Patching With Intention: Protecting Small Businesses From Hidden Risks

Keeping your systems patched isn’t just another IT task—it’s one of the simplest and most powerful ways to protect your business from cyber threats. But effective patching isn’t about clicking “update” and hoping for the best. It’s about patching with intention.

What Does “Patching With Intention” Mean?

Patching with intention means taking a proactive, planned approach to updates instead of reacting when something breaks. It’s knowing what needs to be updated, when, and why—without disrupting your daily operations.

For small businesses, intentional patching should include:

  • Inventory Awareness: Knowing every device, app, and system on your network.
  • Prioritization: Updating critical systems first (like servers and firewalls) before less-risky devices.
  • Testing Before Deployment: Verifying updates in a controlled environment before rollout.
  • Scheduled Maintenance Windows: Planning updates outside of business hours to minimize downtime.
  • Documentation: Tracking patch history for compliance, auditing, and peace of mind.

Why It Matters

Cybercriminals thrive on unpatched systems—many ransomware and data breaches start with vulnerabilities that already had available fixes. By patching with intention, you reduce your attack surface, improve reliability, and keep your customers’ trust.

How LANmark Helps

At LANmark Computer Services, we specialize in smart, managed patching solutions that fit your business rhythm. From automated patch deployment to real-time monitoring and reporting, we handle the technical details—so you can stay focused on your business.

✅ Reduce downtime
✅ Improve compliance and security posture
✅ Gain peace of mind with proactive IT management

🔐 Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025 — “Secure Today. Empower Tomorrow.”

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s a reminder that security isn’t just an IT responsibility — it’s everyone’s job.

This year’s theme, “Secure Today. Empower Tomorrow.”, focuses on building strong security habits that protect not only our organization, but also our families, communities, and digital futures.

Here are four simple steps we can all take right now:

Think Before You Click

Phishing is still the #1 cause of breaches.

Slow down, inspect the sender, and hover before you click links or open attachments.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Use a password manager and turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) everywhere you can.

Update & Patch Regularly

Keep your devices and applications updated — outdated software is an open door for attackers.

Report Incidents Immediately

If something feels off — a strange email, a suspicious pop-up, or a lost device — report it to IT right away. Fast reporting stops attacks before they spread.

💡 Remember: Security awareness is about empowerment, not fear.
Every click, every login, and every update helps protect our patients, data, and systems.

Let’s make this Cybersecurity Awareness Month a reminder that we all play a part in keeping our digital world safe.

🚨 FBI Issues Warning: Fake Crime Reporting Sites on the Rise! 🚨

Cybercriminals are impersonating the FBI’s IC3 portal to steal your personal info! 😱 Spoofed domains like icc3[.]live and ic3a[.]com are tricking users into handing over names, addresses, banking details, and more.

🔒 Stay Safe:
✅ Type www.ic3.gov directly into your browser
❌ Don’t trust search engine links or sponsored results
🚫 Never share personal info or send money to strangers
📵 FBI agents will NEVER contact you asking for payment or fund recovery

Even one fake site copied the FBI’s own scam warning. The irony is real. 🤦‍♂️

FBI warns of cybercriminals using fake FBI crime reporting portals

Spread the word. Stay sharp. Report smart. 💻🛡️
#CyberSecurity #FBIWarning #PhishingAlert #OnlineSafety #IC3Scam

Protect Your Digital Spaces: Personal vs. Business

🛑 Protect Your Digital Spaces: Personal vs. Business 🛑

Hey everyone! A gentle reminder about the importance of keeping personal and business IT accounts and equipment separate. 👩‍💻📱

🖥️ Why It Matters:

  1. Security: Mixing personal and business accounts can make both vulnerable to cyber threats. Keep them separate to protect sensitive information.
  2. Professionalism: Maintaining a clear boundary ensures you present yourself professionally in a business context.
  3. Productivity: It’s easier to focus and manage tasks when you have dedicated spaces for work and personal matters.
  4. Compliance: Many industries have regulations requiring separation to protect business data and ensure compliance.

🔑 Tips for Separation:

  • Use different devices or user accounts for personal and work-related activities.
  • Set up strong, unique passwords for each account.
  • Avoid using personal email addresses for business communications.
  • Be mindful of what you install and access on work devices.

Keeping things organized and secure helps us all thrive in both our professional and personal lives! 🌟

CyberSafety #WorkLifeBalance #DigitalSecurity #StaySafeOnline

With the holiday season in full swing, cybercriminals are gearing up to take advantage of festive distractions. 🎄🎁

Protect your business and loved ones from cyber threats this holiday season.

Here are some quick tips:

  • Be cautious of phishing emails: Watch out for suspicious emails, even if they seem to be from trusted sources.
  • Update your software: Keep your devices and software up-to-date with the latest security patches.
  • Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
  • Be mindful of public Wi-Fi: Avoid sensitive activities like online banking on public Wi-Fi networks.

Need more expert advice? Contact us today for a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment.

#cybersecurity #holidaysafety #msp #ITsecurity #dataprivacy

The Internet is Not Always Our Friend

🔍The Internet is Not Always Our Friend🌐

In the digital age, information is at our fingertips 24/7—but that doesn’t mean it’s always reliable.

When it comes to technical solutions, we often turn to forums, blogs, or tutorials we find online. While these resources can be helpful, blind trust in them can lead to costly mistakes.

Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

❌Unverified Sources: Just because something is posted online doesn’t mean it’s accurate or applicable to your situation.

💡Context Matters: A solution that works in one environment may not be right for another. Always consider your specific technical needs.

🛠️Best Practices: Before implementing a fix or relying on a tool, make sure it aligns with industry best practices. Don’t assume everything online is well-researched or up to date.

🔑Verify, Verify, Verify: Always verify solutions through trusted sources, your own research, or by consulting with professionals.

At the end of the day, the internet is an incredible resource—but it’s not infallible. Make sure you’re using it wisely and cautiously. 🤖💡

#CyberSecurity#TechTips#DigitalAge#TrustButVerify#OnlineSafety#ITSolutions