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The Quantum Leap in Computing: Understanding the Basics and Its Implications for Traditional Systems

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

We’re on the cusp of a new digital revolution, and no, I’m not talking about the next smartphone iteration or a nifty software update. We’re venturing into the realm of quantum computing – a domain so cutting-edge, it promises to redefine our understanding of ‘cutting-edge’. And while most might conjure images of sci-fi flicks, let’s demystify this powerhouse and juxtapose it against our age-old, beloved classical computing.

Now, to grasp quantum computing, imagine the vast number of grains of sand on a beach. That’s how many calculations high-end classical computers can manage in a second. Impressive, right? Enter Quantum computers, which, at their pinnacle, might handle computations equivalent to all the grains of sand on all the world’s beaches – and then some. But how?

Classical computers, the ones we’ve grown fond of and perhaps occasionally yelled at, operate using bits. Think of bits as light switches; they’re either on (1) or off (0). Every photo, app, or embarrassing karaoke recording on your device boils down to these binary bits.

Quantum computers, on the other hand, use qubits. Here’s where things get, well, quantum-y. A qubit can be in a state representing 0, a state representing 1, or any quantum superposition of these states. This means they can perform many calculations at once. Imagine juggling, but each ball splits into multiple balls mid-air, and you’re still juggling them all. It’s mind-bending, and it’s the quantum advantage.

The real kicker? When you combine the power of qubits, they can process an enormous amount of possibilities simultaneously. That’s why they’re projected to solve problems deemed impossible for classical computers.

But as with all great power, there comes great… shall we say, challenges? Classical systems, with their straightforward bits, have served as the foundation for our digital age. Our digital security, the very essence of our online lives, depends on the predictability and structure of these bits. Quantum computing, with its superpower of processing, poses a potential threat to this age-old system. As it stands, some forms of encryption that are currently deemed ‘unbreakable’ could become vulnerable to quantum prowess.

But before you jump into the “sky is falling” bandwagon, consider this – we’re still in the infancy of quantum computing. The real-world, practical quantum computers that could pose such challenges are still on the horizon. Plus, the same quantum principles that threaten current security measures can also be harnessed to build even more secure systems in the future.

For me, the ascent of quantum computing feels eerily reminiscent of the early days of the internet. A wild frontier, brimming with potential, but also riddled with uncertainties. We stood at the cusp then, just as we do now.

But remember, change is the only constant in technology. It’s not just about the challenges; it’s about the world of possibilities that quantum computing opens up. We’re on the brink of a new era, and as always, adaptability will be key.

Stay tuned, stay updated, and as always, tread the digital realm with curiosity and caution.

Unraveling Unannounced UI Changes: Navigating Digital Transitions Without Losing It All (or Maybe Just a Little)

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

We’ve all been there, staring in disbelief at a screen, wondering if the last thing we did just wiped out years of accumulated work or memories. This month, I found myself trapped in this very situation, thanks to a seemingly innocuous update to Microsoft’s Outlook Web App (OWA). The horror that unfolded was like watching a car wreck in slow motion, as I unintentionally, but very efficiently, deleted my entire email archive.

So, let’s address the elephant in the digital room: Why, Microsoft, why?

OWA, for those unfamiliar, is the web-based interface for Microsoft’s ever-popular Outlook email system. A favorite of many, including yours truly, due to its accessibility from any device. This month, Microsoft decided it needed a facelift. A little Botox here, some digital contouring there. But what they didn’t reckon with was the sheer turmoil their not-so-smooth transition would cause.

Now, a facelift is fine. Sometimes even necessary. But let’s get real; if you’re going to rearrange the furniture in the digital living room, leave a note or, better yet, scream aloud about the changes! The new design changes, while sleek, were far from intuitive, leading me down the destructive path of deleting years’ worth of emails.

The implications? Well, think about all the cherished conversations, vital account details, nostalgic moments, and countless memes lost in the abyss of “user error” (a term I use lightly given the circumstances). But then a humorous thought struck me: In this age of relentless digitalization, are we really ever more than a click away from our past?

