Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance (DMARC) is a critical email authentication protocol that protects Ottawa businesses from spoofing and phishing attacks, safeguarding sensitive data in sectors like finance and government. As cyber threats, such as Business Email Compromise (BEC), evade Secure Email Gateways (SEGs) with increasing sophistication—70 percent of SEGs were bypassed by AI-driven phishing in 2025—DMARC is essential…

Secure Email Gateways (SEGs) serve as the frontline defense for email communications in Ottawa businesses, filtering inbound and outbound traffic to block threats like spam, phishing, and malware. However, as cyber threats evolve, attackers increasingly target or bypass these systems, exposing organizations to significant risks. For Ottawa SMEs in sectors like finance or government, understanding these attacks is crucial to…

Microsoft 365 (M365) is a cornerstone of productivity for Ottawa businesses, enabling seamless collaboration and cloud-based operations. However, its widespread use makes it a prime target for cyber threats, requiring robust security measures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance. Preset security policies in M365 Defender for Office 365 offer preconfigured, effective protection against email-based threats like phishing and malware….

Ransomware attacks pose a growing threat to businesses, locking critical data and disrupting operations. For Ottawa organizations, particularly those in finance or government sectors, proactive preparation is essential to minimize damage and ensure swift recovery. This article outlines key strategies for IT teams to build resilience against ransomware, offering practical steps and insights for businesses seeking reliable Ottawa IT support…

As Ottawa businesses increasingly adopt cloud technologies to enhance operations, securing these platforms is paramount. Cloud solutions offer flexibility and efficiency, but they also introduce unique security challenges. IT teams must implement robust measures to protect data and ensure compliance, particularly for sectors like finance or government. This article outlines key best practices for securing cloud environments, tailored for businesses…

Biometric IT security harnesses unique human traits for access control, evolving from niche tech to mainstream defense amid rising digital threats. In 2025, with data breaches costing $4.9 million on average, biometrics offer a password-free future – yet vulnerabilities linger. For Ottawa SMEs embracing remote and hybrid models, this tech promises seamless protection but demands careful deployment to avoid pitfalls….

Remote work has unlocked global talent pools and work-life balance, but it has also exposed organizations to unprecedented cyber risks. In 2025, remote-enabled breaches cost an average of $4.5 million each, up 15% from last year, as home networks become prime attack vectors. For Ottawa SMEs adapting to flexible models, these threats – from phishing to unpatched devices – can…

Ransomware has transformed from a niche nuisance into a global crisis, crippling businesses and governments alike. In 2025, attacks surged by 40% year-over-year, with average payouts exceeding $2 million per incident. This malware encrypts files or locks systems, demanding cryptocurrency ransoms for decryption keys. What began as crude file lockers now leverages AI and supply chains for devastating impact. For…

In an era where cyber threats evolve faster than defenses, Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) has emerged as a cornerstone of modern cybersecurity. Coined by Forrester Research, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Unlike traditional models that assume safety within network boundaries, ZTA requires continuous authentication and authorization for every user, device, and application, regardless of…