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Featured, Security

The Top 2024 Cybersecurity Priorities for CISOs and Security Leaders Revealed in New Report by Info-Tech Research Group

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Info-Tech’s Security Priorities 2024 report delves into the pressing issues that IT and security leaders must prioritize over the coming year, including the cybersecurity talent shortage, the rise of AI-driven threats, the integration of security risks with business risks, the adoption of zero-trust frameworks, and the increasing significance of automating security operations. The global IT research and advisory firm explains in the report that by addressing these priorities, organizations can better prepare themselves to face the evolving threat landscape. TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ – With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, organizations are facing unprecedented challenges in safeguarding their digital assets. Recognizing the urgent need for robust and dynamic security strategies, Info-Tech Research Group has published its Security Priorities 2024 report. The report underscores the critical need for organizations to adapt their security measures in response to the constant changes in cyber threats in 2024 and beyond. The firm’s research highlights the importance of a strategic approach, emphasizing the need for clear oversight and effective implementation strategies to develop, deploy, and monitor security initiatives that enhance an organization’s resilience against threats “The threat landscape has been exacerbated by the various emerging attack vectors, such as credential-compromise attacks and cloud exploitation. The increase in supply chain risks and rise in deepfakes also showcase the shift of threat actors to improve the sophistication of their attacks,” says Ahmad Jowhar, research analyst and lead author of the report. “The rising costs of ransomware and cyber insurance premiums coupled with the continuous talent shortage depicts the challenges of efficiently fighting against these threats.” The Security Priorities 2024 report reveals the pressing issues that IT and security leaders must prioritize and advocates for a pivot from traditional, reactive security postures to proactive, predictive security strategies. The annual report emphasizes the importance of fostering a security-centric culture across the organization, enhancing collaboration between security teams and other business units, and developing agile security frameworks that can adapt to new threats and business needs. “The emergence of advanced technologies has created opportunities for organizations and security leaders to explore unique approaches to these challenges while also enhancing existing capabilities to better equip themselves with the right people, process, and technology this year,” says Jowhar. “These approaches include assessing the ability to address the talent shortage through upskilling, establishing a foundation to implement AI technologies, and evaluating an organization’s security risk management with respect to integrating with the enterprise.” Info-Tech’s latest report is based on comprehensive research, including insights from the firm’s Future of IT survey and in-depth interviews with IT and security professionals across various industries and regions. The diverse approach ensured that the experiences of leaders from both small and large organizations were incorporated into the report and covered a broad spectrum of security budgets. The insights collected and analyzed by the firm reflect the realities of managing cybersecurity in different organizational contexts, from multinational corporations to nimble startups, providing a well-rounded view of the challenges and strategies at play in the current security landscape. Leveraging the firm’s research findings and data, the Security Priorities 2024 report outlines the following five high-priority initiatives security leaders and their organizations should implement to confidently address security risks for 2024 and the years to come: The 2024 report also includes customizable templates that security leaders can utilize to effectively communicate their organization’s key security priorities to stakeholders and executives, ensuring a clear understanding of the required security measures. In the face of ever-evolving cyber threats, the Security Priorities 2024 report provides security leaders with a blueprint for safeguarding their digital environment. By implementing the priorities based on their unique organizational goals and needs, security leaders can enhance their security posture, proactively address and mitigate vulnerabilities, and build a culture of resilience against the cyber threats of the future. Those interested in exploring the specific 2024 security priorities recommended by Info-Tech Research Group are invited to register for the firm’s webinar on Wednesday, February 28, at 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT. About Info-Tech Research Group Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world’s leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For more than 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations. Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm’s Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com. For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to view the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

