Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference on Computer Security Day

Today is Computer Security Day, a perfect reminder that staying secure doesn’t always require complex tools or big changes. Often, it’s the everyday habits that matter most.

Cyber threats continue to evolve, but one thing stays the same: people are still a critical line of defense. That’s why we believe cybersecurity awareness should be practical, approachable, and built into how we work every day.

To celebrate Computer Security Day, our team put together a short video featuring Pete, our Senior Cybersecurity Consultant, sharing some of his go-to tips for staying cyber-smart. These are simple actions anyone can take, whether you’re working in an office, at home, or somewhere in between.

1. Stay Alert to Phishing and Sketchy Websites

Phishing remains one of the most common ways attackers gain access. Emails, texts, or pop-ups that create urgency, ask for credentials, or look slightly “off” are worth slowing down for. When in doubt, don’t click—verify first.

2. Be Mindful of What You Share Online

Social media is a goldmine for attackers doing reconnaissance. Job titles, travel plans, workplace photos, and even casual posts can be used to craft more convincing scams. Share thoughtfully and keep privacy settings in check.

3. Practice Strong Password Hygiene

Strong, unique passwords for every account are essential. Using a password manager can make this easier and safer than trying to remember everything yourself. And yes, “password123” is still a hard no.

4. Lock Your Computer When You Step Away

This one sounds simple, but it’s often overlooked. Whether you’re in an office, a coffee shop, or at home, locking your screen when you walk away helps prevent unauthorized access and protects sensitive information.

Small Habits, Big Impact

None of these tips are groundbreaking, but together, they form a strong foundation for better security. Cybersecurity isn’t just about tools and technology; it’s about consistent, everyday actions that reduce risk. This Computer Security Day, we encourage you to take a few minutes to review your habits, watch the video, and make small improvements where you can. Awareness plus action is a powerful combination!

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and as always—Keep IT Cool. 😎🔐

Five Things to Understand About CMMC

If you’ve spent any time talking with us at Synagex Modern IT, you already know this: we love to talk CMMC. And it’s not because we enjoy acronyms (okay… maybe a little). It’s because CMMC is quickly becoming non-negotiable for organizations that touch the defense supply chain, and many businesses still aren’t sure what it really means for them.

So let’s break it down. Here are five essential things to understand about CMMC, without the fluff.

1. What Is CMMC, Really?

CMMC stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. It’s a program created by the U.S. Department of Defense to ensure that organizations handling sensitive defense information—like Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)—are protecting it properly. In short: CMMC is about proving your cybersecurity practices meet specific standards, not just saying they do.

2. Who Needs to Pay Attention?

If your organization plays any role in the defense supply chain—prime contractor, subcontractor, manufacturer, supplier, or service provider—CMMC applies to you.

Even if you don’t work directly with the DoD, if your customer does, the requirements will flow downhill. That’s why we say, if you’re not thinking about CMMC yet, you’re already behind. Waiting until it shows up in a contract requirement can be risky, and expensive.

3. How Is CMMC Being Enforced?

CMMC is rolling out in phases, roughly in 12-month increments, and includes three certification levels based on the sensitivity of the data you handle. Here’s the big shift:Before contract awards, organizations will need to prove their level of compliance through assessments. No certification, no contract. It’s that simple. This isn’t a one-time checkbox either... CMMC is designed to be ongoing, measurable, and enforceable.

4. How Can Organizations Be Ready?

Here’s the part that surprises many businesses: CMMC is largely based on cybersecurity requirements that defense contractors were already expected to follow (think NIST 800-171). What’s changed is formality and enforcement.

Being ready means:

• Turning informal practices into documented, repeatable processes

• Closing gaps in security hygiene

• Making sure policies, procedures, and technical controls actually align

In other words, either make your compliance official... or prepare to play catch-up!

5. How Do You Start (Without Panicking)?

First, don’t wait on IT. CMMC readiness touches leadership, operations, compliance, and risk, not just technology.

Second: get help. There are resources available, and yes—we’re one of them.

Synagex Modern IT is a CMMC Registered Practitioner Organization (RPO). That means we’re certified to help organizations understand requirements, prepare for assessments, and build a realistic roadmap toward compliance—without drowning you in jargon. Simple explanations included!

We’re Here If You Need IT

CMMC doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require action. Whether you’re just starting to ask questions or already deep into compliance planning, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. Contact us today!

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Might Be Ending… But We Never Stop Celebrating!

Just because Cybersecurity Awareness Month is wrapping up doesn’t mean the good habits stop here! At Synagex Modern IT, we believe cybersecurity isn’t a once-a-year thing. It’s an every day mindset.

Our team put together a fun video to share our favorite cybersecurity tips to help you stay safe, smart, and secure all year long. You’ll find advice on:

🔐 Phishing awareness — Trust your instincts. If something feels “phishy,” it probably is.

💼 Physical security — Step away from your desk? Lock your computer! (Seriously… do it.)

🧠 Password hygiene — Strong, unique passwords (or better yet, passphrases!) are your best defense.

And of course… a friendly reminder from our favorite training tagline:

👉 Don’t be a John!

Check out the video, share it with your team, and join us in keeping cybersecurity awareness going all year long... because good cyber hygiene never goes out of season!