Common Social Engineering Tactics to Watch For
 
Social engineering refers to a cyberattack method in which a cybercriminal preys on key human behaviors (e.g., trust of authority, fear of conflict and promise of rewards) to obtain unwarranted access to targets’ technology, systems, funds or data. These attacks can be deployed through various tactics, such as digital impersonation, deceitful messages or malicious software (known as malware). Social engineering attacks have become a significant threat to businesses of all sizes and sectors; after all, anyone can be targeted in these incidents—including entry-level workers, managers and CEOs. With this in mind, it’s crucial for businesses to be aware of frequently utilized social engineering methods and adopt effective cybersecurity measures to help mitigate these incidents. This article outlines common social engineering tactics to watch for and offers associated prevention and response tips.
 

Topics: Cyber, Ransomware, Hack, Hacking, Spear Phishing

Employer-reported Nonfatal Workplace Injuries and Illnesses Up 7.5% From 2021

Topics: safety, OSHA, workers compensation, work comp, Risk Management, Loss Control

Governor Signs Bill Increasing Minimum Compensation Rate

On 9/6/23, Governor Hochul signed a bill which will increase the minimum rate in New York workers’ compensation claims to one-fifth of the state average weekly wage.  this goes into effect 7/1/26. Coming more quickly are other changes, Effective 1/1/24, the minimum rate will be increased from the current $150.00 per week to $275.00 per week. The minimum rate increases again on 1/1/25 to $325.00 per week. In any case where the claimant’s wages are less than the minimum rate, the claimant will receive his or her full wages.  The legislation is especially beneficial to lower wage workers who will benefit from the higher minimum compensation rate. This will potentially  increase workers’ compensation insurance premiums as well as costs for self-insured employers. By 1/1/25, the minimum compensation rate will be more than double the current $150.00 rate.     Moving forward, the  minimum compensation rate will be adjusted in each successive year after 7/1/26 to one-fifth of the state average weekly wage for the year in which it is reported.

Topics: workers compensation, Claims

These are the Top 10 most frequently cited OSHA violations in the workplace for 2022:

Topics: safety, OSHA, Loss Control

Keeping Safe with Winter Driving

Topics: winter driving, driving tips

According to OSHA, Landscaping and Nursery companies are responsible for requiring workers to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in all operations where there is an exposure to hazardous conditions or where specific regulations indicate the need for using PPE to reduce the hazards to the employees.

Topics: safety, Risk Management, Landscape

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced a National Emphasis Program (NEP) focused on heat hazards.  Through this, OSHA will be conducting proactive inspections for heat-related hazards—in both outdoor and indoor work environments.   NYSNLA members should be aware of this new program.  Are you ready for an inspection?

Topics: safety, Risk Management, heat hazard

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced a National Emphasis Program (NEP) focused on heat hazards.  Through this, OSHA will be conducting proactive inspections for heat-related hazards—in both outdoor and indoor work environments.    Is your facility ready for an inspection?

Topics: safety, Risk Management, heat hazard