Reliable Networks Blog

5 New Trends from a Study on the State of AI at Work

December 30, 2024 No Comments

The pace of technological advancement is accelerating. This is not news to anyone wading through the ChatGPT craze. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this revolution. We are swiftly seeing companies adopting AI solutions. Even more rapidly are software providers like Microsoft adding AI to tools. 

The goal is to use AI to do things like:

  • Streamline operations
  • Automate tasks
  • Reduce errors
  • Boost business output

The 2024 Work Trend Index is a joint report by Microsoft and LinkedIn. It provides valuable insights into the current state of AI in the workplace. The study sheds light on how AI is transforming the way we work. It provides both fresh ideas and considerations when using AI. 

Being a business IT provider means we keep on top of these types of reports. By understanding the trends, we can help our clients navigate these changes. We can also help them leverage the power of AI to drive business forward. 

Next, we’ll look at the main trends identified in the report. As well as explore how they can impact your operations.

Employees Want and Expect AI at Work

Is your company lagging behind in AI adoption? You may find it harder to attract and keep top talent. The study shows that 75% of knowledge workers now use AI at work.

Employees understand that AI helps them do certain things faster. One of the concerns is a lack of rapid adoption by companies. Companies in turn need to have a plan. AI is like any other new technology. It can help, but only if you do it right. 

The best way to move forward is a partnership with employees. Learn how they feel AI can help them most. This gives you a great starting point for where to leverage AI effectively. 

AI Skills are Becoming More in Demand

There are now new positions we never heard of just three years ago. Prompt engineer is one of these. Employees who know how to use AI to get the best output are most in demand.

The study also found that job loss fears haven’t yet been realized. Instead, companies are seeking AI-skilled staff. Fifty-five percent of leaders worry about having enough talent to fill needs.

The need for AI skills means employers should add AI training to upskill teams. Employees can take the initiative to improve their use of AI and prompts. It’s in everyone’s best interest to learn how to harness AI productively.

The Evolving Role of Employees Using AI

The report also reveals a notable divide in employee use of AI. The spectrum begins with skeptics, rarely using AI. On the other end is power users. They use AI frequently in their work.

These AI “power users” are saving more than 30 minutes per day. They do this by reengineering their workflow using artificial intelligence.

Some of the ways that AI can augment roles and assist with tasks include:

  • AI-driven automation 
  • Data analysis and reporting
  • Customer support enhancement
  • Document and policy drafting

Companies can benefit from their AI power users. These employees can help train others on their team. They can also help create foundational processes and templates. Other employees can then follow these templates to enhance their work.

Things Can Get Messy Fast without a Plan

Companies have immense pressure to show ROI. Many haven’t yet figured out how to do that with AI enhancements. But they’re also worried about being too slow to adopt. 

One of the issues this has led to is employees using AI on their own. Using un-sanctioned AI tools. Possibly using AI where the company would rather have a human touch. This puts the emphasis on businesses needing an AI use policy, and fast.

It’s the “Wild West” without a use policy in place. Companies can begin by contacting their IT provider for expert guidance.

The Ethical Considerations and Trust in AI

As AI becomes more prevalent, it’s essential to address the ethical considerations. The Work Trend Index emphasizes three important things in this area. These are transparency, privacy, and bias mitigation in AI systems.

Businesses must ensure that AI tools are deployed ethically and responsibly. This means clear communications to employees and customers about how it’s using AI. Building trust in AI is crucial for its successful integration into the workplace.

Final Thoughts on AI in the Workplace

The 2024 Work Trend Index offers valuable insights. It helps companies understand the transformative power of AI in the workplace. It’s important to understand these key trends and embrace AI strategically. Doing this enables businesses to unlock new opportunities. As well as enhance productivity and improve employee satisfaction.

Get Expert Help with an AI Game Plan

We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of AI. We can assist you with leveraging its potential to drive your business forward. 

