Top 5 Cybersecurity Threats to Small Businesses in 2023

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Hamza Razzaq

Cybersecurity has again remained under the limelight in 2022 and turned out to be a devastating year for cybersecurity threats. Just in the first half of 2022, there were 2.8 billion malware attacks and 236.1 million ransomware attacks across the globe. The dominance of threats is not due to organizations’ poor cybersecurity policies but due to new sophisticated tactics used by cybercriminals to breach through security defenses. Now we are in 2023, which is again believed to be one of the stressful years for cybersecurity. Therefore, this article presents the top cybersecurity threats that should be a concern for small businesses in 2023.

5 Top Emerging Cybersecurity Threats to Small Businesses in 2023

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, the global cost of cybercrimes will reach $10.5 trillion by 2025. It showcases the gradual increase of cyberattacks with every passing year. Talking specifically about 2023, below are the 5 top emerging cybersecurity threats to small businesses:

1. Microsoft Teams Spoofing

Microsoft Teams is highly used in today’s world, with around 280 million monthly active users. The growing user base of Teams has also let attackers use the platform for their criminal activities. One popular approach they are using these days is acting like the colleague or CEO, setting up the meeting, and then convincing the meeting participants to click the link or download a file.

For example, recently an attacker acted as a CEO and sent a WhatsApp message to several employees about joining a Teams meeting. Once employees joined the meeting, they saw a CEO video feed, which was actually scraped from a TV interview. The attacker didn’t turn on the audio and said that the issue might be due to a bad connection. Afterward, the attacker sent a SharePoint link in the chat. Employees did click the link, but luckily, they got blocked from accessing it. This way, attackers pretend to be someone and convince employees to click malicious links.

Other than the above tactic, cybercriminals are also impersonating Teams to steal Microsoft 365 login credentials of employees. Usually, they send an email tuned as an automated message that is sent from Teams, such as “There’s new activity in Teams”. The message looks legitimate, so often employees get into the trap and click the provided link. Once the link is pressed, it takes them to the malicious webpage requiring the victims to enter their email and password. This way, employees unintentionally provide their login credentials and let attackers into the network.

Avanan, a cybersecurity solutions provider, has witnessed thousands of attacks in which malware is sent in Teams chats. The reason why Teams is becoming a new favorite of attacks is because MS URLs are not readable, so you cannot detect a real link from a fake one. In addition, employees are more trained to detect suspicious phishing emails, but they think Teams has a trusted and secure platform. So, it’s the trust game that attackers are playing with employees using Microsoft Teams.

2. Google Appointment Spoofing

Another emerging cybersecurity threat is Google appointment spoofing. Google Calendar is one of the popular productivity tools of Google suite, which if used with default settings allows events to be added from an email containing event details. Similarly, it also adds the event if someone has included you in the event, even if they haven’t sent you the email invitation. This default setting trap is being used by cybercriminals these days.

What attackers do is inject an event into employees’ calendars without their knowledge by acting as one of their colleagues. The event can be about upcoming travel plans or an urgent meeting by CEO. In the meeting description, there can be words like “please click the below link to review the agenda before joining the meeting”. The link often includes a fake Google authentication page, which most employees unintentionally fill out with their login credentials. Eventually, this gives attackers the credentials they need to penetrate systems and make an impact.

Just like MS Teams spoofing, employees are becoming victims of Google appointment spoofing because they are not aware of this type of scam. However, the best way to protect from such threats is by blocking the automatic calendar events. Go to Settings > Events from Gmail and then uncheck “Automatically add events from Gmail to my calendar”. In addition, go to “Event settings” and change “Automatically add invitations” to “No”. This way, employees can minimize the chances of getting such attacks, but they still need to remain suspicious, just like with email spoofing.

3. Cloud Security Threats

Ever since the pandemic, businesses have been actively shifting their infrastructure to the cloud. As per estimates, there are about 70% of organizations that are using the cloud for hosting over 50% of workloads. However, the rapid cloud adoption has also resulted in plenty of vulnerabilities that are actively exploited by cybercriminals.

According to Check Point’s 2022 Cloud Security report, around 27% of organizations have encountered security incidents in their public cloud environments in the past 12 months. Since the cloud is a favorite hosting choice among small businesses, so the threat scale is also large for them. Misconfigurations, compromised user accounts, and API vulnerabilities are common loopholes in the cloud infrastructure of small businesses. Therefore, cloud security threats are likely to dominate in 2023.

4. MFA Fatigue

Most services are now offering multi-factor authentication (MFA) to have an additional layer of protection from password threats. However, cybercriminals have also started exploiting MFA. Consider that a business is using push notification-based MFA where employees receive a pop-up/prompt message to verify the sign-in request. Now this is where attackers come into action.

Attackers first steal employees’ login credentials and then send them a stream of sign-in requests. Employees might unintentionally click “Approve” due to their habitual behavior or click “Approve” to stop the prompt message from appearing again and again. Once the request is approved, attackers are in the account and can do whatever they want.

MFA fatigue is gaining pace with every passing year. The Uber internal systems breach in 2022 was the main highlighting event for MFA fatigue. Moreover, the August 2022 alone recorded 40,942 MFA attacks. So, MFA fatigue is the emerging cybersecurity threat for businesses of any size in 2023.

