Tag: small business

Malware exposure can present itself in different forms. From a regular virus to a Trojan Horse, they all represent an immediate danger to your computer or device. That's why we're here to teach you how to identify malware and what to do if you think you've been exposed to it. Keep reading to learn 4 signs that might show your computer or device has been exposed to malware and what to do immediately. 

4 Signs That You've Been Exposed To Malware 

Take a look below at some of the most common but also most reliable signs that suggest malware exposure:

1. Your Computer or Device Is Slower Than Usual

If you have an old or outdated computer or device, it's normal to notice how slow it might get sometimes. But even then, you should always ask yourself the question, "is it slower than usual?" When you have a brand new or moderately new computer or device, it might be easier to detect when it starts running everything slower. You'll need to pay attention to things like:

• How fast or slow your computer starts
• Does it run apps smoothly? 
• Does it constantly freeze or glitch? 

And these points mentioned above take us to our next malware sign.

2. Constant Freezes & Glitches

Many of us have experienced those annoying, random, and inexplicable freezes while trying to use our computer or device. Yes, from time to time, this might happen whenever a system crashes due to a glitch, an unexpected error, or multiple other things. But if it's starting to happen more and more often, this is a clear sign of malware exposure. 

3. Random Pop-Up Messages

Add this sign to the lists of most annoying and hated things when using a computer or device. Malware usually makes computers or devices show random messages that you're suffering from a dangerous virus. It's followed by another message showing that immediate action must be taken before it entirely corrupts your system. However, this is a classic trick that several hackers use to make you click on ads with these types of messages. The idea is for you to click on the message so they can later access your personal information. The best thing to do is always being aware of what antivirus service is currently installed on your computer or device. That way, you'll be able to recognize a fake and random ad or pop-up message. 

4. There's No Sign Of Malware 

As weird as it may sound, this is a real possibility. Some malware like spyware is designed to invade your computer in a silent way that leaves practically no track or sign of malware. Because malware can be either obvious or almost impossible to detect, it's in your best interest to form the habit of having a constant malware checkup on your computer or device. Even the best antivirus systems can miss malware. So it's always better to rather be safe than sorry. 

Here's What You Can Do

So know that you know the best signs to try to identify or recognize if you've been exposed to malware, it's time to learn what to do if you are indeed exposed to one:

Install or Update Your Antivirus System

If you don't have an antivirus system installed, then you most likely have malware exposure already. It's critical not only to have one installed but also to have one updated against the most recent malware development. 

Update Your Software

Your software updates are vital too. Your computer is only as good as its latest update. So make sure to install every software update to ensure the most recent and efficient protection. 

Start Preventing Malware Today 

Malware is a severe threat not only to your computer but also to your life. The least you want is to have a complete stranger owning your personal information. At S-FX Small Business Solutions, we can provide the most updated and efficient regular security practices. Contact us now to learn more about how we can protect you from malware. LEARN MORE NOW 

Has your computer been moving slower than normal? Has it been crashing or freezing repeatedly? There may be a reason - malware. When the performance of our computer begins to behave unusually, our default reaction is to think it’s a virus. Though this is always a possibility, there are other types of malware that may be causing this.Malware is short for “malicious malware”. It is any piece of software that has been written with the intent of doing harm to data, devices, or people. Malware is typically installed on a computer when a user clicks on a link, downloads a malicious attachment, or opens a rogue software program. The main intention of malware is to cause as much damage as possible. So, how can I defend against malware?

How To Prevent Your Device From Becoming Infected With Malware

The best way to deal with a malware attack is to avoid getting infected in the first place. This is a difficult task since more than two million different malware threats are created every day. This is a difficult number to wrap your head around. Here are 6 ways you can avoid malware and the troubles that go with it.

Use Trusted Malware Software

The majority of people who use a computer, smartphone, or tablet have some type of antivirus and malware detection software installed. However, most of them download free antivirus software from the web. Some of these free antivirus programs are themselves Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUP) and come installed with some kind of spyware.Antivirus software like Norton, Kaspersky, Comodo, and more, may cost you more money, yet are effective at recognizing security threats. Investing in this antivirus software is a small price to pay compared to the harm malware can do to your personal devices.

