July 10, 2025 • read

Technology Tips: July 2025 Edition

Skyward IT Services
Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists

Skyward IT Services

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Screen detox time!

Summertime is the perfect time to squeeze in a screen detox. Support this goal using tools like screen time reports (make sure to drill down to see which apps are the time suck), passcodes, and simply logging out of apps you tend to scroll mindlessly. Use your tech know-how to make getting to your favorite time-wasters harder. MFA might keep the doomscroll at bay!

Even if you’re not able to completely detox, a screen diet might be just the ticket. Challenge yourself to spend 24 hours screen-free over a weekend or on vacation. Notice the times you’re tempted to break your fast. These moments will provide good lessons about how to better manage your screen time in the future.

Clean up your inbox

It’s not news that schools are targets of cyberattacks. In 2024, two thirds of education facilities experienced an attack, with payments often reaching the millions. One of the ways your district can help combat these attacks is by taking the initiative to keep inboxes cleaner. Various tools exist to help sort emails, block unwanted senders, and mass unsubscribe from junk mail. Your IT team can also set up rules and flags to identify spam trigger words district-wide and prevent sketchy emails from making it to inboxes in the first place. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so do your research to find the best fit for your district. Tools like KnowBe4, the world’s largest security awareness training and simulated phishing attack platform, can help.

Ever wondered what makes a “good” PIN number?

It shouldn’t be your birthday, that’s for sure! Check your PIN numbers against this graph to see how they stack up. You might not be as sneaky as you think!

Note: PINs in the light yellow areas are the most used, while darker orange and black are more difficult to guess.

Malware of the month

A recent report identified 16,279 newly discovered malicious open-source packages—up 188% from the second quarter last year. This report serves as another reminder of why it’s vital to use caution before downloading anything from the internet or clicking links you and your team receive via text or email.

Thinking about edtech for your district?

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