Ransomware & Peated Single Malt: A Smoky Wake-Up Call

We’re kicking off our Flight of Five Cyber Threats & Whiskey Pairings series with one of the most devastating threats facing small and midsize businesses: ransomware. These attacks strike fast, locking you out of critical systems and holding your data hostage until a steep ransom is paid. For many organizations with limited resources, the cost of recovery can be catastrophic.

To match the smoky punch of this high-stakes threat, we’ve paired it with a Peated Single Malt from 10th Street Distillery—a bold whiskey known for its intensity, complexity, and the lingering impression it leaves behind. Like ransomware, it’s unforgettable.

The Burn of Ransomware

Ransomware is a form of malware that encrypts files and locks you out of your data. Attackers then demand payment, usually in cryptocurrency that can’t be tracked, in exchange for the decryption key. A worse variant known as ransomware 2.0 even threatens to leak sensitive data publicly if the ransom isn’t paid.

Ransomware has evolved. It’s now sophisticated, targeted, and frequently deployed through:

• Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links
• Exploited vulnerabilities in unpatched software
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) brute-force attacks

Ransomware remains one of the top causes of data breaches globally, especially for businesses under 500 employees. The impact is devastating. Downtime, data loss, reputational harm, legal exposure, and lost revenue. Businesses without strong backups or incident response plans never fully recover.

Protecting Your Business from Ransomware

At Nevtec, we help Colorado businesses build proactive cybersecurity strategies to mitigate ransomware risk. Here are five ways to strengthen your defenses:

1. Implement 3-2-1 Backup Strategy
   Store three copies of your data: two locally on different devices, and one off-site or in the cloud. Test your recovery process regularly.
2. Patch Early, Patch Often
   Keep your software and systems up to date to close known vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them. Learn more about patch management.
3. Train Your Team
   Human error is a leading cause of ransomware infections. Conduct regular phishing simulations and cybersecurity awareness training.
4. Use Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
    Traditional antivirus isn’t enough. EDR solutions detect and isolate malicious behavior in real time. Ask us about our managed detection & response.
5. Create an Incident Response Plan
   Don’t wait until you’re under attack to figure out your next step. A clear plan can reduce downtime and limit damage.

The Hard Hit of Peated Single Malt

Just like a ransomware attack, peated whiskey makes a bold first impression and lingers long after the initial taste. Peat smoke infuses the spirit with complex flavors that are hard to ignore—earthy, intense, and often polarizing.

This pairing is about how ransomware attacks demand your attention. They’re not subtle, and they can leave a lasting mark on your business if you’re unprepared. Much like peated whiskey, they command respect and a deliberate, strategic response.

Final Sip
Ransomware is fast, aggressive, and constantly evolving—but with layered defenses, continuous training, and a proactive partner like Nevtec, your business doesn’t have to be caught off guard.

Stay tuned for next week’s post: “Phishing & California Coast: The Danger in Disguise”, where we’ll dive into the subtle, deceptive nature of social engineering attacks—and how to protect your team from taking the bait.

Rethink Your Defenses

Schedule your free cybersecurity consultation and let us help you assess your systems, close security gaps, and prepare for the next attack before it hits.

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team

Phishing & California Coast: The Danger in Disguise

In our second installment of A Flight of Five Cyber Threats & Whiskey Pairings, we’re spotlighting one of the most common and deceptively dangerous cybersecurity risks for small and midsize businesses: phishing.

Phishing attacks have evolved far beyond the clumsy, typo-riddled emails you’re used to. Today’s phishing tactics are sophisticated, AI-powered, and crafted to trick even savvy users. They arrive in your inbox looking like legitimate requests from vendors, coworkers, or even your own leadership team. It only takes one wrong click, download, or reply for your business to be exposed to malware, stolen credentials, or even full-scale business email compromise (BEC).

To match the deceptive smoothness of phishing attacks, we’ve paired this threat with the California Coast Blended Whiskey from 10th Street Distillery. Light, citrusy, and dangerously easy to sip, this whiskey mirrors the disarming feel of a phishing email, pleasant and familiar at first, but with real consequences beneath the surface.