5. Crime As-A-Service

Cyberattack market has grown exponentially in the past few years. The phrase has changed from “will you become a victim of cyberattack” to “when you will become a victim of cyberattack”. Owing to the growing potential of cyber market, threat actors are now even offering crime as-a-service. For example, a few Meta employees were fired in 2022 when it was discovered that they were using employee privileges to provide unauthorized access of Facebook profiles and charging thousands of dollars in Bitcoin.

It is believed that threat actors will continue offering their tools and services to other cyber-criminals in subscription-based models. These as-a-service software solutions can then be used by hundreds of thousands of cybercriminals to conduct ransomware, phishing, distributed denial of service, and other attacks on all types of businesses. Therefore, 2023 is likely to see an increase in the black market of crime as-a-service.

Wrapping Up

Cybersecurity threats are a major concern of businesses across the globe. Even the tech giants that are known to have the best cybersecurity teams and protection in place are also becoming victim. So, 2023 does not seem to be any better compared to 2022. Cybercriminals will keep their attacking potential high, leveraging new technologies the most. The best strategy for small businesses is to closely monitor cybersecurity trends in 2023 and try to set up an effective cybersecurity defense system to minimize the chances of becoming victims.

Want to Host a Private Game Server? Here’s How

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Charlene Brown

In this time and age, it’s more than usual to have private game servers, thereby enjoying the gamer experience with absolute assurance regarding safety, protection, speed, and reliability. If you are thinking of hosting your own private game server, in the text below we’ll discuss the hows and to-dos.

Choose A Game

Make sure that you meet the system requirements for running the server. But how do you pick the right one, you might ask? Well, there are a few things to consider before making the decision.

Popularity: A popular game will likely have a larger player base, and therefore, more players will be interested in joining your server.

System requirements: Make sure that your computer meets the system requirements for running the server. These requirements can vary depending on the game and the number of players you want to support.

Server software: Not all games have official server software available for download. Some games may require you to use third-party software to host a server.

Licensing: Some games may require you to purchase a separate server license in order to host a server. Additionally, you must check the terms of service of the game you’re hosting a server for to ensure you are allowed to do so. A game with a large and active community will likely have more resources available for server hosting, such as tutorials and troubleshooting guides.

Gameplay: You should also consider whether you enjoy the game and would like to play it for an extended period of time, as hosting a server can be a long-term commitment. It’s important to do your research on a game before deciding to host a server for it, as it can be a significant investment of time and resources.

Finding the Right Software

Once you’ve chosen a game to host, you will need to download the game server software and install it on your computer. The game server software can be downloaded from the game developer’s website or from a third-party source, depending on the game. Once the software is installed, you will need to configure the server settings according to your preferences. Of course, as explained by the team at 1GServerHost, this is easy enough and has many advantages. You can easily make it more secure and faster while still allowing an amazing gaming experience. This includes setting the server name, player limit, and other game-specific options.

After the server is set up and running, you will need to forward the appropriate ports on your router to allow players to connect to your server. This is known as “port forwarding” and is a necessary step for hosting a game server.

Sharing the Address

Once you have the server running, you will need to share the IP address and port number of your server with your friends, so they can connect to it. You can use a dynamic DNS service to make it easier for players to connect to your server. With a dynamic DNS service, you can assign a hostname to your IP address, making it easy for players to remember how to connect to your server. Just for the record, A DNS (Domain Name System) service is a system that translates domain names, such as www.example.com, into IP addresses, such as 192.0.2.1. It is a hierarchical-distributed naming system that makes it easier for people to remember website addresses and access them by using their domain names instead of their IP addresses.

Meeting the Requirements

It’s worth noting that hosting a game server can be demanding on your computer’s resources and may incur additional costs for an internet connection with sufficient upload speed. Additionally, it’s important to check the terms of service of the game you’re hosting a server for to ensure you are allowed to do so. Sufficient upload speed is important when hosting a game server because it determines how quickly data can be sent from the host server to the players. When a player is connected to the server, they are sending and receiving data constantly. This data includes things like player movements, chat messages, and other game-related information. Without sufficient upload speed, the server may not be able to keep up with the amount of data being sent, resulting in lag and a poor gaming experience for the players.

In conclusion, hosting a private game server can be a great way to play your favorite games with friends, but it also requires a significant investment of time and resources. Choosing a popular game, configuring the server settings, forwarding the appropriate ports, and sharing the IP address and port number with your friends are all important steps that you need to take to successfully host a private game server. Additionally, you should be aware of the terms of service of the game you’re hosting a server for to ensure you are allowed to do so.

Future of Security and Streamlined Check-Ins: Visitor Management Software

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Nikki Gabriel

Visitor management is a crucial aspect of modern-day businesses and organizations. With the ever-increasing security concerns, companies have to ensure that their facilities are protected against unauthorized access, while also providing a welcoming environment for visitors. This is where visitor management software comes into play.

Visitor management software provides organizations with a convenient and efficient solution for controlling access, tracking visitor information, and ensuring a secure and streamlined check-in process. By using a digital visitor management system, organizations can verify the identity of visitors, monitor and track visitor activity, and securely store visitor data.

By automating the check-in process and securely storing visitor data, visitor management systems help organizations to achieve a better balance between security and efficiency, making them an essential tool for modern workplaces.