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your AI journey.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Free Internet Access? Don’t fall for this one

December 26, 2024 No Comments

Free Internet Access? Don’t fall for this one

One of the popular internet scams that has been doing the rounds since 2017 is the one about “Free Internet”. This scam seems to resurface and somehow manages to claim quite a few unsuspecting victims. Here’s how they catch you.
  • Ads are created on Google, Facebook, popular search engines and social media platforms advertising free internet hours.
  • The ads look professional and show up on general searches and on social media when surfing. This offers a sense of validity.
  • Once you click on the ad, you will be taken to their website, where you will be asked to perform an action, such as

    1. Filling out a form with your Personally Identifiable Information (PII)
    2. Sharing your credit card information, and though you will be promised that your card won’t be charged, you may end up signing up for something or subscribing to a service for which your card will be charged later.
    3. Sharing a few email IDs or phone numbers–basically contacts with whom you will be asked to share the message in return for free internet service.

How to stay safe?
As always, remember no one offers something for free. Whether it is free internet access or tickets to a concert, if it is something of value, then you will be expected to provide some value in return. Steer clear of offers that seem too good to be true. If you receive a message from someone you know and trust, please let them know that their link may be a problem. No matter what, don’t open a link from anyone if you aren’t entirely sure the links are valid.

Guide to Smart Windows 11 Settings to Boost Your Productivity

December 25, 2024 No Comments

The newest Windows OS is fast gaining ground on Windows 10. As of August 2024, Windows 11 had over 31% of the Windows market share. That is bound to increase fast as Windows 10 retires in 2025.

Already upgraded to the new operating system or planning to soon? Then, you’ll love these tips on optimizing your Windows 11 experience. Windows 11 offers several great features. But you must use them to gain the productivity boost.

Let’s jump into some of the most effective settings and tools that can transform your daily workflow.

1. Start Menu Customization

The Start Menu might seem less important than other features. But it’s your gateway to all the applications and settings on your computer. It’s used all the time to open apps, search, and more. This makes it a huge potential productivity enhancer.

Customizing your Start Menu can save you time and clicks. Here are a few ideas:

  • Pin Frequently Used Apps: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to Start.” This keeps your most-used applications just a click away.
  • Organize into Folders: Drag and drop apps on top of each other to create folders. Label these for easy identification.
  • Adjust Start Menu Layout: Go to Settings > Personalization > Start. Here, you can choose which folders appear on Start and adjust the layout to suit your needs.

2. Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops allow you to organize your workspace. You can separate different tasks into distinct desktops. For example, one for work and one for personal.

  • Create a New Desktop: Click on the Task View button on the taskbar or press Win + Tab. Click on “New Desktop” to create a new virtual space.
  • Switch Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to switch between desktops.

3. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups

Snap Layouts and Snap Groups are powerful tools for multitasking. They snap windows into position for side-by-side work. Start using them. You’ll notice a big reduction in time-consuming app-switching.

  • Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button on any window to see available snap layouts. Choose a layout to snap the window into place.
  • Create Snap Groups: Snap windows into a layout. Windows 11 remembers the group. Hover over the taskbar icons to see and restore the snap group.

4. Focus Assist

Focus Assist helps you stay focused by minimizing distractions.

  • Enable Focus Assist: Search “Focus” from the taskbar search and click Focus Settings. Choose your options, and click to start a session.
  • Set Automatic Rules: Configure automatic rules to enable Focus Assist during specific times. For example, when duplicating your display or when playing a game.

5. Widgets

Widgets provide quick access to personalized content like news, weather, calendar, and more.

  • Access Widgets: Click on the Widgets icon on the taskbar or press Win + W.
  • Customize Widgets: Add or remove widgets. Adjust their size and position to suit your preferences.

6. Taskbar Customization

A well-organized taskbar can significantly enhance your productivity. Tired of looking at icons you never use? Hide them to get them out of your way. This reduces distractions and helps you find what you need faster.

  • Pin Apps to Taskbar: Right-click on any app and select “Pin to taskbar” for quick access.
  • Adjust Taskbar Settings: Right-click on the taskbar and choose “Taskbar settings.” Here, you can customize taskbar behaviors. Such as hiding it in desktop mode or showing badges on taskbar buttons.

7. Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Once you learn your favorites, using them will be like second nature. Here are some essential ones:

  • Win + E: Open File Explorer.
  • Win + I: Open Settings.
  • Win + D: Show or hide the desktop.
  • Win + L: Lock your PC.
  • Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps.

8. Power and Battery Settings

Optimizing power and battery settings can extend your device’s battery life. It can also improve performance. Knowing these adjustments is super helpful if you’re without a power connection for a while.

  • Adjust Power Mode: Go to Settings > System > Power & battery. Choose a power mode that balances performance and battery life.
  • Battery Saver: Enable Battery Saver to extend battery life. Use it when your device is running low or you’re away from power for an extended time. 

9. Storage Sense

Storage Sense helps you manage disk space by automatically deleting unnecessary files.

  • Enable Storage Sense: Go to Settings > System > Storage. Turn on Storage Sense and configure it to run automatically.
  • Configure Cleanup Schedules: Set up schedules for several tasks. Such as deleting temporary files, emptying the recycle bin, and removing unused files.

10. Accessibility Features

Windows 11 includes several accessibility features that can enhance your productivity.

  • Magnifier: Use the Magnifier tool to zoom in on parts of your screen. Press Win + Plus to activate it.
  • Narrator: Enable Narrator to read text on your screen aloud. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Narrator.
  • High Contrast Mode: Improve visibility by enabling high contrast mode. Go to Settings > Accessibility > High contrast.

Looking for More IT Productivity Tips?

Our team of tech experts has many other productivity tips to share. If you’re looking to optimize your workflow, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Contact us today to schedule a chat about productivity enhancers.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Protect Yourself: 8 Steps to Take When You Get a Notice Your Data Was Breached                 

December 20, 2024 No Comments

When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your data. It happens all too often today.

Data breaches happen at banks, online sites like Facebook, and ecommerce stores. Not only that, but governments are also victims. This leaves things like your address, SSN, and credit card details exposed to thieves. 

A business getting hacked is something you have little control over. But you can take important steps afterwards. We’ve outlined the most important things to do below. These steps can help you mitigate the financial losses.

Change Your Passwords

The very first thing you should do is change your passwords. Change the password for the service that sent you the breach notification first. Then, change it for any logins using the same password. 

This is one of the reasons it’s a best practice to use unique logins for every site. Many people get in the habit of using the same password in several places. This leaves more than the single breached login at risk. Use a password manager to help you create strong passwords. You only need to remember one to access all the others.

Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication can keep accounts secure, even if a hacker stole the password. Enable it for the breached service. Then, ensure you have MFA activated for all other logins, where possible. MFA is also called two-factor authentication or two-step verification.

Common forms of MFA are:

  • Text message
  • Authentication app
  • Security key

Check Your Bank Accounts

If payment card details were breached, check bank accounts. You’ll want to watch these for several weeks for fraudulent charges. Report the breach to your bank to have them issue you a new card, if needed.

Notify your bank about the 3rd party data breach. This can help keep you from being held responsible for fraudulent charges. It’s good to get out ahead of it. Your bank can then help you with appropriate steps to avoid fraud.

Freeze Your Credit

Online criminals will often sell breached personal details. These details can enable someone to take out credit in your name. Contact the three credit agencies. They each have ways to freeze your credit to protect you. You can do this right on their websites.

The three credit agencies are: 

Carefully Review the Breach Notification

It’s important to understand exactly how the data breach may impact you. Review the notice you received. Additionally, look for updates on the company website.

These are the things you should be looking for:

  • The type of data exposed (passwords, card numbers, etc.)
  • What reparations the company is making (e.g., credit monitoring)
  • Any instructions given to secure your account

Regularly check the company’s website. Often, they don’t immediately know how far reaching the breach is. You may check back later and find out other types of sensitive data were exposed.

