September 2025

What Should Every Bakersfield Business Include in a Cybersecurity Checklist Before October?

Posted on September 17, 2025September 17, 2025 by ARRC Technology

October is knocking, and here’s the real question: if a breach happened tomorrow, could you prove your business was ready? Hackers don’t pause for busy seasons—if anything, they strike hardest when you’re distracted. And the reality is, the busier you are, the more vulnerable your business becomes. This cybersecurity checklist for SMBs will help you to quickly assess where your business stands before Cybersecurity Awareness Month officially begins, marking the peak cyber threat season. We know you’ve been busy running your company, so we’ll make this simple. Let’s look at what you should check, what you might have missed, and how you can catch up without breaking your budget or your schedule.

Whether you’re completely on top of your security game or you’re just now realizing that you haven’t thought about it since spring, this Q3 cybersecurity recap for small businesses will help you get back on track right when it matters the most.

What Changed in the Cybersecurity World During Q3?

If you feel like the concept of cybersecurity grew more complicated this quarter, you’re not imagining it. Here’s what shifted in the landscape while you were focused on running your business:

The countdown to Windows 10 End-of-Life entered its final stage. We’re now just weeks away from October 14, when Microsoft stops supporting Windows 10. What was once a very distant deadline is now right around the corner. Many Bakersfield businesses are rushing now—don’t be the one still on Windows 10 when support ends.
Cyber insurance policies became significantly stricter. Insurance companies have been tightening their requirements across the board. What used to be mere recommendations are now mandatory requirements, and the penalties if you don’t comply are growing more and more expensive. Insurers across every industry are tightening controls; the fastest-growing firms are already adjusting their policies.
Dark web threats increased throughout Q3. Cybercriminals have been very busy, and their tools have been getting better; the volume of stolen business data hitting the underground markets has grown substantially.
Compliance checklists became longer and more detailed. Whether it’s cyber insurance, industry regulations, or vendor requirements, the bar for what “adequate security” looks like keeps getting higher.

The good news is that most of these changes are surprisingly manageable if you tackle them systematically. That’s exactly what this cybersecurity action plan for business aims to help you do.

What Should You Review for Windows 10 Upgrades Before October?

July was supposed to be the month for getting serious about your Windows 10 migration planning. With the October 14 deadline looming, this was the ideal time for businesses to identify which systems were still running unsupported versions and make their upgrade decisions. Insurance companies already treat unsupported systems as negligence—meaning one outdated device could be all it takes to void your coverage.

Here’s what you should ask yourself right now:

Have you taken an inventory of every device your business uses? We don’t mean just counting the obvious computers on desks; this includes tablets, point-of-sale systems, digital signage, security cameras, and any other devices that might be running Windows.
Do you know which of your systems can be upgraded and which ones need to be replaced? Keep in mind that not every Windows 10 machine can handle Windows 11, and some specialized software might not be compatible with the newer operating systems at all.
Have you budgeted for the upgrades or replacements you’ll need? Between hardware costs, software licensing, and potential downtime, Windows migration can impact your cash flow if you haven’t planned for it carefully.

If you’re behind on any of these questions, don’t panic. It’s easy to get distracted by more pressing issues, and many businesses in Bakersfield are in the same boat as you. The key is to make decisions quickly so you can execute them before the deadline hits.

What Cyber Insurance Compliance Issues Should Bakersfield Businesses Review in 2025?

August should have ideally been dedicated to reviewing and updating your cyber insurance coverage. With many policies renewing in Q4, this would have been a good time to make sure you weren’t going to be caught off guard by new requirements.