Certainly, years of emails hold sentimental value and professional importance. But consider for a moment our other digital footprints. Our banks, utilities, service providers, and even social media platforms hold onto chunks of our digital timeline. Lost an email receipt from an online purchase three years ago? Just log into the e-commerce site. Misplaced the itinerary for that vacation in 2018? Well, your airline probably still has it on their cloud.

Of course, it doesn’t replace personalized communications or specific attachments. But, in some ways, this horrifying debacle is a stark reminder of the transient nature of the digital world and the humor in our human resilience. I can almost hear my grandfather now, “Back in my day, we didn’t have the cloud; we had file cabinets!” And if a file was lost? Well, life went on.

Now, this isn’t a campaign to undermine the importance of backing up data or to overlook the initial shock value of losing crucial emails. It’s a perspective on our heavy digital reliance. The omnipresence of data in multiple places also speaks volumes about our modern lives’ redundancy. It’s as if the universe is repeatedly whispering, “Don’t worry, I’ve got a copy.”

To those who’ve experienced a similar digital misstep, whether it’s OWA’s mystery magic show or another platform’s puzzle, remember: Life, digital or not, has its ups and downs, and sometimes, the delete button might just be life’s way of telling us it’s time for a clean slate.

In closing, my hope is that tech giants like Microsoft might give us a gentle heads-up the next time they decide to play interior decorator with our digital domains. A simple nudge, a pointer or two can save many from the abyss of unintended consequences. But if all else fails and you find yourself lost in the vastness of the digital void, remember: It’s just one pixel in the grand picture.

Digital Footprints in the Sand: Social Media Savviness for Your Summer Break

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

Ah, summer. The season of sunburns, sandy toes, and… cybersecurity threats? If that last one caught you off guard, you’re not alone. As we bid farewell to final exams and hit the road to paradise, many of us have a one-track mind: relaxation. But in our zest to share every picturesque sunset and poolside selfie on social media, we might be unknowingly inviting some unsavory digital dangers.

Now, I’m not suggesting you shelve your phone for the season – where’s the fun in that? However, a dash of caution can ensure your posts don’t unwittingly play into the hands of cyber miscreants.

  1. Check-in Wisely: Sure, tagging yourself at that luxurious beachside resort or bustling local restaurant is enticing. But announcing your every move to the world also signals you’re not home, making your empty house a potential target for burglars.
  2. Picture Perfect Precautions: That boarding pass photo looks stylish, but did you know the barcode often contains personal information that can be decoded? The same goes for close-ups of event tickets or keycards. A little crop goes a long way!
  3. Privacy First: Adjust your account settings so that only friends or approved followers can see your posts. And while we’re on the topic, be discerning about accepting new followers or friend requests, especially if your profile is a treasure trove of personal snaps.
  4. The Devil’s in the Details: Sharing anecdotes is one thing but avoid giving specifics. Rather than saying, “Staying at the Grandiose Hotel on 5th Street for two weeks!” perhaps try, “Loving the vibes of this city!” It’s vague, it’s mysterious, and it’s safe.
  5. Delayed Gratification: Post your adventures after you return. This way, you’re not providing real-time updates of your whereabouts, and it gives you a chance to relive your vacation all over again.
  6. Beware of Bots and Scammers: Received a comment from a ‘travel agency’ promising discounted trips? Or a message from a ‘fellow traveler’ wanting to meet up? Approach with caution. These could be bots or individuals with nefarious intentions.

In the end, though, remember there’s more to vacation than just the ‘Gram. As tempting as it might be to capture every moment, sometimes the best memories are the ones where you’re fully present, soaking in the sights and sounds unfiltered.

So, while I wholly endorse your efforts to make your friends a tad jealous with those sun-kissed photos, remember to sprinkle in a bit of digital wisdom. Your peace of mind will thank you. And hey, once you’ve ensured your online safety, there’s nothing stopping you from diving deep into the ocean or your novel, away from the persistent pings of notifications. Happy travels and even happier posting!

