FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

​In 2023, small businesses within California witnessed a significant escalation in cyber threats that in some cases shuttered those businesses for good. Those attacks are only getting worse, as cybercrime damages are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015.

This alarming trend underscores the urgency for robust security measures, especially for small businesses in California, which are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. A study by Accenture revealed that 43% of cyber-attacks are aimed at small businesses, yet only 14% are prepared to defend themselves.

“Small businesses often have fewer resources and lack security expertise, which leaves them more vulnerable to spear-phishing attacks, and cybercriminals are taking advantage,” — Don MacLennan, Former SVP of Engineering & Product Management at Barracuda

California’s small businesses face unique cybersecurity challenges. The state’s robust economy and technological diversity make it a lucrative target for cybercriminals. California leads the nation in monetary losses through cybercrime, with losses exceeding $2 billion in 2022 – yes that’s billion with a B. The second highest is Florida with just $8.5 million.

This vulnerability is exacerbated by the limited resources small businesses have to invest in comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.

Learn more: How Xobee can build you a cost-effective and scalable cloud-based solution.

Cloud Hosting: The Emerging Sheild Against Cybersecurity

For California’s small businesses, the transition to cloud hosting is not just a strategic move but a necessity. The scalability of cloud services allows these businesses to adapt their security needs as they grow. Moreover, the cloud is a reliable and fast solution for businesses that require constant uptime and monitoring.

Cloud Hosting is a critical solution for enhancing cybersecurity, offering advanced security features that are often out of reach for small businesses.

Learn more:  How Xobee can elevate your business with cloud technology

Xobee is Your Partner In Cyber Resilience

At Xobee, we understand the cybersecurity challenges faced by small businesses in California. Our cloud service is designed to offer comprehensive protection, tailored to the unique needs of each business.

• State-of-the-art security measures
• Customizable solutions to fit specific business requirements
• Ongoing support and monitoring
• Maximum uptime and speed
• Cost-effective pricing models

Small businesses must prioritize cybersecurity. Cloud hosting, with its advanced security features and scalability, offers a viable solution. Xobee stands ready to assist businesses in fortifying their defenses against cyber threats and more.

To learn more contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

The threads of cybersecurity are crucial to the fabric of any modern-day business. As we embrace 2024, it’s imperative for small businesses, especially in California, to weave a stronger cybersecurity net out of these threads. Overlooking these threads can leave a small business vulnerable to the unraveling forces of cyber threats. This investment is not just a shield against potential threats; it’s a foundational pillar for sustainable growth and trust.

Nearly half of all cyberattacks target small businesses – with California leading the nation in both monetary losses due to cyberattacks, and mitigation against cyber threats. This statistic is not just a number; it’s a reflection of the growing trend where small enterprises are seen as low-hanging fruits by cyber criminals. It isn’t until after a breach that businesses learn the error of their ways and adopt strong cybersecurity policies, but that price comes at a heavy cost.

Don’t be a statistic, and gain the competitive advantage against those struggling to adapt.

Learn more: How Xobee can protect your business data and systems

The 10 Ways Businesses Suffer From Poor Cybersecurity

This cost to a business encompasses not just immediate financial losses but also long-term repercussions like customer trust erosion and brand damage. For a small business, such a hit can be a death knell, especially in competitive markets like California.

1. Financial Loss: Significant costs from data theft, system repairs, and business disruption.
2. Data Theft: Compromise of sensitive customer and business information.
3. Reputation Damage: Eroded trust from customers and partners, leading to business decline.
4. Operational Disruption: Downtime and paralysis of business activities, especially in ransomware attacks.
5. Legal & Regulatory Issues: Potential lawsuits and fines for failing to protect data.
6. Loss of Intellectual Property: Theft of proprietary information or products.
7. Psychological Impact: Stress and anxiety affect owners and employees.
8. Damaged Customer Relationships: Erosion of customer trust and loyalty.
9. Supply Chain Disruption: Ripple effects impacting partners and suppliers.
10. Competitive Disadvantage: Falling behind in the market due to compromised systems and loss of proprietary advantages.

Investing in cybersecurity is not merely about erecting digital walls. It’s about creating a resilient, responsive, and adaptive digital ecosystem. Cybersecurity measures such as robust firewalls, regular software updates, employee training, and incident response plans are not expenses; they are investments in your business’s longevity.

In a state like California, where technology is a key economic driver, being ahead in cybersecurity is not just good practice; it’s a business differentiator.

Learn more: How Xobee can protect your email from viruses, phishing, malware, and more

The Role of Xobee & Cybersecurity

Xobee offers expertise and services in various areas of cybersecurity, including virus and spam protection, cloud hosting, VoIP services, data recovery, and more. By partnering with us, small businesses can access top-tier cybersecurity resources and expertise, allowing them to focus on their core operations while ensuring their digital assets are well-protected.

As we progress through 2024, the resolution for small businesses should be clear: invest in cybersecurity. This investment is a critical step in safeguarding not just your digital assets but your business’s future.