According to FnF Research, the visitor management software market is expected to be valued at over US$ 1529.50 Million in 2021 and US$ 2724.42 Million by 2028. A growing requirement for paperless administration, as well as a heightened awareness of security dangers, are contributing causes.

In this article, we will explore in detail the benefits of visitor management software, including its impact on security, efficiency, and data privacy.

Security

One of the main benefits of visitors management software is that it helps enhance security. Visitor management systems provide a secure and controlled check-in process that helps to identify and verify visitors. This helps to prevent unauthorized access, reduce the risk of security breaches, and provide a safer environment for employees and visitors.

Verification of Visitors

Visitor management systems typically require visitors to provide identification and verify their identity through methods such as scanning a driver’s license or passport, or through the use of biometric data such as fingerprint or facial recognition. This helps to ensure that only authorized visitors are allowed access to the facility, reducing the risk of security breaches.

Tracking of Visitors

Visitor management systems also provide a secure and efficient method for tracking visitors within a facility. This is important for emergency situations, such as fires or natural disasters, where it is important to quickly locate and evacuate visitors. Additionally, visitor management systems can also provide detailed logs of visitor activity, which can be used to monitor and analyze visitor behavior.

Efficiency of Check-Ins

Visitor management systems also improve efficiency by automating many aspects of the check-in process. For example, digital visitor sign-in systems eliminate the need for manual data entry, freeing up time for employees. Additionally, the use of electronic badges, or visitor ID cards, helps to reduce wait times and make the check-in process faster and more streamlined.

Customization of Check-In Process

Visitor management software also allows organizations to customize their check-in process to meet their specific needs. This includes the ability to create custom forms, set up electronic sign-in sheets, and define the type of information required from visitors. This customization allows organizations to streamline their check-in process and ensure that only the necessary information is collected from visitors.

Data Privacy

Visitor management software also helps to protect visitor data privacy by ensuring that sensitive information is securely stored. Digital visitor management systems use encryption technology to protect visitor data from unauthorized access, ensuring that visitor information is kept confidential. This protects visitor information from being misused or stolen, helping to maintain visitor trust and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.

According to CookieScript, worldwide data privacy regulations will be strengthened in 2023, as well as privacy standards in the United States, with more investment in privacy technology, and other developments such as improved openness in data collecting and processing.

Integration with Other Systems

Another benefit of visitor management software is its ability to integrate with other systems and tools used by organizations. For example, visitor management systems can be integrated with access control systems, allowing organizations to control and monitor visitor access to specific areas of a facility.

Additionally, visitor management software can be integrated with HR systems, allowing organizations to track employee-visitor interactions and ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures.

Conclusion

Visitor management software is an important tool for modern organizations, providing enhanced security, improved efficiency, and data privacy protection. With its secure and controlled check-in process, visitor management systems are a valuable tool for organizations looking to improve security, reduce risk, and ensure that employees and visitors are protected.

Bitcoin Lost 60% of Its Value in 2022 – What to Expect in 2023

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Hamza Razzaq

2022 has been the worst year for the cryptocurrency industry so far. The crypto market as a whole has fallen over 50% from its peak in 2021. Talking specifically about Bitcoin, it witnessed a whooping loss of over 60% in value, starting the year at $47,669 and ending at $16,547.

The devastating drop of Bitcoin was highly unexpected due to the astonishing 2021 year, but it was triggered due to multiple global economic events, from increasing inflation and rising interest rates to the fall of major crypto exchanges FTX. So, this article will shed light on key market events that triggered the downward path of Bitcoin and then predict what 2023 looks like for Bitcoin.

What Caused Bitcoin to Lose 60% of its Value – Key Market Events in 2022

2022 has not been just the worst year for the crypto market, but the bond markets also fell by over 20% from their 2021 peak, while the benchmark S&P 500 fell by around 19.4% year to year. So, what led to such downfalls? Let’s divide 2022 into three parts and highlight the key events:

Start of 2022

With the start of 2022, governments around the world faced the growing issue of inflation. The start of Russia Ukraine war just worsened the whole situation and bought a new wave of inflation. In order to address inflation, central banks worldwide started to increase interest rates. For example, Fed hiked a 0.25% point interest rate on March 16, 2022, which was the first increase since December 2018. Afterward, the Fed again hiked the rate by 0.5% on May 4, 2022. Similar hikes were seen in other central banks around the world as well.

The strict monetary policies with concerning inflation decreased investors’ appetite for risk. So, investors started pulling out their investments, which caused panic. Investors were selling their high-risk assets aggressively to grab the attractive yield until the market stabilizes again. Owing to that, Bitcoin, which started the year at $47,669, dropped to around $29,000 by May 2022. The crypto cap, which topped 3% in 2021, was fallen over $1 trillion by the end of the second quarter of 2022.

Middle of 2022

The crypto market started showing some signs of stability by the end of the summer. The confidence of investors began to return. In fact, the CoinDesk Market Index (CMI) achieved a summer top level of $1,092 on September 12. Bitcoin made a high of $24,424 on August 13 after making a low of $19,000 by June 18. In the meantime, the Fed was continuously increasing the interest rate, but it was no longer damaging the market like before.

Another main reason behind investors’ confidence was due to FTX, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges that once even hit a $32 billion valuation. FTX also helped BlockFi, the large CeFi lender, from bankruptcy and also invested heavily in crypto companies, startups, etc. In short, FTX was considered one of the trusted companies in the crypto world.

