Cloudpush

The holiday season sees a spike in cybercrime activities. Studies and reports show a 20-40% increase in incidents. Here are 12 scams for you to watch for. 1. Spear Phishing with a Festive Spin Emails impersonating company executives or trusted vendors, offering holiday bonuses, gifts, or exclusive deals. The goal is to trick employees into sharing sensitive information or authorizing fraudulent transactions. 2. Fake E-Commerce Sites for Corporate Purchases Fraudulent websites mimic legitimate retailers and advertise enticing holiday deals. When employees make purchases, their payment details are stolen, and no goods are delivered. 3. Malware-Embedded E-Cards e-cards can harbour malware. When employees click links or download attachments, the malware installs on their devices, compromising company systems. 4. Charity Scams Exploiting Corporate Generosity Fake charitable organisations, solicit donations. 5. Fraudulent Year-End Invoices Scammers exploit the busy accounting season by sending fake invoices for nonexistent products or services. These often resemble authentic invoices from trusted vendors, making them harder to detect. 6. Gift Card Scams Targeting Employee Incentives Scammers sell counterfeit or tampered gift cards online or in stores. These cards either have no value or direct users to fraudulent websites when activated. 7. Travel Scams for Business Trips Bogus travel websites and fake booking deals target corporate travelers. These scams not only cause financial losses but may also expose sensitive company data. 8. Holiday-Themed Social Engineering Attackers send festive messages pretending to be colleagues or business partners, leveraging the holiday cheer to manipulate employees into revealing confidential information or performing harmful actions. 9. Public Wi-Fi Threats During Holiday Travel Hackers exploit unsecured public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, and hotels to intercept sensitive corporate data. 10. Package Delivery Phishing Scams Scammers send fake package delivery notifications via email or text, containing phishing links or requests for sensitive information to “confirm” the delivery. 11. Ransomware Hidden in Holiday-Themed Apps Festive apps for desktops or smartphones may seem harmless but can carry ransomware. Once installed, they lock critical files and demand payment to restore access. 12. Financial Scams Masquerading as End-of-Year Directives Fraudsters impersonate executives or finance personnel, sending urgent instructions to employees to transfer funds or disclose sensitive financial data under the guise of year-end procedures. #CyberSecurity, #StaySafeOnline, #DataProtection, #OnlineSafety, #CyberCrime, #HolidayScams, #FestiveFraud, #ChristmasCyberSafety, #HolidayHacking, #XmasScams, #PhishingScams, #OnlineFraud, #MalwareAlert, #FakeWebsites, #Ransomware, #CorporateCyberSecurity, #YearEndFraud

The financial impact of cybercrime worldwide is staggering and continues to grow. In 2024, the global cost of cybercrime is estimated to reach $9.5 trillion, which breaks down to $26 billion per day or $18 million per minute. Projections suggest this figure could climb to $10.5 trillion by 2025. The average cost of a single data breach has also reached an all-time high of $4.45 million per incident. Globally, there are over 4,000 reported cyberattacks daily, with 81% of breaches targeting SMEs. Alarmingly, 60% of SMEs fail within six months of a significant cyberattack. Cyberattacks spike around Christmas due to increased remote access to systems, relaxed cybersecurity vigilance, and opportunities created by staff shortages. Phishing, ransomware, and malware attacks become more prevalent during this time.  Research shows that 60% of small businesses close within six months of a cyberattack. Penalties for Data Breaches Organizations failing to protect data face severe penalties. ·      Under UK GDPR, the ICO can impose fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of annual global turnover. ·      The EU's NIS2 Directive sets fines at 2% of global turnover or €10 million, whichever is higher, for non-compliance. Key Measures to Mitigate Cyber Risks Alongside Cloudpush support here are some measures to take that can reduce risk and impact. We also strongly recommend that you have an audit conducted to see where the risks are and to develop a plan of action to help prevent your organisation adding to these statistics.  ·      System Access: Limit access to critical systems during the holiday period to essential personnel. Ensure secure remote connections for staff working offsite. ·      Awareness Training: Ensure staff are able to recognize phishing and social engineering tactics. ·      Data Backup: Perform comprehensive, regular, and offline backups to minimize ransomware impact. ·      Patching: Keep all operational software and security patches up to date. ·      Physical Security: Secure physical security (electronic access/physical locks etc. and ensure CCTV systems use secure communication protocols. ·      Cyber Insurance: Many SME’s struggle with the financial costs following a cyberattack, take out comprehensive coverage and ensure compliance with policy terms. ·      Planning: Allocate time to simulate attack scenarios with senior leadership, refining defences and response strategies. #CyberCrime, #OnlineSecurity, #CyberThreats, #DataBreach, #DigitalSafety, #CyberSecurity, #Ransomware, #PhishingScams, #DataProtection, #SMEProtection, #ThinkBeforeYouClick, #SecureYourData, #BeCyberSmart, #CyberAwareness, #InfoSec, #HolidayCyberCrime, #FestiveFraud, #OnlineSafetyHolidays, #ChristmasScams