Digital Love in Modern Times: Safeguarding Your Heart and Data Online

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

February, often dubbed the “month of love”, is upon us, bringing with it heart-shaped chocolates, romantic dinners, and warm sentiments exchanged between loved ones. As Cupid readies his arrows for Valentine’s Day, many individuals are already immersed in the digital realm, hoping to make connections and perhaps even find love.

Yet, as with many things in the digital age, love isn’t without its complications.

Imagine this: You’ve found someone interesting on a dating app. Their profile pictures look too good to be true (because sometimes they are). The conversation flows effortlessly, and soon, plans to meet are in the works. Only, when the time comes, they seem to have one emergency after another, preventing a face-to-face encounter. Sounds familiar? You might be brushing with a catfisher.

The realm of online dating, much like other parts of the internet, is ripe for exploitation. Scammers, donning the disguise of potential mates, often engage in social media exploitation, targeting unsuspecting individuals to extort money or personal data. Their tactics can range from invoking sympathy with sob stories to blackmail using intimate photos.

Now, as dreamy as the thought of meeting someone online might be, it’s worth noting that not every story of digital love ends in a fairy-tale manner. Some tales conclude with a compromised bank account or, worse, a broken heart coupled with stolen identity.

In the backdrop of such threats, it’s crucial to be both emotionally and digitally savvy. Here are a few precautions for those looking to keep their love life online:

  1. Verify, then Trust: If a profile appears too polished or their stories sound too rehearsed, do a quick reverse image search of their photos. This could help ascertain if the pictures are lifted from another source.
  2. Keep Intimate Details Private: While sharing might seem like caring, be wary of giving out too much personal information upfront. Hold off on sharing intimate photos or videos, especially if you’re not sure about the other person’s intentions.
  3. Financial Red Flags: Be skeptical if your new online love interest suddenly finds themselves in a financial crunch, seeking your assistance. Many scammers spin tales of woe to play on their victims’ emotions and wallets.
  4. Take It Slow: While the digital age is all about instant gratifications, taking things slow in the world of online dating can save you a lot of grief. Get to know the person, consider video calls before meeting in person, and trust your instincts.
  5. Up Your Privacy Game: Ensure that your own social media profiles aren’t giving away too much about you. Regularly update your privacy settings, and be cautious about whom you accept as friends or followers.

In the spirit of Valentine’s, let’s sprinkle in a bit of humor. Remember, if you’re feeling particularly vulnerable this season, chocolates, unlike potential online scammers, are rarely deceptive (unless we’re talking about that mystery box where half of them are flavors nobody likes).

In conclusion, while the age of the internet offers unprecedented opportunities to meet and connect with people worldwide, it also demands an unprecedented level of caution. As you embark on your digital love journey this February, remember to safeguard both your heart and your data. After all, the best matches are built on trust, and nothing says “I trust you” like ensuring your mutual digital safety.

Deck the Halls with Tech: A Comprehensive Guide to Setting Up Your New Holiday Gadgets

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

Ah, December – a month where carolers sing, lights twinkle, and folks eagerly tear into gift-wrapped boxes to discover the latest and greatest in tech. From Grandma’s new smartphone (Go, Granny!) to your cousin’s shiny smartwatch, the season of gadget gifting is upon us. But with great gifts come great responsibility, particularly in ensuring these devices don’t become the technological equivalent of tangled Christmas lights.

First Stop: Unboxing Joy (and Cables)

Remember the Christmas movie where the dad spends hours trying to untangle strands of lights? That’s you with your new device’s cables if you don’t approach this systematically. Lay out all components, and for the love of all that’s merry and bright, read the manual. Yes, I said it. It might seem as old-fashioned as fruitcake, but sometimes, those booklets do come in handy.

Securing Your Sleigh…I Mean, Device

After powering on, your immediate priority should be security. After all, you wouldn’t leave your Christmas cookies out for anyone but Santa, right?