Get Good Cybersecurity Protections

Make sure you protect your device and network. There are some simple tools you can use to beef up personal device security. These include:

  • A good antivirus/anti-malware program
  • DNS filtering to block malicious sites
  • Email spam filtering for phishing

Another good protection you can use is a VPN. This helps mask your traffic. It is especially helpful if you’re using a public Wi-Fi. VPNs are easy to use. You can use VPNs for both computers and mobile devices.

Be On the Lookout for Phishing Scams

Emails are often exposed in data breaches. This means you may receive an uptick in phishing emails. Phishing is very convincing since criminals have AI at their disposal. Phishing emails often are hard to spot from the real thing.

Stay ultra-aware of any unexpected emails. Follow best practices to avoid becoming a phishing victim:

  • Hover over links to see them
  • Go to websites directly. Don’t click email or SMS links
  • Beware of unknown senders
  • Watch for phishing on social media and text messages
  • When in doubt, double check through an official source

Make Sure to Update Software & Systems

Hackers often exploit unpatched vulnerabilities. How do you get unpatched vulnerabilities? Most times it’s from failing to keep software updated.

Make sure to update your device operating system. Update all apps or software on your devices. Update firmware for routers and printers. Update firmware for smart devices. 

There are so many updates we need to do with our electronics. Automating your updates is a good way to stay protected.

Managed Security Services You Can Count On

Managed services can keep you protected at work and home. Need help improving device security? We’ll be happy to discuss our options.

Contact us today to schedule a chat about device security.

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Featured Image Credit

This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.

Online shopping? Watch out for these red flags

December 19, 2024 No Comments

Online shopping? Watch out for these red flags

Who doesn’t like online shopping? Online shopping has opened up a whole new world to us. Get whatever you want, whenever you want, without wandering from store to store. It doesn’t matter if it is too hot to venture outside or if there’s a blizzard out there, you do your shopping from the comfort of your couch and the stuff at your doorstep. You get great deals, some are better than in-store specials. But, did you know cybercriminals love the concept of online shopping as much as you do. Cybercriminals are exploiting the growing popularity of online shopping to cheat unsuspecting buyers through techniques such as phishing, malware injection, etc. Here are a few tips that may work to keep you safe from being a target of cybercriminals as you shop online.

How to determine if the ad or shopping site is genuine?
As you browse the web, you will come across various ads targeted at your interests. Businesses engage in ‘Retargeting’ which means they use cookies to target you with very specific ads until you buy something. For example, look at a wallet and, you will see ads for wallets on various other sites you browse even if they are not shopping sites. Are those ads genuine? Before clicking on any ad you see online and making a purchase, be sure to verify if the ad is genuine. The same goes for shopping sites. Before you shop, you need to ensure the site is genuine, especially since you will be sharing your credit card details or Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as your address. Here are a few things to check before you make that online purchase.

English: Keep an eye out for grammatical errors or spelling mistakes in the ad. Fake ads and sites may look a lot like the actual ones, but spelling mistakes or grammar errors may tell the true story. Scammers don’t have content writers to write great sales content!

Check the URL: When at a shopping site, always check the URL in the address bar to ensure it is genuine. For example, if you see www.1amazon.com or www.amazon-usa.com, you should know it is not the same as www.amazon.com. Checking the URL also lets you detect website cloning and phishing. Website cloning is one of the most popular methods used by scammers to fleece consumers. As the term suggests, the cybercriminal first creates a ‘clone’ site that looks exactly like the original one, barring a very minor change in the URL.

Don’t Get Phished!
Phishing is when you receive a message, usually through an email or a text message asking you to take an action, such as clicking on a link, filling out a form, logging into an account, etc., Such messages look as though they are genuine. But, the form fill, account login, or link will take you to a spurious site where your information will be captured for bad use. Checking the URL will help you detect phishing frauds as well.

Check before you download anything: Sometimes you may receive a link and asked to download a coupon or a gift card that entitles you to a sizable discount. It may be a fraud. In fact, it probably is.

Download only from legitimate marketplaces: With so many shopping options it is tempting to download every new app that you come across. But, only download from authorized marketplaces like Google Play Store for Android or the App Store for iOs.

At the end of the day, remember, there is no free lunch. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.