Featured, Security

Enhancing Cybersecurity and Productivity: How Cisco Duo Helps You

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In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure access to critical resources is paramount. Cisco Duo, a multi-factor authentication (MFA) and access security solution, has emerged as a powerful tool that helps individuals and organizations bolster their cybersecurity efforts while simultaneously improving productivity. In this article, we will explore how Cisco Duo can benefit you and your organization. 1. Strong Authentication with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Cisco Duo strengthens your digital defenses by requiring multiple authentication factors, ensuring that only authorized users gain access to your systems and data. MFA typically combines something you know (e.g., a password), something you have (e.g., a mobile device), and something you are (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition). This multi-layered approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access. 2. Streamlined User Experience: While enhancing security, Cisco Duo also prioritizes user convenience. Its intuitive interface and user-friendly mobile app make MFA a seamless part of your daily routine. Users can quickly and easily confirm their identity through push notifications, one-time passcodes, or even biometrics, reducing friction and frustration. 3. Protecting Against Phishing and Account Takeover: Phishing attacks and account takeovers are common cybersecurity threats. Cisco Duo helps protect against these threats by verifying the legitimacy of login attempts. Even if attackers acquire usernames and passwords, they won’t be able to access accounts without the additional MFA verification. 4. Adaptive Access Policies: Cisco Duo goes beyond traditional MFA with its adaptive access policies. It evaluates contextual data, such as the user’s location, device, and network, to determine the level of access. This ensures that users have the right level of access based on their specific circumstances, further improving security. 5. Remote Work Enablement: In an increasingly remote work-oriented world, Cisco Duo empowers organizations to embrace flexible work arrangements without compromising security. It allows remote workers to access company resources securely, safeguarding data and systems from potential breaches. 6. Comprehensive Integration: Cisco Duo seamlessly integrates with a wide range of applications, services, and VPNs, making it a versatile solution for organizations of all sizes. Whether you’re using cloud-based services or on-premises applications, Cisco Duo can provide robust security. 7. Reporting and Analytics: To better understand your security posture, Cisco Duo offers reporting and analytics tools. These insights allow you to monitor access patterns, detect anomalies, and proactively address potential threats. 8. Regulatory Compliance: For organizations subject to industry regulations and compliance standards, such as HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS, Cisco Duo helps meet these requirements by enhancing access security and providing audit trails. In conclusion, Cisco Duo is a powerful cybersecurity tool that not only strengthens your digital defenses but also improves the user experience and productivity. By implementing multi-factor authentication, protecting against phishing, enabling remote work, and offering adaptive access policies, Cisco Duo is a comprehensive solution that adapts to the evolving cybersecurity landscape. In a world where data security is paramount, Cisco Duo helps you protect your valuable assets and achieve peace of mind.

Featured, Security

5 Essential Strategies to Safeguard Against Cyberthreats

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In today’s digital age, protecting yourself from cyberthreats has become more crucial than ever. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving and finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in our online activities. To help you stay one step ahead, we’ve compiled five essential strategies to safeguard yourself from these cyber dangers. 1. Strong Password Management: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect yourself from cyberthreats is to maintain strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts. Avoid using easily guessable combinations like “12345” or “password.” Instead, create complex passwords with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a reputable password manager to keep track of your credentials securely. 2. Keep Software Updated: Cybercriminals often target vulnerabilities in outdated software. To minimize these risks, ensure that your operating system, web browsers, and applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches. By staying current, you can close potential entry points for cyberattacks. 3. Install Reliable Antivirus Software: Invest in reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to add an extra layer of defense to your devices. These programs can detect and prevent various forms of cyber threats, such as viruses, spyware, and phishing attempts. Regularly update your antivirus software to ensure it’s equipped to handle emerging threats. 4. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed: Understanding common cyberthreats and their telltale signs is crucial for your protection. Educate yourself about phishing scams, social engineering tactics, and other malicious activities that cybercriminals employ. Stay informed by following cybersecurity blogs and news outlets to keep up with the latest trends and threats in the digital world. 5. Practice Safe Online Behavior: Your online behavior plays a significant role in your cybersecurity. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading attachments from unknown sources, and sharing sensitive information with unverified contacts. Be cautious on social media and limit the personal information you share. By practicing safe online behavior, you reduce the chances of falling victim to cyberthreats. In conclusion, safeguarding yourself from cyberthreats requires a combination of proactive measures and a vigilant mindset. By adopting strong password management, keeping your software updated, using reliable antivirus software, educating yourself, and practicing safe online behavior, you can significantly reduce your vulnerability to cyberattacks. Protecting your digital life is an ongoing process, and staying informed and vigilant is key to staying safe in an increasingly connected world. Yugbodh (YB) is a contributing writer at TechBeat Canada, he skillfully weaves captivating stories. For him music and movies serves as an escape, and he finds them fascinating as they constantly evolve. If you have interesting tales to share, feel free to reach out via email at: info@theonside.com

