We’ve all had that moment — the mobile rings from a strange number, or a text pops up claiming to be from your bank. You pause, hesitate, and then the sinking feeling hits. “Is this legit… or a scam?”

Well, thankfully, the powers-that-be are doing something about it.

Ireland’s communications regulator, ComReg, has introduced a new “Likely Scam” warning system for mobile calls. It’s a step in the right direction — and a particularly important one for small and medium-sized businesses across the country who are on the frontlines of phone-based communication.

Let’s break down what’s happening, how it works, and what you can do to stay ahead of the curve.

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What Is the “Likely Scam” Warning?

The new system automatically labels suspicious calls with a warning on your mobile screen. So, instead of just seeing an unknown number, you might now see:

📱 “Likely Scam”

This feature helps flag calls that appear to spoof real numbers, use known scam patterns, or exhibit suspicious calling behaviour — the kind we’ve seen rise sharply over the past few years.

It’s not blocking the call, just giving you a heads-up. You can still answer if you choose — but now with a much clearer idea of what might be waiting on the other end.

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How Does the Scam Alert System Work?

The warning system is built into the mobile network layer. Here’s a simplified overview:

1. Telecom providers monitor traffic patterns – These include high-volume, short-duration calls, or calls from numbers that look like Irish numbers but originate from abroad.
2. Suspicious activity is flagged – If a call matches the behaviour of known scams, the network applies the “Likely Scam” label before the call reaches your device.
3. The label appears on your screen – Just like “Private Number” or “No Caller ID,” it gives you a warning in advance.

This system has already rolled out across major Irish mobile networks like Vodafone, Three, and eir. No setup is required by the user — it’s all managed at the network level.

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Why This Matters for Irish Businesses

If you’re running a business in Ireland — whether you’re in retail, services, trades, or tech — your phones are a lifeline. Scam calls aren’t just annoying; they can be dangerous.

Here’s how they cause real problems:

• Wasted time: Staff lose productivity answering junk calls.
• Data breaches: A well-timed phishing call might trick someone into giving out client or system info.
• Reputation damage: If a scammer spoofs your number and contacts others, it reflects badly on your brand.
• Stress and confusion: Constant spam calls erode trust in phone communication and lower morale.

Now, with the “Likely Scam” system in place, you’ve got another tool in the arsenal to defend your staff and your customers from fraudulent activity.

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What You Can Do To Protect Your Team and Clients

While the ComReg update is brilliant, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. There are other steps Irish businesses should take to stay cyber-safe:

1. Educate your staff

Hold regular training sessions on how to spot scam calls, phishing texts, and dodgy emails. A five-minute chat could prevent a five-figure loss.

2. Review call handling procedures

Make sure staff verify unexpected requests, especially ones involving passwords, payment details, or system access.

3. Use secure communications platforms

If your team relies on mobile phones, consider pairing them with secure apps like Microsoft Teams or encrypted VoIP services.

4. Enable call filtering

Some mobile devices and VoIP platforms allow for automatic call blocking or routing unknown numbers to voicemail.

5. Have an IT policy in place

Include clear steps on how to report suspicious calls, texts, or voicemails. Quick action can prevent further risk.

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How CK Computer Solutions Can Help

At CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services Dublin, we work with businesses across Ireland to secure their communications, devices, and systems.

Our managed services go beyond basic support:

• Call Security: We help configure VoIP and mobile setups with added filtering and spam protection.
• Staff Cybersecurity Training: We deliver tailored training sessions on recognising scam calls and social engineering tactics.
• Incident Response: If a staff member does fall victim to a scam, we help contain the breach, investigate what happened, and patch the gap.
• Policy Development: We work with you to create practical, realistic communication policies that protect both your staff and your reputation.

Think of us as your IT partner — not just a helpdesk, but an embedded part of your team, always watching your back.

Whether you’re a small office or a multi-site operation, CK Computer Solutions can help you stay ahead of emerging scams and tighten your tech defences.

Many small and medium-sized business owners assume cyberattacks are something that only happens to large corporations. But that’s a dangerous myth. In truth, SMEs are seen as easier targets—fewer security measures, smaller IT teams, and limited budgets all make them appealing to cybercriminals.