Here’s a look at the big compliance areas that tripped up SMBs this quarter:

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) became non-negotiable for most policies. This means that if you’re still relying on just passwords, your coverage could already be at risk.
Backup and recovery systems need to meet very specific standards. Having backups is not enough on its own; they need to be tested, documented, and follow the 3-2-1 rule (3 copies, 2 different media types, 1 offsite).
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools are increasingly being required. Sadly, basic antivirus protection doesn’t cut it for most insurance requirements these days.
Running supported operating systems is mandatory. This ties directly back to that Windows 10 deadline; using an unsupported system can void your coverage entirely.
Employee training documentation must be current and comprehensive. Skipping this step is one of the fastest ways insurers raise premiums—or drop coverage entirely. Insurance companies are going to want to see proof that your team knows how to spot and avoid cyber threats.

If you filed a claim tomorrow, how confident are you that your insurance company would actually pay out? Many business owners assume they’re covered, only to find out during a crisis that they missed a critical requirement.

How Can Businesses Spot Cybersecurity Weaknesses Before October?

September was the right time for carrying out a proactive threat assessment and focusing on employee awareness preparation. With Cybersecurity Awareness Month approaching, this was the moment to identify your vulnerabilities and shore up your defenses.

The key areas September should have covered include:

Dark web scanning to identify any compromised credentials and exposed data. Most businesses have no idea that their information is already being sold online. In fact, dark web scans in Bakersfield routinely uncover credentials business owners never knew were exposed. You can’t protect information that you don’t know is compromised.
Phishing simulation and employee training to test and improve your human firewall. One wrong click from an untrained employee isn’t just a mistake—it’s a six-figure recovery bill. Just one well-meaning click from an untrained employee can undo all your technical security measures.
Security awareness program updates to prepare your team for the sharp climb in threat activity that typically comes with Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Vulnerability assessments to identify any gaps in your technical defenses before attackers find them.
A review of your incident response plan to make sure everyone knows what they should do if something goes wrong.

If September got away from you, don’t feel bad. You’re not alone. But these items become even more critical as we head into October’s heightened threat environment, and there is still time to take action.

What Cybersecurity Checklist Should You Prioritize Before October Hits?

Here’s your catch-up cybersecurity checklist for SMBs. Don’t try to tackle everything at once; we recommend prioritizing based on your biggest risks and most pressing deadlines:

Immediate Priorities (This Week):

Run a dark web scan to see what’s already exposed
Take an inventory of your Windows 10 systems and confirm your upgrade and replacement plans
Review your cyber insurance requirements and identify any gaps that need to be addressed
Test your backup systems to make sure they actually work

This Month (Before October):

Replace or upgrade any unsupported systems that can’t wait
Implement multi-factor authentication on all of your critical accounts
Complete security awareness training for all employees
Document your business’s incident response procedures
Schedule a planning session with your IT support team

Ongoing (Throughout Q4):

Monitor your dark web exposure by carrying out regular scans
Conduct monthly phishing simulations
Review and update your security policies
Plan for your insurance policy renewals

Think of this as your reality check. If you’re reading this cybersecurity action plan for business and realizing you’re behind on multiple items, you’re in good company. Most SMBs are juggling security requirements with everything else on their plates, just like you.

Don’t Go Into October Unprepared

For businesses in Bakersfield, staying ahead of threats with comprehensive cybersecurity checklist measures isn’t just about compliance; it’s about protecting everything you have worked so hard to build. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month because it brings increased threat activity, and it’s often the start of cyber insurance renewal season.

Our question isn’t whether you have time to address these security priorities. The question is whether you can afford not to.

This Q3 cybersecurity recap for small businesses might seem overwhelming, but keep in mind that you don’t have to tackle everything alone. The smartest business owners know when to get help, and cybersecurity is definitely an area where having expertise and experience matters.

Are you ready to see where your business really stands? Start with our complimentary Cybersecurity Toolkit—it includes a Policy Comparison Guide, broker questions, and a Cyber Risk Checklist to give you the same baseline insurers use. Hackers won’t wait until you’re ready—so why should you?

Need help catching up on the bigger items? Let’s schedule a priority discovery call to create a realistic action plan that suits your timeline and budget.

Here’s the truth: this cybersecurity checklist only works if you act on it. October is coming whether you’re ready or not. The question is, will you be ahead of the curve or scrambling when it matters most?