Regular Scans and Monitor Settings

While having some kind of antivirus or malware detection software installed in your personal devices, it is a good practice to set up automatic scans to run every few days or weeks to make sure the software is doing its job. You can do this late at night when you’re not using it, making sure that the system doesn’t turn off or go to hibernation mode.

Keep Your Operating System Updated

Major software providers have their own operating systems, each with their own antivirus defenses. While you may feel that restarting your system and upgrading to a newer version isn’t necessary, these updates are designed to decrease your exposure to possible exploits. If you put them off, you may face consequences in the future.

Rely Only On Encrypted Networks

With all the wireless technologies that have been adopted in the last few years, our personal information is constantly being sent over public networks. Our computers connect to printers, files, and Wi-Fi constantly, and this can give easy access to hackers. Whenever you’re using a Wi-Fi network, consider using a VPN with strong encryption.

Manage Your Personal Information

All companies today keep your data in digital form: your usernames, passwords, social security numbers, home address, etc. This keeps them just a few hacks away from getting exposed. Make sure you’re giving personal information to reliable companies only and that your privacy settings on social media profiles are as strict as possible.

Browse the Internet Carefully

When browsing the internet, avoid websites that feature pirated material. Never open an email attachment from someone you don’t recognize. Also, make sure that you visit a website with an SSL certificate. 

Keep Your Devices and Information Safe

Malware is a threat humans have faced ever since the birth of computers. Over the years, this threat has become greater than ever. However, by taking the basic precautions, you can vastly improve your security and keep your devices and your personal information safe.At S-FX Small Business Solutions, along with our website design and digital advertising services, we also offer website security. Our team of cybersecurity experts can help you harden your website and mitigate any attacks from hackers.CONTACT US

Despite advances in antivirus protocols and detection technology, phishing is one of the most common methods of cybercrime. Everyone is a target in today's world. So, knowing how to detect phishing is highly important.Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting center for fraud and cybercrime, receives more than 400,000 reports of phishing emails each year, and based on the 2020 Mimecast Email Security Status, 58% of organizations saw an increase in phishing attacks in the past 12 months.

So, What's Phishing?

Phishing is a cyber attack that uses email, phone, or text messages as a weapon. The attacker is someone posing as a legitimate institution to persuade people to provide sensitive data, such as personally identifiable information, passwords, and bank and credit card details. The information is then used to access important accounts and can result in identity theft and financial loss.

5 Ways to Recognize a Phishing Scheme 

Inconsistencies in Email Addresses, Links & Domain Names

Reviewing the name of the person sending you the email is not enough. You must check their email address by hovering your mouse over the ‘from’ address and make sure no alterations - additional numbers or letters -, have been made. If an email allegedly originates from Facebook, but the domain name reads something else, report the email as a phishing attack.

Bad Grammar & Spelling Mistakes

A good way to detect phishing is bad grammar and misspellings. Many companies apply spell check tools to outgoing emails by default to make sure your emails are grammatically correct. Those who use browser-based email clients apply to autocorrect or highlight features in web browsers.

Suspicious Attachments

Legit companies don’t send unsolicited attachments. Instead, they direct you to download documents or files on their own website. Likewise, most work-related file sharing now takes place via collaboration platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox. Therefore, internal emails with attachments should always be treated suspiciously, especially if they have an unfamiliar extension or one commonly associated with malware (.zip, .exe, .scr, etc.).

The Message Demands a Sense of Urgency

A favorite tactic amongst cybercriminals is to ask you to act fast because their "super deal" is only for a limited time. Attackers often use this approach to rush recipients into action before they have had the opportunity to study the email for potential flaws or inconsistencies. When you come across these types of emails, it's best to ignore them. 

Login Credentials, Payment Information, or Sensitive Data Requests 

Professional companies don’t request your sensitive information via email or text message. If you receive an unsolicited email from an institution that provides a link or attachment that asks you for sensitive information, it’s a scam. Most companies won't send you an email asking for passwords, credit card information, credit scores, or social security number.  

How to Protect Yourself From Phishing Attacks

Cybercriminals are always trying to outsmart our system’s security, so it’s always a good idea to add extra layers of protection. Let’s explore four strategies you should apply to protect yourself and your company from phishing attacks.

