As we approach the end of 2024, the business world is more dynamic than ever, with recent tech and business news signaling shifts that could shape the year ahead. Cybersecurity threats are evolving rapidly, with attackers deploying sophisticated two-step phishing attacks that use trusted platforms to bypass defenses. Meanwhile, the debate on workplace productivity is heating up, as companies like Amazon explore new ways to measure employee contributions beyond traditional metrics. Technology upgrades, such as the decision to repair or replace aging video projectors, are top of mind for organizations looking to stay ahead. And in a surprising move, Google has delayed its plan to eliminate third-party cookies, raising privacy concerns across its vast user base. As we head into 2025, customer-centric leadership remains crucial for sustainable growth, emphasizing personalization, trust, and technology-driven strategies. These stories remind us that the ability to adapt quickly and strategically will be essential for success in the new year.
Don't Hold Down The Ctrl Key - New Warning As Cyber Attacks Confirmed
Cybersecurity experts emphasize layered defenses to prevent attacks, but hackers use similar tactics to bypass them. Two-step phishing (2SP) attacks, according to Perception Point researchers, have become a "cornerstone of modern cybercrime," using trusted platforms to hide malicious content. Recently, attackers have started using Microsoft Visio files as part of their 2SP strategy. Here's what to watch for and how to protect yourself from these evolving threats.
➡️ Read more at Forbes.com
Want Your Workers to Be More Productive? You Need a Better Way to Measure Their Contributions
Amazon's return-to-office mandate raises questions about productivity, which remains a difficult concept to define and measure. Traditional metrics like hours worked or tasks completed often miss the mark, leading to widespread "productivity anxiety" among employees. The real challenge lies in connecting employee actions to meaningful business outcomes. Companies need to shift from outdated productivity metrics to more insightful measures by leveraging AI and integrated data sources. For example, brands like Cartier use combined people and sales data to improve performance. Implementing clear objectives and key results (OKRs) further enhances productivity by aligning employees' efforts with impactful goals. The key takeaway: focus on outcomes that matter, use technology to connect the dots, and set clear, meaningful targets to reduce anxiety and boost performance.
➡️ Read more at Entrepreneur.com
Video Projectors: Repair or Replace?
When considering whether to replace an aging projector, the decision typically hinges on two factors: impending failure or outdated functionality. Projectors may show signs of dying, like discoloration on LCD models or unexpected noise on DLP units, but often fail without warning. Instead of costly repairs, upgrading to a newer model with advanced features like laser-phosphor light sources can enhance brightness, reduce maintenance, and eliminate mid-use failures. It's also crucial to assess if the projector still meets your communication needs, especially with evolving technology like HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity, as well as shifting formats from 4:3 to widescreen. For high-usage environments, laser projectors offer better longevity and lower operational noise, making them ideal for settings like churches or classrooms. Regularly reviewing your projection needs can ensure your technology remains aligned with user expectations and changing environments.
➡️ Read more at Business.Sharpusa.com
What Google's U-Turn on Third-Party Cookies Means for Chrome Privacy
Google recently paused its plan to eliminate third-party cookies in Chrome, a move criticized by privacy advocates and seen as a step backward. Unlike browsers like Safari, which have already blocked these cookies, Chrome’s decision leaves its 65% market share vulnerable to continued online tracking. While Google claims its new approach allows users more control over privacy settings, similar to Apple’s App Tracking Transparency (ATT), critics argue it still benefits Google’s ad revenue model. Google’s updated plan will include global prompts for user consent, aiming to strike a balance between privacy and advertising. However, experts suggest users concerned about privacy may prefer alternative browsers like Brave, Safari, or Firefox, which offer stronger privacy protections by default.
➡️ Read more at Wired.com
Customer-Centric Leadership: A Strategy For Sustainable Growth
Businesses must cut through the noise by adopting a customer-centric approach that prioritizes personalization, trust, sustainability, and seamless experiences. Effective leaders put customers at the core of every decision, leveraging AI and data-driven insights to deliver tailored interactions that foster loyalty. Building trust through transparency and embracing sustainability as a strategic imperative are key to winning customer hearts. By investing in technologies that unify omnichannel experiences and listening to customer feedback, companies can drive innovation and stay agile. The future belongs to brands that see customers as dynamic individuals, turning every interaction into a growth opportunity.
➡️ Read more at Forbes.com
