A recent data breach involving PowerSchool, a key cloud-based platform used by K-12 schools across North Dakota, exposed sensitive information about students and staff. The breach has raised significant concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity in educational institutions. Schools are now urged to enhance their cybersecurity defenses by conducting security assessments, updating incident response plans, and improving data backup solutions. Parents and teachers should stay vigilant, monitor personal information, and educate children about online safety, as breached data could be used for targeted scams. Smart Computers is actively collaborating with NDIT and EduTech to support schools in strengthening their cybersecurity posture through tailored solutions, real-time threat detection, and compliance support. Stay tuned to Smart Computers' blog for more updates and guidance on protecting your data.
Discover how the upcoming Windows 10 end-of-life in October 2025 will impact your business and what steps you need to take to prepare. From security risks and compliance challenges to hardware upgrades and migration strategies, this article provides actionable insights for SMBs. Learn how to future-proof your technology with expert guidance from Smart Computers and Consulting, ensuring a seamless transition to modern IT infrastructure.
The convergence of digital and physical systems has unlocked immense opportunities but also introduced significant cybersecurity challenges. From ransomware attacks and IoT vulnerabilities to nation-state threats, the need for robust cybersecurity strategies is more critical than ever. This article emphasizes the importance of proactive measures, including: Cybersecurity Education: Programs like CyberPatriot and certifications like CISSP prepare the workforce to combat evolving threats. Technological Innovations: AI, machine learning, and zero-trust architectures enhance threat detection and system resilience. Organizational Vigilance: Cultivating a security-first culture and empowering employees as the first line of defense. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating laws like GDPR and CCPA ensures businesses meet standards while protecting data. As cyber-physical systems continue to grow, businesses must adopt a forward-looking approach, integrating cutting-edge technology and fostering collaboration across industries. Smart Computers remains committed to securing tomorrow's digital landscape, empowering businesses to thrive safely and sustainably.
Struggling with streaky, faded, or blurry prints? Our latest blog covers simple solutions to improve your printer's performance, from adjusting settings and updating drivers to cleaning print heads and using the right supplies. Discover these easy fixes to save time and keep your prints professional.
Upgrading your business hardware may seem like a large upfront investment, but the long-term savings far outweigh the costs. Outdated systems lead to reduced productivity, frustrated employees, increased maintenance expenses, and heightened security risks. Slow performance and frequent downtime can disrupt daily operations, while older devices lacking critical updates expose your business to potential cyberattacks. By investing in modern hardware, you benefit from faster performance, improved security, lower energy costs, and reduced downtime. At Smart Computers and Consulting, we ensure your upgrades are seamless, cost-effective, and tailored to your needs—keeping your business competitive, secure, and future-ready.
The FCC's K-12 Cybersecurity Pilot Program is a $200 million initiative aimed at improving cybersecurity in U.S. schools and libraries. The program provides funding over three years to help educational institutions implement advanced cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, endpoint protection, and real-time threat monitoring. Schools, particularly in underserved or high-risk areas, can apply for grants to upgrade their digital defenses against threats like ransomware and data breaches. The program is designed to safeguard sensitive data and ensure long-term cybersecurity health through continuous monitoring and support.
Stay ahead of cyber threats with a proactive offensive security strategy. Our expert checklist covers key areas like assessing your current security posture, understanding your business risk tolerance, and ensuring regulatory compliance (PCI-DSS, HIPAA, GDPR). Regular penetration testing and vulnerability assessments help identify weaknesses before hackers can exploit them, safeguarding your data and systems. Whether you're a small business or educational institution, Smart Computers and Consulting is here to strengthen your cybersecurity defenses. Contact us today to schedule your offensive security assessment and protect your business from potential attacks.
The recent cyberattack on Halliburton, a major player in the energy sector, has highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime to energy companies. The attack compromised sensitive data and disrupted operations, underscoring the vulnerabilities present in even well-established firms. The energy industry is particularly at risk due to its management of critical infrastructure, valuable data, reliance on outdated operational technology, and its central role in geopolitical tensions. The article emphasizes several key lessons from the Halliburton attack, including the need for comprehensive risk assessments, proactive threat hunting, network segmentation, employee training, and effective incident response planning. Smart Computers and Consulting offers tailored cybersecurity solutions for the energy industry, including cyber audits, network protection, endpoint security, and compliance with industry regulations. By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, energy companies can better protect their assets and ensure business continuity in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Struggling to print a PDF? Discover expert tips and step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot and fix common PDF printing issues. From resolving corrupt files to updating printer drivers and handling graphic-heavy documents, this guide covers it all. Perfect for anyone facing PDF printing problems at home or in the office. Get your tech back on track with Smart Computers and Consulting's expert advice. Learn more now!
