Top 4 Cyberthreats You Need to Know

At Knox Technology, we know running a small business in SWFL a is no small feat. Between hurricane season and in-season rush-hour traffic on 41, you've already got enough to worry about. But there’s one storm you don’t see coming until it hits your inbox or locks down your data: cyberthreats.

I’m Mike Knox, founder of Knox Technology, your neighborhood IT service provider. We’re a small business, just like you, and we’ve got a big heart for keeping local businesses safe from the digital dangers lurking out there. Let’s walk through the top 4 cyberthreats that can put your business at risk — and how to dodge them.

The Hidden Threats You Need to Know

Juice Jacking

Ever plugged your phone into a free public charging station at the airport? What seems like a quick battery boost could actually zap your security. Juice jacking is when hackers rig charging stations to install malware on your device — giving them access to your data faster than you can say "low battery."

Mike's Tip: Use a USB data blocker or bring your own wall charger. And if you have to use them - make sure you're in "charging mode" not "data transfer" mode. Or even better, turn the phone off to charge it. 

Malware-Laden Apps

App stores are full of helpful tools... and unfortunately, a few digital landmines. Some malicious apps sneak through the vetting process and come loaded with malware designed to steal your data, crash your device, or worse.

Mike’s Advice: Only download apps from trusted developers, check reviews, and research the app before you download.  

Malicious QR Codes

QR codes are everywhere — restaurant menus, flyers, even gas pumps. But not all QR codes are created equal. Some lead to shady sites that can instantly compromise your device.

Mike's Tip: Use a scanner that checks URLs before opening them, and avoid scanning codes from sources you don’t know. If it looks sketchy, it probably is.

Public Wi-Fi Without a VPN

Free Wi-Fi at the coffee shop sounds great — until you realize someone else on that network can spy on your activity. Without a VPN (Virtual Private Network), public networks are like open books for hackers.

Mike Says: Get a VPN for your business. It encrypts your connection, giving you the privacy you deserve — whether you're sending an email or checking inventory over a latte.

Team Up With Your Local IT Experts

At Knox Technology, we’re here to help local businesses like yours stay protected in the ever-changing cyber landscape. We’re your hometown Managed Services Provider (MSP), and we take cybersecurity seriously (but not ourselves).

If managing your cybersecurity feels like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark, don’t stress. Let us take care of it for you. We’ll help with everything from compliance to protecting your network, devices, and data.

Let’s talk. Reach out to find out how we can help you stay secure — so you can focus on running your business, not battling cybercriminals.

Stay safe (and charge smart)!