Featured, Start ups

Vena Joins Cloud Security Alliance as a Trusted Cloud Provider

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Strategic partnership strengthens company’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding customer data TORONTO, Oct. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Vena, the Complete Planning platform loved by finance and trusted by business, today announced that it has joined the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), the world’s leading organization dedicated to defining and raising awareness of best practices to help ensure a secure cloud computing environment. This strategic partnership underscores Vena’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its customers’ data. As a Trusted Cloud Provider with the Cloud Security Alliance, Vena reinforces its dedication to the security of its cloud-based corporate performance management software—which is trusted by over 1,600 leading organizations worldwide. “Joining the Cloud Security Alliance further strengthens our commitment to data security at Vena,” said Steve Browning, VP of Data Privacy & Corporate Security at Vena. “In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, data security is paramount. By collaborating with other CSA members and industry experts, Vena will have access to the latest insights, research and resources to continually enhance its security measures and foster knowledge exchange and innovation in cloud security.” Vena remains focused on providing its customers with secure, reliable and user-friendly CPM software. As a Trusted Cloud Provider with CSA, Vena will continue to refine its security posture and practices, ensuring the highest level of data protection for its customers. “This partnership exemplifies our dedication to providing our customers with the highest level of data protection, ensuring their trust and confidence in our services,” said Hugh Cumming, Chief Technology Officer at Vena. “Together, with other CSA members, we are shaping the future of secure cloud computing, setting new standards and reaffirming our promise to prioritize the privacy and security of our valued customers.” To learn more about Vena’s commitment to Customer Trust, please visit www.venasolutions.com/trust. About Vena Vena is the only Complete Planning platform that’s natively integrated with Microsoft 365, empowering teams to plan the way they think. Vena streamlines financial and operational planning, reporting and analysis processes, and provides advanced analytics and modeling capabilities to help business, finance and operations leaders make informed business decisions. With Vena, you can leverage the power of Excel and AI-powered insights in a unified, cloud-based platform that enhances collaboration, scalability and security. Over 1,600 of the world’s leading companies rely on Vena to power their planning. For more information, visit venasolutions.com. About the Cloud Security AllianceThe Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is the world’s leading organization dedicated to defining and raising awareness of best practices to help ensure a secure cloud computing environment. CSA harnesses the subject matter expertise of industry practitioners, associations, governments, and its corporate and individual members to offer cloud security-specific research, education, certification, events and products. CSA’s activities, knowledge and extensive network benefit the entire community impacted by cloud—from providers and customers, to governments, entrepreneurs and the assurance industry—and provide a forum through which diverse parties can work together to create and maintain a trusted cloud ecosystem. For further information, visit us at www.cloudsecurityalliance.org, and follow us on Twitter @cloudsa.

Featured, IOT

Tribe Property Tech : Acquisition Facility of up to $15 Million to expand its M&A activities with Canadian Schedule A Bank

