That concern is understandable. Privacy preferences vary, and some individuals prefer private services that handle data removal on their behalf rather than submitting requests through a state managed portal.

In this week’s follow up Tech Tip Tuesday, we are covering alternative options available to anyone who wants to reduce their digital footprint without using the state platform.

Why Some People Look for Alternatives:

Data broker removal requires sharing personal details so brokers can identify and delete records. For some, the idea of providing that information to a government system feels counterintuitive, even when protections are in place.

Others prefer solutions that work across multiple states or countries, not just California. Some simply want a hands off approach where someone else manages the ongoing removal process.

For those reasons, third party data removal services have become popular. We are highlighting two of the most popular apps in the market that provide Personal Data Removal services.

Private Data Removal Services to Consider:

Privacy Bee

Privacy Bee is a consumer privacy service that scans the internet and data broker sites for your personal information and submits removal requests on your behalf.

Key points to understand:

• Focuses on data brokers and people search sites

• Provides visibility into where your data appears

• Offers ongoing monitoring and repeat removals

• Requires you to share personal details so matches can be found

Privacy Bee appeals to users who want transparency into where their data exists and prefer a subscription based service that continues working over time.

Incogni

Incogni is a data removal service operated by the same company behind several privacy focused security tools. It focuses on automation and simplicity.

Key points to understand:

• Sends opt out requests to many data brokers automatically

• Emphasizes minimal user involvement after setup

• Operates continuously rather than as a one time request

• Limited visibility into individual broker responses

Incogni may appeal to users who want a more hands off experience without managing individual requests themselves.

Important Things to Keep in Mind:

No matter which approach you choose, there are a few realities worth understanding.

• No service can remove all data: Public records, court filings, and certain business records may not be eligible for deletion.
• Removal is not permanent without monitoring: Data brokers frequently recollect information. Ongoing services help reduce reappearance.
• You are trading convenience for trust: Third party services require access to personal details to function properly. Choose providers carefully and review privacy policies.
• Results take time: Whether using a state platform or private service, removals may take weeks or months to complete.

Key note: These services are subscription based and feature various fees based on subscription type.

Choosing the Right Option for You:

There is no single best solution. The right choice depends on your comfort level and priorities.

The California platform may appeal to those who want a free regulated option with legal enforcement behind it. Private services may suit those who prefer automation or broader coverage beyond California.

Some people choose to use both approaches, submitting a state request while also using a private service for ongoing monitoring.

Bottom Line:

Reducing your digital footprint is one of the most effective ways to lower exposure to scams identity misuse and unwanted tracking. Whether you use a government provided tool or a private service, taking action is far better than doing nothing.

If you would like help reviewing your privacy exposure, understanding these services, or deciding which approach fits your situation best, we are happy to help you evaluate your options and improve your overall data security posture.

The post Alternatives for Removing Your Personal Data Online appeared first on CEO Computers.

 In this week’s Tech Tip Tuesday, we’re diving into the essential tech apps and services that help businesses operate smoothly, scale efficiently, and stay ahead of the competition. Whether your goal is to simplify financial management, strengthen cybersecurity, improve team collaboration, or enhance customer engagement, integrating the right technology is the key to long-term success.

Here are 10 essential tech apps and services that every business owner should consider integrating into their daily operations.

1. Accounting and Finance Software – Keep Your Finances in Check

Financial management can be overwhelming, especially as your business grows. Instead of manually tracking expenses and invoices, cloud-based accounting software can automate and simplify financial tasks, reducing errors and saving time.

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central – A powerful financial management tool that integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365.
• QuickBooks Online – Ideal for small businesses, offering invoicing, payroll, and tax management.
• FreshBooks – Great for freelancers and service-based businesses with intuitive expense tracking.
• Xero – A user-friendly platform with robust reporting features and bank integration.

With these tools, you can automate invoicing, track cash flow, and generate financial reports, allowing you to focus on growing your business rather than crunching numbers.

