email
Get the newsletter
Newsletter
search
Search blog
September 01, 2026 • read

Technology Tips: September 2026 Edition

LinkedIn Card
Skyward IT Services
Network Infrastructure and Security Specialists

In this article
Share this story

AI hallucinations


Have you ever asked AI a question, and it came back very confidently with the wrong answer? You think, “This sounds like it could be right, it did include a lot of logic... But something seems off?”

These are called AI hallucinations, and IBM defines them as “instances where an AI system produces outputs that sound plausible but are factually wrong, irrelevant, or entirely fabricated.” These occur because AI works from patterns rather than what is true or false.

These hallucinations can have consequences, so it’s important to always do your own research, especially when something seems off.




Language learning tip


If you are learning a new language, technology can be a great teacher. One tool you can utilize is watching videos or shows (including children’s shows) in the language you are learning. To make this even more helpful, try changing the playback to a slower speed, like .75x. Happy learning!




Freeze & thaw  your credit


Did you know you can freeze & thaw your credit to ensure that no one can apply for a loan or credit card in your name? This is a game changer for your protection from  identity theft! And might we add that it is completely free?

You need to create an account in all three credit bureaus; Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Use your password manager to securely remember your different usernames and passwords. When you need to apply for a loan, mortgage, or credit card simply unfreeze each account and you will be ready to go.




Malware of the month


Breaking records can be very fun, except for when it comes to ransomware attacks. August had 997 global ransomware attacks, which is a new record that we aren’t excited to report on. This number is up 23% from 809 attacks in July. The main industries attacked were law firms (up 52%), tech companies (up 42%), and finance companies (up 40%). The industries with a reduction in attacks were education (down 4%) and food and beverage (down 5%).
 


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

3 Common Myths About Standards-Based Grading—Debunked

For over 100 years, the grades in our schools have not communicated what students have learned. (Yes, you read that correctly!) Find out how an alternate approach to grading can better assess student knowledge.

February 23, 2023 • Tips
Outsmart Hackers by Recognizing These 5 Phishing Email Clues

Stop the attack before it starts! Here are five red flags to watch out for to keep your credentials, devices, and district safer.

December 01, 2023 • Tips
Technology Tips: October 2020 Edition

This month's tips include phishing alerts, passphrases, and renaming a certain smart speaker. Plus, watch out for a troupe of untrustworthy scammers.

October 06, 2020 • Tips

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 to view our Privacy Policy. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our cookie policy.