Think of it this way: if a burglar knows one house has an alarm system and cameras while the other leaves the back door unlocked, which one do you think they’ll go for?

And when a breach does happen, the fallout for SMEs can be catastrophic. It’s not just about financial loss—there’s reputational damage, legal risk, and operational chaos. Having a data breach response plan isn’t just a best practice. It’s a lifeline.

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Spotting the Signs Early

Some breaches hit like a sledgehammer—you’ll see ransom notes, system shutdowns, or public data leaks. Others are far more subtle, quietly worming their way through your systems for days, even weeks, before you notice.

Common warning signs include:

• Unusual login activity, especially outside business hours
• Sluggish system performance without a clear cause
• Files being changed or moved without explanation
• Security tools flagging unauthorised access attempts

Your first line of defence is a well-trained team. Employees who know what to watch for can report suspicious activity before things spiral.

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Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do When It Happens

Step 1: Detect and Identify

First, confirm that a breach has actually occurred. That means checking logs, monitoring alerts, and investigating any red flags raised by your staff or systems.

Ask yourself:

• What systems are impacted?
• When did the issue first arise?
• What type of data might be compromised?

Get a clear picture. Document every detail. You’ll need this later for both legal compliance and internal review.

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Step 2: Contain the Breach

Once confirmed, your focus shifts to limiting the damage. This is your digital damage control.

Immediate actions may include:

• Disconnecting infected machines from the network
• Disabling user accounts showing suspicious activity
• Blocking malicious IP addresses
• Forcing password resets for affected users

Be careful not to delete anything just yet. Preserving evidence is vital for investigation and compliance.

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Step 3: Assess the Damage

Next, you need to dig into the “what” and “how much.” Collaborate with your internal IT team or Managed Service Provider (MSP) to audit the breach.

Areas to check:

• Personal data (customers or staff)
• Financial information
• Login credentials
• Internal business documents or communications

Again, document everything. This not only helps with the remediation but ensures you’re ready if regulators come knocking.

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Step 4: Notify Affected Parties

If personal or sensitive data has been compromised, transparency is essential. Depending on the nature of the breach, you may be legally required to inform customers and other third parties.

A good breach notification should include:

• What happened
• What data was involved
• What actions you’re taking
• What they can do (e.g. password reset, fraud monitoring)

In Ireland, the Data Protection Commission (DPC) must be notified of any notifiable breach within 72 hours. Miss that window and you could be hit with steep fines.

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Step 5: Report to the Authorities

On top of your DPC notification, criminal breaches (such as ransomware or theft) should be reported to An Garda Síochána. This step shows due diligence and helps national efforts to track cybercrime trends.

Keep a record of all communications—it’s a key part of demonstrating compliance under GDPR.

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Step 6: Remediate and Recover

Once the immediate threat is under control, it’s time to patch things up. That doesn’t mean slapping on a sticking plaster and hoping for the best.

Recovery might include:

• Restoring systems from secure, clean backups
• Updating software and applying security patches
• Reviewing and tightening firewall and access settings
• Rolling out refresher training for staff
• Reviewing third-party integrations and limiting exposure

If you’re working with a Managed Service Provider, they’ll help with both the tech and the admin burden of recovery.

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Step 7: Review, Learn, and Improve

Now’s the time to hold a proper post-incident review. This isn’t about pointing fingers—it’s about learning and getting stronger.

Your review should examine:

• The full timeline of the breach
• Key decisions and actions taken
• Communication gaps or delays
• Weak points in your existing security or response plan

Update your data breach response plan based on the lessons learned, and—crucially—test the updated plan. If it just sits in a folder, you’re no better off than before.

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Incident Response Checklist for SMEs

Here’s a simple, printable checklist you can keep handy:

• Confirm the breach
• Contain the affected systems
• Notify internal stakeholders
• Assess what data or systems were affected
• Notify affected individuals (and DPC if required)
• Report to Gardaí if criminal activity is suspected
• Remediate systems and update security
• Document every step taken
• Conduct a post-incident review
• Update your response plan and train staff

Print it. Stick it on the wall. Make sure your team knows where to find it when it matters.