2. Email Marketing Platforms – Connect with Your Customers Effortlessly

Email marketing remains one of the most powerful ways to engage your audience, nurture leads, and boost sales. The right platform can help you automate campaigns, personalize content, and track customer interactions for better engagement.

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Marketing – An AI-powered email marketing solution that integrates with Outlook and Microsoft Teams.
• Constant Contact – A well-known platform with easy-to-use templates and strong automation features.
• Mailchimp – A beginner-friendly option with automated email sequences and analytics.
• HubSpot – A comprehensive marketing solution that integrates CRM, email marketing, and automation.
• Marketo Engage – Best for larger businesses needing advanced segmentation and analytics.

A strong email marketing strategy ensures you stay top of mind with customers and drive repeat business.

3. Graphic Design Tools – Make a Lasting Impression

Eye-catching visuals can make or break your brand’s online presence. High-quality graphics enhance social media, email campaigns, websites, and presentations, making your business look polished and professional.

• Microsoft Designer – AI-powered graphic design tool integrated with Microsoft 365 for creating stunning visuals.
• Canva – A user-friendly design tool with thousands of templates for social media, flyers, and more.
• Adobe Photoshop – Industry-standard software for more advanced design needs.
• Fotor – Great for quick edits, photo enhancements, and social media graphics.

Even if you’re not a designer, these tools help you create stunning visuals that capture attention and reinforce your brand identity.

4. Payment Processing Systems – Get Paid Faster & More Securely

Seamless transactions are crucial for customer satisfaction and cash flow. Whether you sell products online or in-store, a secure and flexible payment processing system is a must-have.

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance – Provides financial reporting, payment tracking, and billing integration.
• Square – Ideal for small businesses and pop-up shops, with easy-to-use mobile card readers.
• Stripe – A powerful online payment processor with subscription billing and invoicing features.
• Helcim – A cost-effective solution for businesses that process high volumes of payments.
• Converge – A secure, cloud-based payment solution that supports in-person, online, and mobile transactions.

With these tools, you reduce friction at checkout, ensuring customers have a smooth and reliable payment experience.

5. Password Management Solutions – Protect Your Business from Cyber Threats

With cyberattacks on the rise, keeping passwords secure is non-negotiable. A password manager stores and encrypts login credentials, helping your team access accounts securely without using weak or repetitive passwords.

Best tools:

• Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) – A robust identity and access management system for businesses using Microsoft 365.
• 1Password – Great for businesses that need to manage multiple logins securely.
• Bitwarden – An open-source solution with strong encryption and team-sharing features.
• Keeper – Offers dark web monitoring and alerts for compromised passwords.

Implementing a password manager reduces security risks and ensures your data stays protected.

6. Productivity Suites – Keep Your Team on the Same Page

A cloud-based productivity suite can transform how your team collaborates, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.

• Microsoft 365 – Outlook, OneDrive, Teams, and Office apps for enhanced productivity and collaboration.
• Microsoft SharePoint – A key part of Microsoft 365, SharePoint allows businesses to securely store, organize, and share files in a collaborative environment. It enables team-based access control, document versioning, and seamless integration with Office apps, making it an essential tool for businesses that manage large amounts of data.
• Google Workspace – Includes Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Meet for seamless teamwork.
• Workplace from Meta – A social-media-style collaboration tool for business communication.

With these platforms, your team can work together from anywhere, ensuring smooth operations.

7. Project Management Applications – Keep Projects on Track

• Microsoft Planner – A simple, Kanban-style tool integrated with Microsoft 365 for task tracking.
• Asana – Intuitive project management with task tracking and team collaboration.
• Airtable – A flexible, spreadsheet-style tool for managing projects and databases.
• Confluence – Best for teams needing a centralized knowledge hub and project documentation.

With a structured workflow, you can prevent missed deadlines and keep everyone accountable.

8. Social Media Management Tools – Stay Active Without the Hassle

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Insights – Journeys – Advanced AI-powered social and marketing automation tool.
• Hootsuite – Schedule and monitor social media posts across multiple platforms.
• Buffer – Simplifies social media scheduling with an intuitive dashboard.
• Planable – A collaborative tool for planning and approving social content.

