Month: November 2022

How can you improve the cyber security of your business?

In the digital age we live in, most of the work produced by businesses is online which leaves them susceptible to cyber-attacks. In September 2022, there were more than 35 million compromised records as a result of cyber-attacks and data breaches which puts people’s personal information at risk of falling into the wrong hands. 

To combat this, businesses will need to improve their cyber security to keep their information, their employee’s information and their customer’s data safe. Failure to do this may lead to a lack of trust in the company.

What is cyber security?

Cyber security is the level of protection your online systems have. If this is weak then you could be compromised and lose valuable and sensitive data to cyber criminals. This is why it’s important to take every step against this. This starts with looking over your entire system to find potential weak points that attackers could exploit. Once a team of experts finishes an IT security audit and identifies these risks, you can take steps to improve your cyber security and protect your business. Taking the right measures greatly reduces the risk of being attacked and is a vital part of running a business in today’s digital world.

How can companies bolster their cyber security?

There are numerous ways for business owners to increase their security depending on their budget. This includes:

Antivirus software

Your first line of defence is good antivirus software to protect your devices from malware attacks. It will detect potential attacks and remove any threats to your computer or laptop. There are many types of malware that can affect your laptop and antivirus software can often protect you from them all.

Training staff

The main weakness of your cyber security as a business is the people within the business. They may be the ones to allow malware to get into your business because they don’t know how to spot it. That’s why you should make sure to train all staff on how to spot phishing attempts and cyber-criminal activity. Consider partnering with experts like SupercityOS out of Dartmouth, NS, an IT company specializing in cyber security training, to provide comprehensive training programs for your staff. This proactive approach ensures that your team is well-equipped to identify and mitigate potential cyber threats, enhancing the overall security posture of your business in today’s digital world.

Using password software

Using a password generator and storage software will help you and your employees to generate high-strength passwords that are very difficult to guess. This is much better than allowing employees to create their own passwords which may be easier to guess and breach. Most people reuse passwords, so if your employee’s personal devices are hacked then the cyber criminal may then target their work devices.

Don’t forget about physical security

Similarly, your business’ data can’t just be compromised online through hacking but it can also be obtained physically through a breach of property. You can protect your office using a drill to secure locks to doors so they cannot be opened whilst the office is not in use. It is also recommended for employees to have lanyards to pass through security gates so that only employees can enter the office.

Don’t leave your company’s data to chance and allow hackers to steal it all. Implement the strategies above so you don’t have a cyber-attack down the line.

 

Tech Review – ITSKINS case round up for the iPhone 14 Pro

We have been testing out ITSKINS cases since their launch some time ago and they are great cases it must be said and for the iPhone range and other devices there is a massive range to pick from to suit all tastes and we get a taste of what is on offer for your iPhone 14 Pro with the range of cases we have here to check out from the company. With these cases you get full protection with bumpers front and back and extra grip and not only this we have wireless charging on all cases as tested below in our video review and of course the buttons work well and all ports are accessible as you would expect.

What does ITSKINS offer with their cases.

ITSKINS strives for green manufacturing and it can be seen in every product that we release. From compostable cases to plant-based inks, we are always looking for more ways to reduce our carbon footprint while creating great products.

Extra strong magnets align and attach better to MagSafe chargers and accessories. All their MagSafe cases use 100% recycled rare earth elements in all of the magnets.

 

With a message being clearly sent here by the company they are keeping the environment in mind and giving you good value for money with their cases and excellent protection for whatever device you use and we can stand by this as we have been using their cases some time, check out the range we have in for the iPhone 14 Pro below

BUY

Video

ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S Combo – First Look

The SMOOTH 5S is the latest addition to ZHIYUN’s iconic SMOOTH range. As well as offering several upgraded features that make it more powerful and compatible with larger smartphones and superior image stabilisation, it features a new, powerful built-in fill light in addition to the two modular magnetic lights. This, together with features like its wider shooting angle and intuitive control panel provide an integrated and convenient film-making experience for everyone.