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Free Data Breach Response Plan Template

To save you time (and stress), we’ve created a free downloadable response plan template tailored for SMEs. It includes:

• Defined roles and responsibilities
• Key contact lists
• Communication templates
• Step-by-step breach action items
• Notification timelines to stay GDPR compliant

You can customise it for your industry and business size, making it a ready-to-go tool in your cybersecurity toolkit.

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How CK Computer Solutions Can Help

Creating and managing a solid data breach response plan might seem like a big ask—especially if you don’t have a full-time IT department. That’s where we come in.

At CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services Dublin, we partner with small and medium-sized businesses across Ireland to strengthen cybersecurity and prepare for the unexpected.

Here’s how we can help:

• Develop and test a bespoke breach response plan for your business
• Monitor your systems 24/7 for suspicious activity
• Respond instantly when something goes wrong—no waiting, no delays
• Provide secure, encrypted backups and rapid disaster recovery
• Deliver ongoing staff training to reduce human error
• Keep you GDPR-compliant with breach reporting support and documentation

We’re not just your IT provider—we’re your safety net. When a breach hits, you’ll be glad you’ve got CK in your corner.

Need help building your plan or recovering from a breach? Let’s chat.

This post will walk you through the process of adopting the UXG Max Gateway into your network. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth setup.

1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection

• Carefully unpack the UXG Max Gateway.
• Check for any physical damage.
• Verify that all accessories (power adapter, Ethernet cable, etc.) are included.

2. Physical Connection

• Connect the WAN port of the UXG Max to your internet service provider’s modem or existing network.
• Connect a computer or switch to one of the LAN ports.
• Plug in the power adapter and turn on the UXG Max.

3. Accessing the UniFi Network Controller

• Ensure your computer is connected directly to the UXG Max.
• Open a web browser and navigate to the IP address 192.168.1.1. The UXG Max default IP address is 192.168.1.1.
• If you don’t have a UniFi Network Controller, you will need to set one up. You can download and install it on your computer, or use a UniFi Cloud Key, or you have to have a cloud controller.
• We are using our cloud controller for this guide. You could follow the steps below.  

4. Adopting the UXG Max

• Once in the UniFi Network Controller, you will see the UXG Max listed as “Pending Adoption.”
• Click “Adopt” and follow the on-screen instructions.
• The UXG Max will go through the adoption process, which may take several minutes.

5. Configuration

• After adoption, access the UXG Max settings through the UniFi Network Controller.
• Configure your network settings, such as IP address range, DHCP server, and firewall rules.
• Update the firmware to the latest version.

6. Verification

• Test your internet connection.
• Ensure all devices on your network can connect to the internet.
• Monitor the network performance and make adjustments as needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the UXG Max does not appear for adoption, check the physical connections and ensure it is powered on.
• If you cannot access the UniFi Network Controller, verify your computer’s IP address and network settings.
• Refer to the official UniFi documentation for more detailed troubleshooting steps.

Step	Action	Notes
1	Unboxing	Check for damages
2	Physical Connection	Connect the WAN and the LAN
3	Access Controller	Navigate to the IP address
4	Adoption	Click “Adopt”
5	Configuration	Set up IP, DHCP, and firewall
6	Verification	Test the internet connection

For any small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), your Wi-Fi network is the backbone of your business operations. However, if not properly secured, your network can also be your Achilles’ heel, leaving you vulnerable to cyber threats, data breaches, and unauthorised access. Ensuring robust Wi-Fi security should be a priority for every business owner. Here’s how to keep your network safe and secure.

Why SMEs Should Hide Their Wi-Fi SSID

Your Wi-Fi network’s Service Set Identifier (SSID)—the network name visible to anyone scanning for available networks—is the first thing potential intruders see. By hiding your SSID, you significantly reduce the visibility of your network to outsiders.

Although experienced hackers can still detect hidden networks, it adds an extra layer of security that deters casual snoopers. By implementing hidden SSIDs, SMEs can minimise the risk of opportunistic cyber-attacks, keeping sensitive business information safer.