By using these tools, businesses can save time and maintain a strong social presence without manually posting every update.

9. Team Communication Platforms – Foster Seamless Collaboration

• Microsoft Teams – Messaging, video calls, file sharing, and integrations with Microsoft 365.
• Slack – A messaging app with channels, integrations, and real-time updates.
• Google Chat – Lightweight and easy-to-use for team communication.

Strong communication ensures smoother collaboration, fewer misunderstandings, and increased workplace productivity.

10. Video Conferencing Software – Connect with Clients and Teams Anywhere

• Microsoft Teams Meetings – Integrated with Office apps, ideal for businesses already using Microsoft 365.
• Zoom – Industry leader for webinars, virtual meetings, and breakout rooms.
• Webex – Secure, enterprise-grade video conferencing with AI features.
• GoTo Meeting – A user-friendly alternative with screen sharing and cloud recording.

Video conferencing tools ensure seamless collaboration, keeping remote teams and clients engaged regardless of location.

The right tech tools can streamline operations, boost productivity, and strengthen security, helping you scale your business efficiently. By integrating these solutions into your daily operations, you’ll save time, reduce costs, and stay ahead of the competition. Start implementing these tools today and watch your business thrive.

The post Essential Tech Tools to Elevate Your Business appeared first on CEO Computers.

Cybercriminals are counting on you to let your guard down. Don’t give them the opportunity. Knowing how to identify and respond to these threats is critical to safeguarding your personal and financial security.

For this week’s blog, we’ve curated a set of expert cybersecurity recommendations designed to fortify your defenses and keep your data safe during this high-risk period. Follow these key security measures to outsmart cybercriminals:

1. Verify Sender Authenticity

Cybercriminals impersonate the IRS, banks, and tax professionals through emails, calls, and messages that appear legitimate but aren’t. Always confirm the sender’s identity before responding or clicking on links.

A scam email might come from “IRS.alerts@gmail.com” instead of an official domain like “@irs.gov.” Likewise, a caller claiming to be from the IRS may demand payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency—a surefire scam. Always cross-check sender details with official sources.

2. Inspect Website Security

Fake tax and financial websites are designed to steal your credentials. Ensure any tax filing or banking website starts with “https://” and displays a secure padlock icon.

A scam site may look identical to the real one but have a slight variation in the URL, such as “https://irs-refunds.com” instead of “https://irs.gov.” Instead of clicking links, manually type the URL into your browser or use a saved bookmark.

3. Keep Software and Devices Up to Date

Hackers exploit outdated software to breach systems. Enable automatic updates on your operating system, browsers, and security software to ensure you’re protected against the latest threats. Old software lacks security patches, making you an easy target for malware and ransomware. Keeping everything up-to-date helps close security gaps.

4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Even if hackers steal your password, MFA acts as a powerful roadblock by requiring an additional verification step, such as a one-time code sent to your phone. Where to Enable MFA:

Activate it on email, banking apps, tax filing services, and cloud accounts to prevent unauthorized access—even if your password gets compromised.

5. Be wary of Unsolicited Communications

Scammers create urgency to pressure victims into acting fast. Don’t fall for it. If you receive an unexpected email, text, or call requesting sensitive information, stop and verify. Example: A text message claims your tax refund is ready and instructs you to click a link to claim it. Don’t click. Instead, go directly to the official IRS website or contact your tax professional.

6. Secure you Network & Online Security

Cybercriminals lurk on unsecured networks, waiting to intercept sensitive data. Use a VPN and strong Wi-Fi security when handling financial transactions online. Avoid using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, or hotels when filing taxes or accessing banking accounts. If you must, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.

7. Monitor Your Financial Accounts

Scammers often start with small, unnoticed transactions before escalating. Regularly review bank and credit card statements for any unusual activity. Enable transaction alerts on your bank accounts and credit cards so you’re immediately notified of any suspicious charges.

