For nearly 40 years, Jeff Chandler has helped businesses and individuals navigate the confusing and frustrating world of technology and cybersecurity. As CEO of Z‑JAK Technologies, he helps organizations get the most from their technology while keeping their valuable information secure.
We asked Jeff to answer some of the questions he hears most often from his clients.
What are the biggest cybersecurity mistakes people make?
Underestimating how quickly small oversights create major risk. We have trusted professionals handling legal, financial, and operational matters, but digital security sometimes receives less attention than it deserves.
Reusing passwords from an old account or website that has been compromised opens the door to email, financial accounts, and other sensitive information.
Where can technology save the most time or money?
AI tools help save time on routine work like drafting emails, summarizing documents, and preparing for meetings. Leaders benefit most when they choose a few digital tools, learn to use them well, and build them into their daily workflow.
How should leaders balance innovation with risk management?
Good leaders treat security as part of the planning process, not an afterthought. Before adopting something new, ask, “What could go wrong?” That doesn’t mean avoiding innovation; it means making smarter decisions. Consult a knowledgeable advisor who can explain the risks and benefits.
What’s one simple tech habit that makes a big difference?
Use a password manager. It creates and stores strong, unique passwords for every account, so you never have to reuse them or remember them, and it removes one of the most common risks businesses face every day.
How can we better protect our digital privacy and sensitive information?
Start with your email, since it connects to almost everything else. Use a strong, unique password and turn on multi-factor authentication. That combination blocks the most common attacks.
Families should talk openly about social engineering. Attackers often target people, not just systems. The goal is not to spread fear, but build awareness. Learn how to recognize suspicious requests and who to contact before acting.
How do you secure your personal life without making everything a hassle?
The best security works quietly in the background. At home, use separate Wi-Fi networks: one for computers and phones, and another for smart devices. Those devices are convenient, but they’re often less secure, so keeping them separate is a smart precaution.
I have a simple rule: if something seems urgent and involves money, credentials, or personal information, pause and verify it through another method before responding. That one habit prevents more damage than most technology solutions.
Finally, what’s one step every reader can take this week?
Turn on multi-factor authentication for your email this week! It only takes a few minutes, and it can stop someone from getting in, even if they have your password.
Providing IT Support and Security
Named 2025 Best of Prospect Small Business, Z-JAK helps secure your business with top-notch IT solutions and frees up your time to focus on what you do best – running your business. Visit https://zjak.net/ to schedule your free consultation.