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VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 12, 2023 /CNW/ – Tribe Property Technologies Inc. (TSXV:TRBE) (OTCQB US: TRPTF) (“Tribe” or the “Company“), a leading provider of technology-enabled property management solutions, is pleased to announce that it has signed a definitive loan agreement (the “Loan Agreement“) with the Technology and Innovation Banking arm of a Canadian Schedule A Bank, that provides a senior term loan facility (the “Facility“) for up to $15 million. The Facility consists of a $3 million operating line to support the Company’s working capital requirements and an M&A facility of $7 million with an additional accordion feature of $5 million, for a total of up to $15 million of non-dilutive capital. The definitive agreement was signed on Thursday, October 5, 2023 with an interest rate of prime + 2.65% per annum for both facilities.  “We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone for Tribe which further strengthens our commitment to strategic growth and financial stability,” said Joseph Nakhla, CEO of Tribe. “Executing this financing facility is an essential piece of our M&A growth strategy as it provides us with access to non-dilutive capital which will be beneficial to our long-term capital structure, as well as aid in accelerating our growth plans.” About Tribe Property Technologies Tribe is a property technology company that is disrupting the traditional property management industry. As a rapidly growing tech-forward property management company, Tribe’s integrated service-technology delivery model serves the needs of a much wider variety of stakeholders than traditional service providers. Tribe seeks to acquire highly accretive targets in the fragmented North American property management industry and transform these businesses through streamlining and digitization of operations. Tribe’s platform decreases customer acquisition costs, increases retention, and allows for the addition of value-added products and services through the platform. Visit tribetech.com for more information. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD “Joseph Nakhla”Chief Executive Officer Tribe Property Technologies Inc. Joseph NakhlaChief Executive Officer1606 – 1166 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BCV6E 3Z3(604) 343-2601 NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE U.S. OR TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release may contain certain “Forward-Looking Statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws regarding the Company and its business.  When or if used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target”, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information in this news relate may relate to statements with respect to the Facility and closing thereof; the aims and goals of the Company; financial projections; growth plans including future prospective consolidation in the rental management sector; future acquisitions by the Company; the completion of this transaction; beliefs of the Company with respect to the independent owner-investors market; prospective benefits of the Company’s platform; and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon several assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social risks, contingencies, and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements. The Company does not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations. SOURCE Tribe Property Technologies Inc.

Featured, Start ups

RBC + Xero to help Canadian businesses automate payables process

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New integration between RBC PayEdge™ and Xero will allow more business owners to benefit from automated accounting reconciliations and digital payments, designed to create significant time and cost savings TORONTO, Oct. 12, 2023 /CNW/ – Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Xero, the global small business platform, today announced an integration that will allow business customers to sync their RBC PayEdge™ account with Xero to simplify and automate payments to suppliers around the world. RBC PayEdge™ is a payments platform that allows businesses to combine multiple funding sources regardless of a client’s bank or account type, pay suppliers in the payment form of their choice, and gain more flexibility with their working capital tools. Canadian businesses using Xero will now be able to import authorized invoice details into RBC PayEdge™, fund and pay their suppliers through their chosen method, and automatically post the reconciling journal entry back to Xero once done. As a result, businesses will be able to automate their invoice-to-pay process and manage their payments workflow from one location, that may lead to increased efficiency and savings. With access to cash flow data, business owners no longer need to wait for month-end statements and can effectively streamline processes to improve overall financial administration. “Adopting the latest digital payment solutions and technologies is one of the fastest growing priorities for small businesses who are increasingly looking for innovative ways to simplify and expedite their payment needs while maximizing their cash flow,” says Lisa Lansdowne-Higgins, senior vice president, Business Transformation and Deposits, RBC. “We’re excited to introduce the integration of the RBC PayEdge™ and Xero platforms, allowing business owners to unlock the power of automated reconciliation and digital payments, while realizing significant time and cost savings.” “The ability to pay supplier bills is a crucial part of conducting day-to-day business. The integration with RBC PayEdge™ will simplify the bill pay experience, allow small businesses to access cost-efficient payment methods, and give an up-to-date view of their cash flow so they can make better business decisions,” says Faye Pang, Canada country manager, Xero. Connecting to Xero is just one of the many ways in which RBC truly delivers value beyond traditional banking and supports business owners along every stage of their entrepreneurship journey. As an RBC client, businesses have access to exclusive offers and solutions that help them simplify their operations, and save time and money, whether it be registering and incorporating their business with Ownr, integrating a range of ecommerce services and payment solutions with Moneris, searching for talent with Indeed – Canada’s #1 job site – or seeking real-time customer insights and market trends to find their next growth market with RBC Insight Edge™ for Small Business. Contact your RBC Advisor to learn more about our beyond banking services. RBC was also recognized as the winner of the 2023 Best Treasury and Cash Management Provider for Canada by Global Finance for its market-leading efforts to deliver payment innovations and digital banking solutions, including RBC PayEdge™. The RBC PayEdge™ integration is now available to Xero customers looking to transform the way their payables are processed. Current RBC PayEdge™ subscribers with Xero accounts can sync their payables and invoice details directly through their PayEdge dashboard. Click here to learn more https://apps.xero.com/ca/app/rbc-payedge.