8. Backup Your Data Regularly

Ransomware attacks can lock you out of your own files until a ransom is paid. The best protection? Frequent backups. Best Practices: Use encrypted cloud storage or an external hard drive to back up tax documents, financial records, and critical files. In case of a cyberattack, you can restore everything without paying hackers.

Final Thought

Implementing these cybersecurity measures will drastically reduce your risk of falling victim to tax season scams. But if anything seems suspicious—STOP. Verify before you act.

If you’re unsure about an email, message, or transaction, immediately contact:

• Your financial institution
• FBI Cybercrime Division: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
• Your trusted tax professional
• Our IT security team at CEO Computers: 818-501-2281

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and have a worry-free tax season. If you have any additional questions, feel free to email us at info@ceocomputers.com

The post Protect Your Data: Tax Season Cyber Threats appeared first on CEO Computers.

Here is a comprehensive list of the support services we have successfully delivered to numerous startups in the past:

1. Network and Infrastructure Support: We excel in managing and maintaining robust and secure network infrastructures, including internet connectivity, Wi-Fi access, and data services. Additionally, we assist with setting up and maintaining network equipment, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and ensuring network security.
2. Hardware and Software Support: Our team efficiently manages and maintains the hardware and software resources within shared office spaces. We provide comprehensive support for desktops, laptops, printers, projectors, and other peripherals. Our services encompass hardware installations, upgrades, troubleshooting, software installations, updates, and licensing.
3. System Administration Support: We handle the management and maintenance of server infrastructures, including server monitoring, user account and permission management, data backups, and system security.
4. Help Desk and Technical Support: We provide responsive and efficient help desk support, which is crucial for the smooth functioning of startup businesses. Our dedicated support team troubleshoots software and hardware issues, assists with user account setups, and promptly addresses any technical concerns raised by clients or their employees.
5. Security and Data Protection Support: Data security is of utmost importance for startups, and we play a critical role in maintaining data integrity and protecting sensitive information. Our services include implementing robust security measures such as firewalls and antivirus software, managing user access controls, conducting security audits, and educating clients and their employees on best practices for data protection.
6. Audiovisual (AV) Support: We understand the significance of managing and maintaining meeting rooms and event spaces equipped with audiovisual technology. Our experienced team assists with AV setup and troubleshooting, ensuring that projectors, screens, audio systems, and video conferencing equipment function flawlessly.
7. Cloud Services and Collaboration Tools: We leverage the power of cloud services and collaboration tools to enhance client productivity and communication. Our IT support team provides assistance in setting up and managing various cloud-based platforms, such as file storage and sharing services, project management tools, and communication platforms.
8. Data Connectivity and Telecommunications: Ensuring reliable and high-speed internet connectivity and telecommunications services is essential for startup-type businesses. Our IT support team collaborates with service providers to establish and maintain data connections, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and provide support for telecommunications systems like VoIP phones.

While these are general areas of IT support that CEO Computers has successfully assisted startups with, we understand that specific requirements may vary based on the size of the startups, the types of clients served, and the level of technological sophistication. Rest assured, we are fully equipped to address your unique needs and provide the necessary guidance.

If you are a startup needing reliable IT support and consultation, we invite you to call us at 818-501-2281 or email us at info@ceocomputers.com. Our consultation is completely free, and we are dedicated to putting our experience and resources behind your business and goals. Trust CEO Computers to be your reliable IT partner, empowering your startup’s growth with efficient and tailored IT services.

The post IT Services for Startups appeared first on CEO Computers.

The intro:

So, what can she do? Helpful tasks include:

• Answer inquires often found online
• Calendar management
• Meeting assistance
• Setting lists, appointments, reminders and alarms
• Launching apps or programs, hands-free
• Provide weather and new information
• Draft emails and text messages (Android only)
• Configure basic computer settings via voice (ex: Turning on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)

What else should I know about Cortana?

Are there any disadvantages to using Cortana?

