You focus on growing your business. We'll focus on your technology

Over 567 people trust us to look after their IT systems. if you are looking for an IT Partner rather than provider, you've come to the right place.

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We deliver and support IT solutions that empower you to do what you do best.

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Managed support

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Cyber security

How long have you been looking for a company to completely manage your IT infrastructure?

Even the smallest of businesses need some IT love.

What are you doing to protect your business?

Our Premium Managed IT Service takes on the full management of your IT infrastructure, giving you complete peace of mind so you can focus on the running of your business.

A perfect package for sole traders and smaller businesses, where even the smallest and simplest of IT setups get the love that they deserve.

Cyber crime is a multi billion pound industry that is constantly evolving. Our multi layered cyber security packages, can give your business the knowledge and the tools to stay safe.

Weekly tech tips

A new cyber security report has brought some bad news:


Cyber attacks are getting stronger, faster, and more sophisticated.


Our latest tech update has all the details.

More tech tips ➝

A Solution To Suit Every Business

Your business really is unique and the world of IT is vast (and ever growing). We partner with the best of the best technology partners allowing us to design solutions that truly work for you.

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Proactive, Personal, Professional

At Atema IT Solutions we don’t just sit back waiting for the phone to ring. As part of all our support packages, we constantly monitor and maintain your IT infrastructure; just like we were there with you.


We take the time to get to know you and your business. Gaining a deep understanding of your business means we can not only offer you the most appropriate solutions for your business but also one that grows with you as your business scales.


We pride ourselves on providing each Client with a high quality professional service and ensure that we give the best value we can.


Whether it’s a long term support contract or a one off project, our number one goal is to give the highest quality of service so you feel delighted with the outcome.

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Encryption: the difference between chaos and calm

What would happen if your business data was stolen?

 

Would it:

 

a)     Throw the company into chaos and put everything on the line? Or…

b)    Be an inconvenience that, fortunately, you’d already anticipated?

 

What makes the difference between these two outcomes?

 

Encryption.

 

And if you haven’t already got it set up, it’s something you need to do as soon as possible.

 

Our latest video will help you understand why.

Grab the eBook ➝

Just wanted to pass on some unprompted feedback received.


Everyone was VERY impressed with how swiftly you flagged the issue with us, checked out what, if anything you could do, and as soon as it was your turn to step in and make sure we were working OK, it was turned around in circa 10 minutes.


Everyone was VERY impressed, so I wanted to say ‘thank you’.


Our previous providers would have still been discussing it at 5pm (on Saturday!!) 🤣🤣🤣


But seriously, you guys have been majorly impressive. Thank you SOOO much.