Featured, Fintech

FutureVault Lands Clifton Schaller as Chief Growth Officer

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TORONTO, Oct. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — FutureVault Inc. (“FutureVault”), an industry-leader in secure document exchange and digital vault solutions pioneering the Personal Life Management Vault™ for financial services and wealth management organizations, announced earlier today the appointment of Clifton Schaller as the company’s Chief Growth Officer.  “We could not be more pleased to introduce Clifton Schaller as our Chief Growth Officer, whose strategic vision and expertise in driving business expansion will be instrumental in our company’s success,” commented Daniel Kenny, Chief Executive Officer at FutureVault. “With a proven track record in developing innovative growth strategies at well-known organizations, Clifton brings a wealth of industry experience and expertise to our executive team.” Clifton holds an extensive professional background in the North American Wealth Management and WealthTech (Wealth Technology), having previously served in key leadership roles at prominent organizations, including Capital One, Morningstar, and Nitrogen Wealth (formerly Riskalyze). Clifton also serves as an advisory board member for the rising startup, Smart KX. Clifton has a passion for customer-driven insights, striving to identify the biggest trends, pain points, and opportunities for innovation across the entire financial services ecosystem, and then looking for people or technology best positioned to address them. With an impressive background spanning corporate development, product management, and strategic partnerships. As the company’s Chief Growth Officer, Clifton will be responsible for managing multiple departments and driving FutureVault’s corporate strategy. “I’m thrilled to announce my new role here at FutureVault as the company’s Chief Growth Officer and I look forward to accelerating product led growth with an incredibly talented executive team and strong company culture,” commented Clifton Schaller. FutureVault Co-founder and Executive Chair, G Scott Paterson, commented, “Clifton is a world-class product, growth, and technology leader who brings deep strategic experience and corporate development expertise that will position FutureVault to grow, scale, and become an industry leader in digital vaults and Personal Life Management.” For media inquiries and additional information about FutureVault’s patented, industry-leading Digital Vault technology, please visit futurevault.com. About FutureVault Inc.FutureVault is an industry-leader in secure document exchange and Digital Vault solutions for financial services and wealth management organizations, changing the paradigm of document and information management with the Personal Life Management Vault™ and Business Life Management Vault™. FutureVault’s multi-tiered platform is transforming enterprise, advisor, and client value propositions by significantly improving the way documents, data, and information are managed within a secure, audit-ready, single source of truth. FutureVault’s white-labeled platform and mobile applications help firms meet books and records compliance, improve data privacy, drive front and back-office efficiency with automation and open APIs, and deliver an enhanced digital client experience to better engage with households and the next generation. Data extraction and AI-driven patterns to gain additional efficiency and insight are available for enterprise customers. FutureVault is recognized as a 5-star WealthTech provider and a top 100 most innovative global WealthTech solution provider. Visit futurevault.com to learn more.

Apps, Featured, Start ups

Best days to book and fly: Expedia releases the 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report