Final verdict:

The post Cortana: A Worthy Virtual Assistant? appeared first on CEO Computers.

With that said, you’re probably wondering what damage can come from this situation? Well, the long and short of it is… Plenty. This can mean anything from deleting or corrupting sensitive files on a server or drive, sending out inappropriate emails through their company account, and disclosing trade secrets, among other things.

What can you do to enhance your data security to thwart a Disgruntled Employee?

The first and most important thing you can do is prepare for the worst-case scenario. Unfortunately, there is no way anyone can predict how an employee will react (or retaliate) when a company parts way. Still, by proactively anticipating things could go south fast, you can keep the damage to a minimum.

What other ways can you maximize data security?

• Require non-disclosure agreements when employees are working with highly sensitive information. This creates legal hurdles should they decide to go rogue.
• Set expectations for how the company’s data will be utilized by employees and the repercussions for breaking these standards. An example of this could be bringing personal USB drives from home and connecting them to the network. By connecting it, there is the risk it could cause a security nightmare if the drive has a virus or could allow for sensitive information to be stolen.
• Protect devices by encrypting those that store the company’s most sensitive data. If an employee tries to tamper with drives or storage, this will help get things up and running quickly.
• Monitor user behavior and look for suspicious activities. Look for red flags. Disgruntled employees tend to either act out or become very sneaky when planning something.
• Make sure user permissions are only given for necessary tasks, and quickly disable accounts that no longer need to be used. The sooner you disable this employee’s accounts and access, the better. Some have even advised suspending these accounts during a termination meeting.
• Use Mobile Data Management that allows you to wipe out or disable a laptop or a mobile device remotely.

The post Data Security and the Disgruntled Employee appeared first on CEO Computers.

While cloud storage has allowed for ease of use and convenience, there are a few things to consider. For example, there are a few critical questions to ask yourself in preparation for potential data loss or in case of a disaster (fire, theft, flood, etc.)

Things to consider:

1. What are the crucial documents you need to protect?
2. How secure is the cloud space where you will save this information?
3. Are they part of free or limited Storage (2 GB) accounts?
4. Do they use 2 or multifactor authentication to allow you to access them
5. Do they back up your information

To help sort out any confusion,  we’ve put together a general list of items that we believe would be the best fit for your cloud storage must-haves. To give an overview of how they benefit you, they’ve compiled a list for business use. Depending on your needs, several of them may or may not apply.

Please keep in mind: Though we suggest these items be uploaded to your cloud, we strongly suggest you have security features set up with your account as some of this information is very sensitive.

Items to upload to your cloud storage provider:

• Calendars and schedules
• Contact information for clients and vendors
• Multi-user documents (for collaborating purposes)
• Pictures
• Price lists or lists of services
• Templates for documents
• Receipts, warranties, and other documents worth holding onto
• Encrypted password information

How to keep this info safe:

• Turn on account alerts
• Use more than one cloud location to back up your data
• Enable account recovery options
• Use Complex passwords and do not share them
• Do not access your data on public Wifi
• Make sure that you sign out of your cloud accounts when they’re not in use
• Implementation of strong passwords and two-factor authentication
• Lastly, make sure you have access to a backup of your data

Hopefully, this general list touches on items you may find helpful. CEO Computers is a proud Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) vendor and a knowledgeable partner that can assist you further in your search for the ideal Cloud storage provider for all of your needs. Feel free to contact us at 818-501-2281 or email us at info@ceocomputers.com.

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So, what exactly is a social engineering attack?

Terms to know: “Social engineering attack” edition:

But wait, there’s more…

How do I prevent myself from becoming a victim of a social engineering attack?

• Don’t open emails and attachments from unknown sources
• Use multi-factor authentication when available
• Be aware of offers that seem too good to be true
• Keep your anti-virus software up to date

The post Social engineering attack: What you need to know… appeared first on CEO Computers.

Here are a few tips we think you’ll find helpful.