The Smooth Risk of Phishing & Social Engineering

Phishing is a form of social engineering where attackers manipulate human behavior to gain unauthorized access to systems or data. These messages often create a sense of urgency or impersonate trusted figures to lower the recipient’s guard. Some common examples include:

• “Your account has been suspended. Click here to verify.”
• “We’ve updated our billing info. Please send payment to the new account.”
• “I need you to pick up gift cards for a client meeting. I’ll reimburse you later.”

Phishing is responsible for over 90% of data breaches. Once inside your systems, attackers can deploy ransomware, steal sensitive data, or hijack executive email accounts.

Get Your Business Off the Hook from Phishing

Staying safe from phishing requires a combination of technology, training, and awareness. Here are a few ways to defend your business:

1. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Even if credentials are stolen, MFA can prevent attackers from gaining access.
2. Run Regular Security Awareness Training: Teach your team how to recognize suspicious emails, attachments, and links. Include phishing simulations to keep skills sharp.
3. Invest in Email Filtering: Use tools that flag impersonation attempts, spoofed domains, and known malicious content.
4. Segment User Permissions: Only give employees access to the systems and data they need.
5. Partner with a Security-First IT Provider: A partner like Nevtec can monitor threats, run phishing simulations, and help your team stay secure.

The Deceptive Charm of California Coast Blended Whiskey

California Coast Blended Whiskey from 10th Street Distillery offers a light, citrus-forward sip with surprising complexity underneath. It’s laid-back profile masks a richer character, much like a phishing attack that hides a payload behind an innocent-looking email.

This pairing reminds us that the most dangerous attacks don’t always arrive with warning signs. Just because something seems smooth and familiar doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Final Sip
Phishing attacks are smooth, clever, and more dangerous than ever. But with the right training, tools, and a trusted partner like Nevtec, you can help your business spot the danger before it strikes.

Stay tuned for next week’s blog: “Insider Threats & Rum Cask Single Malt: Sweet Until It’s Not,” where we’ll explore how threats from within your company can cause major damage.

How Safe Are You From a Phishing Scam?   
Schedule a free consultation, and we’ll help you assess your email security and train your team to avoid today’s most deceptive cyber threats.

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team

Manufacturers (Machine Shops)

Machining Meets Malware: 5 Cyber Threats Facing Machine Shops (and the Whiskeys to Match)

In the world of machine shops, precision is everything, down to the thousandth of an inch. But while your CNCs hum with accuracy, your business might be wide open to cyberattacks.

From ransomware that halts production to IP theft that steals your competitive edge, today’s threats are digital, relentless, and increasingly targeting small and mid-sized manufacturers.

To make the conversation a little more enjoyable, we teamed up with San Jose’s own 10th Street Distillery. We’re pairing 5 critical cyber risks with 5 bold whiskeys. Because while cybersecurity doesn’t have to be boring, protecting your shop should never be optional.

1.      Ransomware / Peated Single Malt

The Risk: One click. One malicious file. Suddenly, every machine in your shop is idle. Your files are locked. Your production line is frozen.
The Reality: Ransomware has become the #1 threat to manufacturers, especially those with outdated backups or no incident response plan.

A smoky wake-up call. Just like peated whiskey, ransomware leaves a lingering impact. We’ll show you how to build a strong recovery plan and defend your most valuable assets.

2.      IP Theft / Rum Cask Finish Single Malt

The Risk: Your CAD files, specs, and proprietary designs are the lifeblood of your business. But they’re also high-value targets for hackers, especially from abroad.
The Reality: Many shops don’t realize their sensitive files are being accessed or stolen until it’s too late.

Aged in sweetness, but sometimes with a bitter surprise. This pairing dives into access control, monitoring, and minimizing human error, whether intentional or accidental.

3.      Phishing & Social Engineering /California Coast Blended Whiskey

The Risk: A fake invoice. A spoofed vendor email. All it takes is one employee to click the wrong link and open the door to malware or credential theft.
The Reality: Phishing is responsible for over 90% of breaches—and machine shops aren’t exempt.

Light, citrusy, and deceptively smooth. This pairing mirrors the polished facade of today’s phishing attacks. Learn how to train your team and spot the bait.