Today we take a first look at the latest gadget from ZHIYUN and see what the combo pack looks like before we take it off for testing as we always do and give you a look at how it works in real life rather than a stock image report.. So stay tuned for that and lots more cool tech here for the Christmas Season and on our YouTube channel.

The ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S is available for the price of £299 from the ZHIYUN or Amazon store.

USD 169, Euros 189, GBP 169
For the SMOOTH 5S combo, pricing is:
USD 219, Euros 239, GBP 219

Esri’s digital mapping system enables Bord na Móna to rehabilitate precious peatland ecosystems

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), is today announcing that its digital mapping system is being used by Bord na Móna to restore and rehabilitate 33,000 hectares of peatlands over a five year period.

Bord na Móna is a climate solutions semi-state body helping Ireland to achieve a net carbon zero future. Now that commercial peat extraction has ceased, the organisation is leading the way in restoring and rehabilitating precious peatland ecosystems. Having previously worked with Esri Ireland on other projects, Bord na Móna is now using Esri’s ArcGIS system to support and optimise its rehabilitation efforts.

Bord na Móna is currently planning or implementing rehabilitation schemes on 19 sites annually throughout Ireland. Using Esri’s digital mapping capabilities, its ecologists can analyse and examine the ground level to identify which rehabilitation measures are most appropriate on different areas of bogland. This enables them to devise specific map-based solutions such as drain-blocking or bunding to optimise hydrological conditions to re-wet peat and restore peatland function.

Through their collaboration, Esri Ireland has helped Bord na Móna transform their rehabilitation operations, as all employees have access to real-time information on a central system which saves time, helps to improve workflows, and allows constant updating. ArcGIS Online dashboards provide greater visibility on the progress of all projects, wherever they are happening in Ireland. Teams can also use the dashboards to generate automated, accurate reports for stakeholders, such as the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The technology also enables effective working in remote, wild landscapes, as apps can be used in the field to capture data. This eliminates the need for paper use and improves the accuracy of data collection. In areas with little or no mobile coverage, maps can be downloaded to mobile devices and updates synchronised later.

Michael Lenihan, GIS Manager, Bord na Móna said: “ArcGIS is engrained in our bog rehabilitation process. Using ArcGIS, we can quickly visualise the existing conditions across thousands of hectares of bogs using numerous datasets and design and implement the most appropriate rehabilitation measures to restore peatland function and deliver climate action benefits.

 “With ArcGIS Online, everyone sees the most up-to-date plans, whether they are working in the office or in a bog, and this helps to ensure that ecology plans are carried out as intended. Without the dashboards, we would have to spend a lot of time producing PDF maps and reports. Instead, we can output progress data in a matter of minutes.”

 Phil McLaughlin, Client Manager, Esri Ireland: “Having worked extensively with Bord na Móna, they knew that we were the natural fit to deliver on this next stage in their journey. Esri’s technology has provided the organisation with an effective way of analysing, capturing and storing data to help them renew and rehabilitate our precious peatlands. It is already starting to deliver very positive results supporting Ireland’s ambitious climate goals and protecting our rich biodiversity.

 “We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with Bord na Móna as it carries out this vital work.”

Wine Business Ideas to Start in 2023

Are you a wine lover and want to start a wine business in 2023? You can easily go from wine passion to wine profession with the right business plan and idea. From a wine consultant to a skilful wine producer, it has a little something for everyone. It`s all matter of your personal expectations and preferences. Here are the top 10 profitable business ideas you can try in the wine industry. 

1. Wine Taster

This is an excellent business idea for working online and on-site. To become a wine taster you first need to be an expert in wine and how it is made. The rule of thumb for all wine-tasting consultants are the 5 s`s: see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savour. 

In other words, you must have the finest taste in wine aromas, flavours, complexity and structure. However, for people who are passionate about wine this would not be a job, but a pleasure!