End of 2022

The crypto market didn’t face any major crash until the late fall of 2022. However, the unexpected revelations about FTX and its sister company Alameda Research in November changed the whole scenario. Furthermore, Changpeng Zhao, Binance CEO, responded instantly to the public about his concerns with FTX’s solvency, which resulted in massive withdraw of funds from FTX, eventually making FTX pause withdrawals of customers.

It was discovered that Sam Bankman-Fried, the CEO of FTX, had created a ‘secret backdoor‘ through which he could access investors’ money without anyone knowing. After the discoveries, FTX filed for bankruptcy protection in late November. All these devastating news destroyed the sentiments of investors. The crypto market crashed, the CoinDesk Market Index dropped to $795, and Bitcoin price touched the $16,000 figure.

How’s the Future Looks for Bitcoin in 2023

Looking at the patterns of the crypto crash in 2023, it is evident that the unregulated market is not giving investors the confidence they need. The shocking FTX incident has impacted the credibility of the crypto market greatly. Theft, fraud, careless lending, and bankruptcies are also becoming more prominent in the crypto world now. Owing to that, users are now calling for regularizing crypto with more involvement of government to oversight activities and reduce the chances of fraud.

One thing worth knowing here is that all the issues in the crypto market in 2022 have nothing to do with blockchain technology. No one doubts the technical aspect of crypto. In fact, the crypto industry has also seen some great tech developments in 2022, such as successful shift of Ethereum from proof of work to proof of stake blockchain model.

In 2023, the Bitcoin pattern is not much predictable because there are both positive and negative opinions around Bitcoin. If we look at the current trend, Bitcoin started the year 2023 at $16,540 and is currently trading at $23,013 (January 26, 2023). It shows Bitcoin has been in a bullish trend ever since the start of 2023. One justification is the negotiations around Fed’s interest rate, which might make Bitcoin continue the upward movement. In addition, many wealthy investors called “Bitcoin Whales” have also started accumulating Bitcoin once again.

However, many analysts still believe that Bitcoin will follow the bearish trend once again. Mark Mobius, the founder of Mobius Capital Partners, predicts that Bitcoin might fall into the $10,000 range in 2023. In fact, Standard Chartered, the global bank, even predicts a crash of Bitcoin up to $5,000 in 2023. Many believe that higher inflation, tighter monetary policy, and similar other factors will make investors avoid holding Bitcoins for the long term.

Overall, Bitcoin is in a bullish trend currently. But it is true that investors will be more cautious this time considering what happened in 2022. So, if Bitcoin price starts plunging, we might see aggressive profit-taking. So, it is likely that Bitcoin will move in sideways with some highs and lows throughout the year. To sum up the discussion, it’s going to be an exciting year for Bitcoin, which is likely to set the trend for the upcoming years.

Features of Buying and Registering Real Estate in Dubai

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Boby Kom

The Arab real estate market does not depend on the economic situation in the world. Dubai remains one of the most popular destinations in demand by foreign citizens. The city with developed infrastructure attracts those planning to move for permanent residence or considering real estate in Dubai as an investment option. Let’s figure out what points you should pay attention to, the prices for houses in Dubai Hills for expats, and what additional costs the owner bears.

Options Available to Foreigners

The United Arab Emirates allows the ownership of real estate by right of ownership for those who do not have citizenship of the country. However, when choosing a location, you must consider that the deal can be carried out only in some areas of the city. Long-term leases are provided for up to 99 years for places not included in the limited list. The list of freehold zones is quite wide, which allows you to buy overseas property in Dubai following your taste preferences and planned budget.

Rights of a Foreign Property Owner in Dubai, UAE

There are no restrictions in comparison with the citizens of the country. You can own, inherit any housing, sell it, live permanently or dispose of it as an object for investment. There is no taxation on apartments in Dubai, both in terms of ownership and rental.

Is It Possible to Buy an Apartment in Dubai With a Mortgage?

The installment format is quite possible. The loan rate can vary from 5.5% to 6% per year; however, confirmation of the material security of the transaction is required for registration. The collateral can be the purchased property in Dubai or a down payment. You will also need a document confirming solvency. The amount of the required minimum is set by the bank depending on the object’s value. Not all developers have similar conditions for buying an apartment in Dubai.

What Does a Real Estate Transaction Look Like?

If the desired object is found, it remains:

draw up and sign a preliminary contract; it is allowed to use Arabic and English;
sign an agreement on the sale and purchase; it is also “Contract F.” An advance payment accompanies the process;
apply for a Certificate of No Objection;
make the final settlement and transfer the property to your possession.

If housing is purchased at the stage of shared development, the procedure is greatly simplified.

What Additional Costs Does the Buyer Bear

Those choosing to move to Dubai should consider that, despite the absence of taxation, no additional costs can be avoided when buying an apartment, house, or villa. Among them:

realtor fees;
one-time fee for the registration of the transaction;
fee for obtaining a document confirming the right of ownership.

More information about real estate in Dubai can be found on the official website of AX Capital.