As we get close to the holiday season it’s worth bearing in mind that Cyber-attack rates peak during Xmas and New Year for a number of reasons: - Many IT teams operate with skeleton staff over the holidays, leaving systems less monitored and responses to threats delayed. - E-commerce activity surges during Christmas, creating more opportunities for phishing, payment fraud, and ransomware attacks. - Companies rushing to complete financial reporting, sales targets, and project deliverables are more likely to overlook security protocols. - Attackers craft holiday-themed phishing emails, gift card scams, and fraudulent discount offers. - With many employees working remotely or on flexible schedules during the holidays, companies rely heavily on virtual private networks (VPNs) and cloud systems. The most common Cyber Threats we see during the holiday period are: - Phishing Emails: Disguised as holiday offers, charitable donation requests, or event invitations. - Ransomware Attacks: Targeting critical systems when IT teams are less likely to respond quickly. - DDoS Attacks: Disrupting online stores or services during peak shopping times. - Credential Stuffing: Exploiting reused passwords from compromised accounts. We work with all of our clients across the year to proactively strengthen their cybersecurity measures to protect their operations, data, customers, and to ensure a secure and prosperous start to the new year. #Cybersecurity #HolidaySeason #BusinessSafety #CyberThreats #ChristmasSecurity #NewYearRisks #DataProtection #PhishingAwareness #RansomwareProtection #OnlineSafety #HolidayCyberTips #SecureBusiness #CyberAwareness #ITSecurity #StaySafeOnline

We’re wrapping up this week with the successful completion of a Digital Signage project for a prominent investment fund client based in Houston, Texas. This initiative marks a significant milestone as it builds on the success of our work in the UK earlier this year. This new solution will support the client’s U.S. team in enhancing their corporate presence and strengthening brand visibility in a highly competitive market. This project highlights our ability to deliver consistent, high-quality results across different regions, reflecting Cloudpush commitment to global excellence. #DigitalSignage #CorporateInnovation #BrandVisibility #InvestmentFund #GlobalSuccess #HoustonBusiness #TechSolutions #ClientSuccess #CorporatePresence #DigitalTransformation

Navigating 2025: Tackling IT Challenges As we approach Christmas and the new year, we’re reflecting on some of the key challenges facing all organizations. Cybersecurity threats are surging, with AI-driven ransomware and phishing attacks becoming more sophisticated. Companies must adopt proactive defences, especially with new regulations like UK GDPR, NIS2, and DORA requiring rigorous data protection, network security, and operational resilience. Hybrid and multi-cloud management also poses significant challenges. Balancing on-premises and cloud solutions demands performance optimization, data interoperability, and strong oversight. Meanwhile, the skills gap in IT remains a hurdle, making upskilling and automation critical. Finally, global privacy regulations demand robust data governance to protect customer trust and maintain compliance. Navigating these issues will be crucial for organizations to thrive in an increasingly digital world. We’re working closely with our clients to help them address these challenges and use IT to accelerate their planned growth.  #ITChallenges2025, #Cybersecurity, #CloudComputing, #DataProtection, #AIinBusiness, #Compliance, #HybridCloud, #DigitalTransformation, #GDPR, #NIS2, #DORA, #BusinessSecurity, #TechTrends2025, #FutureOfIT, #CloudSecurity

Today we have a slightly smaller project than usual, we’re upgrading a client’ home network. In the past few years post-COVID we have seen a huge uptick in the adoption of hybrid working. It’s not just having a laptop hung off the home broadband, many of our clients want the kind of technology they use at work to also be available at home, everything from enhanced home networks through to high performance AV solutions. We love guiding our clients on cost effective and secure solutions to make working from home far more productive. Contact us to find out more. #HybridWork, #RemoteProductivity, #WorkFromAnywhere, #TechForHybrid,#DigitalWorkplace, #CloudCollaboration, #FutureOfWork,  #SecureRemoteAccess, #HybridOffice, #ConnectedWork, #WorkTech #FlexibleWork

