October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time to focus on protecting your business from the growing number of digital threats that target organizations every day. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, cybercriminals continue to evolve their methods — and staying secure means staying proactive.

At Central Business Systems, we believe that strong cybersecurity starts with awareness, preparation, and the right technology foundation.

Outdated Technology: A Hidden Risk

It’s time to evaluate your hardware and software. Outdated devices don’t just slow you down — they put your business at risk. Unsupported systems and older operating platforms often lack critical security updates, leaving your network exposed to breaches.

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will officially end on October 14, 2025. While that might feel far away, now is the time to prepare your business for the transition. Once support ends, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance. That means any PCs still running it will become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats.

For businesses, this isn’t just an IT issue – it is a productivity, compliance, and risk management issue. Outdated operating systems can create security gaps, limit access to modern applications, and cause costly downtime.

Why Start Planning Now?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become more than just a buzzword, it’s a game-changer. And while most headlines point to tech giants in Silicon Valley, Long Island businesses are proving that AI innovation is thriving right here at home.

At Central Business Systems, we help local organizations harness the power of AI to streamline operations, reduce costs, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market. Whether you’re an architecture firm in Ronkonkoma, a healthcare provider in Long Beach, or a nonprofit in Farmingdale, staying ahead means operating smarter, faster, and leaner. AI solutions are no longer out of reach, they’re already working for your neighbors.

The AI Advantage for Local Businesses

AI doesn’t replace your workforce, it enhances it. From smart automation to predictive analytics, our AI-driven solutions free up your team to focus on high-value tasks that move your business forward.

Here’s Why Now’s the Time to Switch to VoIP & Unified Communications

Your phone system is the backbone of how your team connects with customers, vendors, and each other. But if you're still relying on an outdated on-premises system, you're holding your business back. Today’s organizations need more flexibility, mobility, and efficiency without the high cost and limitations of traditional infrastructure.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and Unified Communications (UC) combine voice, video, messaging, conferencing, and collaboration tools into a single, cloud-based platform that’s built for how business works today.

Top Reasons to Make the Switch

1. Dramatically Lower Costs

As we move deeper into 2025, cybersecurity continues to be one of the most pressing concerns for small businesses. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, targeting not just large enterprises but also small and mid-sized companies that often lack robust IT defenses. At Central Business Systems, we understand the stakes. Here's a look at the top cybersecurity threats small businesses need to watch out for - and how you can protect your operations.

1. AI-Powered Phishing Attacks

Phishing scams have evolved. Now powered by AI, cybercriminals can create convincing fake emails, texts, and even voice messages that mimic real vendors, clients, or internal communications. These messages often contain links or attachments designed to steal credentials or install malware.

Pro Tip: Implement advanced email filtering and employee training to detect and report phishing attempts.