Everyday Tech Tip: Stay Paranoid!

These days, Cybersecurity Awareness goes beyond your inbox, folks! When most people hear "cybersecurity awareness," the first thought that comes to mind is usually email. We’ve all been warned about phishing scams, suspicious attachments, and those too-good-to-be-true offers that land in our inboxes. And yes—being vigilant about email security is still critical. But the reality is, today’s cyber threats extend far beyond your inbox.

Cybersecurity Threats Are Everywhere!

Hackers aren’t just hoping you’ll click a bad link in an email anymore. They’re planting malicious links in text messages, social media ads, online forms, and even QR codes. A simple mistake—like plugging in a mystery USB or downloading a seemingly harmless app—can open the door to your sensitive information. Cybercriminals are creative, persistent, and always looking for the next gap to exploit.

Everyday Risks You Might Overlook:

• Public Wi-Fi: That free connection at the airport or coffee shop could be a trap for cyber snoops.

• Removable Media: Plugging in an unknown USB drive can instantly compromise your device.

• Fake Websites: Clever lookalikes trick users into entering login credentials or payment info.

• QR Code Scams: A scan can direct you to malware just as easily as a restaurant menu.

  
  

Why Awareness Matters

Technology is advancing quickly, but so are the methods of cybercriminals. Awareness is your first line of defense. Staying “cyber paranoid” doesn’t mean living in fear—it means adopting healthy skepticism. Ask questions before you click, connect, or download. When something feels off, it probably is.

"Being paranoid is just going to become the new norm". –John Sinopoli, President & CEO, Synagex

What You Can Do

• Slow down and think twice before interacting with links or devices.

• Use strong, unique passwords (and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible).

• Keep your devices and software updated.

• Report anything suspicious—better safe than sorry.

Remember: in the cyber world, trust is earned, not given. #StayParanoid

Behind the Screens: Celebrating SysAdmin Day at Synagex

Every year on the last Friday of July, the world comes together (well, at least the tech world) to celebrate the unsung heroes of IT: System Administrators, or “SysAdmins” for short. If you’ve ever wondered who keeps your network humming, your passwords reset, and your tech headaches at bay—look no further than your friendly neighborhood SysAdmin.

So, What Does a SysAdmin Actually Do, You Ask?

Think of a SysAdmin as part wizard, part firefighter, and part detective:

🧙 Wizard: They conjure up systems that just work—from servers and networks to printers and Wi-Fi.

🧑‍🚒 Firefighter: When something breaks (usually at the worst possible time), they swoop in to save the day.

🕵️ Detective: They troubleshoot mysteries, track down issues, and make sure problems don’t come back.

In short: SysAdmins make sure the technology behind the scenes runs smoothly so everyone else can get their work done.

More Than Just Fixing Things

Sure, they reset forgotten passwords and banish viruses, but their role goes way deeper. SysAdmins are the architects of reliable systems, the guardians of data security, and the reason you don’t have to think twice about whether your email will work today. They balance planning, prevention, and quick problem-solving on a daily basis.

The Synagex Difference

Here’s the bonus round: at Synagex, our SysAdmins aren’t just masters of technology—they’re also fantastic at customer service. They don’t just fix problems; they explain solutions, guide users, and make the complex feel simple. That mix of technical expertise and people skills is what makes our team truly special.

A Toast to SysAdmins Everywhere!

So today, we raise a virtual glass (and maybe a strong cup of coffee) to the SysAdmins who keep businesses running, networks secure, and end users sane.

Happy SysAdmin Day to our own incredible team here at Synagex—you keep the digital lights on and do it all with a smile.

Synagex Welcomes PCA to the Family, Expanding Reach Across the Hudson Valley and Capital Region

Pittsfield, MA – July 6, 2025 – Synagex, a modern IT and cybersecurity provider based in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is excited to announce the acquisition of Professional Computer Associates (PCA), an established IT services firm out of Red Hook, New York. This move marks an important milestone in Synagex’s ongoing effort to grow smart, stay personal, and expand its ability to serve organizations throughout the Northeast.

Pictured: Bob Shoemaker, President of PCA with John Sinopoli, CEO of Synagex

Founded in 1999, PCA has spent nearly four decades supporting businesses, local governments, and nonprofits across the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. Known for its strong client relationships and hands-on service approach, PCA brings a deep commitment to quality and a solid reputation as a trusted technology partner.

Synagex, launched in 2017, has built a people-first culture around delivering forward-thinking IT, cybersecurity, and compliance services—especially for clients in regulated spaces. Combining strategy, automation, and real connection, Synagex helps clients simplify IT, stay secure, and stay focused on what they do best.

“This partnership felt natural from day one,” said John Sinopoli, CEO of Synagex. “PCA shares our values—long-term relationships, technical reliability, and a real commitment to doing right by the client. We’re thrilled to welcome their team and clients.”

“This partnership felt natural from day one. PCA shares our values—long-term relationships, technical reliability, and a real commitment to doing right by the client. We’re thrilled to welcome their team and clients.” – John Sinopoli, CEO of Synagex

For PCA clients, the transition will feel familiar—because most things are staying that way. The same local team will continue to provide support, now backed by Synagex’s expanded cybersecurity capabilities, compliance expertise, and modernIT delivery model.

“Joining Synagex means our clients get the best of both worlds: the same personalized service they count on, plus a deeper bench and more future-ready tools,” said Bob Shoemaker, President of PCA. “It’s a move that sets everyone up for long-term success.”

“Joining Synagex means our clients get the best of both worlds: the same personalized service they count on, plus a deeper bench and more future-ready tools. It’s a move that sets everyone up for long-term success.” –Bob Shoemaker, President of PCA

This acquisition is part of Synagex’s thoughtful growth strategy: building strong regional roots, growing with integrity, and always putting relationships before transactions.

About Synagex

Synagex is a modernIT and cybersecurity firm based in Pittsfield, MA, serving clients across New England and beyond. With a focus on regulated industries, Synagex delivers secure, strategic technology services through a modern, people-first model.

About Professional Computer Associates (PCA)

PCA has been a staple in the Hudson Valley tech community since 1999, offering infrastructure, IT support, and managed services to local businesses and organizations. Their reputation for reliability and strong client partnerships has made them a trusted name for nearly 26 years.