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TORONTO, Sept. 27, 2023 /CNW/ — Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report was released today, providing the latest essential tips to save travellers time and money on flights, and make air travel less stressful, from when to book, how to avoid cancellations and the best day to depart on your trip. The report comes at a time when travellers are beginning to plan their holiday getaways and are feeling overwhelmed in the process. According to a survey* of 1,000 Canadian flyers, Expedia found that 39% reported air travel to be stressful and more daunting than a flooded inbox or sleeping through an alarm. Almost half (43%) of air travellers find the process of securing a good flight deal especially stressful, and 17% even checked back on ticket prices after booking to see if they could have saved more. “In terms of stress levels, booking your next flight shouldn’t be in the same ballpark as getting a cavity filled,” said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations. “The good news is many of the things that contribute to travel stress are getting better, and Expedia is constantly releasing new tools like Price Tracking and Trip Planner, that make the whole booking and flying journey smoother.” “Airlines are adding capacity and increasing service to meet the sustained air travel demand we’ve seen throughout 2023,” said Chuck Thackston, managing director of data science and research at ARC. “Air travel has proven resilient over the past few years, with travellers increasingly taking to the skies for both business and leisure.” 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report WHEN TO BOOK Book airfare on a Sunday to save up to 24%.1 Travellers who book on Sundays instead of Fridays tend to save, on average, around 17% on domestic flights and 24% on international flights. Book domestic flights at least a month before to save 33%.2 Travellers that booked 25 days prior to departure saved 33% on average compared to those who waited until the last minute. For international airfare, avoid booking too early as prices are comparatively high 106 days out. However, prices also tend to increase 20 days prior to departure. For optimal availability, selection and savings, book 30-37 days out. WHEN TO TRAVEL Depart on a Thursday to save up to 13%.3 Avoid departing on Sundays, which are the priciest days, on average, to start a trip. Depart before 3 p.m. to reduce chance of cancellations.4 24% of Canadian air travellers try to avoid morning flights because getting up early on the day of travel gives them additional stress. However, year-to-date flight status data reveals flights that depart after 3 p.m. have an 18% higher chance, on average, of being cancelled than those that depart earlier in the day. MONEY-SAVING TOOLS Price Tracking: Take the guess work out of deciding when to book with the Price Tracking feature on the Expedia app, which notifies travellers when flight prices change, and uses exclusive data to pinpoint the best time to book. Bundling: With flights, car rentals, hotels and activities, Expedia offers a wide selection of customizable vacation packages in one place, allowing travellers to save hundreds of dollars on average when booking multiple items on Expedia. Whether booking items together in the same transaction or in steps, travellers also have their itinerary all in one place making it easier to keep track of their journey. 2024 AIR TRAVEL TRENDS The number of scheduled long haul flights is nearly at 2019 levels (<5% less versus 2019) and the number of scheduled short haul flights is at 74% compared to 2019, overall increasing. Average economy ticket prices have decreased by up to 3% compared to 2022.5 Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary range among the most popular domestic destinations for Canadian flyers. The most popular international destinations are Las Vegas (USA), Cancun (Mexico) and New York City (USA). 6 The fastest growing destination, according to Expedia flight demand data, is Beijing in China.7 ABOUT THE DATA Expedia’s annual Air Travel Hacks Report is backed by an analysis of billions of data points and the most extensive air ticketing database in the world through collaboration with Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) and OAG, the world’s largest provider of flight information. Expedia has produced the Air Travel Hacks Report annually for more than a decade, making it the ultimate authority on air travel insights and data-driven travel tips. About ExpediaExpedia® is one of the world’s leading full-service travel brands, with a mission of helping travellers get the most out of every trip they take by providing everything they need all in one place, ensuring they are getting the most out of every trip they take, and above all else, feel supported every step of the way. Our commitment to insights matched with our unprecedented scale allows us to understand our travellers better than anyone else, delivering exactly what they need, when they need it. Our personalized experiences, backed by incredible technology enable us to deliver the widest selection of product offerings across accommodations, transportation, activities and experiences that help you get the most out of your journey. Use our mobile app or visit www.expedia.ca to plan your journey with us. © 2023 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company.  All rights reserved.  Expedia and the Airplane logo are trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. CST# 2029030-50. Follow Expedia on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Twitter and YouTube. About Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC)ARC accelerates the growth of global air travel by delivering forward-looking travel data, flexible distribution services and other innovative industry solutions. We are a leading travel intelligence company that possesses the world’s largest, most comprehensive global airline ticket dataset, including more than 15 billion passenger flights representing 490 airlines and 230 countries and territories. Our solutions and expertise strengthen economies and enrich lives by connecting stakeholders across the travel ecosystem. For more information, visit www.arccorp.com. About OAGOAG is the leading data platform for the global travel industry, powering the growth and innovation of the air travel ecosystem since 1929. It has the world’s largest network of flight information, covering the whole journey from planning to customer experience. Customers include airlines, airports, travel technology players, aviation service providers, government agencies, financial institutions, and consultancies. Headquartered in

