t imagine. You get to choose your favorite voice assistant and control your TV with your voice with an all new home screen to provide more convenience and control.

 Portable Bluetooth Speaker & Soundbar

Whether you are the indoor type or outdoor type, there is that speaker that helps whatever vibe you are in. And regardless of what your taste is, you can get a premium audio experience no matter the size of the speaker. Take, for instance, our portable speakers that allow you to carry your fun with you with or without the absence of power or our soundbars that serve as the perfect companion to your LG TVs. The good thing about these speakers is that even with their sleek design, there’s no compromise on sound quality.

Enjoy sound the way it’s meant to be enjoyed where all your movies and music are brought to life with sound that’s clearer and more immersive; thereby, giving you a more realistic audio experience. And not only that, with this sound bar, there is dimensionality to your sound as well as a greater sense of space and depth which all culminates in you discovering hidden audio details with unparalleled clarity, hearing every emotion just as the creator of the sound intended for you to hear.

Refrigerator

Want a fridge that keeps your food items and drinks cool and fresh for a long period without drilling a hole in your pocket? Well, you don’t have to think too far. This fridge is the perfect addition to your household gadgets. One amazing feature of this LG Instaview fridge is that when you knock twice on the door, you can see the contents of the fridge without opening the door. This helps to save time while saving the air inside the fridge. Cool, isn’t it?

Microwave Oven

Who says you have to retire to the kitchen after a stressful day at work? And who says you need a massive cooking gadget just to create little wonders that delight your tummy? LG NeoChef microwave is the go-to appliance for quick and easy meals. Whether it is to heat the food, bake, fry, or even ferment your homemade yogurt, LG NeoChef has the bells and whistles you need for gastronomy.

Air Conditioner

There is air and there is cool refreshing air that’s void of impurities. The latter is the kind of air that comes from the LG ArtCool air conditioner. LG’s ArtCool AC not only fills your space with the right kind of air for your lungs and skin, its design allows it to harmonise perfectly with your wall, adding to the beauty and style of your interior in a way most air-conditioners were not designed to. In addition to that, it is more energy saving and thanks to its inverter compressor, it expels air farther and faster. And not only that, you can access your air-conditioner at any time and from anywhere with a Wi-Fi equipped device and LG’s exclusive home appliances control app – ThinQ.

Continue Reading

Technology

Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan on the use Of AI In Risk Communication

Published

on

Dr. Omolaraeni Olaosebikan, the CEO of McEnies Global Communications has identified Artificial Intelligence’s (AI) predictive capabilities to be invaluable for risk communication, adding that it has the potential to put forward flawless strategies that can aid disaster prevention and management.

According to this integrated marketing expert, machine learning algorithms now have the foolproof ability to predict potential risks based on historical data and past occurrences. She maintained that this feat allows organizations to proactively address risks before they escalate and communicate with relevant stakeholders in a more informed manner and in the nick of time.

Dr. Omolaraeni dropped these hints during an interactive session with brand and tech reporters on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at her Lagos Office in Magodo GRA off CMD Road.

Recall that Omolaraeni last year won a contract with The Meteorological Office UK (Met Office) to develop improved communications practices on flood crisis information and work out meaningful risk communication strategies to mitigate perennial flooding in Nigeria.

The project is being sponsored by the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and it is expected to bring together several relevant government agencies, like NIMET, NASRDA, NIHSA, NEMA, etc while also engaging in some desk-based research and consultations.

Download BAO E-MAGAZINE

She said: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized risk communication by enabling organizations to analyze data, predict risks, and communicate with stakeholders more effectively with precision to solutions.

“In recent times, I have been involved in flood management, and natural disaster studies with the MET Office and FCDO which you are aware of and I desire I go steps further to be more involved in ways to help the vulnerable people amongst us. Those who day-to-day live in abject poverty and deprivation because of what natural disasters, pandemics, and other related crises have done to them and the government possibly not even looking to help their needs and preferences.”

The very engaging session took a better part of the female CEO’s time on Thursday even as she professionally responded to how to mitigate social vulnerability through AI-assisted risk communication strategies.

Her words, “Risk communication essentially relies heavily on data analysis to identify potential threats, trends, and patterns. As I’ve said previously, AI-powered tools can process vast amounts of structured and unstructured data from various sources, including social media, news articles, and reports, to uncover valuable insights. By analyzing this data, organizations can gain a better understanding of emerging risks and tailor their communication strategies accordingly.