We’re thrilled to announce that Cloudpush has been officially named as a supplier on the recently launched G-Cloud 14, the latest government-supported framework for cloud providers. Designed to streamline the procurement of cloud-based services—including hosting, software, and support—G-Cloud 14 is a vital resource for public sector organizations across healthcare, education, and local government. Building on the successes of G-Cloud 13, this new iteration brings enhanced benefits, such as access to a broader range of cloud services, a simplified route to market, and the latest in cloud technology and innovation. Our inclusion in the G-Cloud 14 framework strengthens our footprint within the UK public sector, complementing our status as an approved Crown Commercial Services (CCS) supplier and our membership of the UK Cyber Security Council, affiliated with the National Cyber Security Centre. #Cloudpush #GCloud14 #PublicSector #CloudTechnology #UKGovernment #CloudServices #DigitalTransformation #CCSSupplier #CyberSecurity #Innovation #Procurement #UKTech #GovTech #DigitalUK

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used to drive a Cyber-Crime pandemic. Cybercrime Costs: In 2023, the global cost of cybercrime reached $8 trillion and will grow to over $10.5 trillion by 2025. The AI cybersecurity market will grow from $14.9 billion in 2021 to nearly $133.8 billion by 2030. AI-driven phishing attacks have risen by over 50% since 2020. By 2025, more than 80% of phishing scams are expected to involve AI. In 2020 a deepfake scam involving the impersonation of a CEO cost a company $243,000. The market for deepfake and synthetic media as a tool in cybercrime is projected to reach over $2 billion by 2025. Over 30% of companies using AI in cybersecurity reported experiencing adversarial attacks, where cybercriminals manipulated AI systems by feeding them deceptive data. Adversarial AI is anticipated to grow with an estimated 22% increase in these attacks year-over-year. Botnet and Malware Sophistication: AI-powered botnets and malware are projected to make up 70% of malware by 2025. These attacks can autonomously identify vulnerabilities, modify their tactics, and evade detection, which is particularly concerning for industries like finance and healthcare where data privacy is critical. At Cloudpush we closely monitor these developments and guide our clients on pragmatic measures to improve their defences. Reach out to us to find out more. #AICybersecurity, #CyberThreats, #AICyberCrime, #AIThreats, #DeepfakeSecurity, #CyberDefense, #AIinSecurity, #PhishingScams, #DigitalSecurity, #CyberCrimePrevention, #AIandCyberRisk, #AdversarialAI, #CybersecurityAI, #AIandPrivacy, #AdvancedThreats, #CyberProtection

Sharing Client Projects We love highlighting our clients' success stories. At Cloudpush, our "secret sauce" lies in the exceptional talent of our team, combined with the support of amazing partners, to deliver top-tier solutions. Our services include system audits, cybersecurity, managed services, upgrades, refurbishments, facility relocations, and building entirely new facilities for offices, headquarters, laboratories, and warehouses worldwide. In our last update, we shared a project involving the construction of a pharma laboratory and warehouse in the US. Coming shortly is a large-scale retail facility project, which will bring unique IT challenges. We’re excited to provide updates along the way as we tackle issues like maintaining seamless connectivity, ensuring consistent access in obstructed areas, and optimizing network performance across a large-scale environment. #CloudSolutions, #ITInfrastructure, #CyberSecurity, #ManagedServices, #FacilityBuilds, #WarehouseTechnology, #RetailTech, #NetworkPerformance, #SeamlessConnectivity, #GlobalITProjects, #TechInnovation, #SystemAudits, #PharmaTech, #SmartFacilities, #ConnectivityChallenges, #CloudPush

NIS2 Takes Effect Today, DORA Set to Become Law in January 2025 As of today, October 17, 2024, all 27 EU member states must implement the revised Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2) into their national legislation. NIS2 applies to businesses based in the EU as well as any organization that offers services within the EU or to EU-based entities. This directive enhances the cyber security requirements for businesses and public authorities, introducing stricter security standards, expanded reporting obligations, and broader enforcement powers, including the potential for heavier fines. It will also influence the terms and conditions of both existing and new Cyber Insurance policies. Under NIS2, non-compliance can lead to penalties of up to €10 million or 2% of a company's global annual revenue. Additionally, competent authorities will have greater enforcement capabilities, such as conducting targeted security audits. Repeated violations may result in temporary service suspensions or the removal of responsible individuals from their managerial roles. In parallel with NIS2, the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), which came into effect on January 16, 2023, is set to be fully integrated into EU law by January 17, 2025. For more information on how NIS2 and DORA may impact you and the necessary steps for compliance, please reach out to us. #NIS2, #DORA, #CyberSecurity, #EULaw, #DataProtection, #Compliance, #CyberResilience, #InfoSec, #DigitalRegulation, #EUCompliance