Install a Security Software 

Install security software on your computer and other electronic devices (e.g your cell phone). Then, set the software to update automatically so it can deal with any new security threats. Keep in mind that these updates could give you critical protection against cybercrimes.

Protect Your Accounts With Multi-Factor Authentication

Some applications and websites offer extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in to your account. This is called multi-factor authentication, and they might fall into two categories:

• Passcode via text message or an authentication app.
• Fingerprint, retina, or face scan. 

Back-Up Your Data 

You can copy your computer files to an external hard drive or cloud storage. It's highly important to make sure those backups aren’t connected to your main network.

Get in Touch With S-FX Small Business Solutions

S-FX Small Business Solutions is an NJ-based web design & technology consulting agency that offers a wide range of services. We're proud to help start-ups, small businesses, and nonprofits to achieve their business goals, including website security. CONTACT US NOW 

Have you ever received an email or text message assuring you that you won a luxury award? It may have included a link, and if you clicked on it, you probably landed on a website that asked you to fill out personal information, including your Social Security Number. The problem? These emails and text messages are part of a scam tool called phishing used by cybercriminals and a threat to your cybersecurity.

So, What’s Phishing?

Phishing is a cybercrime in which a person or company is contacted via email, phone, or text message by someone, posing as a trusted entity, to steal user data. This includes personally identifiable information, bank and credit card details, and passwords.The recipient is tricked into clicking a malicious link, which can lead to the installation of malware, the freezing of the system as part of a ransomware attack, or the revealing of sensitive information. The ultimate goal is to access important accounts that can result in identity theft and/or financial loss.

Types of Phishing Attacks

Phishing has evolved into very highly specialized tactics and some specific types of phishing scams use more targeted methods to attack certain individuals or organizations.  

Standard Email Phishing

It's the most widely known form of phishing. This attack is an attempt to steal sensitive information via an email that appears to be from a legitimate organization. It's not a targeted attack and can be conducted en masse.

Spear Fishing

Spear phishing attackers will often gather information about their targets to fill emails with more authentic context. Some scammers even hijack business email communications and create highly customized messages.

Search Engine Phishing 

In this case, cybercriminals create fraudulent websites designed to collect personal information and direct payments. These sites can show up in organic search results or as paid advertisements.

Clone Phishing

Attackers can view legitimate, previously delivered email messages, make a nearly identical copy of them (clone), and then change an attachment or link to something malicious. 

Smishing 

SMS-enabled phishing delivers malicious short links to smartphone users, often disguised as account notices, prize notifications, and political messages.

Malware Phishing 

Utilizing the same techniques as email phishing, this attack encourages targets to click a link or download an attachment so malware can be installed on the device. 

How to Recognize Phishing

Scammers use email and text messages to trick you into giving them your information. They will try to steal your passwords, account logins, or social security numbers. If they get that information, they could access your email, bank, or other accounts.These people often update their tactics, but here are some signs to help you recognize a phishing email or text message.

Too Good To Be True 

Lucrative offers and eye-catching statements are designed to grab people's attention right away. For example, some emails claim that you have won an iPhone, a lottery, or some other luxury prize. Remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. So, just don't click on any suspicious emails. 

Unusual Sender

Whether it looks like someone you don't know is emailing you or something that seems out of the ordinary, unexpected, or just generally suspicious, don't click on it.

Attached Files

If you see an attachment in an email that you didn't expect or doesn't make sense, don't open it. They often contain payloads such as ransomware or other viruses. 

Sense of Urgency

A favorite tactic of cybercriminals is to ask you to act fast because the "super deals are for a limited time only". Some will even tell you that you only have a few minutes to respond. When you come across these types of emails, it is best to ignore them. Keep in mind that reputable organizations allow enough time before canceling an account and never ask users to update their personal details over the Internet.

Hyperlinks 

A link may not be all that it seems. A good tip is to hover over a link to display the actual URL that you will be directed to upon clicking on it. It could be completely different or it could be a popular website with a misspelling. For example, www.chasebannk.com has an extra "n" in the middle. 

