Category: Cybersecurity

From Internet to Endpoint: Why One Provider for All Makes a Difference
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From Internet to Endpoint: Why One Provider for All Makes a Difference

In today’s fast-moving digital world, businesses need more than just internet connectivity; they need a technology partner who can power their entire network, protect it, and support it every step of the way.

That’s why more businesses are choosing Citynet as their all-in-one technology provider. From high-speed fiber internet to endpoint security, cloud, managed IT, and cybersecurity solutions, we simplify your tech stack and strengthen your operations without the finger-pointing that comes from juggling multiple vendors.

Here’s why choosing one trusted provider for all your connectivity and technology needs matters more than ever:

1. No More Finger-Pointing

When something goes wrong, the last thing you want is a blame game between vendors. With Citynet, you have one team accountable for it all: connectivity, cybersecurity, cloud, devices, and support. One provider. One point of contact. One answer.

2. Seamless Integration

When your internet, network security, endpoint protection, and IT services are all managed by a single provider, everything just works better. Systems are configured to work together, reducing friction and improving performance.

3. Simplified Support and Billing

Tired of managing multiple vendors, invoices, and support numbers? With Citynet, you get consolidated billing and expert 24/7 support.

4. Proactive Security and Worry-Free IT Management

Citynet protects your network from the outside in and the inside out. Our managed services are built to reduce your IT burden while enhancing security, performance, and peace of mind. Our offerings include:

  • Advanced endpoint protection
  • Proactive network monitoring
  • Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
  • Security awareness training
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Patch and update management
  • Cloud backup and disaster recovery
  • Fully managed IT services and user support

Whether you’re looking to offload your entire IT infrastructure or strengthen specific areas, Citynet delivers a fully managed, worry-free IT environment designed to protect, optimize, and empower your business.

5. A Partner Invested in Your Success

Citynet isn’t just a service provider. We’re a trusted partner committed to helping businesses grow securely, efficiently, and reliably, with the infrastructure, support, and solutions to scale with you.

Simplify. Secure. Succeed.

Let’s talk about a better way to manage your business technology. Contact us today.

Top 5 Security Risks Facing SMBs and How Managed Services Mitigate Them
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Top 5 Security Risks Facing SMBs and How Managed Services Mitigate Them

Small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly becoming prime targets for cybercriminals. Why? Because many lack the in-house resources and tools to mount a strong defense. But the impact of an attack can be just as devastating for a small business as for a large enterprise—sometimes even more so.

At Citynet, we understand that protecting your business goes beyond installing antivirus software or running occasional system updates. Our Managed Services team provides the comprehensive, proactive support SMBs need to defend against today’s most dangerous security risks.

Here are five of the top cybersecurity threats SMBs face and how Citynet helps mitigate them:

Phishing Icon Blog

1. Phishing Attacks

The Risk:
Phishing emails, fake login pages, and malicious links are among the most common attack methods. These social engineering tactics aim to trick employees into giving away sensitive information or access credentials.

How Citynet Helps:
Citynet offers Security Awareness Training for your staff, empowering them to recognize and avoid phishing attempts. We also provide advanced email filtering solutions that block suspicious messages before they reach inboxes.

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2. Ransomware

The Risk:
Ransomware encrypts your data and demands payment for its release. One successful infection can lock down your entire business, often leading to days (or weeks) of costly downtime.

How Citynet Helps:
Our endpoint protection and real-time monitoring solutions stop ransomware in its tracks. Plus, with automated data backup and disaster recovery, we ensure your critical data is recoverable, no ransom required.

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3. Unpatched Systems and Software

The Risk:
Many cyberattacks exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated operating systems, applications, or devices.

How Citynet Helps:
We handle patch management and routine software updates as part of our Managed IT Services, so your systems stay protected without lifting a finger. You’ll always be up-to-date with the latest security fixes.

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4. Weak or Compromised Passwords

The Risk:
Simple or reused passwords are a goldmine for hackers using credential stuffing or brute-force attacks.

How Citynet Helps:
We implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), secure password policies, and identity management tools to lock down user access. Our solutions help enforce good security hygiene without slowing your team down.