Help Those Planning to Move to Dubai With Finding Housing

A tourist visa allows you to come to the country and stay there for up to 30 days, using the time to complete a transaction or search for housing. However, for those planning to move to Dubai, it is much more convenient to get acquainted with the region’s peculiarities and study the housing options on the market with current prices even before visiting the UAE.

Real estate agency https://www.axcapital.ae/ will help with this.

Best Practices for Preventing Data Loss and Maximizing the Chances of Successful Software Recovery

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Shafiul Azam Mahiyan

Preventing data loss is crucial for individuals and organizations alike. Not only does it spare you the headache of trying to recover lost information, but it also helps you maintain the integrity of your data. Here are some best practices for preventing data loss and maximizing the chances of a successful software recovery:

Regular Backups: One of the most important things you can do to prevent data loss is to regularly backup your data. This way, if anything goes wrong with your computer, you have a copy of your data to restore from.
Use a Reliable Storage Device: External hard drives, cloud storage services, and network-attached storage devices are all reliable options for backing up your data. Make sure to choose a device with a good reputation for reliability and use a reputable provider for cloud storage.
Keep Software and Operating Systems Up-to-Date: Regular software updates can help fix vulnerabilities that could cause data loss. Keeping your operating system updated is also important because it can help prevent data loss from system crashes or other problems.
Uninstall Unused Programs: Uninstalling unused programs can help free up space on your hard drive, reducing the risk of data loss due to full hard drives.
Avoid Overloading Your Computer: Overloading your computer with too many programs, or large files can increase the risk of data loss. Be mindful of the resources you’re using and take steps to minimize the load on your computer.
Use Antivirus and Anti-malware Software: Viruses and malware can cause data loss and compromise your personal information. Make sure to install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software to keep your computer secure.
Don’t Turn Off Your Computer During a Write Process: When you’re saving a file or installing a program, don’t turn off your computer until the process is complete. Doing so can cause data loss and corrupt your hard drive.

If some reason, a hard drive failure has occurred, first, it is important to ensure that your PC is shut down and unplugged as soon as you become aware of a data loss. This will help to avoid any further damage or data loss that could occur from continued use of the computer. As we mentioned in point one, always try to create a backup of your data regularly so that you have a recent version of the data in case of a potential problem.

Once the computer is powered down, you can use a variety of data recovery tools to try to recover the lost data. Some of the most popular tools include disk cloning software, data recovery software, and specialized data recovery hardware. It is important to be sure to use the right tool for the right job, as some of the more powerful tools may cause further damage to the data. Additionally, it is important to have the proper knowledge and experience to properly use the tools, as improper use could cause further data loss.In conclusion, by following these best practices, you can prevent data loss and increase your chances of successful software recovery. Regular backups, using reliable storage devices, keeping the software and operating systems up-to-date, uninstalling unused programs, avoiding overloading your computer, using antivirus and anti-malware software, and not turning off your computer during the writing process are all important steps to take.

Outsourcing Vs. Offshoring: Which Software Development Model does your Business Require?

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Jagdish Chandra Bhatt

Offshoring and outsourcing have become overused buzzwords that are frequently misapplied. Outsourcing and offshore software development both aim to improve business processes and operations. Both concepts prove to be beneficial in a variety of ways, including increased productivity, lower costs for solutions, more qualified specialists, and access to advanced technological outcomes.

Whether it’s software or payroll processing, a company is more likely to outsource non-core competencies or seek the services of a professional offshore development company. Organizations will save money by not having to invest in developing them internally.

Outsourcing is now an essential component of any organization’s growth strategy. Experts predict an 8.5% CAGR from 2021 to 2028. The market value of this engagement model is expected to reach $435.89 billion by 2028.

The following blog, as the title suggests, focuses on the key differences between the two, namely offshore vs outsourcing. So, let’s figure out which model will work best for your company.

Key Differentiating Factors of Outsourcing and Offshoring Software Development

Despite their popularity, business owners still struggle to define and distinguish these two business practices from other engagement models. As a result, the terms outsourcing and offshoring are frequently used interchangeably.

So, what exactly is the distinction between outsourcing and offshoring? Today, we’ll take a closer look at these two so you can make an informed decision for your next project.

1. Resources

Outsourcing Model: Every company has a plethora of business functions, many of which are non-core activities that provide no distinct advantage over competitors. Outsourcing to a third party allows you to concentrate entirely on your core competencies and achieve short-term objectives. The outsourcing model also addresses the company’s lack of specialized expertise and solves the problem of high in-house employee costs.

Offshoring Model: One significant advantage of moving a business offshore is access to a vast pool of talent. In developed countries, there is enormous pressure to find and hire people with the right skill set, particularly in software development and production.

2. Cost-effectiveness

Outsourcing Model: Outsourcing is a business model that typically has low costs and thus significant savings. The cost of maintaining infrastructure and administration, for example, is almost entirely eliminated, making it a very cost-effective approach. According to a Deloitte study, outsourcing functions to a third party reduces total costs by nearly 45%.

Offshoring Model: Cost-cutting is undoubtedly the most important factor driving companies to consider offshoring. Offshore teams in countries such as India are extremely talented and enthusiastic about their work. Offshoring allows companies to access this exceptional talent without incurring the same high costs as in the West due to the lower cost of living.

3. Flexibility

Outsourcing Model: Outsourcing can be managed in increments of a few hours or days; it only works when you need it. This level of adaptability is especially important for businesses with sporadic work.