4.      Supply Chain Attacks / Holiday Edition Port Cask Single Malt

The Risk: You trust your vendors, but do they follow the same cybersecurity standards you do? One breach in their network could give attackers a backdoor into yours.
The Reality: The smaller the vendor, the less likely they’ve invested in serious cybersecurity.

Rich, layered, and influenced by external sources. This whiskey reflects the way third-party vendors can unknowingly expose your environment to risk.

5.      Zero-Day Exploits / Distiller’s Cut Single Malt

The Risk: Your software might have vulnerabilities that even developers don’t know about yet.
The Reality: Without real-time monitoring and patching, you’re exposed before anyone knows there’s a problem.

Rare, uncut, and powerful. Zero-day vulnerabilities are unpredictable, but you can be prepared with the right strategy and real-time threat detection.

Bottom Line: Cybersecurity Deserves the Same Precision as Your Machining

A minor vulnerability can cause major disruption. Whether it’s a phishing email or a compromised vendor, one lapse can cost you productivity, IP, and reputation.

Final Sip

Start with a no-cost Cyber Risk Assessment from Nevtec, and enjoy a whiskey with purpose.

Cybersecurity can’t be an afterthought. Not when the stakes are this high.

At Nevtec, we help machine shops like yours identify vulnerabilities, strengthen defenses, and keep production rolling, securely.

👉 [Claim Your FREE Cyber Risk Assessment Now]

Insider Threats & Strawberry Brandy Single Malt: Sweet But Dangerous

Not all cyberthreats come from hackers working in the shadows of the dark web. The most damaging breaches come from the people you work with every day. Trusted employees, contractors, or partners who unintentionally or deliberately put you at risk. Insider threats come from people you trust, making them one of the most underestimated risks in cybersecurity today.

To match the unexpected shock of insider threats, we’ve paired this risk with 10th Street Distillery’s Strawberry Brandy Cask-Finished Single Malt. This whiskey is soft, fruity, and inviting at first sip, but has a rich, unexpected depth that mirrors the complexity and consequences of letting your guard down inside your own business.

Insider Threats: The Risk Within

Insider threats are security risks that originate from individuals with legitimate access to your company’s data, systems, or networks. These can include:

• Employees who unintentionally fall for phishing scams
• Contractors who misuse access or ignore security protocols
• Disgruntled staff deliberately exfiltrating data or sabotaging systems

Because they already have credentials, insider threats often bypass your perimeter defenses, making them harder to detect and even harder to stop.

According to the 2023 Ponemon Institute report, insider threats rose by 44% over the past two years, with the average cost of an insider incident reaching $15.38 million. While you might not have lost that big, the damage to client trust, operations, and finances can still be devastating.

Spot and Stop Insider Threats

While the threat is subtle, the defense must be intentional and ongoing. Here’s what you can do to stop insider threats:

1. Implement Access Controls

Use the principle of least privilege—employees should only have access to what they need. And don’t forget to immediately revoke access when someone leaves or changes roles.

2. Monitor User Behavior

With User Behavior Analytics (UBA) and endpoint monitoring, you can detect unusual access patterns, file downloads, or unauthorized changes before they escalate.

3. Train and Educate Regularly

Not all insider threats are malicious. Ongoing cybersecurity training helps staff recognize phishing attempts, password best practices, and the importance of following policies.

4. Create a Culture of Accountability

Ensure your employees know security is everyone’s job. Encourage them to report suspicious behavior without fear of retaliation.

5. Partner With a Proactive MSP

At Nevtec, our managed security services help you identify and prevent internal threats through monitoring, access management, and tailored security awareness training. Explore our Security Services →

Strawberry Brandy Cask Single Malt

Like insider threats, this whiskey is sweet on the surface, but surprisingly potent beneath. The brandy cask finish introduces a smooth, fruit-forward character that feels comforting and familiar, but don’t be fooled. Just like a trusted employee with too much access, this whiskey can sneak up on you with strength and depth you weren’t expecting.

It’s a reminder that not all threats come from unknown actors. Sometimes, the risk is sweet, smooth, and sitting just a few desks away.