2. Wine Influencer

Today, making money as a social media influencer is extremely popular and affordable. For wine enthusiasts, this can be the best job ever! All you need to do is find your perfect social media platform and promote what you know. With just a little investment and some online research, of course, you can start your own wine business or get paid for promoting someone else`s business. 

3. Create a Social Media Network for Wine Lovers

As “online” is the new normal now, creating a  web or fan page on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter can be a brilliant business idea. You can start a social media group where wine enthusiasts from around the world can gather and share their experience and review of wine and wine tasting. This can open a whole new world of ideas and opportunities to grow and expand your business. It will just take a little time and patience.

4. Wine Gift Baskets

The holiday season is a great time to start a wine business when friends and families are gathering to celebrate love and life. Who can say no to a wine gift basket? People often struggle with choosing the right wine for a present or as a simple act of courtesy. Now, you can make things easier! For instance, you can create wine gift baskets with wine and cheese or chocolate pairings. Also, you can use your imagination and make wine cases with the best wines from the best producers. Just make sure to know all the wine characteristics and wine and food pairings. 

5. Open a Wine Shop

According to statistics, the estimated wine marketing size reached US$ 513.8 Bn in 2022 and is expected to outreach US$ 840 Bn in 2023. The growing wine demand worldwide paves the way for building a wine business that works. You can start by opening a small wine store that hopefully you can expand in time. Although this largely depends on your budget and assets, make sure to choose the right location and start with the right wine selection. 

6. Online Wine Shop

While a street-side business is a more serious investment, an online wine store is a great way to start. After a well-researched business plan, you can create an online winery and start your marketing campaign. Proper advertisement is essential for every business`s success, you can also consult a marketing expert to help make a good start. Also, a good wine offer is of vital importance.

7. Own a Vineyard

A number of wine enthusiasts dream about owning their own vineyard where they can indulge in the art of making wine. You can cultivate and sell different types of grapes to the big wine houses and come up with a spectacular profit. This takes a high investment and excellent farming experience.

8. Wine Producer

Wine-making is probably the most desired profession in the world of wine. If you have enough assets,  build a wine-producing business. You can make wine from your own vineyard or buy from vintners and then add your personal finesse and label. Finally, sell to retailers or wholesalers. 

Wine production is a serious business and takes a lot of effort, time, and hard work. Before you go with the vinification business, go through the entire equipment and every small detail you need to obtain. If still seems like a good idea, go for it!

9. Wine Exporter

Wine export is another attractive business in the wine industry. You can choose areas with small or no wine supply and mark your target. Also, you can do research about the type of wine and prices people are willing to pay in the targeted area. 

10. Wine Tour Guide

If you have a good knowledge of wine production and wine estates in your country, you can easily become a wine tour guide. For example, you can work for a specific winery that hosts wine-tasting tours, or you can take organised wine groups to different wine estates throughout your country or abroad. If you want to become a top-notch wine tour guide, you need to be familiar with the history and the winemaking process of each winery respectively. 

“The discovery of a wine is of greater moment than the discovery of a constellation. The universe is too full of stars.”

― Benjamin Franklin

If you still can`t make up your mind about your business idea, have a glass of fine wine and relax. The taste and smell of the wine will help you decide. Enjoy!

Revolut – Prices of essentials inflate, including fuel and food, consumers cut back on plants, toys, and bicycles

Consumers prioritise experiences over retail goods as cost of living rises, new card spend data from Revolut says.

The latest monthly consumer spending report by Revolut, the global financial super-app with more than 2 million customers in Ireland, shows that inflation is clearly adding to costs almost entirely across the board.

New data from Revolut shows that the average supermarket customer was spending 7% more compared to last year. The data also reveals that many are looking to cut costs down by shopping at discount stores, which saw an 8% increase in the number of customers, and where the average customer spent 9.5% more.

Similarly, Revolut’s data shows that the average petrol station customer spent 18% more on fuel as compared to last year. However, bus companies saw a 39% increase in customers and a 44% increase in customer spending, year on year.

