October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

by Jon Lober | NOC Technology

Take some time to protect your digital assets.

Though we cannot advise you on how to celebrate all of the scintillating holidays happening in October (National Produce Misting Day anyone?), we do want to invite you to observe one of them along with us – Cybersecurity Awareness Month.


The
National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are celebrating 20 years of keeping us all just a little bit safer through Cybersecurity Awareness month. This year, the cybersecurity community is focusing on four key behaviors that can make an enormous difference in the risk profile of businesses and individuals across the country.


1. Use strong passwords and a password manager.

Password1 will not cut it any more. However Q$Tda42%b1!xy145Fl10 is also really hard to remember (and no, you should not write it down on a post-it note near your keyboard). Enter password managers. These important software solutions help you generate and keep track of strong passwords. You can learn more about password security in our recent post.


2. Turn on multifactor authentication (aka MFA or 2FA).

Even better than a password is a passkey. You likely already use MFA to access online banking or financial accounts. Using a text message, email, or (best of all) a dedicated authenticator app to validate a sign-in is the easiest step you can take to secure your accounts with one of the biggest payoffs.


3. Recognize and report phishing.

We spend a lot of time harping on the importance of recognizing and avoiding phishing attacks. Their prevalence means that they are a constant threat to everyone with an email account. You can learn more about how to protect yourself by perusing the “Phishing Reports” in the cybersecurity section of our blog.


4. Update software.

Outdated software is often full of holes that provide easy entry points for hackers into your business network. Keeping it updated makes sure that you have the most recent and secure version of the software that keeps your business running.



How can you celebrate cybersecurity awareness month?


Here at NOC, we are all in for cybersecurity! Here’s how you can celebrate with us.

1. Win a cooler.

Because phishers shouldn’t have all the fun, we’re pulling one from the hacker handbook. However, instead of losing your identity, you can win free stuff!


2. Dark Web Search (5 slots available).

Schedule some time with our Service Desk Manager, Nathan Hooker to find out if your personal information has been stolen and is circulating in the nether regions of the internet.


3. Refresh your passwords.

When was the last time you updated your important passwords (and not just by adding a dollar sign to the end)?


4. Update your software.

Reward yourself with a few minutes of rest from work by updating your software. Take the time to check and see if your OS and key software are set to auto-update.


5. Report phishing.

Don’t just be a passive target of phishing attacks, start to fight back by reporting phishing to the authorities, email providers, and spoofed companies. Learn how here.


Missouri Sheltered Workshops can empower human potential through AI
By Jon Lober April 24, 2025
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Tech upgrades that will boost employee safety in sheltered workshops
By Jon Lober April 15, 2025
At NOC Technology, we've worked with Missouri sheltered workshops for over seven years, and I've witnessed firsthand how the right technological implementations can transform sheltered workshop environments. Today, I'd like to share some insights on leveraging modern technology to create safer workspaces while maintaining the dignity and privacy of all participants. The Unique Safety Challenges of Sheltered Workshops Sheltered workshops provide valuable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, but they also present unique safety considerations. Workers may have varying levels of physical mobility, cognitive processing, and sensory perception—all of which can impact how they respond to traditional safety measures. Additionally, the production environments often involve machinery, tools, and materials that require careful monitoring and management. The Role of Smart Technology in Safety Advancements in smart technology provide real-time safety monitoring, immediate alerts for potential hazards, and improved emergency response times. Let’s explore some key technologies and their benefits in sheltered workshop environments. Personalized Alert Systems Traditional emergency alarms can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Smart alert systems can deliver personalized notifications through: Vibrating wristbands that alert workers without auditory overload Visual notification systems with customizable colors and patterns Tablet-based communication for workers who benefit from visual cues Location-specific alerts that only notify those in affected areas We recently implemented a multi-modal alert system at a workshop in central Missouri that reduced anxiety-related incidents during emergency drills by 65% . Environmental Monitoring Maintaining optimal environmental conditions is crucial for both safety and productivity: Temperature and humidity sensors that automatically adjust HVAC systems Air quality monitors that detect potentially harmful particulates Noise level monitoring to prevent sensory overload Automated ventilation systems that activate when chemical levels exceed thresholds These systems not only protect workers but also provide documented compliance with OSHA regulations. Enhanced Supervision through Smart Cameras Security cameras have evolved beyond simple surveillance. Modern systems can: Detect unusual patterns that might indicate a worker in distress Monitor restricted areas without constant staff presence Identify when machinery is being used incorrectly Alert supervisors to potential safety hazards Important note: All camera systems should be implemented with strict privacy protocols and transparent policies. Workers and guardians should be fully informed about what is being monitored and why. In many cases, audio cannot be recorded, and the camera system must be configured to meet this requirement. Wearable Safety Technology Wearable devices offer personalized safety monitoring without stigmatization: Fall detection pendants that automatically alert staff Location tracking that helps locate workers in emergency situations Biometric monitoring for workers with health conditions Proximity sensors that prevent accidental entry into hazardous areas These wearables can be designed to look like standard ID badges or watches, preserving dignity while enhancing safety. Implementation Best Practices Successfully integrating smart technology into sheltered workshops requires careful planning: Involve all stakeholders: Workers, guardians, and staff should participate in selecting and implementing new technologies. Prioritize simplicity: Choose solutions that require minimal training and maintenance. Phase in gradually: Introduce new technologies in stages to allow everyone time to adapt. Balance automation with human oversight: Technology should supplement, not replace, trained staff. Respect privacy: Collect only essential data and maintain strong security protocols.
Could your sheltered workshop benefit from grant funding for new technology?
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As a sheltered workshop, you play a crucial role in providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. However, like any organization, securing funding for technology upgrades can be a challenge. While investing in the right tools can improve efficiency, security, and overall productivity—that’s all only if you can afford the tools in the first place.
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