FAQ

Q: What is a cybersecurity readiness checklist?

A: It’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your systems, policies, and employees meet security and insurance requirements before a breach or audit.

Q: Why is Q3 a critical time for cybersecurity?

A: Because October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, when insurers and attackers both increase their activity.

Q: What are the biggest risks of falling behind on security updates?

A: Unsupported systems create vulnerabilities that hackers exploit and insurers treat as negligence.

Q: Do dark web scans really help businesses?

A: Yes—scans reveal if employee or company credentials are already for sale online.

Q: How do I find a cybersecurity MSP near me? A: Choose someone who offers local cybersecurity support and proactive planning. ARRC Technology helps businesses in Bakersfield stay secure and audit-ready.

Alex Rogers Founder and CEO of ARRC Technology

Posted on September 10, 2025 by ARRC Technology

Alex Rogers: Founder, Fighter, and Relentless CEO

Many know Alex Rogers as the driving force behind ARRC Technology—but his story is more than just running companies. It’s about grit, survival, and building legacies that outlast obstacles.

Back in January 1992, Alex launched ARRC Technology in Bakersfield, California with just $300 and no college degree—a bold leap that set the stage for one of the most recognized Managed Service Providers in the world (Channel Futures). What began as a small PC repair shop transformed into a multimillion-dollar MSP after Rogers pivoted from the break-fix model to managed services, even as competitors like Costco and CompUSA entered the market.

Industry Accolades & Recognition

That $300 gamble grew into a company consistently recognized on the national stage:

Inc. 5000’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America – ARRC earned this distinction six times (The Org).

Top 100 Global MSPs – ARRC was ranked seven times among the most elite service providers worldwide

Top 501 MSPs – ARRC secured its place on Channel Futures’ global rankings, with revenues projected at $14 million during its growth peak (Channel Futures).

Not stopping there, Rogers launched CharTec in 2009—a business accelerator to equip other MSPs with the tools, training, and sales strategies they need to thrive. CharTec itself has earned numerous awards, including:

CRN Channel Chief (multiple years) (CharTec)

Best Breakout Session, Best Revenue Generator, and Best in Show at IT Nation events (CharTec)

Innovator of the Year from Bull’s Eye (CharTec)

Recognition as an Inc. 5000 company, MSPMentor Top 100 MSP, and Business Solutions Magazine Best Channel Vendor & Product (CharTec)

Status as a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and Mitel Platinum Solution Provider (Fisher’s Tech Speaker Bio)

In 2013, Rogers was also named to the SMB 150 Influencers List, a prestigious recognition for the top IT channel leaders shaping the industry.

Leadership Through Adversity

What truly sets Alex apart isn’t just the accolades—it’s his resilience. He has survived two life-threatening aneurysms, one in 2020 and another in 2024. Most people would have slowed down. Alex came back stronger, sharper, and more determined than ever.

That fighter’s instinct defines his leadership style: tough, direct, and always forward. Talk to anyone who’s worked with him, and they’ll tell you he doesn’t waste time. But he inspires, because when you’ve stared down life twice, you know what really matters—and you never, ever give up.

Giving Back to Kern County

Beyond business, Alex remains rooted in Kern County. Under his leadership, ARRC supports causes like CASA, the Boys & Girls Club, and local anti-violence initiatives.

Through its Tech For Kids program, ARRC regularly donates computers to underserved students, giving the next generation access to technology they otherwise wouldn’t have.

It’s a reflection of Rogers’ belief that technology should be a bridge to opportunity, not a barrier.

ARRC has also extended this mission through partnerships with organizations like Youth for Christ, where they’ve donated computers to help students gain access to learning resources and opportunities they otherwise may not have had (Youth for Christ Donation Video). This initiative demonstrates Rogers’ commitment to ensuring technology serves as a tool for empowerment across Kern County’s youth communities.