  • Password-Protect: Choose strong passwords and avoid obvious choices like “password123” or “letmein.” If your reindeer can guess it, it’s not strong enough.
  • Software Updates: These are like the elves of the tech world. They work behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. Install any pending software updates as they often contain critical security patches.
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Like the double bolt on Santa’s workshop. It requires an additional step to access your device, making it harder for any Grinches to breach your accounts.

Connectivity: Making Sure Your Gadgets Play Nice

Ah, the joy of getting devices to talk to each other. It’s like trying to organize a reindeer game without Rudolph feeling left out.

  • Wi-Fi Woes: Ensure your home Wi-Fi is secure. Rename your network to something nondescript. “FBI Surveillance Van” might give your neighbors a chuckle, but it also gives away the brand and model of your router. Opt for something generic and boring.
  • Bluetooth Pairing: Keep Bluetooth off when not in use. You don’t want any unexpected guests connecting to your devices, much like how you might feel about that one distant relative dropping by unannounced.

App Management: Not Every App Deserves a Place on Santa’s Nice List

Be cautious of what apps you install. Some might be more interested in your data than in making your life easier. Think of them as the mischievous elves of the app world.

Some Final (Jingle) Bells and Whistles

  • Back-Up: Set up automatic backups. Because even Santa checks his list twice.
  • Limit Permissions: Not every app needs access to your camera, contacts, and location. Be stingy with permissions, like a Grinch with his roast beast.
  • Stay Informed: Subscribe to a trusted tech news site. It’s like getting weather updates from the North Pole, ensuring you’re always in the loop.

In Conclusion:

Sure, the holiday season might be about festivities and family, but it’s also an opportune time to show off our shiny new gadgets. Just remember, amidst the caroling and cocoa-sipping, that while your devices might come with some assembly (and frustration) required, a little patience and humor can go a long way. After all, if Santa can travel the globe in a single night, you can certainly set up your new tech in an afternoon.

So, as you plug in, set up, and dive into your new devices, may your Wi-Fi be strong, your passwords be complex, and your tech-related headaches be minimal. Happy Holidays and tech the halls safely!

The Quest for Tech Treasures: Navigating the Choppy Waters of November’s Gadget Gold Rush

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

Welcome, tech enthusiasts and discerning shoppers! With November’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals storming the horizon, who can resist the siren call of sparkling new gadgets at prices that make our wallets weep with joy? But, my fellow adventurers, in our pursuit of these shiny treasures, we must also be wary of the lurking sea monsters – dubious deals and too-good-to-be-true tech traps.

Remember that time when cousin Eddie bragged about getting the latest smartphone for a steal from “Discount Dave’s Digital Den”? Only to discover it was just a plastic replica that played ‘Jingle Bells’ when turned on? A cautionary tale for us all. But fear not! I’ve crafted a trusty map to guide us safely through these treacherous shopping seas.

  1. Beware the Phantom Ship of Phantom Shops:
    As you set sail on the vast online ocean, be wary of mysterious virtual ships (websites) that appear out of the mist. These websites may dazzle with alluring deals but often vanish into the ether once they’ve plundered your gold (and personal data). Stick to well-known, reputable tech havens. If a site’s name sounds like it was crafted by a pirate on grog – “Ye Olde Techy Treasure Trove” – it’s probably best to steer clear.
  2. The Mythical “70% Off” Siren:
    While a significant discount can be legitimate during the major shopping days, be cautious of year-round extreme markdowns. If a brand-new gaming console is advertised at 70% off on a random Tuesday in mid-November, you might be diving straight into the tentacles of a tech trap.
  3. The Curse of the No-Return:
    This fiendish curse can strike when you least expect it, especially with tech treasures. Always inspect the return policy of your chosen store. If you spy words like “All sales final!” or “No returns, no regrets!” – be warned. No one wants to be stuck with a ‘smart’ toaster that thinks burning toast is its primary function.
  4. Beware of Bootleg Buccaneers:
    Aye, these pesky pirates are masters of deception. They’ll sell you a “genuine” product that’s as genuine as a three-dollar bill. Always check for certification, warranty details, and product reviews. If the new tablet you bought starts singing “Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me,” you’ve likely been bamboozled.
  5. The Hidden Treasure of Research:
    Before you embark on your shopping quest, arm yourself with the most powerful weapon of all – knowledge! A little research on product specs, reviews, and price comparisons can help you discern a genuine treasure from a dud.
  6. Protect Your Galleon:
    In the heat of battle (or shopping spree), it’s easy to forget about the safety of our ship. Ensure your computer, smartphone, or tablet is fortified with updated security software. And never, I repeat, never, share your treasure map (personal and credit card information) with suspicious sites or unsolicited callers.