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5. Lack of Visibility and Monitoring

The Risk:
Without a clear view into your network, you may never notice unusual activity until it’s too late.

How Citynet Helps:
Our CityCare Managed Network Monitoring provides 24/7 oversight of your systems and alerts us to suspicious behavior before it becomes a major issue. We also offer vulnerability assessments to identify and fix weaknesses in your infrastructure.

Protect More Than Your Network. Protect Your Business

Cybersecurity isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing process that requires vigilance, expertise, and the right tools. That’s where Citynet comes in.

With our comprehensive Managed Services, we protect your business from all angles so you can focus on running it.

Let’s talk about securing your success.  Contact us today to schedule a free cybersecurity consultation.

Ditch the Passwords: Why Passkeys Are the Future of Online Security
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Ditch the Passwords: Why Passkeys Are the Future of Online Security

Tired of juggling dozens of passwords—or worse, reusing the same one across multiple sites? You’re not alone. But the good news is that passwords may soon be a thing of the past. Enter passkeys, a new, more secure way to log in that’s easier for you and harder for hackers.

What Is a Passkey?

A passkey is a digital credential that lets you sign in to websites and apps without needing a traditional password. Instead of relying on something you know (like a password), passkeys use a combination of something you have (like your phone or computer) and something you are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

Passkeys are based on public key cryptography, a tried-and-true method used to protect sensitive data online.

How Are Passkeys Generated?

When you create a passkey for a website or app:

  • Your device generates a key pair: a public key and a private key.
  • The public key is stored with the website or app.
  • The private key stays safely on your device and is never shared.

When you try to log in again, the website sends a challenge to your device. If your device can solve the challenge using the private key (confirmed with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device PIN), you’re in.

No password. No phishing. No problem.

The Benefits of Passkeys

  • Stronger security: Passkeys are resistant to phishing, credential stuffing, and brute-force attacks.
  • Convenience: No need to remember or manage passwords.
  • Fast sign-in: Face ID, fingerprint, or device unlock is all it takes.
  • Cross-device sync: Passkeys can sync securely across devices via services like iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager.

The Risks of Passwords

Passwords have been the weak link in digital security for years:

  • Reused passwords make it easy for hackers to break into multiple accounts.
  • Weak passwords can be cracked by brute-force attacks.
  • Phishing scams can trick users into handing over login credentials.
  • Password databases can be stolen in data breaches, exposing millions of users.

Even with tools like password managers, the risks persist.

Are Passkeys Safe?

Yes – very safe. Because your private key never leaves your device, there’s nothing for hackers to steal or intercept. And since you don’t type anything in, there’s nothing to phish.

Major tech companies—including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and many others—are rapidly adopting passkeys as the new standard for authentication.

Can I Still use a Password if I have a Passkey?

Yes, you can still use a password, even if you have a passkey. Password managers like LastPass support both passwords and passkeys, so you have flexibility in how you access your vault.

What Should You Do Now?

  • Start using passkeys where they’re available. Many popular sites and services now support them.
  • Make sure your devices support biometric logins like fingerprint or facial recognition.
  • Use a reputable passkey manager like Apple’s iCloud Keychain or Google Password Manager to sync across your devices.

Not Ready for Passkeys? Use a Password Manager

If you’re not using passkeys yet, the next best step you can take is to use a reputable password manager, such as LastPass.

LastPass helps you:

  • Generate strong, unique passwords for every account.
  • Store them securely in an encrypted vault.
  • Automatically fill them in across devices for easy access.

Even better, LastPass now supports passkeys, allowing you to:

  • Create passkeys for compatible websites and apps.
  • Store them securely alongside your traditional passwords.
  • Use biometric authentication (like Face ID or fingerprint) to log in with ease.

It’s a seamless way to start transitioning to a more secure, password-free future, without giving up convenience.

Watch Out for Browser-in-Browser Attacks: The Pop-Up That Isn’t What It Seems
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Watch Out for Browser-in-Browser Attacks: The Pop-Up That Isn’t What It Seems

Cybercriminals never stop devising new tricks, and one of their latest is so convincing that it can fool even the savviest internet users. It’s called a Browser-in-Browser attack (or BiB attack), and if you’ve ever clicked a login pop-up while signing into a website, you could be a target.

