Decoding-IT-Solutions

It seems like BitLocker, Microsoft's software that protects your computer with encryption, might be causing a stir – and not in a good way.

Windows 11's upcoming 24H2 update could be auto-enabling BitLocker during installation, even for people who might not want or need it.

Why should you care? There are a few reasons…

BitLocker encryption can put the brakes on your PC's performance, slowing it down by up to 45%. How? Windows 11 is constantly juggling encryption and decryption processes with your data, which can really affect your computer's speed.

There is a silver lining. You can easily disable auto encryption by toggling off Device Encryption in your Privacy & Security settings. It's a simple fix that can save you a headache down the road.

Of course, encryption is a great security tool, and one that you should consider implementing if you haven’t already. The trick is to choose the right encryption for your business, without compromising your devices’ speed. My team and I can help. Get in touch.

This Windows 11 installation setting can cut your SSD performance in half. Here's how to disable it Microsoft may enable auto-encryption for Windows 11

Uh oh, there’s another new type of malware on the prowl, and it's got your business's routers in its sights.

Let us introduce you to "Cuttlefish", the latest troublemaker. This little menace sneaks into your routers, sets up a secret tunnel (kind of like a VPN, but way more sinister), and starts stealing sensitive data like your login credentials.

How does it work? Well, it's either exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities (new bugs that no-one has yet come across or started fixing) or straight-up brute-forcing its way into your routers. Once inside, it's game over for your privacy. Cuttlefish slips past security measures like a ninja, making it a nightmare to detect.

Here are some quick tips to keep your routers locked down tight:

* Make your password more secure. No more "password123," okay?
* Keep your routers updated
* Block remote access to your router's management interface
* Stay vigilant for any logins from unknown sources
* Encrypt your traffic
* Inspect your devices for any unknown admin accounts

If you’re in doubt or you simply want to check your security is good, my team can help. Get in touch.

Another new router malware is sniffing around for your login details Cuttlefish is stealing your login data directly from your router

You’re right to be on your guard for phishing attacks, but cyber criminals have upped their game yet again with the latest threat: QR code phishing, or "quishing".

Phishing is where criminals pretend to be a company you trust. They want you to enter your details on a fake login page.

And this quishing is sneaky. Scammers send emails with QR codes that lead to the fake websites.

With the right defenses and a bit of know-how, you can stay one step ahead of the game. Here's how:

1) Beef up your security with strong passwords, unique to each account, and tighten up access controls to minimize the risk of compromise.

2) Make sure your employees know about the latest phishing tactics and know what to do if they spot a suspicious QR code or email.

3) Keep an eye out for any unusual activity, like unexpected logins from new locations, and act fast to contain any potential breaches.

4) Consider investing in third-party extended detection and response (XDR) services to supercharge your threat detection and response capabilities - we can help with this, get in touch.

Did you already know about quishing, or is this a new one to you?

How to stay safe from cybercriminal "quishing" attacks QR codes can bypass defenses and hack email accounts

Data Encryption Facts and Figures