WPA3 Encryption: Your Network’s Best Defence

Encryption is your network’s frontline defence against unauthorised access. WPA3, the latest and strongest Wi-Fi security protocol available, offers robust protection by addressing the vulnerabilities present in its predecessor, WPA2.

WPA3 encryption provides enhanced cryptographic strength, tougher password protections, and better resistance to brute-force attacks, making it essential for SMEs serious about protecting their business data.

Smart Trick: Create a Separate Guest Network

One simple yet highly effective way to boost your Wi-Fi security is by setting up a separate guest network. This practice isolates visitor and customer access from your main business network, significantly reducing potential threats.

A dedicated guest network ensures visitors have internet access without granting them access to your sensitive company data, internal resources, or equipment. This isolation prevents malware or threats introduced by guest devices from impacting your primary network, adding a valuable extra layer of security.

Isolating Networks with VLANs

For businesses with more complex needs or multiple departments, implementing VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) is a powerful way to isolate traffic within your network. VLANs allow you to segment your network into different zones—for example, separating accounting systems from general employee devices or isolating IoT devices from core business infrastructure.

This network segmentation limits access between zones, so even if one part of the network is compromised, it won’t affect the rest. VLANs are especially useful for managing bandwidth, enhancing performance, and enforcing tighter access controls.

Setting up VLANs typically requires compatible networking equipment and some configuration, but the security benefits are well worth the effort. It’s a smart, scalable solution for SMEs that want to future-proof their IT infrastructure.

Quick Guide to Checking Your Router Security Settings

Regularly checking and updating your router’s security settings is essential for maintaining robust network security. Here’s a quick guide to help you ensure your settings are optimised:

1. Access Router Settings:
   • Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (usually printed on the router itself).
   • Log in using your admin username and password.
2. Check Security Protocol:
   • Navigate to the wireless settings page.
   • Verify that WPA3 is selected. If not available, ensure WPA2 with AES encryption is enabled as a minimum.
3. Change Default Credentials:
   • Always update the default router username and password. Choose a strong, unique password.
4. Hide Your SSID:
   • Look for the option “Hide SSID” or “Disable Broadcast” in the wireless settings.
5. Create a Guest Network:
   • Enable the guest network option in your router’s settings.
   • Ensure it uses a unique password and appropriate security settings.
6. Enable VLAN Support (if available):
   • Check if your router or managed switch supports VLAN configuration.
   • Create VLANs for different departments or device types.
   • Assign ports and set access rules to enforce segmentation.

How CK Computer Solutions Can Enhance Your Wi-Fi Security

At CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services Dublin, we specialise in securing your IT infrastructure so you can focus on your core business. Our experienced team can:

• Evaluate your current network security.
• Assist with upgrading to WPA3 encryption.
• Configure hidden SSIDs for added security.
• Set up isolated guest networks.
• Design and deploy VLANs for network segmentation.
• Continuously monitor and manage your network to safeguard against emerging threats.

Partnering with CK Computer Solutions ensures your Wi-Fi network remains secure, reliable, and resilient, giving you peace of mind to confidently run your business.

Here are the PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet) settings typically used for Vodafone Ireland and Eir (formerly Eircom) fibre broadband connections. These details are needed if you’re setting up your own router instead of using the one provided by your ISP.

Vodafone Ireland – Fibre Broadband PPPoE Settings

• Username: vodafone@vodafone.ie
• Password: vodafone
• Encapsulation: PPPoE
• VLAN ID: 10
• Connection Type: Routed PPPoE
• MTU: 1492 (standard for PPPoE)
• DNS: Can be set to automatic, or use public DNS like Google (8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4)

Note: For Gigabit fibre (FTTH), VLAN tagging is essential and must be enabled on your router.

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Eir (Eircom) – Fibre Broadband PPPoE Settings

• Username: eircom@eircom.net (may vary depending on legacy or new accounts)
• Password: eircom
• Encapsulation: PPPoE
• VLAN ID: 10
• Connection Type: Routed PPPoE
• MTU: 1492
• DNS: Use automatic, or set to Google (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1)

Again, VLAN ID tagging is required for most fibre setups.