What is a Browser-in-Browser Attack?

Many websites let you log in using a service like Google, Microsoft, or Facebook. You click a button, a login pop-up appears, and you type in your password. Simple, right?

But with a Browser-in-Browser attack, that login window isn’t real; it’s a fake window designed to look exactly like the real thing. The attacker builds a lookalike login box directly inside the web page, tricking you into entering your real credentials.

Once you hit “Submit,” your login details are instantly sent to the attacker, giving them access to your account.

How Can You Tell If a Pop-Up Window Is Fake?

Detecting a BiB attack takes a sharp eye, but these signs can help:

  • Examine login windows closely
    If the design, wording, or layout looks even slightly off, pause. Something may be wrong.
  • Test the window’s behavior
    Try to resize, minimize, or drag the window off your screen. If it doesn’t behave like a normal browser pop-up, it may be a fake.
  • Check the URL
    Real login windows come from the official site. If you’re unsure, open a new browser tab and log in directly; never trust a pop-up you weren’t expecting.

How to Stay Protected

  • Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
    MFA adds an extra step to your login process, making it much harder for attackers to break in, even if they steal your password.
  • Avoid third-party logins
    It may be convenient to sign in with your Google or Facebook account, but it creates a single point of failure. If one account is compromised, everything connected to it is at risk.
  • Use a password manager
    A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for every site and app, without having to remember them all.
  • Never reuse passwords
    Repeating the same password across sites is risky. One breach can give attackers access to your entire digital life.
  • Keep your software up to date
    Browser and OS updates often include critical security patches that help protect against attacks like BiB.

Stay Sharp, Stay Safe

Browser-in-Browser attacks are clever, convincing, and becoming more common. But with awareness and a few smart habits like using strong, unique passwords and avoiding third-party logins, you can stay one step ahead.

At Citynet, we don’t just connect you, we help protect you. Whether you’re a home user or running a business, we’re here with real solutions to keep your digital life secure.

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats with Citynet & Huntress
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Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats with Citynet & Huntress

Cybersecurity threats are evolving at an alarming rate, and businesses of all sizes must remain vigilant against cybercriminals who are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. At Citynet, we understand the critical need for proactive security solutions that go beyond traditional antivirus and firewall protections. That’s why we’ve partnered with Huntress, a leading cybersecurity platform, to offer our customers an advanced layer of defense against cyber threats.

What is Huntress?

HuntressHuntress is a powerful cybersecurity platform designed to detect and respond to persistent threats that evade conventional security measures. It continuously monitors your IT environment, identifying hidden footholds, unauthorized access, and malware that could compromise your business. With its managed detection and response (MDR) capabilities, Huntress ensures that your organization is protected 24/7.

How Citynet and Huntress Protect Your Business

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Threat Detection & Response

Huntress actively hunts for malicious activity, analyzing suspicious behavior and stopping threats before they cause damage.

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Ransomware Protection

Huntress provides early detection of ransomware attacks, preventing them from spreading and mitigating damage to your systems.

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Incident Response & Remediation

If a breach occurs, Huntress provides expert-driven remediation steps to remove the threat and restore security.

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Continuous Monitoring

24/7 surveillance ensures that threats are detected and neutralized in real-time, giving you peace of mind.

Why Choose Huntress-Powered Security Solutions Expertly Deployed by Citynet?

Cyber threats don’t take a break, and neither do we. With Citynet and Huntress, you get a proactive, fully managed security solution that keeps your business secure without the need for an in-house cybersecurity team. Our expert team is always available to support you, so that your network remains safe, secure, and running smoothly.

Don’t wait until a cyberattack disrupts your business – take action today. Contact us to learn more about how Citynet and Huntress can fortify your cybersecurity defense.

Tips for Staying Alert Against Cyber Threats
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Tips for Staying Alert Against Cyber Threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to trick you into revealing sensitive information or compromising your security. Take a moment to review these key security tips and remember—when in doubt, verify before you act!

For ongoing security updates and best practices, follow Citynet on Facebook.