To learn more contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee Networks now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

Picture your company as a ship, sailing in the vast ocean of commerce, navigating through waves of competition and the winds of change. In your vessel, every tool, person, and instrument is crucial for a successful voyage. Now, picture a storm on the horizon, threatening to tear your ship apart. What do you do? You can’t turn back, the storm will catch up regardless.

In moments like this, you don’t seek temporary fixes that could sink your company. You plan ahead and bring aboard a crew of seasoned sailors with expertise to not only repair your ship in moments of need but strengthen your ship for the journey ahead.

Enter Xobee, the seasoned navigators and master craftsmen in the world of technology, ready to steer your business toward success.

Learn more: How Xobee can help protect your business from technology failures

The Cost-Effectiveness of Outsourcing Technology to Specialists

When homeowners face electrical issues, they call an electrician. Plumbing problems? A plumber is just a phone call away. This approach of seeking specialized expertise for specific problems is not just practical but essential for efficiency and safety. Similarly, in the realm of business, especially for small businesses, technology demands the same level of expertise and attention from a specialist. This is where Managed Service Providers like Xobee come into the picture, serving as the experts for your business.

The primary allure of outsourcing technology needs, particularly for small businesses, lies in its cost-effectiveness. According to a report by Deloitte’s 2020 Global Outsourcing Survey, cost reduction is a key factor driving outsourcing decisions, with cloud services being the biggest contributor to this cost-cutting success.

Outsourcing to a specialized technology solutions firm can significantly reduce overhead costs. Businesses save on the expenses of hiring full-time IT staff, which includes not just salaries but also benefits, training, and the infrastructure required to support them.

Reducing Downtime & Boosting Productivity

Downtime due to technology issues is a silent profit killer for many businesses; it can cost your company hundreds or even thousands of dollars. By partnering with BCT, small businesses can drastically reduce this downtime. We offer proactive monitoring and rapid response to issues, ensuring that potential problems are resolved before they escalate into business-halting crises.

The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and keeping up with these changes can be daunting for small businesses. We bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, staying abreast of the latest trends and threats in cybersecurity, cloud services, and more. This expertise is crucial, especially considering that according to the National Cybersecurity Alliance 60% of small businesses close within six months of a cyberattack.

Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs

Every business is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in technology. We understand this and offer customized solutions that align with the specific needs and goals of a business. Whether it’s cloud hosting, network engineering, cybersecurity, or VoIP services, we can provide the right mix of services to support and grow your business.

Outsourcing not only makes financial sense but also ensures that your business is equipped with the latest technology solutions, backed by expert support. In a landscape where technology is integral to success, having a specialized partner in your corner is not just a luxury — it’s a necessity.

For more insights into how Xobee can bring your business tailor-made technology solutions, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

As the holiday season brings a flurry of packages, it also ushers in a sinister wave of delivery scams. These deceptions are not just about intercepting your festive packages; they’re sophisticated ploys to steal your personal and financial information. In this season of giving, cybercriminals are on a mission to take.

You may already know about delivery scams — the cleverly disguised notifications from allegedly well-known courier services — but do you know how to identify them before it’s too late? These scams don’t just delay your festivities; they aim to hijack your personal and financial information, leaving you with nothing but coal in your stocking.

Learn more: How Xobee can protect your email inbox from scammers

How to Identify Delivery Scams

As the holiday season ramps up, so do the activities of cybercriminals. According to a report by the Federal Trade Commission, in 2022 package delivery scams ranked among the top text scams, and are only expected to increase over the next few years. These scams typically involve fake delivery notifications via email or text, tricking recipients into clicking malicious links.

“The bogus emails appear to be from legitimate companies like FedEx, UPS or USPS and usually claim the driver had a problem delivering your package… The goal is to get you to click on a link or attachment that will put malware or a virus onto your computer.” — Danielle Kane, Marketplace Manager, Portland BBB

Examples of Fake Messages

How Delivery Scams Work

Beyond the basic phishing emails and texts, delivery scams have evolved into more intricate schemes. Cybercriminals often create counterfeit tracking websites that mirror those of legitimate courier services, luring victims into entering sensitive information under the guise of “tracking their package.” In some cases, scammers even make phone calls posing as customer service representatives to extract personal details directly.

With the advent of AI-powered tools, these scams are only getting smarter and more believable; tracking your purchase history, location data, and more.

Fake Delivery Notifications. Scammers send emails or texts posing as legitimate courier services, claiming there’s a package for you.

Phishing Links. These messages often contain links that, when clicked, install malware or lead to phishing websites.

Data Theft. The ultimate goal is to steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, or even identity theft.

Learn more: How Xobee help protect you with our secure VoIP Phone Service

How Xobee Can Help Keep You Secure

At Xobee, we understand the evolving nature of these threats. Our cybersecurity measures, including Hosted Exchange, offer robust protection against email-based threats, filtering out malicious content before it reaches your inbox. Additionally, our VoIP phone services are designed to shield you from unsolicited and potentially harmful calls, including those from scammers. While our services provide a strong defense, awareness and vigilance are key.