Final Sip

Insider threats are quiet, overlooked, and devastating. Whether intentional or accidental, they require active defense, including access controls, behavioral monitoring, and a trusted security partner who’s watching your blind spots.

At Nevtec, we help small and midsize businesses build resilience against all forms of risk, including the ones already inside.

 Stay tuned for next week’s blog:

“Zero-Day Exploits & Distiller’s Cut: The Unseen Risk”
We’ll explore unpredictable threats that strike without warning—and how to prepare when no patch exists.

Book Your Insider Threat Assessment

Are the ones you trust your biggest risk? Find out for free!
 Schedule a free cybersecurity consultation with Nevtec, and we’ll evaluate your access controls, monitoring, and insider threat readiness.

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team

From Pallets to Phishing: Cyber Threats Every Distributor Must Prepare For

Nevtec x 10th Street Distillery | San Jose, CA

Distributors and rep companies are masters of movement. You connect vendors to retailers, warehouses to storefronts, and supply to demand. But while your operations may be seamless in the physical world, your digital infrastructure could be full of blind spots, and that’s exactly where cybercriminals thrive.

Whether it’s ransomware freezing your fulfillment systems, a phishing scam targeting your invoicing department, or a breach via a third-party vendor, the threats are real, and growing.

That’s why we’ve partnered with our neighbors at 10th Street Distillery in San Jose to bring you something different: a whiskey-inspired breakdown of the five biggest cybersecurity threats facing your industry. Each threat is paired with a handcrafted California whiskey to help you sip, reflect, and secure your operations.

1.      Ransomware/ Peated Single Malt

The Risk: A single malicious attachment can shut down your inventory system, lock your files, and halt operations during peak season.
The Reality: Ransomware is one of the top threats facing distributors due to the time-sensitive nature of fulfillment and a high reliance on legacy systems.

A smoky wake-up call. Just like peated whiskey, ransomware leaves a lingering impact. Learn how to build a strong recovery plan and defend your most valuable assets.

2.      Phishing & Social Engineering / California Coast Blended Whiskey

The Risk: A fake invoice or spoofed vendor email can trick an employee into handing over credentials,  or worse, wiring funds to an attacker.
The Reality: Over 90% of successful cyberattacks begin with phishing, and distributors are frequent targets due to high transaction volumes and supplier relationships.

Light, citrusy, and deceptively smooth. This pairing mirrors the polished facade of today’s phishing attacks. Train your team to spot the bait behind the citrus.

3.      Insider Threats / Rum Cask Finish Single Malt

The Risk: Disgruntled employees, accidental data leaks, or unchecked admin access can silently jeopardize your operations.
The Reality: Many breaches come from within, whether through malice or mistake, and distributors often lack visibility into who has access to what.

Aged in sweetness, but sometimes with a bitter surprise. This pairing dives into access control, user monitoring, and reduces the risk of internal sabotage.

4.      Supply Chain Attacks / Holiday Edition Port Cask Single Malt

The Risk: One of your trusted vendors could unknowingly introduce malware or provide a backdoor into your systems.
The Reality: Most distributors work with dozens (if not hundreds) of third parties. If one of them is compromised, you could be next.

Rich, layered, and influenced by external sources. Like whiskey, your cybersecurity depends on the quality of your input. Vet every vendor.

5.      Zero-Day Exploits in Legacy Systems / Distiller’s Cut Single Malt

The Risk: That outdated ERP or warehouse management platform might harbor unknown vulnerabilities.
The Reality: Zero-day attacks strike without warning—and many distributors don’t patch regularly or lack threat detection.

Rare, uncut, and powerful. Zero-day vulnerabilities are unpredictable, but you can be prepared with a modern strategy and real-time protection.

The Uncompromising Edge of Distiller’s Cut Single Malt

Distiller’s Cut from 10th Street Distillery is a bold, full-strength expression, bottled with no shortcuts or dilution. It’s made for those who understand that quality requires intention.

This whiskey reflects the reality of zero-day threats: intense, unexpected, and not something you can water down. If your business relies on legacy systems, you may be sipping danger without knowing it. You need real-time visibility and a partner who understands your environment.