Offshoring Model: Assume that a company establishes an offshore finance team. That team is on a permanent basis, so even if there is no real work to be done, you are still paying them to just sit around.

4. Ownership

Outsourcing Model: When a company outsources work to an outside team, it inevitably loses some, if not complete, control over how the work is completed.

Offshoring Model: The company retains complete control over its core business in the offshore business model. They are solely responsible for recruiting a stellar offshore team, as well as directing and training them.

5. Communication

Outsourcing model: Outsourcing is usually better for tasks that are well-defined and can be completed without requiring too much interaction from your team or company.

Offshoring model: Offshoring is better suited when the tasks require more communication and collaboration.

6. Cultural Specifics

Outsourcing model: Because cultural differences are such an important part of communication, tech companies pay close attention to them. While outsourcing occurs in your country, you should not experience significant cultural differences.

Offshoring model: Because not every startup is prepared to deal with extreme differences in time zones or work ethics, this point may have an impact on your company’s productivity. When you outsource to a different culture, your values may clash.

Outsourcing vs Offshoring: The Takeaway

Finding the right balance between distributing a company’s core and non-core competencies is not always easy. Both outsourcing and offshoring have advantages and disadvantages.

High-quality outsourcing is usually the best option for short-term projects that don’t last more than a couple of months.

Offshoring, on the other hand, is the way to go if you’re a company looking to improve your operations by partnering with a competent software development company team, hand-picked from a deep pool of talent – while still maintaining complete control of the process.

A Quick Guide To Enterprise Mobility Management

Posted on January 30, 2023 by Nora Sbalckiero

Enterprise mobility management (EMM) is essential for organizations looking to streamline their mobile device management strategy. It provides a central control point for managing, configuring, and securing an organization’s mobile devices. It also helps organizations ensure compliance with security policies and other regulatory requirements.

The EMM solutions always use different tools that let organizations manage the mobile device lifecycle. This includes everything from provisioning and configuring devices to revoking access if a device is lost or stolen.

Below is a quick guide to enterprise mobility management.

The Evolution Of EMM

The EMM solutions were implemented as a way for organizations to allow their users to bring devices to the office instead of restricting users to company-issued devices. However, EMM now evolved into a multi-faceted approach that helps organizations control their mobile device infrastructure.

Enterprise mobility management started as a mobile device management that allows the IT team to configure and manage devices, deploy apps, and enforce security policies. It has since evolved into a multi-faceted approach with the addition of other components such as mobile application management (MAM), mobile content management (MCM), mobile analytics, and identity access management (IAM). You can click here to learn more about how EMM solutions have evolved and how devices are managed.

How EMM Works

The EMM solutions use a variety of tools, such as mobile device management (MDM), mobile application management (MAM), and mobile content management (MCM). Here’s a quick view of how the tools work:

Mobile Device Management (MDM)

Mobile device management is the core of any EMM solution. It allows IT administrators to remotely manage and configure devices, deploy apps, and enforce policies across devices. The MDM solutions also allow the IT team to track the device’s location, manage firmware updates, and revoke access if a device is lost or stolen.

For the devices to be managed and controlled remotely, they need to have vendor-specific EMM profiles installed. Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Apple offer such profiles. This profile is specific to the vendor and enables secure communication between the device and the EMM provider.

Mobile Application Management (MAM)

Mobile application management allows organizations to securely deploy applications to devices, manage access control and permissions, and remotely wipe an app’s data if a device is lost or stolen. The IT team doesn’t access the whole device. Instead, it can access the applications on the device. Employees can also access the company’s application remotely. They can perform inventory management, app configurations, and troubleshooting tasks.

Mobile Identity Management (MIM)

Mobile identity management is an authentication process that identifies and verifies users. This ensures that employees can access the data they need while keeping the organization’s systems secure. Mobile identity management allows organizations to grant access to specific users based on their location, roles, or other criteria. It can also restrict access based on policies such as security threats, suspicious activity, and more.

Mobile Content Management (MCM)

Mobile content management allows organizations to store and share content with employees on their devices securely. This includes documents, images, videos, and other files. The IT team can access the content remotely and enforce security policies such as encryption and password protection. Employees can also access the content securely from any device.

Additionally, MCM can be used to determine access controls that employees have in the company’s data. For example, the IT team can set up policies allowing employees to access content only from specific devices.

Unified Endpoint Management (UEM)

Unified endpoint management is the unification of MDM, MAM, and MCM. This allows organizations to manage all endpoints from one console. Unified endpoint management provides businesses with real-time visibility and security features such as device authentication, encryption, data protection, and more.

Benefits OF EMM

There are many benefits that an enterprise mobility management solution brings to an organization. Here are a few:

Streamline IT processes: The EMM solutions allow the IT team to manage and control devices remotely, reducing manual efforts. These provide a central platform to manage devices, deploy apps, and set up access control policies, streamlining your operations.
Increase productivity: The EMM solutions provide employees with secure access to their data and applications from anywhere, anytime. This helps increase employee engagement and productivity. For example, employees can access their work documents away from their desks.
Improve security: The EMM solutions allow organizations to enforce security policies on all devices, such as encryption and password protection. This ensures that the data is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
Cost savings: The EMM solutions provide businesses with a cost-effective way to manage their devices and applications. Organizations can save money on hardware, software, and maintenance fees.