As delivery scams continue to rise, staying informed and protected is more important than ever. With our cybersecurity solutions, you can enjoy the post-holiday season without the fear of unwelcome digital intruders. Remember, the best gift you can give yourself this season is the peace of mind that comes with robust cybersecurity. To learn more contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

Businesses across the country, and especially in California, are witnessing a significant uptick in an insidious type of cybercrime known as “CEO Fraud.” This scam involves cybercriminals impersonating company executives to deceive employees, customers, or vendors into transferring funds or sensitive information. This is not only damaging to a company’s finances but can directly impact the reputation and trust of the company’s executive leadership. For a small business, this damage can send ripples out into the community, which are challenging to overcome.

Learn more: How Xobee can help protect your business from scammers

The Threat of CEO Fraud for Small Businesses

In 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center reported a staggering loss of over $2.4 billion due to BEC scams, which include CEO Fraud. This alarming statistic underscores the growing sophistication and frequency of these attacks. CEO Fraud specifically targets organizations of all sizes, but small businesses often bear the brunt due to limited cybersecurity resources.

For small businesses, successful CEO Fraud attacks can result in substantial financial losses, damage to customer trust, and long-term reputational harm. The lack of robust security protocols and employee training in smaller organizations makes them easy targets for cybercriminals.

The Personal Impact on CEOs

CEO Fraud poses a significant risk not just financially, but also in terms of the reputational damage it can inflict on company leaders and their standing within the community. For CEOs, especially in small businesses, their personal reputation is often deeply linked to their company’s image. An incident of CEO Fraud can quickly erode trust and credibility among employees, clients, and community members, casting a shadow over the CEO’s leadership and the company’s integrity.

In smaller, close-knit communities, where business leaders are prominent figures, the repercussions of such fraud can extend beyond professional boundaries, affecting personal and social standing. This situation highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures and effective communication strategies to prevent such attacks and manage their potential fallout. Maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture not only protects the business but also safeguards the CEO’s reputation and the trust they have cultivated in their community.

Learn more: How Xobee can help protect you and your company’s inbox from fraudsters

How CEO Fraud Works

CEO Fraud typically begins with phishing emails, where attackers pose as company executives or high-ranking officials. These emails often convey a sense of urgency, pressuring the recipient to act quickly and bypass normal procedures.

Example of Fraudulent Email

📷 Source: IT Governance USA

Xobee Is Committed to Helping You Stay Cybersecure

We can help fortify your businesses against these threats. By offering comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, we help you stay informed and proactive; offering the key to resilience.

The rise in CEO Fraud is a clarion call for businesses, especially small enterprises, to bolster their cybersecurity defenses. With the expertise and support of Xobee, businesses can navigate these challenges more effectively, safeguarding their assets, reputation, and future.

For more insights into cybersecurity and the latest in tech trends, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks

FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist

As businesses delve into the open enrollment period, a surge in scam attacks poses a significant threat. These scams, often sophisticated and convincingly deceptive, aim to exploit the complexities and sensitivities of open enrollment processes. In 2023, the landscape of these scams has evolved, demanding heightened vigilance and robust cybersecurity measures.

“You really want to make sure that you are doing it with legitimate websites, with legitimate (phone) numbers… because scammers do really prey and use those high-pressure sales tactics. They want you to do it right now… before you get off the phone.” — Alyssa Parker, Better Business Bureau of the Carolinas

According to a report by Certified Mail Labels, open enrollment periods have become a prime season for scammers. They exploit this time by impersonating legitimate entities, offering fraudulent health plans; phishing for personal and financial information. The Federal Trade Commission also warns of the increasing sophistication of these scams, with losses to business imposters alone reaching $2.6 billion, in 2022.

Learn more: How Xobee can help protect your business from scammers

Tactics Employed in Open Enrollment Scams

The Xobee Advantage

At Xobee, we specialize in fortifying businesses against such cyber threats. Our approach includes:

► Employee Education. We provide comprehensive training to employees, making them aware of the signs of phishing and other scam tactics.

► Advanced Email Filtering. Implementing sophisticated email filtering solutions to intercept and quarantine phishing attempts.

► VoIP Phone Service. With features such as call encryption, authentication, and the ability to trace and block fraudulent calls, VoIP technology can significantly mitigate the risk of falling victim to these phone scams.

► Regular Security Audits. Conducting thorough audits to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure.

► 24/7 Monitoring. Continuous monitoring of your network for any suspicious activities, ensuring immediate response to potential threats.

Learn more: How Xobee help protect you with our secure VoIP Phone Service

The open enrollment period should be a time for making informed decisions about healthcare and benefits, not for worrying about cyber threats. With Xobee’s expertise in cybersecurity, businesses can navigate this period safely, ensuring the security of their employees’ sensitive information. By partnering with us, you’re not just choosing a service provider; you’re choosing peace of mind in an increasingly dangerous world when it comes to scammers.

For more insights into cybersecurity and the latest in tech trends, contact one of our highly skilled technicians today.

Xobee now has engineers servicing clients within Fresno, Clovis, Madera, San Jose, Sacramento, San Francisco & the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Las Vegas, Bakersfield, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, Palm Springs, and more.

Cody Sarhan | Communications Specialist, Xobee Networks