email
Get the newsletter
Newsletter
search
Search blog
October 06, 2020 • read

Technology Tips: October 2020 Edition

Skyward IT Services
Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists

In this article
Share this story

Phish Alert Button 


District staff may experience a lot of hesitation when they receive a phishy-looking email. Is it safe to forward to another staff member for a second opinion? Or should they send it straight to trash? 
 
The Phish Alert Button (PAB) is a convenient way for everyone to send their suspicious emails right to IT with the click of a button. 


 

This feature can assist your IT team in detecting early phishing attacks or malicious emails. Installation of the PAB depends on your district’s mail environment, and there are guides available for Exchange, Office 365, Outlook, and GSuite. 
 
Once your team is aware of the PAB, you can set up phishing tests to help everyone practice their security skills. You can send these tests as often as you’d like, but a minimum of bi-weekly is recommended. For example, you could send an email from someone posing as your organization’s HR Manager, prompting the recipient to click on a web link or open an attachment. You’ll then have the data to see who followed the fake prompts and who used the PAB feature. 

 

Alexa: Change your name 

Has Alexa caused confusion in your household? Those with the name Alexa (or Alexis, or Alex, or anyone who says words that contain similar syllables) can rejoice and change their Amazon Echo or Echo Dot to respond to another name.  

Open the Amazon Alexa app on your iOS or Android, or go to alexa.amazon.com. Expand the menu in the upper left and select Settings in the side menu. Click on one of the devices under Alexa Devices (if you have multiple Echo Dots) and select the device. Then, click Wake Word.  

You won’t be able to change your Echo Dot to a completely custom name (yet), but you can give Alexa a new name by selecting either Amazon or Echo. Click Save.  If you have multiple Echo Dots in your home, you’ll want to change their wake words to be the same to eliminate confusion or lack of response.   

 
 

Tips for password security 

During these times of remote work and learning, it’s imperative to stay up to date with password security. Here are four tips for maximum password security.  
  1. Use a passphrase instead. Wait, isn’t it the same thing? Not quite. Check out this explainer to find out how to create a truly impossible password. 
  2. We know it’s tempting and convenient, but make sure you aren’t writing down your password (and putting it in your top desk drawer with all the other passwords on sticky notes...) Consider using a password manager app, such as 1password.  
  3. Use multi-factor authentication. Set it up with as many logins as possible (email, online banking, etc.) for an extra level of security.  
  4. Even remotely, students can hack your password. Here are three ways they might pull it off. 

Even during a pandemic, hackers don’t rest. Keep tabs on password security to keep you and your data safe.   

 

Malware of the Month: Scam targets work from home employees 

A Russian hacking group called Evil Corp. (yes, seriously) is taking full advantage of work-from-home employees by affecting a record number of computers with ransomware. Many people are using the same computers for work and everyday tasks, which can allow opportunities for hackers to access your work information and network if you aren’t careful. Your IT team can instruct you with advice for the best cyber security practices, or subscribe for more security tips.  

 


Thinking about edtech for your district?
We'd love to help. Visit skyward.com/get-started to learn more.

Share this story
About the author
Skyward IT Services
Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists


Read more from Skyward

2022 Leader in Excellence Winners

The Skyward Leader in Excellence Award recognizes pioneers, trendsetters, and forward thinkers in districts nationwide. Join us in celebrating this year’s winners.

February 12, 2022 • District Stories
Technology Tips: March 2016 Edition

The Tech Tips series is designed to help you stay safe, increase productivity, and build your digital literacy. Check out this month's article for information on Windows 10 virtual desktops, free & cheap cell phone services, Microsoft OneDrive, and the featured Malware of the Month.

March 01, 2016 • Tips
Qmlativ Spotlight: Data Mining Sort and Subtotal Settings

We’re excited to unveil enhancements to Account Subject Data Mining Reports!

May 02, 2024 • Product Updates

This site uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and to help us understand how you use our site.
To learn more about how we use this data, click here. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our cookie policy.