As technology evolves, managing IT in-house can be overwhelming for many businesses. Partnering with a Managed IT Services provider, like Smart Computers and Consulting, can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and save money. But how do you choose the right provider? Here are six crucial questions to ask:
Smart Computers and Consulting has highlighted an increase in direct deposit business email compromise (BEC) scams targeting organizations. These scams, more sophisticated than typical phishing efforts, involve cybercriminals impersonating employees to redirect payroll deposits to fraudulent accounts. They often target payroll or human resources departments with well-crafted emails, sometimes including a filled-out direct deposit change form. These scams can be particularly aggressive during certain times, such as the start of a school year, posing a significant risk to school districts and businesses alike.
At Smart Computers and Consulting, we don’t just manage data; we empower organizations to wield it effectively. Our approach is twofold: safeguarding data while unlocking its potential for growth and innovation.
Smart Computers and Consulting in Dickinson, ND, specializes in Smart Computing to enhance productivity and security for SMBs and school districts. Our comprehensive services include cybersecurity, network protection, and customized IT solutions, all tailored to meet unique client needs. We focus on automating routine tasks, conducting thorough cyber audits, and ensuring FERPA compliance. Our training programs in safe online practices bolster digital literacy and reduce risks. For rapid incident response and effective resolution, our team is always ready. Discover our transformative solutions at www.realsmart1.com.
Explore the revolutionary potential of Microsoft 365's Copilot, the latest AI assistant, with Smart Computers and Consulting. Copilot integrates seamlessly into your daily Microsoft apps, enhancing productivity and ensuring top-tier security. It's more than just an AI tool; it's a productivity powerhouse for tasks like summarizing emails, drafting proposals, and more. Designed for organizations and priced affordably, Copilot is accessible for all types of businesses. Let Smart Computers and Consulting guide you in unlocking the full potential of Copilot for your business. Learn more about how this AI tool can transform your workspace at www.realsmart1.com.
Discover the future of educational resource management with Smart Computers and Consulting. Our tailored solutions focus on maximizing efficiency, reducing costs, and simplifying vendor interactions for school districts. With our advanced asset management tools and data-driven insights, we streamline the tracking and management of diverse educational resources. Our scalable, efficient software solutions transform traditional resource management, ensuring optimal allocation and utilization. Embrace a single-vendor advantage for a unified, streamlined experience. Revolutionize your school's asset management strategy with us at www.realsmart1.com.
The blog post for Smart Computers focuses on the increasing cybersecurity challenges faced by K-12 schools, emphasizing their vulnerability to cyber threats like ransomware and malware. It highlights the Biden Administration's efforts to enhance school cybersecurity, including a $200 million pilot program and a new coordinating council. The article stresses the importance of cyber hygiene education for students and teachers and outlines key security measures like strong passwords, data backups, layered security, and regular training. It also discusses the high costs of cyberattack recovery and the need for a "secure by design" approach in educational technology, emphasizing Smart Computers' commitment to supporting schools in achieving a safe, technology-enabled learning environment.
In today's digital age, businesses must have a proactive, strategic approach to their IT needs. Smart Computers offers more than just technical support; we become your technology partner, invested in your success. Our MSP model ensures reliability, cost predictability, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your IT infrastructure is in expert hands.Make the smart choice for your business—choose Smart Computers as your MSP and experience the transformative power of proactive, tailored IT solutions. Contact us today to start your journey towards a more efficient, secure, and successful future.
At Smart Computers and Consulting, we're not just your go-to tech experts; we're your trusted partners in the world of cloud computing. Our mission is to simplify the complex and secure your digital future.
Embrace the Smart Choice Elevate productivity, reduce risks, and ensure seamless operations. Choose Smart Computers and Consulting for an IT future that's secure, efficient, and forward-looking.
The Wi-Fi upgrade journey can be smoother with a little help. So, whether it's planning, implementation, security, cloud decisions, network management, or professional development – partnering up is the secret to lasting peace of mind.
In our latest article, "Protecting Your Business from Business Email Compromise Fraud," we delve into the critical issue of cyber threats facing businesses today. As a cybersecurity consultant, I provide valuable insights into the rising menace of Business Email Compromise (BEC) and offer practical advice to safeguard your organization. BEC is a sophisticated scam that targets businesses and individuals involved in fund transfers.