In the end, my fellow shoppers, as the November winds carry whispers of tech deals and discounts, remember that every great adventurer needs both courage and caution. While there’s plenty of treasure out there waiting to be claimed, make sure you don’t end up marooned on the isle of regret.

Happy hunting and may your tech treasures bring you joy and not jingles!

National Cyber Security Awareness Month 2019

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles
Greg Price

Observed every October, National Cyber Security Awareness Month is committed to encouraging personal accountability, securing behaviors, and maintaining digital privacy in our ever-changing and connected world. The initiative was created as a joint effort between the US government and industry to foster access to resources that advocate methods for staying safe online, as well as securing your personal information.

For 2019, the theme will emphasize personal accountability and promote the significance of being proactive in securing your cybersecurity at home and at work. The theme for 2019 is Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.

“Own IT” suggests that you should understand completely your digital profile, or, your digital footprint.

Continue reading “National Cyber Security Awareness Month 2019” →

Ten habits to avoid data loss

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

This article was originally published in The Troy Messenger on September 20, 2019.

Greg Price

Recently, I worked with a group who suffered an enormous data breach. The company realized something odd was afoot when payroll checks began to bounce.

In the security world, we often describe this type of breach discovery as “third-party” notification. In other words, someone not directly involved in the company’s operations informed the company of an issue. Also, many of us call this a resume-building opportunity.

I took a quick look at the core operations and assisted the IT team with a hasty inspection. In short, the company owned many security products, employed lots of tools. The board of directors wanted a single variable to surface as the reason for the loss of funds. However, a single smoking gun didn’t exist. The motive was simple: steal money. The success of the theft revealed numerous issues in the company’s execution of technology and associated protective measures. Below, I offer a list of the most common issues that I observe from similar events.

Let’s call these our top 10 habits to avoid data loss.

Continue reading “Ten habits to avoid data loss” →

Cybersecurity travel tips

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles
Greg Price

This article was originally published in The Troy Messenger on June 28, 2019.

Now that summer is here, the sweltering heat has enveloped the South, and, of course, we begin heading to even hotter destinations: gulf coast beaches. Often, when we discuss cybersecurity protection tips, we employ those actions at work, or, at home. However, given our ever-growing use of mobile technology, it is just as important to practice safe computing practices whenever you are on the go – especially when travelling.

Our minds make things easier for us through the use of efficient thinking strategies, sometimes called “shortcuts in the brain.” These shortcuts help us make decisions very quickly, without having to stop, research, and spend a lot of time analyzing data. One of the heuristics that I find interesting is social proof.

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Florida city held hostage by hackers

Posted on by Greg Price in Articles

This article was originally published in The Troy Messenger on June 21, 2019.

Greg Price

On the extreme eastern coast of Florida, near West Palm Beach, sits Riviera Beach, a city of over thirty-two thousand. I visited the city several years ago and learned that Burt Reynolds lived there as a child and his father was once the Riviera Beach Chief of Police.

For the past three weeks, the city has been held hostage by a group of hackers.

Essentially, all city operations have stalled to a crawl. Where paper can be used, it is. However, many of the online operations cannot be replaced with paper; those remain offline. No email, paper payroll checks, no phones, water pump stations went offline, police officers began processing everything with paper, city operations grinded to a halt on 29 May 2019.

What happened?

Continue reading “Florida city held hostage by hackers” →