Safe Harbor Solutions, LLC

Net Neutrality just faced an unfortunate setback this week. A federal appeals court ruled yesterday that the FCC did not have legal authority to reinstate the rules despite being the agency that originally enacted them and years later repealed them. For those unfamiliar, Net Neutrality Rules are regulations aimed at ensuring that internet service providers (ISPs) treat all data on the internet equally, without discriminating or charging differently based on user, content, website, platform, or application. These rules are designed to maintain an open internet where users have unrestricted access to lawful content and can use applications and services of their choice without interference. Key Principles of Net Neutrality: - No Blocking – ISPs cannot block lawful content, services, or applications. - No Throttling – ISPs cannot intentionally slow down (throttle) the speed of specific websites or applications. - No Paid Prioritization – ISPs cannot create “fast lanes” for companies that pay for faster delivery of their content, ensuring a level playing field for all online services. History: - In 2015, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) established strong net neutrality rules, classifying broadband internet as a public utility under Title II of the Communications Act. - In 2017, the FCC under a different administration repealed these rules, arguing that they stifled investment in broadband infrastructure. Why is this important? Net neutrality is critical for: - Free expression – Preventing ISPs from controlling what users can access. - Fair competition – Ensuring small businesses and startups can compete with larger companies. - Innovation – Allowing new online services to thrive without needing to pay ISPs for preferential treatment. #netneutrality #informationtechnology

As we step into 2025, we want to express our gratitude to our clients, partners, and team for making 2024 an incredible year of growth, innovation, and resilience. This past year, we’ve been proud to: 🌐 Strengthen cybersecurity for our clients, protecting them from evolving threats. 💡 Introduce new IT solutions that enhance efficiency and security. 🤝 Collaborate with amazing organizations to build a safer, more connected future. In 2025, we remain committed to being your trusted partner in navigating the ever-changing digital landscape. Whether it’s fortifying your systems, optimizing your operations, or staying ahead of the latest trends, Safe Harbor is here to help you thrive. Let’s embrace this new year with optimism, focus, and a shared dedication to success. Here’s to continued innovation and partnership in the year ahead. Cheers to 2025! 🥂 #HappyNewYear #SafeHarborSolutions #Cybersecurity #Innovation #Partnership

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas everyone. Have a safe and happy holiday.

Rhode Island has been hit with a monumental hack that could likely cause financial and identity issues for thousands of residents. More from Reuters: https://lnkd.in/g94XUj8B

The past few months have seen a notable surge in cybersecurity threats, with an alarming number of high-profile hacks and data breaches across industries. From the Rhode Island cyberattack that exposed the personal and financial information of thousands, to ransomware attacks affecting millions, like those targeting PIH Health Hospitals and Summit Pathology, the scale and sophistication of these attacks are growing. Even major organizations like the Library of Congress and global tech firms like Cisco haven’t been spared. As the holiday season ramps up, so does online activity. Increased shopping and digital interactions create more opportunities for cybercriminals. Hackers exploit this busy time with phishing scams, fake websites, and fraudulent emails. It’s crucial to stay cautious: avoid clicking on links, downloading files, or sharing sensitive information unless absolutely certain of the source. When in doubt, contact your support team. They’re there to assess and manage potential threats before they become critical. At Safe Harbor, protecting our clients is our top priority. We employ a multi-pronged approach that combines advanced software and hardware solutions, strict security policies, rigorous employee training, and tools like firewalls, authenticator apps, and single sign-on systems. Our proactive measures ensure your systems remain secure, even in the face of rising threats. Your vigilance, combined with Safe Harbor’s expertise, is the best defense. Stay informed, stay cautious, and let’s navigate these challenges together. #holidays #cybersecurity #informationtechnology #hackers

Considering a laptop as a holiday gift for someone on your list but aren't sure which ones are best? We recommend checking out CNET's best laptop pics for 2024. Both Mac and PC have competitive advantages this year. https://lnkd.in/ejra7KG