Tracey Heath

Optimum Professional Services

The latest from our blog

by Tanya Wetson-Catt 27 Mar, 2024
QR codes are everywhere these days. You can find them on restaurant menus, flyers, and posters. They’re used both offline and online. QR codes are convenient and easy to use. You just scan them with your smartphone camera. You’re then directed to a link, a coupon, a video, or some other online content. With the rise in popularity of QR codes comes an unfortunate dark side. Cybercriminals are exploiting this technology for nefarious purposes. Scammers create fake QR codes. They can steal your personal information. They can also infect your device with malware or trick you into paying money. It's crucial to exercise caution when scanning QR codes. This emerging scam highlights the potential dangers lurking behind those seemingly innocent squares.
by Tanya Wetson-Catt 22 Mar, 2024
The integration of smart home devices has become synonymous with modern living. They offer convenience, efficiency, and connectivity at our fingertips. But a recent study has raised concerns about the darker side of these smart gadgets. It suggests that our beloved smart home devices may be spying on us. It’s natural these days to invite these devices into your home. Yet there is also the need to scrutinize their privacy implications. We’ll shed some light on the potential surveillance risks posed by smart home devices as well as discuss ways to safeguard your privacy in an era of increasing connectivity. The Silent Observers in Our Homes Smart home devices can range from voice-activated assistants to connected cameras and thermostats. They have woven themselves seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives. These gadgets promise to make our homes smarter and more responsive to our needs. But a study by consumer advocate group Which? raises unsettling questions. What is the extent to which they may be eavesdropping on our most private moments? The study examined the data practices of popular smart home devices. Including those by Google and Amazon. It revealed a landscape where the lines between convenience and surveillance blur. Key Findings from the Study The study scrutinized several popular smart home devices. Such as smart TVs, doorbell cameras, and thermostats. It uncovered several alarming revelations. Widespread Data Sharing A significant number of smart home devices share user data with third-party entities. This data exchange is often unbeknownst to users. It raises concerns about the extent to which companies are sharing our personal data as well as doing so without explicit consent. Potential for Eavesdropping Voice-activated devices, like Alexa, are common. Smart speakers and assistants were found to be particularly susceptible to potential eavesdropping. The study revealed some eyebrow-raising information. There were instances where these devices recorded and transmitted unintentional audio data. This poses privacy risks especially for users who may unknowingly be under constant auditory surveillance. Lack of Transparency One of the most disturbing aspects highlighted by the study is the lack of transparency. Data practices are often obscured under mountains of text. Many smart home device manufacturers fail to provide clear and comprehensive information. Including details about how they collect, store, and share user data. This leaves consumers in the dark about potential privacy implications from connected homes. But what you don’t know can hurt you in this case. Security Vulnerabilities The study also identified security vulnerabilities in certain smart home devices. This highlights the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information. Inadequate security measures could potentially expose users to cyber threats as well as compromising the integrity of their smart home ecosystems. Navigating the Smart Home Landscape Safely Here are the key steps to navigate the smart home landscape safely. 1. Research Device Privacy Policies Before purchasing a smart home device, carefully review the manufacturer’s privacy policy. Look for transparency about things like: Data collection Sharing practices Security measures in place to protect user information 2. Optimize Privacy Settings Take advantage of privacy settings offered by smart home devices. Many devices allow users to customize privacy preferences. These can include disabling certain data-sharing features as well as adjusting the sensitivity of voice-activated functionalities. 3. Regularly Update Firmware Ensure that your smart home devices have the latest firmware updates. Manufacturers often release updates to address security vulnerabilities as well as enhance device performance. Regular updates help fortify your devices against potential cyber threats. 4. Use Strong Passwords Put in place strong, unique passwords for each smart home device. Avoid using default passwords. These are often easy targets for hackers. Strengthen your home network security to protect against unauthorized access. 5. Consider Offline Alternatives Research whether you can achieve certain smart home functionalities with offline alternatives. If you can, opt for devices that operate offline or have limited connectivity. This can reduce the potential for data exposure. 6. Limit Voice-Activated Features If privacy is a top concern, consider limiting or disabling voice-activated features. This reduces the likelihood of inadvertent audio recordings and potential eavesdropping. 7. Regularly Audit Connected Devices Periodically review the smart home devices connected to your network. Seeing just how many there are may surprise you. Remove any devices that are no longer in use. Or that lack adequate security measures. Keep a lean and secure smart home ecosystem to mitigate your risk Don’t Leave Your Smart Home Unprotected – Schedule a Security Review The connected era invites us to embrace technological advancements. But we need to do it responsibly. You don’t want the convenience of smart home devices to compromise your data privacy. Just how secure is your smart home and Wi-Fi network? Need to find out? We can help. Contact us today to schedule a smart home security review.