Final Sip

Cybersecurity for distributors isn’t just about protecting digital files; it’s about protecting momentum, fulfillment, and reputation. Whether you’re dealing with phishing emails or software vulnerabilities, the stakes are too high to settle for average protection.

Nevtec helps distribution companies like yours secure their supply chain without slowing it down. We combine industry-specific knowledge with cutting-edge tools to keep your business moving safely.

👉 Book your FREE Cyber Risk Assessment today
 We’ll review your systems, spot hidden threats, and help you take action before attackers do.

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team

Zero-Day & Distiller’s Cut: The Unseen Risk

High-proof danger meets unpatched chaos.

Most cyber threats in this series are easy to spot and plan. But others go unnoticed and unknown until the strike.

Zero-day exploits are the latter. They target vulnerabilities the software creator doesn’t even know about yet, meaning there’s no patch, no fix, and no warning. These attacks are highly sought after by cybercriminals and nation-state actors alike because they’re stealthy, hard to detect, and devastatingly effective.

To capture the rare, unpredictable nature of these threats, we’re pairing them with Distiller’s Cut Single Malt from 10th Street Distillery. Unfiltered, bold, and bottled at cask strength, it represents the raw impact of a zero-day exploit. You never know exactly how it will hit—only that you need to be ready.

Zero-Day Exploits

A zero-day exploit takes advantage of a vulnerability in software that neither the developer nor the public knows about, meaning there are zero days between discovery and exploitation.

Because these vulnerabilities are not known about, attackers often have weeks, or even months, of undetected access. They can use this time  to:

• Exfiltrate data
• Deploy ransomware
• Move laterally within your network
• Escalate privileges
• Create persistent backdoors

One infamous example is the MOVEit vulnerability in 2023. It was exploited by attackers to compromise the data of nearly 2,700 organizations and 93 million people. By the time a solution was found, it was far too late.

The Danger of Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits are among the most dangerous threats in cybersecurity because they strike before anyone knows they exist. Here’s why they pose such a serious risk:

• No Patch Available: These vulnerabilities are unknown to software vendors, meaning no fix exists at the time of attack.
• High Market Value: On the dark web, zero-days can sell for six figures due to their stealth and effectiveness.
• Used in Targeted Attacks: These exploits are often deployed in high-precision strikes, especially against organizations with sensitive data.
• Bypass Traditional Defenses: Because they’re previously unknown, zero-days typically evade signature-based antivirus tools and standard firewalls.

And it’s not just governments and large enterprises at risk. Small and midsize businesses are increasingly becoming vulnerable, as they can be seen as easier targets or entry points in broader supply chain attacks.

Stay Safe from What You Can’t See Coming

Zero-days are hard to prevent by their nature. But you can take steps to mitigate the risk, detect them early and contain them.

Here’s how:

1. Embrace Zero Trust

Assume no user or device should be trusted automatically and validate everything. This limits how far an attacker can move once inside.

2. Deploy Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)

EDR platforms monitor behavior and flag suspicious activity—even if the threat is brand new. They’re critical for catching zero-days in action.

3. Stay on Top of Threat Intelligence

Partner with a managed provider who can give you real-time alerts, emerging vulnerability reports, and fast response guidance.

4. Create a Rapid Response Plan

Have an incident response plan that includes isolation procedures, forensic logging, and communication protocols. Time matters.

5. Work with a Security-Focused MSP

At Nevtec, we give you 24/7 monitoring, threat intelligence feeds, EDR solutions, and the rapid response expertise you need to stay one step ahead.

Distiller’s Cut Single Malt

Much like a zero-day exploit, 10th Street’s Distiller’s Cut Single Malt is raw, rare, and hits without apology. Bottled at cask strength and left unfiltered, it represents the full power and unpredictability of something unrefined and undetected.

Just as you never know when a zero-day will hit, the Distiller’s Cut gives you a unique experience in every bottle that’s bold, nuanced, and full of character. It’s a fitting match for a threat that gives you no time to prepare and no second chances.

Final Sip

Zero-day exploits are high-impact, fast-moving threats that require more than passive defense. When a threat doesn’t yet have a name or a fix, the only thing you can rely on is your preparation, your monitoring, and your rapid response capabilities.