In addition to his business and technology outreach, Alex is also a passionate animal advocate who supports Mutts and Runts Rescue, a local nonprofit dedicated to saving and rehoming dogs in need. He is equally committed to civic engagement as a proud member of the Bakersfield Breakfast Lions Club, contributing to projects that serve the local community through leadership and philanthropy.

Legacy

At the end of the day, Alex Rogers isn’t just the founder of ARRC Technology and CharTec. He’s a survivor, an innovator, and a leader who turned $300 into two powerhouse companies.

He’s built businesses recognized nationally, helped transform an entire industry, and continues to give back to the community that raised him. Most of all, he’s proof that true strength comes not from avoiding challenges—but from refusing to break, even when life tries twice to take you out.

ARRC’s publication, Five Technology Saving Tips (PDF), reaffirms Alex’s role as Founder and CEO, underscoring the legacy he’s built since 1992.

What Are the Top 5 Cybersecurity Mistakes Business Professionals Make Before Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Posted on September 10, 2025 by ARRC Technology

October is almost here, and every year we see the same thing—businesses scrambling to catch up after threats have already spiked. Here’s the real question: if a breach happened tomorrow, could you prove you were ready? The cybersecurity mistakes SMBs make in September often come back to haunt them in October and beyond. But smart business owners are well aware that the weeks leading up to Cybersecurity Awareness Month are when you need to be the most prepared, not the most vulnerable.

Let’s take a look at the five biggest mistakes we see small businesses making right now, and more importantly, how you can fix them before it’s too late.

Mistake 1: Do Hackers Really Target Business Professionals?

This might be the most dangerous myth in the business world today. We can’t tell you how many times we’ve heard, “We’re just a small company. Who would want to hack us?”

Here’s the reality: hackers love small businesses precisely because you’re small. This means you’re easier for them to crack and less likely to have robust security measures in place, yet often every bit as profitable to hit. Phishing attacks and ransomware don’t care if you have 5 employees or 500. That’s why insurers are cracking down—because attackers go after businesses that think they’re “too small” to be worth hacking.

Just last month, we heard from a local accounting firm that thought their small size made them invisible to hackers. One of their employees clicked on what appeared to be an innocent client email, and within hours, their entire system was fully locked down. “We thought it was just spam,” the owner told me, “until it locked our system and started demanding $15,000.”

Mistake 2: What Happens If You Delay Cybersecurity Basics Like MFA and Patching?

Multi-factor authentication, software patching, system updates… These measures aren’t optional anymore, yet we see businesses putting off these basics week after week, month after month.

The cyber risks for SMBs during cybersecurity awareness month spike partly because attackers know that many small businesses are still running on outdated and unpatched systems. Plus, Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025. That’s just weeks away!

Insurers already view outdated systems as negligence, and it’s one of the fastest ways to get your claim denied.

If your system was compromised tomorrow because of an old security patch you never bothered to install, how would you explain that to your customers? Or your insurance company?

Mistake 3: How Can You Tell If Your Data Is Already on the Dark Web?

Most businesses have no idea that their credentials are already up for sale on the dark web. This is one of the most common cybersecurity mistakes for small business owners; they just assume that if they haven’t been notified, it must mean they haven’t been breached.

You wouldn’t go into Q4 without checking your books, so why would you ignore your security exposure?

Here’s what typically shows up when we run dark web scans for businesses in Bakersfield:

Employee passwords from past breaches
Email addresses linked to compromised accounts
Customer data that has been circulating for months
Login credentials for services that the business forgot it even used

The scariest part is that most of this information is just sitting there, waiting for someone to use it against you. One local business only found out their CFO’s email was on the dark web after attackers used it to launch a wire fraud scam.

Mistake 4: Why Does Employee Training Matter for Cybersecurity?

One wrong click could end up costing you thousands of dollars and months of headaches. Yet many businesses either skip employee cybersecurity training entirely, or they did it once two years ago and think they’re still covered.