Knowing the benefits helps you decide how EMM can impact your organization.

Conclusion

Enterprise mobility management is a comprehensive tool for managing, configuring, and securing mobile devices in an organization. It includes components such as MDM, MAM, and MCM, which all help organizations ensure secure access to devices and content. This guide has provided a quick overview of how EMM works and what it consists of. With this knowledge, you can determine if an EMM solution is right for your organization.

Illuminating the Darkness: A Night Vision Drone

Posted on January 30, 2023 by Linkin Pubal

Introducing the latest technology in drone innovation, the “Illuminating the Darkness: A Night Vision Drone.” Equipped with advanced night vision capabilities, this drone allows for surveillance and exploration in low-light environments. Its high-resolution camera and infrared technology can capture clear images and footage even in complete darkness. This versatile tool can be used for a variety of purposes, including search and rescue operations, security and surveillance, and even wildlife observation. Step into the future of drone technology with the “Illuminating the Darkness: A Night Vision Drone.

What Is a Night Vision Drone?

A night vision drone is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with advanced night vision technology. This allows the drone to capture clear images and footage even in low-light or complete darkness. Night vision drones typically use infrared technology to achieve this, which can detect the heat signature of objects and illuminate them for the camera to capture.

How Does It Work?

Night vision drones work by using infrared cameras and sensors to detect the heat signatures of objects in the dark. The camera captures the infrared light emitted by the object, and the sensor detects the heat signature. The information is then processed by the drone’s onboard computer and used to create a clear image of the object. This technology allows the drone to see in complete darkness, making it useful for a variety of applications such as search and rescue, security and surveillance, and wildlife observation.

Benefits of Using a Night Vision Drone

Improved safety for night-time operations: Night vision drones allow for surveillance and exploration in low-light environments without risking human lives.

Increased efficiency: Night vision drones can operate during the hours of darkness, allowing for round-the-clock surveillance and operations.

Enhanced capabilities: Night vision technology allows drones to detect objects that would otherwise be invisible in the dark, such as heat signatures.

Cost-effective: Night vision drones can be a cost-effective alternative to using manned aircraft or ground-based surveillance methods.

Versatility: Night vision drones can be used for a variety of purposes, including search and rescue, security and surveillance, wildlife observation, industrial inspections, and emergency response.

Search and Rescue Operations

Night vision drones can be used in search and rescue operations to locate missing persons in difficult or dangerous terrain, such as in dense forests, rough mountains, or at night time. The drones can cover large areas quickly and safely, and their night vision capabilities allow them to search in low-light conditions without putting human lives at risk. They can also use thermal cameras to detect heat signatures of individuals, making it easier to locate lost or injured persons.

Security and Surveillance

Night vision drones can be used for security and surveillance purposes to monitor and protect important sites, such as industrial facilities, national borders, and critical infrastructure. They can be used to detect and track intruders, as well as to provide real-time intelligence on potential threats. Their night vision capabilities allow them to operate during the hours of darkness, making them a valuable tool for 24/7 security operations.

Wildlife Observation

Night vision drones can be used to observe and study wildlife, especially nocturnal species, in their natural habitat without disturbing them. The drones can provide close-up images and videos of animals in the dark, which can be used for research and conservation purposes. Additionally, they can also be used to monitor poachers and illegal hunting activities at night.

Industrial Inspections

Night vision drones can be used to inspect industrial facilities and equipment, such as oil refineries, power plants, and wind turbines, at night. They can provide a safe, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional inspection methods, and their night vision capabilities allow them to detect potential problems that would otherwise go unnoticed in the dark.

Emergency Response

Night vision drones can be used during emergency response operations, such as natural disasters or accidents, to provide real-time information and support to first responders. They can be used to assess the damage, locate survivors, and provide aerial surveillance of the affected area. Their night vision capabilities also allow them to operate during the hours of darkness, which can be crucial in search and rescue operations at night.

Technical Specifications

Camera Resolution

The camera resolution is one of the most important technical specifications of a night vision drone. It refers to the number of pixels in the camera’s image sensor, and a higher resolution means a clearer image. Night vision drones typically have high-resolution cameras that can capture clear images and footage even in low-light or complete darkness. The resolution of the camera also determines the level of detail that can be captured in the images and videos.

Infrared Technology

Infrared technology is the key component that enables night vision drones to capture images and footage in low-light or complete darkness. Infrared cameras and sensors detect the heat signatures of objects, and the information is then processed by the drone’s onboard computer to create a clear image. The quality of the infrared technology used in a night vision drone will determine the accuracy and resolution of the images it can capture.

Flight Time and Distance

The flight time and distance of a night vision drone refer to how long and how far the drone can fly before its battery needs to be recharged or replaced. This is an important technical specification to consider, especially for applications that require the drone to cover large areas or to operate for extended periods. The flight time and distance can vary depending on the model and size of the drone, as well as the weight of the equipment it is carrying.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Durability and weather resistance are important technical specifications to consider when choosing a night-vision drone. Drones are exposed to various environmental conditions, such as high winds, rain, and dust, and it’s important to ensure that the drone can withstand these conditions and continue to function properly. A durable and weather-resistant drone can operate in a wider range of conditions and extend its lifespan.

