(This column originally appeared in Forbes)
Here are five things in tech that happened this week and how they affect your business. Did you miss them?
1 — Microsoft is making migrating to a new PC much easier.
Mark Hachman of PCWorld featured Microsoft’s newest product — Restore Apps for Windows 11. Designed to simplify the process of transferring data from an old PC to a new one — Microsoft is removing the headache of finding a way to migrate your documents, applications and pictures — right down the arrangement of your icons on the desktop. Users will need to register with a Microsoft account to get full access Restore Apps features — and users have the option to deactivate on brand new PCs. (Source: PCWorld)
Why this is important for your business:
A very important tool for your office as you begin the upgrade process to Windows 11 machines.
2 — The urgent PayPal email scam you can’t afford to ignore.
Beware of emails tagged “urgent.” Phishing scams are getting more sophisticated as the operators behind them are finding seemingly legit ways to access your data. Reports indicate scam emails and verified emails are becoming indistinguishable. These imposters can duplicate a company’s logo, tone and content of the message itself — along with a link to a log-in page that appears real — setting up a clever bait. (Source: Fox News)
Why this is important for your business:
Fortunately the FTC has been relentless with releasing its warnings and has cited specific companies the scammers repeatedly use and what to look out for. Bottom line — never click on a link that even looks legitimate before taking steps to assess the risk.
3 — Meta could launch a Twitter competitor next month.
For members of the Twitterverse — it seems Meta is about to roll out its own version of Twitter — according to those in the know. Digital marketing expert Lia Haberman indicated the platform could arrive as early as the end of June — and will directly interface with Instagram where users can transfer all of their info and followers to Meta’s newest social media stream. (Source: Engadget)
Why this is important for your business:
Twitter has had its challenges as Elon Musk works to transform the unprofitable social platform into a cash-positive company. I’m still all in but I can understand if others want to consider other platforms to promote their businesses. As invested as I am in Twitter I’ll definitely keep a close eye on Meta’s potential social platform because if my clients are there, I’ll be there.
4 — Critical flaws in Cisco Small Business Switches could allow remote attacks.
Cisco — the digital communications company that offers wireless, security and networking software to small businesses — has released a list of flaws discovered in several of its Small Business Switches (nine were listed.) A few flaws which were marked as “critical” has increased the risk of remote attacks. As Hacker News reported, “[The vulnerabilities] could be exploited by an unauthenticated, remote attacker to run arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition.” Cisco has not reported on any known threats at this point. (Source: The Hacker News)
Why this is important for your business:
If you’re using Cisco routers or devices in your company make sure you ask your IT support firm if they’ve addressed these potential issues.
5 — Amazon’s US Small Business Empowerment Report shows continued sales growth for independent sellers.
Amazon released some impressive data from independent sellers who use the platform (small and medium-sized businesses.) Their Small Business Empowerment Report revealed that last year more than four billion products were sold. The report also highlighted rural locations that have seen steady growth — as much as 40 percent “year-over-year, collectively.” It also highlighted job growth and brand owners increase of profits. (Source: Business Wire)
Why this is important for your business:
Dharmesh Mehta, vice president of Worldwide Selling Partner Services at Amazon emphasized, “Small businesses are the heart of our local communities and the backbone of the U.S. economy.” He added that Amazon invests “billions of dollars” to support and nurture the small business venture. Whatever you may think of the e-commerce giant, it’s still the number one place to be sell products.