“AI’s predictive capabilities are invaluable for risk communication. Machine learning algorithms can predict potential risks based on historical data and past occurrences. This foresight allows organizations to proactively address risks before they escalate and communicate with stakeholders in a more informed manner.”

Fielding questions on empowering vulnerable communities with risk communication and AI technology strategies for resilience and safety, the McEnies Global Communications CEO reacted and said:

“AI can seamlessly help to mitigate the risks identified by providing recommendations, actions, and solutions. It can equally use data-driven awareness to suggest the best ways to reduce or eliminate the risk and create safety nets for the target or vulnerable segments of society. The aggregates of insights drawn from this can ultimately help to either enforce policies through government agencies or legislation from the Parliament, or run advocacy programmes to deepen the right message and techniques for the target groups and relevant stakeholders especially during, before, or after emergency situations.”

While stressing on risk communication and AI technology strategies and dose for saving social vulnerability, Omolaraeni gave this submission to the media:

 “I’m not here to stir any scare, but the reality is that the fourth industrial revolution is in full swing, bringing with it a wave of technological advancements that have the potential to reshape every aspect of human life across the globe. Artificial Intelligence is at the forefront of this revolution, promising to transform various sectors and drive inclusive growth. In Africa, could the adoption of AI and related technologies accelerate the continent’s development and help to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? The answer is Yes!”

“Natural disasters are inherently unpredictable, but their consequences can be mitigated through early intervention and effective preparedness. These events can have devastating economic, social, and environmental impacts. Preventing natural disasters or minimizing their damage is a global imperative. AI, with its ability to process vast amounts of data, analyze patterns, and make real-time predictions, will definitely revolutionize our approach to disaster prevention.

“Before delving into the ways AI can assist in disaster prevention, it’s crucial to understand the nature of these events. Natural disasters are broadly categorized into geological, meteorological, hydrological, and climatological phenomena. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis fall under geological disasters, while meteorological disasters include hurricanes, tornadoes, and blizzards. Hydrological disasters involve floods and landslides, and climatological disasters encompass droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires.

“One of the most crucial aspects of disaster prevention is providing early warnings to vulnerable populations. AI-powered systems can process data from various sources, including weather sensors, satellites, and social media, to detect early signs of impending disasters. For example, in the case of hurricanes, AI algorithms can analyze atmospheric data to predict their path and intensity accurately. These predictions enable authorities to issue timely warnings and evacuate individuals at risk-prone areas and saving countless lives”

In the aspect of enhancing social vulnerability with AI Technology and risk communication, she noted; “Data-driven artificial intelligence technologies are progressively transforming the humanitarian field, the use of digital technologies in humanitarian action again should not be seen as a new phenomenon. Yet, contemporary advances in computational power, coupled with the availability of vast amounts of data, have allowed for more widespread use of digital technologies in the humanitarian context.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the trend of using digital technologies to help maintain humanitarian operations. AI is broadly understood as a collection of technologies that combine data, algorithms, and computing power. These technologies based on my understanding consist of software and possibly also hardware systems designed by humans that, given a complex goal, act in the physical or digital dimension by perceiving their environment through data acquisition, interpreting the collected structured or unstructured data, reasoning on the knowledge, or processing the information, derived from this data and deciding the best action to take to achieve the given goal and mitigate against disaster.”

On the need to bridge the gap and explore the intersection of AI technology and risk communication, she said;

“Globally, modern workplaces are undergoing a profound digital transformation, and of course here in Nigeria, we shouldn’t be caught napping. In line with this global shift. We must start to recognize and utilize the unparalleled value of AI’s capabilities. These capabilities bring enhanced operational procedures, heightened productivity upscale success stories, and a growing range of innovative service offerings. As AI systems become increasingly integrated, we must learn to follow the trend, reshaping the foundation of communication in risk and disaster management, know how to predict right, and cater to diverse needs and preferences. This transformation weakens the traditional ties within incumbent financial institutions and paves the way for entirely new operational models.

“AI is reshaping the landscape of risk communication, empowering organizations to analyze data, engage with stakeholders, and respond to crises more effectively. By harnessing the potential of AI and upholding ethical standards, organizations can enhance their risk communication strategies and build stronger relationships with stakeholders in today’s rapidly changing world. As technology continues to evolve, AI’s role in risk communication will only become more significant, making it an indispensable tool for modern risk managers and communication professionals. And for us at McEnies Global Communications we’re moving at the speed of light to meet up with contemporary standards in tandem with global best practices.” She stated.

Continue Reading

Ads

Most Viewed