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July 01, 2026 • read
Technology Tips July 2026 Edition
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Skyward IT Services Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists |
Skyward IT Services
Double check your texts and messages
Popular messaging app WhatsApp has become a haven for hackers. Be cautious of any unexpected files or links that get sent to you. If you open an infected file, malware can be installed that gives the bad actors access to your cell phone or device. Always pause, take a moment to think, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the sender to confirm that their link was intentional.
Stay diligent with deep fakes
Criminals use deepfakes for a multitude of reasons. They often attack for something small, like a few hundred dollars of gift cards. Or, they can cause massive damage to a large corporation – having the “executive team” share fake proprietary information that causes stocks to sell and the company’s value to drop. Here are a few tips to help keep you and your organization safe.
- Always have your guard up. If you have a hint of suspicion, don’t hesitate to reach out to the person who is calling you and verify their information. Those few extra minutes could make all the difference.
- Share as little of yourself on social media as possible. The more photos and videos you have, the more ammo criminals have to create a realistic deep fake.
- When threats arise, take your moment of panic as your sign to stop, breathe, and think before taking an action that you can’t take back (such as sending large sums of money or sharing confidential information.)
- Have a code word that only your team knows. When you are speaking with someone, ask them the code word. You can also ask about an experience you have shared, preferably one that doesn’t have photos of it online. An example might be a recent dinner meeting or chat in the breakroom versus a team outing that has photos on Facebook.
It’s a scary world out there, but staying diligent can keep you safe!
Give your computer a summer break with a data cleanup
Are you deleting internet browsers and apps you don’t use any more? If not, now is a great time! Outdated browsers and apps alike can be a threat to your digital security.
Updating your apps and browsers will give you the best browser and app experience, but more importantly, it will fix bugs and address security vulnerabilities.
To delete, go to your control panel or application settings and click ‘uninstall’.
Malware of the month:
The results are in, and they are not great. Comparing June 2025 to June 2026, global average weekly cyberattacks are up 16% in education, 17% in information technology, 26% in software, and a whopping 48% in agriculture. There are a few industries that have seen a decline in cyberattacks, and that includes -11% in hardware & semiconductors, -8% in aerospace and defense, and -11% in healthcare & medical. Staying cognizant is more important now than ever.
Thinking about edtech for your district? We'd love to help. Visit skyward.com/get-started to learn more.
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Skyward IT Services Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists |
