Phishing Scams, 5G Expansion, and Cybersecurity Trends—Your Tech Rundown

Welcome to EdgeTeam’s monthly update! We’re excited to bring you the latest insights, success stories, and updates from across the region. As your trusted IT partner, we’re here to support you every step of the way in adopting and implementing the latest technology. We hope this roundup of resources helps keep you and your team ahead of the curve and informed on the innovations that matter most.

The Latest Story in Tech

As cyberattacks grow more advanced, U.S. courts are increasingly being targeted by cybercriminals. Recent breaches across the country have exposed weak points in judicial systems, causing disruptions that extend beyond the courts to businesses and employers who depend on public records for background checks.

From ransomware to DDoS attacks, the scope of these threats is expanding, making it crucial for courts and businesses alike to adapt their cybersecurity strategies to address the new risks.

Why Does This Matter?

Cyberattacks on U.S. courts disrupt critical judicial functions, from processing legal documents to providing public access to court records. These breaches expose sensitive personal data, putting individuals at risk of identity theft and further undermining public trust in the judicial system.

As courts operate on aging infrastructure, many local and state-level systems lack the robust cybersecurity measures necessary to fend off these attacks. With federal funding often prioritized for high-profile government systems, state and local courts remain vulnerable, making the need for better cybersecurity investment a national concern.

What Should You Consider?

1. Regularly review and strengthen your security protocols to keep up with evolving threats.
2. Ensure you have a solid backup and disaster recovery strategy to minimize downtime in case of an attack.
3. Implement real-time monitoring to quickly detect and respond to suspicious activity.

As technology continues to advance, it’s important to stay informed about the trends shaping the future of IT. Here are some key developments we’re seeing across the industry that could impact your business in the coming months.

Top Trends

• Zero Trust Security Models: As businesses consolidate security tools, Zero Trust is becoming the go-to strategy. The core principle is simple: never trust, always verify. This means even if a device or user is in your network, continuous authentication is required. It’s a must for companies handling sensitive data across cloud and on-premise systems.
• AI-Driven IT Operations (AIOps): AIOps is getting a boost with Composite AI, which combines three types of AI to deliver faster, smarter resolutions. By diagnosing issues and generating automated fixes, IT teams can ensure smoother operations and increased uptime, making this a critical trend to watch.
• 5G Expansion: We’re at a tipping point for 5G, and businesses are starting to upgrade their networks. Private 5G networks are helping companies in manufacturing and public safety stay connected, secure, and ahead of their competition.

Edgeteam’s Roundup

Here, we’ll keep you informed on the key developments in IT infrastructure, security, and cloud solutions. Whether it’s optimizing networks in underserved areas or delivering innovative solutions to keep your systems secure, this section is dedicated to help you stay ahead.

• Phishing scams at Bradley University have increased, with hackers targeting student accounts to steal financial aid. By posing as university representatives, they trick students into sharing personal information. 
• Juniper Networks has added new AI-driven capabilities to its data center platform, aimed at enhancing operational visibility and performance. Service Awareness and Impact Analysis help streamline troubleshooting and network management. These tools are designed to support a more resilient and efficient data center. 
• At the APAC Anti-Fraud Roadshow, industry leaders discussed the growing use of AI in both committing and preventing cybercrime. With phishing scams and deepfakes on the rise, businesses are urged to leverage AI-driven security tools to safeguard sensitive information and stay one step ahead of fraudsters. 
• NFL teams are upgrading their stadiums with Extreme Networks’ Wi-Fi 6E, boosting connectivity for fans and streamlining operations. Teams like the Texans and Vikings are using this technology to support everything from mobile services to fan engagement. With better network reliability, stadiums can manage large crowds more effectively. 
• With limited budgets, state and local governments are facing increasing cyber threats. By adopting an assume-breach mindset, prioritizing good cyber hygiene, and leveraging federal collaboration efforts, they can strengthen defenses and minimize the impact of attacks. These strategies ensure even resource-constrained organizations can improve their cybersecurity posture.

Spotlight

Meet Cory Strange – the man, the myth, the legend behind EdgeTeam.
With over 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, Cory has been at the forefront of leading EdgeTeam to become a trusted IT partner across the region. His extensive background in network infrastructure, combined with his leadership, has positioned EdgeTeam as a go-to provider for businesses looking to scale their IT capabilities.