by Tanya Wetson-Catt 18 Mar, 2024
Browser extensions have become as common as mobile apps. People tend to download many and use few. There are over 176,000 browser extensions available on Google Chrome alone. These extensions offer users extra functionalities and customization options. While browser extensions enhance the browsing experience, they also pose a danger. Which can mean significant risks to online security and privacy. In this article, we unravel the dangers associated with browser extensions. We’ll shed light on the potential threats they pose. As well as provide insights into safeguarding your online presence. The Allure and Perils of Browser Extensions Browser extensions are often hailed for their convenience and versatility. They are modules that users can add to their web browsers. They extend functionality and add customizable elements. From ad blockers and password managers to productivity tools, the variety is vast. But the ease with which users can install these extensions is a weakness. Because it also introduces inherent security risks. Next, we’ll delve into the hazards associated with browser extensions. It is imperative to strike a balance between the benefits and dangers. Key Risks Posed by Browser Extensions Privacy Intrusions Many browser extensions request broad permissions. If abused, they can compromise user privacy. Some of these include accessing browsing history and monitoring keystrokes. Certain extensions may overstep their intended functionality. This can lead to the unauthorized collection of sensitive information. Users often grant permissions without thoroughly reviewing them. This causes them to unintentionally expose personal data to potential misuse. Malicious Intent There are many extensions developed with genuine intentions. But some extensions harbour malicious code. This code can exploit users for financial gain or other malicious purposes. These rogue extensions may inject unwanted ads. As well as track user activities or even deliver malware. These extensions often use deceptive practices. They make it challenging for users to distinguish between legitimate and malicious software. Outdated or Abandoned Extensions Extensions that are no longer maintained or updated pose a significant security risk. Outdated extensions may have unresolved vulnerabilities. Hackers can exploit them to gain access to a user's browser. As well as potentially compromising their entire system. Without regular updates and security patches, these extensions become a liability. Phishing and Social Engineering Some malicious extensions engage in phishing attacks. As well as social engineering tactics. These attacks can trick users into divulging sensitive information. This can include creating fake login pages or mimicking popular websites. These tactics lead unsuspecting users to unknowingly provide data. Sensitive data, like usernames, passwords, or other confidential details. Browser Performance Impact Certain extensions can significantly impact browser performance. This can happen due to being poorly coded or laden with unnecessary features. This results in a subpar user experience. It can also lead to system slowdowns, crashes, or freezing. An extension's perceived benefits may attract users. But they end up unwittingly sacrificing performance. Mitigating the Risks: Best Practices for Browser Extension Security 1. Stick to Official Marketplaces Download extensions only from official browser marketplaces. Such as those connected with the browser developer (Google, Microsoft, etc.). These platforms have stringent security measures in place. This reduces the likelihood of encountering malicious software. 2. Review Permissions Carefully Before installing any extension, carefully review the permissions it requests. Be cautious if an extension seeks access to unusual data. Such as data that seems unrelated to its core functionality. Limit permissions to only what is essential for the extension's intended purpose. 3. Keep Extensions Updated Regularly update your browser extensions. This ensures you have the latest security patches. Developers release updates to address vulnerabilities and enhance security. If an extension is no longer receiving updates, consider finding an alternative. 4. Limit the Number of Extensions It’s tempting to install several extensions for various functionalities. But each added extension increases the potential attack surface. Only install extensions that are genuinely needed. Regularly review and uninstall those that are no longer in use. 5. Use Security Software Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software. This adds an extra layer of protection against malicious extensions. These tools can detect and remove threats that may bypass browser security. 6. Educate Yourself Stay informed about the potential risks associated with browser extensions. Understand the permissions you grant. Be aware of the types of threats that can arise from malicious software. Education is a powerful tool in mitigating security risks. 7. Report Suspicious Extensions If you encounter a suspicious extension, report it. You should report it to the official browser extension marketplace and your IT team. This proactive step helps browser developers take prompt action. That action protects users from potential threats. 8. Regularly Audit Your Extensions Conduct regular audits of the extensions installed on your browser. Remove any that are unnecessary or pose potential security risks. Maintain a lean and secure browsing environment. This is a key aspect of online security. Contact Us for Help with Online Cybersecurity Browser extensions are just one way you or your employees can put a network at risk. Online security is multi-layered. It includes protections from phishing, endpoint threats, and more. Don’t stay in the dark about your defenses. We can assess your cybersecurity measures and provide proactive steps for better protection. Give us a call today to schedule a chat.
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