Before a website hack:

• Enable Two-factor authorization. Using two-factor authentication offers a second layer of protection to your account. When active, you will need to verify you are attempting to log in to a certain site. This protection comes in the form of either an email or text code, a phone call with said code, or a prompt on a secondary device. Confirming this info that confirms you are trying to log in.
• Create strong, complex passwords. No, Password123 isn’t going to save your data from peril, so think outside the box. Use a password that features upper and lowercase letters. Throw in some numbers and special characters for added flare. An example of these suggestions in use is P@ssW0rd4522! Or $ecUr1ty@9562!. Be sure to write these down or use a password manager.
• Implement security questions. Though some websites have pulled away from this tried-and-true method of personal Q&A for security purposes, it’s best to use this method if available. If a hacker doesn’t have access to info such as “your high school mascot” or “your mother’s favorite food”, then they can’t get too far in hacking your data.

After a website hack:

• Change your passwords. We will get into this a bit more in detail below, but you will want to change your password as soon as you find out you have been hacked. Doing so prevents further damage in the event that your credentials fall in the wrong hands.
• Monitor your credit reports. If you are familiar with the credit monitoring process, then you know that any new inquiries or new open accounts have the ability to either drop or raise your credit score. Check your credit report often for unusual or unauthorized accounts that you did not authorize. Recent queries and large purchases may indicate unauthorized account opening.
• Try a Dark Web Monitoring sweep. While we do not suggest searching the dark web yourself for your information, you can seek out help from outside sources. Paid services such as Experian offer Dark Web Monitoring, which sweeps the dark web (and regular) for personal information related to the account holder. This helps in the event that your information is out there. It allows you time to contact your credit companies to freeze accounts, while also informing the Social Security Administration (for identity theft purposes).

Bonus: Utilize these methods for maximum protection against a website hack

• Implement a password manager. Password software and apps are a great way to keep track of your passwords. Companies such as dashlane, lastpass and 1password offer robust features. These include excellent security, password sharing, and encryption, which will give you peace of mind while storing your info.
• Change passwords frequently. Using the same password for years increases your chances of falling victim to a hack. A rule of thumb is to change your passwords every quarter. You also want to use the rules listed above for maximum benefit.

Have additional questions? Feel free to contact us by phone at 818-501-2281 or email us at info@ceocomputers.com

The post How to safeguard your account details before and after a consumer website hack appeared first on CEO Computers.

How to protect against Cyberattacks:

• Use strong, smart passwords: Do not just use one password or variations of passwords for every account that you own. Reusing passwords or password variations means that if an attacker has access to one of your passwords, they effectively have access to all of your accounts. Every password that you have should be different from the rest – passwords with random phrases, numbers, and letters are the most secure.
• Set up two-factor authentication: Companies add this additional security step as an added layer of protection to accounts. Once set up, a code is sent to your email or via text and is used to sign-in securely
• Do not click links in emails: If an organization, such as your bank, sends you a link, launch your browser and go directly to the bank’s site instead of clicking on the link itself. You can also check the destination of a link by hovering your mouse over it. If the URL does not match the link’s anchor text or the email’s stated destination, there is a good chance that it could be malicious. Many spear-phishing attackers will try to obfuscate link destinations by using anchor text that looks like a legitimate URL.

What else can be done?

• Use logic when opening emails: If you get an email from a “friend” asking for personal information including your password, carefully check to see if their email address is one that you have seen them use in the past. Real businesses will not send you an email asking for your username or password. Your best bet would be to contact that “friend” or business outside of email or visit the business’ official website to see if they were the party who actually contacted you.
• Frequently update your software: If your software provider notifies you that there is a new update, do it right away. The majority of software systems include security software updates that should help to protect you from common attacks. When possible, enable automatic software updates
• Implement a Data Protection Program: Having a data protection program includes combining user education pertaining to data security best practices and implementation of data protection solutions. This will help to prevent any unwarranted attacks. Microsoft Office 365 offers Advanced Threat Protection, which screens all emails for malicious content before delivering them to the recipient. 

Final Thoughts: 

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