Sky Ireland uses MER (MAC Encapsulated Routing) for their standard routers, but you can use PPPoE with third-party setups under certain conditions.

• Username: Typically not required or varies per account – you may need to contact support
• Password: Typically not required
• VLAN ID: 10
• MTU: 1500 (or 1492 for PPPoE fallback)

Important: Sky often requires DHCP Option 61 (client identifier string) to authenticate. This isn’t supported natively by UniFi devices at this time without workaround firmware or bridging the Sky router.

If you’re using Sky Broadband, especially over FTTH, it’s worth noting that:

• Sky typically authenticates using DHCP Option 61 (MER), not PPPoE.
• UniFi routers do not support DHCP Option 61 by default.
• For Sky, most users will need to:
  • Use the Sky router in bridge mode
  • Or keep the Sky router as the gateway, and place the UniFi device behind it in a double-NAT setup (not ideal)
  • Or use a different router that supports Option 61 to act as a bridge

If you’re on Sky and want a clean UniFi setup, get in touch with us first to assess your options — we’ve worked around this for a few of our business clients.

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Helpful Notes

• If you’re using a third-party router (like a TP-Link, Ubiquiti, ASUS or MikroTik, Unifi ), make sure:
  • VLAN Tagging is turned on and set to ID 10.
  • You enter the PPPoE username and password exactly as shown.
  • You disable the modem/router provided by Vodafone or Eir to avoid double NAT issues.
• Some ISPs may lock services to the MAC address of their own modem, especially on FTTH. If you have issues connecting, try cloning the MAC address of the original device into your new router.

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Need Help Setting This Up?

At CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services Dublin, we regularly configure third-party routers and business-grade firewalls for both home and small business fibre broadband connections across Ireland.

Whether you’re upgrading your home setup for better Wi-Fi, or connecting a multi-site network for your business, CK can:

• Configure your PPPoE connection correctly.
• Install and manage advanced routers and firewalls.
• Optimise VLAN and QoS for VoIP, CCTV, and smart devices.
• Offer ongoing managed IT support and remote monitoring.

Let us take the headache out of broadband setup – we’ll make sure it’s fast, secure, and tailored to your needs. Get in touch with us today for a smoother connection and proper IT peace of mind.

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Microsoft 365 Grants Are Changing – What Irish Nonprofits Need to Know

There’s a major shake-up on the way for charities and nonprofit organisations that rely on Microsoft 365. From 1st July 2025, Microsoft will end the free grant licences for both Microsoft 365 Business Premium and Office 365 E1. If your organisation is using these products, it’s time to reassess your setup and plan ahead.

Ignoring these changes could leave you scrambling at renewal time — or worse, facing downtime or data loss. But with the right strategy, you can transition smoothly and continue to benefit from Microsoft’s cloud tools.

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What Exactly Is Changing?

For years, Microsoft has supported the nonprofit sector with free access to powerful business tools through their Tech for Social Impact programme. These included:

• Microsoft 365 Business Premium
• Office 365 E1

However, from 1st July 2025, these grant-based (free) licences will be phased out at renewal. If your renewal date falls on or after this date, the free versions of these products will no longer be available.

Instead, Microsoft is offering new options to ensure nonprofits can still access the tools they need:

• Up to 300 Microsoft 365 Business Basic licences – completely free
• Discounts of up to 75% on Business Premium, Office 365 E1, and other plans

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What’s in Microsoft 365 Business Basic?

This is now the main free offering for eligible nonprofits. It includes:

✅ Web and mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint
✅ Microsoft Teams (online collaboration and meetings)
✅ Exchange Online (email hosting)
✅ OneDrive (1TB cloud storage per user)
✅ SharePoint (document management and intranet features)

However, it does not include:

❌ Desktop Office apps (like Word or Excel installed on PCs)
❌ Advanced security and threat protection
❌ Device management and compliance tools

If your team is comfortable working via browser and mobile apps, Business Basic may cover most of your needs.

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What If You Need More?