Prevent Phishing Attacks With S-FX Small Business Solutions 

S-FX Small Business Solutions is an NJ-based technology consulting agency that provided customized and cost-effective solutions for companies. We offer a combination of IT access management and web application security solutions to counter phishing attempts. Get in touch with us today and learn more about our top-notch services. CONTACT US NOW

A virtual private network, or VPN, prevents others from tracking your online movements and makes your IP address untraceable. It's like a tunnel where you can send data securely by using encryption and authentication tools. Companies often use a VPN connection because it's a secure way to help employees remotely access private company networks, even when they're outside the office. If you are thinking of setting up a VPN service but are not sure how, this is the right guide to follow.

Line Up Key VPN Components

You will need a VPN client, a VPN server, and a VPN router. The downloadable client connects you to servers around the world, so employees anywhere can access your small business network. Additionally, to protect and encrypt all network traffic, you will need a VPN router. Many routers come with built-in VPN clients.

Prepare Your Devices

Sometimes VPN clients can conflict with other clients or don’t work properly. Therefore, it is a good idea to prepare your network system before setting up a VPN and to avoid problems in the future. You must uninstall any existing VPN client software that you don't need. This way, VPN clients should be able to work well together, but competing clients can be a source of problems as well, so it's best to eliminate them.Also, consider your network configuration. If you plan to install a VPN for workers who will access online resources in various ways, like Wi-Fi, 4G modems, and cable connections, you may need to spend more time setting up the VPN client.

Sign Up & Install Your Chosen VPN

The best VPNs offer apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, and both Android and iOS mobile devices, so download the program from either your app store or the official website, and install it as usual. Keep in mind that not all VPNs offer the same features at the same price. Here's a list of our favorites:

• Nord VPN
• Express VPN
• SurfShark 

Log in to the VPN

You will need to sign up for the service to get an official account, but once you're done, take your login information and enter it into the software to access the VPN service. Generally, the username and password will be what you used when you signed up with the VPN provider, although some companies ask you to create a separate login for the VPN client.

Choose Your Server 

VPNs usually provide a quick-connect button, so if you don't mind which server you connect to, select that option. After a minute or two, you will connect to the fastest server available at the time. However, if you want to make it look like you're in a particular country, you will need to choose a specific server. The VPN service you choose will have a list of countries and you can designate which ones are the best for streaming.

Select Your VPN protocols

VPN protocols decide how data is routed between your computer and the VPN server. Some protocols improve speed, while others enhance your data privacy and security.

OpenVPN

OpenVPN is becoming an industry standard and it's an open-source protocol, meaning you can view its code.

L2TP/IPSec

The Layer 2 Tunnel Protocol has strong security protections and is often bundled with the IPSec protocol. 

SSTP

The Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol is fully integrated with the Microsoft operating system.

Troubleshoot Issues 

If your VPN doesn't work immediately, you should try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Shut down and reopen the VPN client.
• Restart your device.
• Change server; choose to connect to a different server that is close to your physical location.
• Try connecting with different protocols, assuming the VPN client allows you to change them.

Sometimes firewalls or security software can disrupt VPN connections. You can temporarily disable the software that might be causing the problem, but make sure to turn it back on once you connect to prevent leaving your business systems vulnerable to attack.

Need More Help?

S-FX Small Business Solutions is a technology consulting agency that offers personalized and affordable services. We can help you improve the security of your company and mitigate any possible attacks from malicious hackers. Get in touch with us today and learn more about our top-notch services. CONTACT US NOW 

How exactly does a VPN work? Basically, it has to do with cybersecurity.Since 2020, working at home has become the trend. Employees are often more productive in the environment where they’re most comfortable and companies save a lot of money on office space. But sometimes, businesses forget about the importance of cybersecurity. When workers connect to your company's network from home, their online security is even more crucial. They're exposed to sensitive data and usually, home networks don't have the necessary protection. For this reason, the most effective way to secure their communication channels is by routing through a VPN.

What Is a VPN? 

A virtual private network, also known as, VPN, is an encrypted connection over the Internet from a device to a network. The ultimate goal of a VPN is to keep your private information private. So, it provides users with a virtual network that is private so that they can connect to the internet in a way that is safe and secure. Also, it prevents unauthorized people from accessing the network and allows the user to conduct work remotely. Overall, a VPN helps ensure that sensitive data is safely transmitted and it's frequently used in corporate environments.