Stay secure, stay smart, and keep cybercriminals out!

Caller ID Can Be Spoofed

Do not trust phone numbers displayed on incoming calls. Attackers can make a call appear as though it’s coming from a trusted source (IT, your bank, or even your boss). If in doubt, hang up and call back using an official number.

Phishing Emails

Look for Red Flags.   Before clicking on links or downloading attachments, watch for:
  • Unexpected or urgent requests (e.g., “Your account will be locked!”)
  • Misspellings, odd grammar, or generic greetings like “Dear Customer”
  • Mismatched or suspicious-looking sender addresses

Verify Internal Employees

Social Engineering is on the Rise

  • Attackers are now impersonating internal employees to gain access to systems or sensitive data. Be cautious when:
  • Receiving an unusual request via email, Webex, SMS, or phone (e.g., password resets, financial transactions, or file access).
  • An employee asks you to share information that seems unusual or urgent.
  • You get a call from IT support or management asking you to install software or change settings.

Use Personal Verification Questions
If you’re unsure whether someone is legitimate, ask a specific question only that person would know the answer to before providing information or access. Some examples:

  • For coworkers: “What project did we last work on together?”
  • For IT support: “What case number was my last request?”
  • For managers: “What was discussed in our last meeting?”

Always verify through an alternate method (such as calling the employee at their known extension) before acting.

Watch Out! Google Search Results Are Not Always Safe

Cybercriminals manipulate search rankings to make fake customer support numbers and malicious sites appear at the top. Always get phone numbers from official company websites and not from a Google search.

Remember:
  • Report suspicious emails to your IT department.
  • Directly call the person or a team member who handles IT security for your organization if you have doubts.
  • Stay vigilant and never rush when dealing with requests for personal or company information requests.
Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility!

Keep up with more security tips and information by following Citynet on Facebook.

Protecting Your Personal Information on Your Smart TV
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Protecting Your Personal Information on Your Smart TV

Smart TVs have become a staple in many homes, offering convenient access to streaming services, apps, and even smart home integrations. However, just like your computer or smartphone, your TV can collect data, track viewing habits, and be vulnerable to cyber threats.

From voice assistants and built-in cameras to automatic content recognition (ACR) and third-party apps, your smart TV might be sharing more personal information than you realize. Without the right precautions, hackers, advertisers, and even cybercriminals could gain access to your data, putting your privacy at risk.

The good news? You can take simple steps to protect yourself. Here are 12 essential security and privacy tips to keep your personal information safe while enjoying your favorite shows and events:

  1. Adjust Privacy Settings – Review your TV’s privacy settings. Disable features you don’t need, like voice commands, camera access, and activity tracking.
  2. Disable Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) – ACR tracks what you watch to recommend content or serve ads. Turn this off in the TV’s settings to limit data collection.
  3. Keep Software Updated – Regularly update your TV’s firmware to protect against known security vulnerabilities.
  4. Use Strong Passwords – Set strong, unique passwords for streaming services, Wi-Fi, and any other connected apps on your TV.
  5. Be Cautious with App Permissions – Only download trusted apps. Check the permissions apps request and deny any unnecessary access.
  6. Turn Off Features When Not in Use – Disable the TV’s microphone, camera, or internet connection when not in use. Consider using physical covers for cameras.
  7. Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi – If you connect your TV to Wi-Fi, make sure it’s a secure, password-protected network to prevent unauthorized access.
  8. Enable Network Encryption – Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on your home Wi-Fi network to secure data transmitted to and from your TV.
  9. Monitor Account Activity – Regularly check for suspicious activity on your streaming accounts, such as unrecognized logins or recently watched shows.
  10. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – If available, enable 2FA for apps on your TV to add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
  11. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Info – Avoid entering sensitive information (like payment details) directly on your TV. Use a secure device like a phone or computer instead.
  12. Use a VPN (Optional) – If you want extra security, consider a VPN to encrypt your internet connection on the TV.

These precautions can help minimize the risks of data theft, unauthorized access, and privacy invasion on your smart TV.

Happy watching! Be sure to share this information with friends and family, and follow Citynet on Facebook to get the latest security info and tips.