Cyber attacks historically increase during the holiday season. Why? 1. Heightened Online Activity: More people shop, donate, and browse online, providing attackers with a larger pool of potential victims. 2. Increased Transactions: The surge in online transactions for holiday shopping and travel creates more opportunities for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in payment systems. 3. Phishing Scams: Cybercriminals use holiday-themed phishing schemes, such as fake sales, gift card offers, and charity appeals, to trick users into providing sensitive information. 4. Weakened Defenses: Businesses often operate with reduced staff during holidays, delaying detection and response to attacks. IT teams may also be slower to address vulnerabilities. 5. Targeting Remote Work Devices: With remote work persisting, employees working from less-secure environments during the holidays become prime targets. 6. Rushed Decisions: Consumers and employees alike may rush to complete transactions or respond to messages, increasing susceptibility to scams. Here are some common threats to be aware of: 1. Ransomware: Targeting businesses and individuals with critical demands during busy times. 2. E-skimming: Injecting malicious code into websites to steal payment data. 3. Fake Websites and Apps: Designed to mimic legitimate brands to steal login credentials or payment information. These are some steps you can take to be safe: 1. Use secure networks. 2. Double-check URLs for legitimacy. 3. Avoid clicking on unsolicited emails or deals. 4. Enable multi-factor authentication and monitor financial accounts closely. Remaining vigilant during the holidays is crucial to avoid falling victim to cyberattacks. #cybersecurity #holidays #onlineshopping #identitytheft #informationtechnology #computers

Online shopping is at it’s peak right now and it is important to remember there are certain risks you take when online shopping that could pose a cyber security threat to your computer and potentially your finances. Follow these steps to stay vigilant this holiday shopping season: Protect your devices: Ensure all internet-connected devices run updated software to stay free from malware. Use secure connections: Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping; opt for a VPN or your phone's hotspot instead. Strengthen login credentials: Use unique passphrases and enable multi-factor authentication for all accounts. Verify sites and deals: Stick to trusted retailers and watch for too-good-to-be-true offers. Ensure shopping sites use HTTPS for secure transactions. Make secure payments: Use credit cards, pre-paid cards, or reliable services like PayPal, avoiding direct debit card use. Monitor financial activity: Regularly check your accounts and enable transaction alerts for unusual activity. Smart charitable giving: Research organizations on platforms like Charity Navigator and avoid pressure to donate immediately. Verify URLs and avoid unsolicited requests. Safe device practices: Disable auto-connect features, avoid public or shared computers, and keep track of personal devices. By taking these precautions, you reduce risks and ensure safer online transactions, protecting your personal and financial information from cyber threats. #holidays #onlineshopping #cybersecurity #informationtechnology

This Thanksgiving, we reflect on what truly matters and express our deepest gratitude for the people and moments that define our journey. We’re thankful for our incredible team, whose expertise and dedication drive innovation and success in everything we do. Your hard work fuels Safe Harbor’s mission to deliver exceptional IT solutions. To our clients and partners, thank you for trusting us with your technology needs. Your confidence inspires us to continually raise the bar and find new ways to empower your organizations. Lastly, we’re thankful for the communities we serve, especially in senior living, where we are privileged to contribute to better care and connection. As we gather around tables and share in the joy of Thanksgiving, let us celebrate the partnerships, milestones, and progress we’ve achieved together. From all of us at Safe Harbor Solutions, we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, happiness, and gratitude. #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #SafeHarborSolutions

By now everyone who has internet access has encountered an AI-generated image. Putting aside the controversies and opinions on the topic, it is important to know how to identify these images so you can determine if it is real or not. Identifying AI-generated images can be challenging sometimes and the technology is only getting better. There are several methods and clues to look for but it should be stated that not all of these will be apparent every time: Inconsistent Details: AI-generated images often struggle with fine details, such as hands, feet, teeth, or text within the image, which may appear distorted or unnatural. These are the usual tell-tale signs but the technology is improving on these points. Overly Smooth Textures: Surfaces like skin or backgrounds may appear unnaturally smooth or lack realistic texture variations. Zoom in on different areas and compare it to a real photo. Odd Artifacts: Often times AI-generated images will feature objects and shapes that are indecipherable or abstract and don’t resemble anything recognizable. Check the image file's metadata for details about its origin. Some AI tools embed specific markers or references to their software in the metadata. Use reverse image search tools (e.g., Google Images, TinEye) to see if the image links back to AI-generation platforms or repositories known for hosting AI art. Use platforms like Hive Moderation or AI Image Analyzers that specifically scan images to determine if they are likely AI-generated. Investigate the source of the image. If it comes from a known AI art platform or lacks a credible creator, it may indicate AI generation. AI often generates odd lighting effects or inconsistent shadows that don't align with the physical laws of light. These methods, combined, can help provide clues to identify AI-generated images effectively. #aigenerated #aiimages #informationtechnology #artificialintelligence