Furthermore, discretionary spending was up. In travel, customers of cruise lines (+124%), airlines (+25%), and travel agencies (+24%) all increased their spending, year on year.

Spending on experiential activities and eating out also increased. The average consumer spent more at museums (+22%), amusement parks (+20%), aquariums (+13%), theatres (+5%), restaurants (+4%), even on dating apps (+36%).

However, spending at cinemas decreased 18%, and saw a 20% decrease in the number of customers. In contrast, spending on digital goods including streaming services was up 4%, year on year.

In retail, discretionary spending was also up. The average consumer spent more at clothing stores (+12%), cosmetics stores (+7%), department stores (+9%), and furniture stores (+15%).

However, it looks like many are cutting back on spending, including areas that are usually more popular at this time of year. Spending at sweet shops decreased by 10% and spending at toy shops decreased by 27%, and the number of customers shopping there decreased by 5%. Spending at bike shops decreased by 5%, and saw a 4% drop in the number of customers.

Florists saw a 9% decrease in customers, and a 10% decrease in customer spending. Similarly, spending at garden centres decreased by 6% and saw a 2% drop in customers.

A Revolut spokesperson said the latest October data appears to indicate that inflation is having a sharp impact on consumer priorities.

“As the prices of essentials inflate, including fuel and food, consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending including plants, toys, and even bicycles. Savvy consumers are swapping regular stores for discount shopping, and more people are choosing the bus, as compared to last year.”

“The periods of lockdown gave many consumers a new perspective on their priorities. The new priorities include travel, where spending on hotels and airlines continue to increase, and activities for days out, such as museums and theatres.”

“These new priorities suggest a continued desire to be around others and get out of the home. We’ve even seen a sharp rise in spending on dating apps, for those who are looking for company to see the latest museum exhibition.”

Digital banking has not overtaken the demand for a more personal experience: 6 in 10 want face-to-face banking

Irish people want to conduct their main banking transactions with a human being and not a computer. This is the finding of a new survey from the Credit Union Development Association, which found that more than 6 in 10 people still opt for face-to-face interactions when opening a current account or accessing car finance, and 8 in 10 want to take out the mortgage with the help of either a lender employee or a broker (See Appendix).

The credit union representatives say indicates just how important face-to-face interaction still is with the public when it comes to banking.

The research, which surveyed 1,000 people nationwide found:

  • More than two thirds (65pc) of those who opened a current account over the last five years did so with in-person support from branch staff.
  • 54pc of those who opened savings accounts preferred to do so with in-person support.
  • Six in 10 (63pc) used face-to-face help when taking out car finance.
  • The vast majority (87pc) of those who applied for a mortgage in the last five years did so either in branch – or in person with a financial advisor.

Speaking of the findings, Kevin Johnson, CEO of CUDA, said:

“The preference for face-to-face interaction doesn’t surprise us and supports the decision of credit unions to retain this key service while rolling out their new digital channels for members. Choice in how to interact with a financial institution is imperative for consumers. It’s not ok that some banks appear to be trying to force their customers to fit into their lower-cost branch models, in an effort to boost profits for shareholders but to the detriment of customer service.

“Borrowing for a major purchase such as a car or home is a big deal for most people, so it is not surprising that so many people need the reassurance of the personal touch when taking out a personal loan or a mortgage. People have financial needs and financial challenges, some straightforward and some requiring quite specific advice, so they should be able to decide between going online and walking into their local branch and getting face-to-face help if they need it.”

Where we bank is changing

The CUDA survey revealed that more than 7 in 10 people still bank with the countries three main banks.

But Mr Johnson contends that the tide is turning against the pillar banks and,

“There is a definite shift in mindset in recent years and people are becoming increasingly open to the offerings of other providers. This change in behaviour is only going to gather more pace in the next few years and we believe the market will really open up and the Irish banking landscape will look completely different in five years’ time. Credit unions for their part are making a real play to grow their role by offering people the length and breadth of the country exactly what they need – efficient and effective banking solutions, with digital, local and in-person support”.