Featured, Fintech

Aware but unprepared: Canadians know fraud is on the rise, but don’t know what to do if their data is compromised

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RBC poll finds number of Canadians whose personal information was exposed is on the rise TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2023 /CNW/ – With new scams becoming more frequent and sophisticated, a majority of Canadians (88 per cent) report they’ve experienced an increase in attempts at fraudulent activity, and seven out of 10 (73 per cent) say they were knowingly targeted, according to a new survey from RBC. In addition, more than half (57 per cent) say they received notifications their personal information was exposed in a data breach, which is up considerably from 20 per cent in 2022. Yet, while Canadians’ awareness of scams is high, most (68 per cent) don’t know what actions to take if their personal data is compromised, leaving plenty of room for education and preparedness. “Cybercrime is continuously evolving as fraudsters polish their approach, whether online or through digital communications,” says Adam Evans, chief information security officer, RBC. “The poll reveals that while most Canadians have a healthy skepticism and high awareness of fraudulent activity, there’s still a lack of preparedness and knowledge around how to handle a data breach, which can lead to anything from loss of finances to identity theft.” Most common methods of fraud attempts The most common ways in which Canadians experience fraud attempts are via email (55 per cent) followed by phone calls (47 per cent) and text message (40 per cent). While nine out of ten (87 per cent) Canadians feel that they can tell the difference between legitimate and fraudulent communication, more than one third (36 per cent) report feeling helpless to protect themselves from all the fraudulent calls and emails they receive. Younger Canadians (18 to 34 years old) are more likely to feel helpless (41 per cent) compared to other age groups. Interestingly, this younger generation is simultaneously less likely to be concerned about cyber security threats than their older counterparts. Top concerns Overall, Canadians worry most about unauthorized access to their online accounts and/or personal information (82 per cent) followed closely by having their email or social media accounts hacked (78 per cent). Three quarters (76 per cent) of Canadians are concerned about identity theft and being the victim of a corporate data breach (73 per cent) or being the victim of an online scam (72 per cent). AGE Concerns about fraudulent activity Total 18-34 35-54 55+ Unauthorized access to online accounts/personalinformation (i.e. hijacking accounts) 82 % 77 % 85 % 84 % Having your email or social media accounts hacked 78 % 72 % 81 % 81 % Identity theft 76 % 67 % 80 % 79 % Being the victim of a corporate data breach 73 % 66 % 76 % 75 % Being the victim of online fraud/scam 72 % 68 % 74 % 72 % How Canadians deal with suspicious communications When it comes to the most common actions taken as a result of receiving suspicious calls, emails, or messages, two thirds of Canadians say they simply delete it (66 per cent) and block the number or email (64 per cent). Fewer than half either ignored it or reported it (44 per cent, respectively). Meanwhile, they use several techniques to determine the legitimacy of these suspicious calls, texts, or emails, including: 78% never open unexpected attachments whenever they receive them 76% always trust their instincts; if it feels wrong, it likely is 70% always pause to think before replying 68% always check communications they receive for bad grammar, spelling mistakes, and unusual language 48% say they always report suspicious emails as spam in their inbox In contrast to younger generations, older Canadians 55+ are more likely to employ counter measures like never opening unexpected attachments (85 per cent), always pausing before replying (81 per cent) and always checking the message for grammatical and spelling mistakes (73 per cent). RBC has articles, tips and guides for Canadians on its Be Cyber Aware website, including: Change the account’s password to lock out the hacker Notify your contacts that your account was hacked. Let them know they may receive spam messages that look like you sent them Make sure your security software is up to date. Scan your system for malware, especially if you suspect your computer might be infected with a virus Disable any remote access permissions on your computer Report your breach to your local enforcement authorities and financial institution About the RBC Study These are the findings of an Ipsos poll conducted on behalf of RBC. The survey was conducted in English and French. A sample of 1,500 Canadians over 18 was surveyed online via the Ipsos I-Say panel from August 14 to August 17, 2023. ABOUT RBC Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 97,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com. We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact. SOURCE RBC