So, How Does It Work?

When you connect to a secure VPN server, your internet traffic goes through an encrypted tunnel that nobody can see into, including hackers, the Government, and your internet service provider (ISP). Therefore, when your data is transmitted to the Internet, it comes from the VPN instead of your computer. It acts as a kind of middleman when you connect to the Internet, hiding your IP address and protecting your identity. Besides, if your data is somehow intercepted, it will be unreadable until it reaches its final destination.

The Basics of VPN Encryption

VPN encryption is a method that generates a key to encrypt digital data to ensure that unauthorized parties can’t access it. VPN encryption secures the data between a VPN client and a VPN tunnel, barring anyone from exploiting it. You can use encryption to protect and secure files on your computer or the data you send and receive.Encryption hides your information in such a way that it cannot be read without a very strong password, known as the key. This key essentially breaks the complicated code that your data has been turned into, and only your computer and the VPN server know it.

Privacy & Safety Guaranteed 

When using a reliable VPN service, you're guaranteeing your company's privacy and safety. 

Your Browsing History Will Be Private

A VPN hides your browsing and search history from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). The only thing the ISP will see is your encrypted traffic traveling to the VPN server. Additionally, good VPNs will prevent your mobile carrier, and basically anyone else, from seeing your online activity, thanks to a strong layer of encryption.

You Can Hide Your Current Location 

Without a VPN, your IP address gives away your physical location. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country. You can browse the internet as if you were in the UK, Germany, Canada, Japan, or virtually anywhere if the VPN service has servers there.

Your Internet Activities are Anonymous 

A no-logs VPN guarantees that no one knows what you’re doing on the web. 

Protect Your Business’ With S-FX Small Business Solutions

S-FX Small Business Solutions is NJ's favorite technology consulting agency. We offer top-notch, customized services at affordable prices. Our team of expert professionals can help you strengthen your website's safety and mitigate any possible attacks from malicious hackers. Remember that your customer’s personal information and credit card details must be secured at all times. LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES NOW 

Are you interested in getting more privacy online? Installing a VPN is the perfect way to start. A Virtual Private Network or VPN is a service that protects your Internet connection and your privacy online. It creates an encrypted tunnel for your data, protects your online identity by hiding your IP address, and allows you to use public Wi-Fi access points safely. A VPN is the easiest and most effective way for people to protect their internet traffic and keep their identities private. Here's a complete guide to the basics of VPNs, including how they work, their benefits, and why you shouldn't surf without one. 

Why Do You Need a VPN?

Change Your Location

Your IP address is a unique set of numbers that identifies your device when it connects to the Internet. You can think of it as a home address for your device, but it looks like this: 192.158.1. 1.38. When using a VPN, your IP address changes and allows you to browse the internet as you wish. Sometimes the content that you're trying to access is restricted where you're located, so you won't be able to see it. 

Encrypt Your Data

Changing your IP address with a VPN helps shield your identity from websites, apps, and services that want to track you. Good VPNs also prevent your internet provider, mobile carrier, and anyone else who may be listening from seeing your activity, due to a strong layer of protection. This way, you'll protect your internet traffic and minimize your online footprint. As a result, your internet service provider won’t be able to sell your entire browsing history to the highest bidder.

Access Blocked Content

One of the main benefits a VPN stands for is universal content access. If you’re in a part of the world that restricts access to Google, Wikipedia, YouTube, or any other site, a VPN will let you regain access to the free internet. Also, If using streaming services and social networks while being abroad is important to you, a VPN can help.

How a VPN Works 

A VPN works by creating a secure and private tunnel between your device and the rest of the Internet. With a VPN connection, your traffic first goes to the VPN server, and only then is it forwarded to the rest of the web. On the other hand, without a VPN, all of your internet traffic is potentially exposed. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP), the Government, hackers, and other people on a shared network can see what you're doing. 

VPNs we recommend

Not all VPNs offer the same features at the same price. We recommend researching the best VPNs out there and comparing features and price points based on your needs. However, here are some of our favorites:

1. Nord VPN: Nord VPN is very secure and great for large tasks like streaming. You'll pay for what you get, and it's a worthwhile buy.
2. Express VPN is possibly the best VPN available out there currently. It's very fast, reliable, customizable in terms of privacy, and you can try it for free if you want to.
3. Surfshark is your bargain VPN at just a few dollars a month. It has excellent performance and you can use it on a lot of devices.