Further highlights from the CUDA consumer survey include:

  • One in 20 (5pc) said they used a fintech such as Revolut, N26 or Bunq for most of their banking needs.
  • Those aged between 25 and 34 are more likely than other age cohorts to use a fintech for most of their banking needs – 13pc vs the national average of 5pc
  • One in 25 (4pc) use credit unions for the majority of their banking – twice as much as the number who cited An Post.
  • Men are more likely to use a credit union or a fintech for their banking needs – though the numbers are still relatively small.

Mr. Johnson concluded

“ As co-operative societies, owned by and managed in the interest of their members, credit unions  understand the importance of setting and achieving service levels at the standard expected by the members.  They are delivering digital services with a personal touch, only in this way, they can be certain that they will achieve high levels of customer experience satisfaction, retain business and also optimise the use of valuable resources. With this in mind, credit unions continue to invest in emerging technologies, as these give rise to new ways of conducting financial activities, while also continuing to invest in their people. Balancing these investments enables them offer both digital and face-to-face options to both borrowers and savers.”

How To Watch UK Shows In The US

It can be difficult to keep up with your favourite UK shows when you’re living in the United States. Between time differences and the fact that many shows aren’t aired on American networks, it can seem impossible. However, there are a few ways to make watching UK shows easier. In this article, we’ll discuss some of those methods and help you find the best way to watch your favourite programs.

1- Using VPN

If you’re looking to watch UK shows while in the US, you’ll need to use a USA VPN. This is because most UK shows are geo-blocked in the US, meaning that they can only be watched by people located in the UK.

A VPN is a service that allows you to connect to the internet via a server located in a different country. This means that you can appear to be located in that country, and thus have access to all of the websites and services that are available there.

A VPN is a service that you sign up for with a provider. There are many different providers to choose from, so be sure to do your research before signing up. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll need to download and install the VPN software onto your device.

Once the software is installed, open it up and connect to a server located in the UK. Once you’re connected, open up your web browser and go to the website of the UK broadcaster that you want to watch. You should now be able to watch all of the shows that are available on that broadcaster’s website.

2- Using Smart DNS Service

Another great way to watch your favourite TV shows is by using a smart DNS service. This technology allows you to redirect traffic from your computer or device through an approved server, which can then help you to access websites that are usually blocked. Many of these services will have lists of UK-based servers that are approved for use, so be sure to select the right one when setting up your account.

3- Using Kodi Add-Ons

What are Kodi Add-Ons? Kodi Add-Ons are plugins that can be added to the Kodi media player in order to expand its capabilities and allow it to stream content from a variety of sources. Some add-ons are designed specifically for watching UK shows online, and they work on any device where Kodi can be installed. However, it’s important to note that some of these add-ons may contain content from unauthorised sources, so you should proceed with caution when using them. Still, if you’re already familiar with Kodi or if you’re interested in learning more about this popular media player, then adding some add-ons to your setup could be a great way to stream UK shows from back home.​

So, there you have it! With a VPN and the right tools, you can watch all of your favourite UK shows while living in the US. We hope this article has been helpful and that you are now able to enjoy your favourite programs without having to miss out on anything. If you have any questions or need more help getting set up, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Technologies That Are Currently Used in the InsurTech

Currently, every manager dreams of automating his business. He will be able to ensure the best work of the enterprise because software is a great way to control the process, keep records of customers, and also skill fully coordinate the work of all his employees. Currently, Insurance Software Development is indispensable for a variety of areas, you can separately find software for credit companies, banking companies, for trading. A separate category is software for automation of the insurance sector.

Features of software selection

It is important that companies from the insurance sector improve their solutions so that the software is ideally suited to the tasks of the enterprise so that it guarantees perfect work and promises the opportunity to improve all indicators. In addition, automation is a great chance to remove the human factor, reduce the likelihood of errors. This is an opportunity to make the work of the enterprise as high-quality and profitable as possible.

