The Australian government has issued a warning for computer users to ignore emails purporting to come from Energy Australia with an electricity or gas bill.

The government initiative, Stay Smart Online, issued the high priority warning on Tuesday afternoon, after cases of new Cryptolocker infections were reported by at least one security company.

Cryptolocker is a malicious software program that locks people’s files and demands a ransom to unlock it.

“The fake EnergyAustralia emails do appear to be quite realistic so you are urged to be cautious,” the warning said.

“The fake emails currently include the salutation, ‘Dear Valued Customer’, and ask you to click on a link to view the details of your bill. If you receive this email, you should simply delete it.”

It said a legitimate email from EnergyAustralia should include a customer’s name and account number.

EnergyAustralia has suggested anyone concerned should contact their customer service centre.

(reference - SMH June 3, 2014 Lia Timson)

With open and honest communication, we work in partnership with our customers; to focus on your business needs. We are passionate about resolution, so we do pay attention to the detail. Sharing knowledge is important to us for achieving effective outcomes.

Extensive experience is one thing but we believe improvement only comes from continuous learning and well maintained documentation. We are aware that what we do affects you directly so planning is paramount.

Innovative thinking drives us to pro-actively manage and support your business (network); confidentially protecting your information with the highest integrity.

We are often asked exactly what a good IT provider should be doing to support their clients.
 
Here are the top 12 things your IT professional should be providing for you:

1.    An IT strategy that supports your business - Your IT provider should pro actively help you plan ahead, measure outcomes, and continually identify possible improvements.

2.    Regular discussions with your IT support team - Your IT provider should keep everyone in the loop as your business needs change.

3.    Up-to-date network documentation - Your IT provider should keep records to ensure the effective management of your network.

4.    Tested Disaster Recovery Plan - Your IT provider should ensure your information is retrievable in the case of emergency.

5.    Data Backup solution with alerts and regular recovery testing - Your IT provider should ensure fast recovery of your data when you need it most to minimise delays.

6.    Active industry-standard security and anti-virus practices - Your IT provider should ensure good practices protecting you from risky network exposure and lengthy downtime.

7.    Hardware fit-for-purpose - Your IT provider should ensure your network is stable, maximising your time usage and eliminating unwanted interruptions and frustrating delays.

8.    Asset Management - Your IT provider should replace unfit hardware as needed and know when your warranties expire.

9.    Software Licensing management - Your IT provider should ensure you stay compliant with your licensing requirements.

10.  Hardware covered by manufacturer’s warranty - Your IT provider should ensure fast replacement of hardware when required with less downtime.

11.  Pro-active support & management of your infrastructure - Your IT provider should keep a watchful eye on operations. Many issues can be addressed before they affect your network!

12.  Whole-of-life analysis - Your IT provider can ensure you don't lose productivity, which can cost businesses thousands of dollars per year. Don’t waste time and effort on outdated equipment or practices.

Is your IT provider providing you with the above services and peace of mind?
 
If you'd like to see your IT pro actively and professionally managed, contact us on 4909 3700 for a free discussion about your needs.

Looking for that final strategic investment of the year - check with your Accountant:

• Upgrade your hardware (server, network, desktop) ... older hardware takes longer to do the job you need
• Use multiple monitors to display more information at the one time to improve workflow ability

Schedule EOFY backup jobs – arrange for a dedicated storage device to ensure you have a snapshot of your end-of-year data for easy reference when required.

Licensing renewals or printing consumables could be purchased early, before the 30th June.