Control and Connectivity Options

Control and connectivity options refer to how the night vision drone can be controlled and the data can be transmitted. The control options include manual or remote control, while the connectivity options include wireless or wired connections. The control and connectivity options can affect the ease of use, the range of operation, and the security of the drone. It’s important to choose a drone with a control and connectivity system that meets the specific requirements of the intended application.

In Conclusion

Night vision drones are powerful tools that can be used in a wide range of applications, such as search and rescue operations, security and surveillance, wildlife observation, industrial inspections, and emergency response. Their ability to capture clear images and footage in low-light or complete darkness makes them a valuable asset for operations that are difficult or dangerous for humans.

Night vision drones are equipped with advanced technical specifications such as high-resolution cameras, infrared technology, long flight time and distance, durability and weather resistance, and control and connectivity options. These specifications enable them to provide efficient and accurate results. The technology behind night vision drones is constantly evolving, and we can expect to see even more advanced models in the future.

Overall, night vision drones are an essential tool for professionals who need to operate in low-light conditions, providing a safe and efficient alternative to traditional methods. They can help professionals to make better and faster decisions, saving time and resources. They can also be used to enhance the security and surveillance of important sites and to protect endangered wildlife.

Marketing Tips You Will Want To Hear

Posted on January 30, 2023 by Charlene Brown

Marketing is the driving force behind any successful business. It helps you reach your target audience, build customer relationships, and increase brand awareness. However, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to marketing your business. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of powerful marketing tips that everyone wants to hear. From understanding the basics of digital marketing and customer segmentation to leveraging influencers in your campaigns, these strategies will help you get the most out of your efforts and ensure that you reach the right people for maximum success. So if you’re ready to take your business’s marketing strategy up a notch, read on!

Understand the Basics of Digital Marketing

Understanding the basics of digital marketing, such as SEO, content marketing, and email campaigns can be invaluable when it comes to reaching your target audience. By creating high-quality content containing relevant keywords, you can improve your website’s ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs), directly impacting visibility. Additionally, email campaigns are great for staying in touch with customers and creating relationships that lead to repeat purchases. On the other hand, if you are, let’s say, from North Carolina, and if you are considering hiring a marketing agency in North Carolina or any other local marketing agency, make sure to read the reviews and check their portfolio before making your decision. Digital marketing has become essential for businesses of all sizes, and professionals can really help you understand the basics of it a lot easier and practical.

Leverage Influencers in Your Campaigns

Influencer marketing is a powerful tool for reaching your target demographic. By partnering with influencers who have an engaged and relevant following, you can extend the reach of your campaigns and increase brand awareness exponentially. Additionally, micro-influencers often provide better ROI than large-scale influencers due to their smaller yet highly engaged audiences. When leveraging influencers in your campaigns, it’s important to ensure that the influencer’s values and message align with those of your brand. This will ensure the highest chances of success for your campaign.

Know Your Target Audience and Create Customer Segmentation

Creating customer segmentation is an effective way to get the most out of your marketing efforts. By understanding who your target audience is, you can tailor your campaigns and message appropriately. Additionally, keep in mind that customers’ wants and needs may change over time, so it’s essential to stay current with their preferences. Good customer segmentation will allow your efforts to become much more relevant and effective, depending on the type of audience you target. Furthermore, customer segmentation can also help you to identify opportunities for growth and identify potential new customer bases.

Analyze Your Data to Make Informed Decisions

By utilizing analytics tools such as Google Analytics or Mixpanel, you can gain valuable insights into customer behavior and track the success of your campaigns. Data analysis will allow you to make informed decisions about how to adjust your strategy in order to get the most out of each campaign. Additionally, analyzing customer data can help you target campaigns more effectively, such as by creating lookalike audiences to reach new potential customers. Finally, analyzing your data also allows you to test different strategies and track their effectiveness in order to optimize your efforts.

Stay on Top of Industry Trends

Staying on top of industry trends is essential for any successful marketing strategy. This means staying up to date with the latest news and developments in your field and understanding current consumer preferences. Additionally, it’s important to think outside the box when it comes to marketing strategies. Utilizing emerging technologies such as virtual reality or augmented reality can be a great way to stand out from the competition and reach your target audience in an innovative way.

Develop a Powerful Brand Message

Having a powerful brand message is essential for establishing brand recognition and creating an emotional connection with your customers. A strong, clear message will help to differentiate you from the competition and give potential customers a reason to choose your product or service over others. Additionally, it’s important to stay consistent with your messaging in order to create trust within your target audience and to ensure your message is seen in the right places. Finally, make sure that your messaging is tailored to each platform or channel you are utilizing, as well as taking into account any cultural or regional differences in order to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Invest in Quality Content Creation

Quality content helps to engage your customers and provide them with useful information about your product or service. Additionally, high-quality content can help establish trust between you and your customers, leading to higher conversion rates. Investing in quality content creation not only ensures that your campaigns are effective but it also demonstrates to customers that you value their time and are committed to providing them with quality content.

Finally, it’s important to remember that no two marketing strategies are alike and what works for one company might not work for another. By utilizing the best practices outlined above, however, you can ensure a successful strategy for your brand. Developing the right marketing strategy requires time, effort, and dedication but it can pay off in a big way. With the right approach, you can reach your target customers in an impactful way and create long-lasting relationships with them.