With Nevtec by your side, your business is never caught off guard.

 Stay tuned for next week’s blog:

“Supply Chain & Port Cask: What’s in Your Barrel?”
We’ll examine how third-party vendors can open up new vulnerabilities and how to lock them down.

Be Ready for the Unknown

Book a free cybersecurity consultation today, and we’ll assess your environment for early detection capabilities, zero-day readiness, and EDR strategies. Schedule your consultation with Nevtec →

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team

Protecting the Protectors

5 Cyber Threats Law Enforcement Must Take Seriously (And the Whiskey to Help the Message Go Down Smooth)

Law enforcement agencies are built on trust, speed, and mission-critical information. But as operations grow more connected, through RMS systems, body cams, patrol vehicle networks, and digital evidence tracking, the risk of cyberattack grows with them.

At Nevtec, we understand the distinct cybersecurity challenges facing Police and Sheriff’s departments. Whether you’re a rural agency or mid-sized metro force, your department may be just one vulnerability away from operational shutdown, public embarrassment, or even a compromised case.

To spark a conversation that sticks, we partnered with 10th Street Distillery in San Jose, California to pair five of the most pressing law enforcement cyber risks with five unforgettable Californian whiskeys. It’s a memorable way to digest a very serious topic, and one your department can’t afford to ignore.

1.      Ransomware on RMS or Dispatch Systems / Fierce Whiskers Straight Rye

The Risk: Your department’s dispatch or RMS is encrypted. Critical data is locked. Emergency response slows or halts.

The Reality: Ransomware attacks on 911 infrastructure are rising. In emergencies, every second counts.

This punchy, no-nonsense rye delivers an immediate jolt—much like the chaos ransomware causes when it hijacks your systems. Bold and urgent, it reminds us that response time is everything.

2.      Public Records or Case Leaks / Fierce Whiskers Cask Strength Bourbon

The Risk: Personnel files. Case notes. Evidence chains. Exposed or leaked to the wrong hands.

The Reality: Even minor breaches in public-facing agencies can erode trust and trigger legal fallout.

This bourbon is unfiltered, bold, and built to leave a lasting impression, just like the consequences of a data breach. Protect sensitive records as fiercely as you protect your community’s trust.

3.      Phishing Through Internal Emails / Fierce Whiskers Wheated Bourbon

The Risk: An officer or admin clicks a fake link. Malware spreads. Access is gained.

The Reality: Law enforcement’s high-trust environment makes phishing especially effective—and dangerous.

Smooth and subtle, this bourbon’s charm mirrors the elegance of a good phishing scam. It teaches us: don’t let something that goes down easy slip past your defenses.

4.     Body Cam or Vehicle System Exploits / Fierce Whiskers Single Barrel Bourbon

The Risk: Body cam footage or patrol vehicle systems are accessed or altered without permission.

The Reality: Evidence tampering, chain-of-custody violations, and legal scrutiny often follow.

Clean. Reliable. Strong. This single barrel sipper reflects the security standards you should expect for any digital evidence system, no exceptions.

5.      No MFA for Admin Accounts / Fierce Whiskers Limited Edition Single Malt

The Risk: A compromised login leads to full backend access, RMS, files, footage, and more.

The Reality: Passwords alone are not enough. No MFA is like leaving the station doors wide open.

Rare, sophisticated, and carefully crafted. This whiskey reminds us that your admin credentials should be just as selective and secure, multi-factor, every time.

Final Sip: Justice Needs Cybersecurity

California whiskey might go down smoothly, but the cyber threats facing law enforcement won’t.

You protect lives, rights, and evidence every day. But who’s protecting the systems that make that possible?

With Nevtec’s tailored cybersecurity services for law enforcement, we help you harden your defenses, maintain public confidence, and ensure your digital assets are as secure as your patrol vehicles.

Get Your Free, Confidential Cyber Risk Assessment Today
We’ll evaluate your systems, identify critical gaps, and help you take proactive steps toward airtight security.

👉 [Book Your Assessment Now]

Cheers,
The Nevtec Team