Shields up St. Louis!

by Ted Stahl | NOC Technology

How St. Louis businesses can defend against increased cybercrime

On March 21st, President Biden extended the state of national emergency declaration in response to elevated cyber threats to our national security, foreign policy, and economy. This follows the “SHIELDS UP!” Warning declared by CISA (Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency) explaining that “Every organization – large or small – must be prepared to respond to disruptive cyber incidents.” So, what does all this mean for local businesses? Here are a few things you need to know.

Anti-virus software will not protect you.

Many businesses use anti-virus software to protect their networks, but it is not providing as much protection as they think. In fact, anti-virus is considered relatively useless by IT professionals because it is limited to running virus scans and it is not the advanced endpoint protection required in today’s environment. Ofcourse, no single form of software or cybersecurity tactic alone makes a good defense. You must have a multilayered approach that includes password policies, 2-factor authentication, advanced endpoint protection, a network firewall, user training, and offsite backup.

Watch out for Increased Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals use high-profile events to create scams and social engineering schemes. The Ukraine-Russia war is no different. We have seen phishing themes related to the war aiming to infect targets with remote access trojans (RATs). Manufacturers specifically have been targeted with fake “order holds” and “supplier surveys” attempting to convince their targets of increased shipping and supply issues due to the war. There has also been a significant increase in scammers claiming to be from legitimate charities collecting donations to support Ukraine.

Build a multilayered cybersecurity strategy

Most cybersecurity experts believe that if you haven’t yet implemented proper cybersecurity measures, then you are too late. We prefer to think it’s not too late if you are still in business; it could be worse. There are a few simple things you can do to help protect your business. If you do not have 2-factor authentication required in your business, implement it immediately. Use a robust email protection solution. Change your passwords, create new complex passwords, and make it mandatory to change passwords every three months.

 

If you have questions or concerns about the security of your network, contact my team at NOC Technology for a security assessment . No sales speeches, just information.

 

314.500.1000

Missouri Sheltered Workshops can empower human potential through AI
By Jon Lober April 24, 2025
Embracing the potential of both AI and humans
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?
By Jon Lober April 7, 2025
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.
More Articles