Some nonprofits depend on desktop Office apps, enhanced security, or mobile device management. In that case, you’ll want to explore the discounted versions of:

• Microsoft 365 Business Premium
• Office 365 E1
• Enterprise licences

Microsoft is offering up to 75% off for these products — a significant saving, especially for midsize or larger nonprofits with multiple users and more complex IT requirements.

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What Should You Do Now?

It’s important not to leave this until the last minute. Here’s a practical roadmap:

1. Audit Your Current Licences

Look at your Microsoft 365 Admin Centre. Identify:

• How many users you have
• What type of licences they’re using
• What features are essential (desktop apps, advanced security, compliance, etc.)

2. Segment Users Based on Needs

Not every staff member or volunteer needs the full suite. You could mix and match plans:

• Use Business Basic for users who just need Teams and email
• Use Business Premium for those managing sensitive data or devices

3. Reassign Licences

Start shifting users from the soon-to-expire grant licences to Business Basic or discounted paid plans. Microsoft provides migration tools and licence reassignment guides to help.

4. Budget for Paid Features

While some licences will still be free, others will incur a cost. Start factoring this into your budget now, so you’re not caught off guard next summer.

5. Ensure Data Safety During Transition

Make sure emails, OneDrive files, and SharePoint sites are fully backed up. Licence transitions shouldn’t delete your data — but don’t take any chances.

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What If You’re Not Sure Where to Begin?

Transitioning Microsoft 365 licences might sound straightforward, but there are always curveballs — compatibility issues, data retention rules, or users accidentally locked out of email. That’s where a bit of expert help goes a long way.

At CK Computer Solutions – Managed IT Services Dublin, we work closely with Irish nonprofits to ensure they get the most out of Microsoft technologies — securely, affordably, and with minimal disruption. Here’s how we can support you:

• Licence audits: We’ll help you map out who needs what — and avoid paying for tools you’re not using.
• Smooth transitions: Whether you’re moving from E1 to Business Basic or need a hybrid setup, we’ll manage it all.
• Data protection: We make sure no critical data is lost during migration, with secure backups and Microsoft 365 best practices.
• Ongoing support: Questions come up. We stay with you long after the switchover to keep your systems running smoothly.

Whether you’re a charity, social enterprise, or voluntary group, CK Computer Solutions is ready to guide your nonprofit through this Microsoft licensing shift — and set you up for long-term success.

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📅 Don’t wait — July 2025 may seem far away, but planning now could save you stress (and money) down the line. Reach out to CK Computer Solutions today for expert guidance on navigating these changes with confidence.

Email to users:

Your Microsoft 365 Business Premium grant is being discontinued

Your Microsoft 365 Business Premium grant will expire on April 25, 2026.

The Microsoft 365 Business Premium grant will be discontinued on your next renewal on or after July 1, 2025. Your licenses will expire on April 25, 2026. We will continue to provide up to 300 granted licenses of Microsoft 365 Business Basic and discounts of up to 75 percent on many Microsoft 365 offers to nonprofits, including Microsoft 365 Business Premium.

We strongly advise transitioning your users to a different Microsoft 365 offer for nonprofits before the subscription is canceled to avoid disruption and data loss. Learn more about what happens to your data and access when your subscription ends.

More information

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any impact on your data and users, we recommend transitioning your users from the legacy Microsoft 365 Business Premium grant to the Microsoft 365 Business Basic grant or another Microsoft 365 offer for nonprofits. To transition users, you will need to manually complete the following steps within the Microsoft 365 admin center:

1.     Select the Microsoft 365 Business Basic grant or another Microsoft 365 offer for nonprofits through the Microsoft 365 admin center,

2.     Confirm the licenses are present in your tenant,

3.     Replace the licenses, by selecting all of your users with a Microsoft 365 Business Premium license and choose to replace these users’ licenses with Business Basic or another Microsoft 365 offer for nonprofits, and

4.     Select your Microsoft 365 Business Premium subscription and choose to cancel the subscription.

More guidance about how to manually change Microsoft licenses can be found in this support article: Change Microsoft 365 for business plans manually | Microsoft Learn.