What does it mean when your ISP changes DNS servers?

I received a phone call from Charter Business earlier today reminding me that they have deployed new DNS servers and that I should adjust my equipment to use them. Fortunately, none of our equipment even looks at name servers other than our own in-house server.  But does yours? First, let’s look at what DNS is…. The simple explanation is: DNS …

Secure IT Alert: iPad 2 w/ IOS 5 security flaw could expose sensitive information

It was brought to my attention a bit ago by a client that the iPad 2 with IOS 5 has a flaw that allows the last screen accessed before the Smart Cover lock was engaged. This is obviously not good for those using the iPad for financial, medical or legal purposes. The work around until this is fixed correctly is …

Microsoft Releases Security Intelligence Report for your reading pleasure… SIRv11

Microsoft has released Volume 11 of their “Microsoft Security Intelligence Report” or SIRv11, which provides “An in-depth perspective on software vulnerabilities and exploits, malicious code threats, and potentially unwanted software in the first half of 2011”. One tidbit of interesting information contained in the report is that in the first half of 2011, less than one percent of exploits were …

Which security standards and awareness compliance requirements apply to your organization?

I came across a very handy document from www.securingthehuman.org that explains which security standards and awareness compliance requirements might apply to your organization. It is by no means a complete listing, but gives the one minute run-down of the majority of the biggies…. — Last Updated: 19 July, 2011 1. Executive Summary The purpose of this document is to identify …

October updates for Apple products… Patch ’em up!

Apple released a slew of updates to address major security vulnerabilities this week… Be sure get your devices up to date… OS X Lion v10.7.2 and Security Update 2011-006 iTunes 10.5 Safari 5.1.1 iOS 5 Software Update Numbers for iOS v1.5 Pages for iOS v1.5 Apple TV 4.4 A few of these provide you with additional features, such as the …

Coming this October 11th – Microsoft brings you patchy goodness!

Microsoft is bringing you patchy goodness this coming “Patch Tuesday”, October 11th. Please update your machines to insure your network is secure. There is a little something for everyone!  Desktops and servers will receive Microsoft’s love. This is from the Microsoft Security Bulletin Advance Notification for October 2011:   Critical Security Bulletins ============================   Bulletin 1   – Affected Software: …

Seven must-have technologies for your small business

One conversation new or potential business owners may want to have with their IT professionals is about what technologies exist that can improve their life. Below you will find some that are must haves… Smartphones: Whether it is an Android, iPhone or even a Windows based phone, you cannot survive without one. These devices provide instant communication with your clients …