While technology offers countless opportunities, it also brings along a range of potential threats. At Smart Computers, we understand the critical importance of safeguarding your school's digital infrastructure. As cybersecurity consultants, we are here to guide you through the top cybersecurity challenges facing schools today and provide actionable solutions to protect your institution.
In the digital age, School Districts must prioritize the role of qualified IT professionals and trusted Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to safeguard education. IT professionals secure valuable data, create secure learning environments, and manage network infrastructure. MSPs offer specialized expertise, resources, and cybersecurity solutions. Together, they fortify IT infrastructure, protect sensitive data, and ensure seamless operations. This collaboration drives education's digital transformation, empowering teachers and students while fostering trust in the community. By investing in these partnerships, School Districts optimize technology, enhance data security, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for all.
FERPA compliance is crucial for educational institutions as it protects student privacy and upholds the integrity of their educational records. It is not only a legal obligation but also essential for maintaining trust, reputation, and data security. Failure to comply with FERPA can lead to legal consequences, disruptions in education, loss of community trust, and the need for remedial actions. Prioritizing FERPA compliance demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding student privacy and creating a conducive learning environment.
In today's digital era, establishing a robust online presence has become a make-or-break factor for businesses. Social media platforms have evolved into formidable marketing tools, offering a direct line of communication to the masses. Additionally, having a well-crafted website amplifies marketing efforts, acting as a central hub for brand promotion. In this article, we delve into the profound impact of social media accounts and websites in marketing, shedding light on their symbiotic relationship that fuels business success.
Jeremy Berger
In today's fast-paced business world, IT plays an essential role in keeping companies competitive. However, managing IT in-house can be a costly and time-consuming process. That's where outsourcing IT services can help. In this blog post, we'll discuss the top benefits of outsourcing IT services, and why it's a smart choice for businesses of all sizes.
Supporting your friend's small business is important, and it doesn't always have to involve spending money. There are plenty of ways to show your support that are free, easy, and just as valuable to your friend. Here are some ideas for how to support your friend's small business without spending any money:
Jeremy Berger
As students return to school, US federal officials have issued a warning that ransomware attacks on schools may increase, citing Vice Society, a ransomware gang that has been targeting the education sector. According to the FBI, US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and the MS-ISAC, schools with limited cybersecurity resources are particularly vulnerable to ransomware, but even well-defended school systems can fall prey to opportunistic hackers.
Jeremy Berger
Here is an explanation on why so many districts are having bandwidth problems in the State of North Dakota.
Jeremy Berger
As technology becomes an increasingly integral part of modern businesses, it can be challenging for companies to keep up with all of the necessary hardware, software, and cybersecurity needs. That's where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in, providing a comprehensive suite of technology services that can help businesses streamline their operations and stay secure. Here are a few reasons why you should choose an MSP for your company and why Smart Computers and Consulting is the best choice for your needs
Cybersecurity insurance is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium-sized enterprises.
Jeremy Berger
Yes, school districts should prioritize cybersecurity measures and partner with companies like Smart Computers and Consulting to protect their sensitive data. Educational institutions handle vast amounts of personal information, including student records, financial information, and confidential research data. As such, schools are prime targets for cybercriminals seeking to steal sensitive information or disrupt operations.
Jeremy Berger
Smart Computers and Consulting's Office and School Supplies Division, dedicated to providing high-quality office and school supplies to businesses and educational institutions in our local community. We understand the importance of reliable and efficient service, which is why our team is committed to delivering exceptional products and personalized service to meet your unique needs.
Jeremy Berger
So, why should you use a zero trust solution from Smart Computers and Consulting? The answer is simple: it provides numerous benefits that can help safeguard your business from potential cyber threats. First and foremost, a zero trust solution helps to prevent unauthorized access to your network. This is done by verifying the identity of every user and device attempting to access your network, regardless of whether they are inside or outside your organization's perimeter.
Jeremy Berger
Data breaches have become a common occurrence in the digital age, with millions of individuals and companies falling victim to cyberattacks every year. While many businesses are taking steps to protect their own data, they often overlook the risks associated with working with third-party vendors.
Jeremy Berger
Technology has become an essential component of modern education, with many schools relying on technology to enhance the learning experience for their students. However, implementing and managing technology can be challenging for school districts, particularly those with limited resources or expertise. That's where companies like Smart Computers and Consulting come in. By providing access to technology, Smart Computers and Consulting can help school districts thrive in several ways.