Get Started With S-FX Small Business Solutions

S-FX Small Business Solutions is an NJ-based web design & technology consulting agency that offers a wide range of services, including VPN software installation and monitoring. We’re experienced professionals who create customized solutions based on our customers' needs. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our cost-effective services. CONTACT US NOW 

Nowadays, technology is indispensable for any business, from startups to big corporations. The world is constantly going through a technological revolution, so it's extremely important to keep up to date. Of course, depending on the needs of your business, you will need specific technologies that other companies probably do not need. But, there are basic technological solutions that every business owner should know and consider investing in. Let's explore some of them and embrace them to boost your growth and success. 

Web Design 

Having a website is no longer optional and you must provide the best first impression to every potential customer. You shouldn't use pre-paid website designs. Instead, hire a tech-savvy professional who can build-out a site that represents your business and entertains your target audience at the same time. You could use your website to inform them about your services and prices and let them purchase from the comfort of their home. 

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Frequently a customer relationship management is only used for sales purposes. However, a CRM allows you to log and track every aspect of every relationship you build. You'll know how long it’s been since you’ve followed up with loyal customers, which users are visiting your website, or filling out forms but not closing the deal on a purchase. It helps you stay internally organized and top-of-mind with customers.

SEO Services

If your company does most of its business online, investing in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services will positively impact your business. SEO uses specific keywords and search algorithms to make it easier for search engines to find your site. This way, your business will have more opportunities to rank on the first page of search results on different engines like Google. Also, it's highly recommended to invest in other marketing practices; digital marketing, branding, and much more. 

Technology Consulting

The goal of a technology consultancy is to inform clients about how to use their IT practices to achieve their business goals. IT consulting services can range from creating a technology to managing a process system for a business. In some cases, it includes examining the risk of an existing system. In the end, you will maximize your company's efficiency and reduce costs. 

Build a Successful Business With S-FX Small Business Solutions 

Technology will never stop evolving, so having an experienced IT advisor on your side is vital for your business success. With over a decade of experience, S-FX.com Small Business Solutions has become the best business consulting experts in town. Get in touch with us and learn more about our services. DISCOVER MORE NOW 

When building a brand, one of the most important things to consider is consistency. Your brand is the face of your business and delivering the right message to your target audience at all times is key to being successful. Let’s explore four reasons why your brand needs to be consistent and how to create a reliable experience for every customer. 

Increases Brand Recognition 

The main benefit of brand consistency is brand recognition. This marketing strategy helps to build a strong association between your core values and the visual elements of your brand

Sets You Apart From The Competition

In a competitive environment with a variety of near-identical offerings, brand consistency often means the difference between earning a client’s approval or losing them to the competition. You should take advantage of brand consistency to frequently communicate what makes your company better than the rest.

Improves Brand Awareness

Clients are more likely to buy from a brand they recognize for its image and uniformity of content. Therefore, it's very important to create awareness with a consistent brand and marketing. Your content should be posted at similar times, have the same color theme, photo quality, and logo placement. This way, your audience will easily recognize your brand when they see it.

It's Marketing on a Higher Level

Consistency takes your brand to the next level in marketing. People will think of your company without showing them a slogan, a price, or even a name. Your brand is so consistent that potential customers are already thinking about making their next purchase from your store. As a result, you’re no longer convincing consumers to stop by or purchase your products. 

Builds Trust & Loyalty 

According to Global Banking and Finance, people are 71% more likely to purchase from a brand or company that they trust. For example, no one wonders if a bottle of Coca-Cola will taste good because brand consistency ensures that it’s always the same.  You'll build a successful brand that clients will identify whenever they go.

Brand Consistency is Essential for Every Business

Brand consistency is a must for any business that wants to build brand awareness and build trust among its target audience. Without it, they won’t recognize your brand or associate it with positive values and emotions.If you want to give your customers a reliable experience and make sure your voice and tone are consistent, get in touch with S-FX Small Business Solutions. With several decades of combined experience, our skilled and talented business consultants will help you identify and establish the right brand for your business. CONTACT US NOW