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Rakuten.ca: Canadians to use 5 cost-saving measures this holiday season

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Canadians are stacking more money-saving tactics this year to offset holiday spending TORONTO, Sept. 25, 2023 /CNW/ – Canadians have adjusted their money-saving and gift-giving tactics, including a reduction of grand gift exchanges for smaller variations, according to Rakuten.ca’s Holiday Spending Survey in partnership with Ignite Labs. With the average anticipated spend on holiday gifts estimated to be $570, down from $600 in 2022, Canadians are looking to reduce their holiday spending amid rising costs seen throughout the year. Parents will likely be spending the most this year than any other demographic surveyed, estimating an average spend of $745 for this holiday season. The survey found that Canadians plan to use an average of five cost-saving strategies, up from three in 2022.  Cost saving measures include: 75 per cent actively looking for sales/offers, 61 per cent planning to use loyalty programs like Rakuten.ca to earn cash back, 35 per cent planning activities instead of gifts and 56 per cent shopping earlier to spread out the expenses. 33 per cent are planning to drop some recipients from their typical lists, including friends, coworkers and neighbours. “Offsetting the financial strain of one of the highest shopping periods of the year is often a priority for many Canadians and we’re seeing increasing numbers of consumers looking at ways they can save, whether it be shopping sales or stacking deals,” says Jennifer LaForge, General Manager at Rakuten.ca. “We’ve been seeing a lot more conscious consumers, especially those looking for everyday savings to balance the high-spend holiday season with the rest of the year.” Savvy shoppers are consistently looking for new ways to save in times of increasing prices and are frequent users of money-saving tactics, cash back and loyalty programs as well as shopping sales throughout the gift giving season. Loyalty Programs & Cash Back As Canadians ramp up their money saving tactics, loyalty programs offering cash back will be increasingly utilized, with 65 per cent of respondents saying they prefer cash back versus the 35 per cent who prefer points systems. For holiday spending, 61 per cent said they would partake in the use of loyalty programs to earn cash back on their festive purchases. Shopping Timing Shopping at high sales times is a common tactic for Canadians, including the 63 per cent of those planning to shop Black Friday, 50 per cent planning to shop on Cyber Monday, and 46 per cent planning to shop on Boxing Day. 63 per cent of survey respondents also noted that they’ll be taking advantage of these sales to shop for themselves as well as others. Shift in Gift Giving Tactics When thinking of what they would like to receive themselves as holiday gifts this year, many Canadians say they would like to receive practical items that they actually need (63 per cent), followed by gift cards (53 per cent), experiences (28 per cent) and lastly luxury items (26 per cent). Thoughtful and responsible spending is top priority as Canadians are looking for ways to stretch their dollars further. In addition, to help manage holiday expenses, 76 per cent of Canadians plan to set an approximate budget for their shopping. About the survey The Rakuten Canada survey was conducted online by Ignite Lab, a Toronto-based survey consultancy specializing in retail, travel and technology segments, in August 2023 with a nationally representative sample of 1,000 Canadians. A sample of this size is accurate to within +/-3 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. References to previous Holiday research are from surveys conducted in 2022 & 2020 (approx. 6-months into Covid). About Rakuten.ca For over 10 years, Rakuten.ca is a leading shopping rewards program that offers Cash Back, deals and rewards from all your favorite brands. By partnering with over 750 brands in apparel, health and beauty, travel, on-demand services, subscription boxes and more, Rakuten helps Canadians get more from the things they buy. Since launching in 2012, Rakuten has become the largest and most rewarding shopping experience, and its 7 million members have earned $140 million in Cash Back just for shopping through Rakuten. For more information, visit Rakuten.ca.

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