Every manager should understand that only by turning to real professionals it is possible to truly improve the work of the entire system. It is important to choose the right technologies that are used for the insurance industry. Many software solutions are developed separately for each user, while they have a huge advantage over other areas. There are many platforms that allow you to develop software, so you can independently determine what is most important to you, and you will be able to conduct full digital management of your company’s personnel.

This is an opportunity to save time and increase efficiency. It is necessary to get technological support for the entire process, select staff, organize the work of employees, and monitor the movement of documents among clients. If you find the right platform, you can easily create the perfect software for your field, which will answer all your questions. Altamira software is a provider of HR management software.

Deployment settings that have been used and debugged by hundreds of clients for a long time, when creating their programs, companies focus on what is important for employees of a particular field, on what they consider necessary in order to improve their skills, and make the work as profitable as possible. The fact is that most often, software could be found in the banking and financial spheres, but many began to realise that special digital technologies are required in the insurance sector.

Such technologies help to improve the quality of customer service and practically reduce dissatisfaction with services to zero. However, after insurance companies realised that they were significantly lagging behind other areas, that negative reviews about the company appeared due to the lack of automation, they decided to expand this range of services that are focused on all customer segments. Those companies that decide to automate their activities stand out significantly and are competitive in the markets.

Signs of reliable software

Computer technologies are based on different factors, they use different digital capabilities in order to improve their services and internal work processes. Any insurance company can introduce digital technologies into its work, make sure that all the necessary data is obtained in order for the company to work optimally, efficiently. Factors such as data analytics, rapid service delivery, and personalization play an important role. The company gets cost reduction, anti-fraud. All this is under the power of a single technology that you can implement into the successful operation of your enterprise.

If we consider such a factor as analytics, it is very important that the insurance company assess the risk parameters as quickly as possible, predict any events, as on https://www.softwareadvice.com/insurance/. Based on these data, you can easily make a decision. However, you should entrust this to a robot, an automation program. The work will go much faster, more correct decisions will be made because the human factor is excluded. The client no longer needs to meet personally with the insurer, or visit the office, all services can be provided online.

Personalization allows you to provide services through different Internet sources, it is an opportunity to establish close relationships with customers, you can use mobile applications, and access a wide range of information. You should learn as much as possible about customers. Such a factor as reducing costs is associated with the fact that the company gets the opportunity to reduce its costs for maintaining a huge number of personnel.

By choosing the best software, more customers will appear, they will be able to process more applications. With the help of robotics, it is possible to significantly improve the efficiency of work. As for fraud detection, this problem can be solved with the help of forecasting. This is an opportunity to reduce the risk of unfair use to the very minimum. All this is possible if you create a special artificial intelligence yourself, a special program that will make the work of the enterprise as fast and efficient as possible.

Using this way of improving the quality of work, you will understand that the work will be improved, many functions will appear, and you will be able to count on software support. However, it should be understood that in order for the program to suit you, you must trust real professionals.

Employees must maintain databases, manage documents skillfully, and understand the possibility of organizational schemes. All employees of the company must have sufficient experience in IT technologies, must constantly come up with any integrated solutions. Due to the fact that the company offers a variety of software solutions in order to manage personnel, the company can organize management processes at different levels.

You can always:

  • track attendance;
  • vacation plan;
  • manage documents;
  • manage learning in a team;
  • view employee profiles.

All this makes it possible to create the perfect software that will make the company’s work fast and efficient. There is always an opportunity for managers to independently make decisions about what software they need, what exactly they need to take into account when creating. They usually develop special custom applications to provide an excellent user experience. The software should use various algorithms, mobile applications, platforms and implement financial software. This is a special moment of software development and consulting for individual insurance. These programs have long established themselves as the best, as those that constantly introduce new products. Artificial intelligence is an opportunity to achieve a new level. A large role is given to the expansion and predictive analytics, also, artificial intelligence has a feature to process large amounts of data and find the necessary pattern. All this makes the work of the enterprise profitable, affordable, and allows you to get rid of any difficulties.