Tech Talk

The next frontier for hackers: Your phone

Malware on mobile devices is the next big threat for consumers. A report from Trend Micro assessed top mobile threats:

• Mobile ransomware jumped 415 percent in 2017.

• More apps and operating system features on phones make them more vulnerable to security gaps.

• Criminals are targeting mobile banking apps.

• Fake apps are more prolific, appearing in Google Play for download by anyone.

Visit trendmicro.com for more information, and make sure you’ve enabled security features on all your mobile devices.

BY THE NUMBERS

80

The percentage of Americans who admit to risky cybersecurity practices, according to a 2017 Netsparker survey.

EXCELLENT EXCEL

Customizable ‘Quick Access Toolbar’

I was in a meeting attempting to quickly access various commands on different tabs on the toolbar ribbon, when a fellow CPA showed me how to customize my “Quick Access Toolbar” so that we could all save some time. The Quick Access Toolbar sits in one of two locations. By default, it sits at the very top left corner on the same line opposite of the minimize, maximize/restore and close buttons. Or if you want it closer to your working area, you can change its settings so it shows below the ribbon of the other toolbars. To change its location, click on the down arrow in the Quick Access Toolbar to access its options. To add a command to your “Quick Access Toolbar,” right-click on the command you want to add and then click Add to Quick Access Toolbar or through its options menu under its down arrow.

Consider adding the commands you use the most to your Quick Access Toolbar so they will be quickly accessible regardless of which toolbar tab is visible or if the toolbar ribbon is collapsed all together. For example, if you are in the habit of always running spell check, you can right-click the “Spelling” button under the Review tab and click Add to Quick Access Toolbar. If you do this, you should see a small button with ABC and a checkmark on your Quick Access Toolbar. If you like it in Excel, you can also set-up other Quick Access Toolbars in Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.

George D. Strudgeon, CPA, CGFM, is an audit director at the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts in Richmond. Email him if you have Excel topics you want him to cover.

george.strudgeon@gmail.com connect.vscpa.com/GeorgeStrudgeon

Visit vscpa.com/PAC

HELP KEEP OUR VOICES HEARD

This past year, many officials from the House of Delegates whom we’ve built strong relationships with over the past several years did not return to the General Assembly. This means we will need to increase our efforts to forge new relationships with legislators. VSCPA PAC contributions are a key part of this effort.

Whether you make a $50 or $100 contribution, every dollar helps build strong ties with legislators and keeps important issues at the forefront of this evolving political environment. Contribute online at vscpa.com/PAC.