Your team needs regular cyber awareness refreshers. This can take just minutes, and it can save you everything. New phishing techniques are constantly popping up, and attackers are getting smarter every day when it comes to making their emails look legitimate.

Consider this: your best employee, the one you trust the most, gets an email that looks like it’s from you asking them to update payroll information. Their job is to help, so they click. Game over.

That single click can wipe out months of revenue, and insurers now specifically ask about your employee training records before they’ll approve coverage.

Mistake 5: Why Is an Incident Response Plan Critical for Business Professionals?

If your business got hit with a cyberattack tomorrow morning, what would you actually do?

Most businesses we talk to in Bakersfield do not have any type of incident response plan. They’re hoping nothing happens, but they have no strategy for when something does. Companies without a plan lose more time, more money, and more customer trust when incidents happen.

Having a plan doesn’t just help you respond faster; it often means the difference between staying in business and shutting down forever. Without one, insurers assume you’re unprepared—and they’ll use that to hike your premiums or deny coverage.

Don’t Make These Cybersecurity Mistakes SMBs Make Every Year

For businesses in Bakersfield, staying ahead with solid cybersecurity measures isn’t just smart; it’s essential for surviving in today’s threat environment. The good news is that most of these mistakes can be fixed, and you don’t need a huge budget or a technical degree to address them.

Start with the smartest first step: download our complimentary Cybersecurity Toolkit. Inside, you’ll get a Policy Comparison Guide, smart broker questions, and a Cyber Risk Checklist to help you spot and fix gaps before October. Hackers won’t wait—why should you?

The truth about cybersecurity mistakes? They’re only mistakes if you fix them in time. October is coming whether you’re ready or not. The question is, will you be ahead of the curve or scrambling when it matters most? Are you ready to find out what’s already tied to your business online? Schedule a Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment today, and we’ll run a dark web scan on your domain to show exactly what attackers could already be using against you.

FAQ

Q: What’s the most common cybersecurity mistake businesses make?

A: Believing they’re “too small to target.” Hackers prefer small businesses because they’re easier to breach.

Q: Do software updates really make a difference?

A: Yes. Unpatched systems are one of the top entry points for ransomware and phishing attacks.

Q: How do I know if my employees are a cyber risk?

A: If they haven’t had training in the last 12 months, chances are they could fall for phishing or social engineering scams.

Q: Why is an incident response plan so important?

A: Without one, businesses lose more money, more time, and more trust after an attack.

Q: How do I find a cybersecurity partner near me?

A: Choose someone who offers local cybersecurity support and proactive planning. ARRC Technology helps business professionals in Bakersfield avoid costly mistakes.

Is Your Business Ready for Cybersecurity Awareness Month? Here’s How to Prepare

Posted on September 3, 2025 by ARRC Technology

October is coming fast, and with it comes a surge of cyber threats that most business owners aren’t prepared for. But here’s something most don’t know: there’s a simple step you can take right now to spot hidden vulnerabilities before they cost you clients, cash, or your credibility. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is right around the corner—don’t wait until it’s too late.

If you’re running a business in Bakersfield, you’re already juggling a million things. The last thing you need is for a cyberattack to derail your operations while you’re focusing on hitting those year-end targets. Let’s walk through exactly how you can prepare for Cybersecurity Awareness Month so you can sleep better at night.

Why Do Cyber Threats Spike in the Fall?

September and October are perfect hunting seasons for cybercriminals, and they know it. Here’s why:

– Seasonal phishing campaigns ramp up as scammers take advantage of the back-to-school chaos and holiday shopping prep

– Your employees are distracted by summer vacation schedules, falling into new school routines, and dealing with end-of-year pressure

– October has become “go time” for organized cyber attacks; it’s like Black Friday for hackers

– Business owners are laser-focused on their Q4 goals, which means they often miss security gaps

Running your business without checking the dark web is like leaving your front door unlocked in a sketchy neighborhood. Sure, you might get lucky and they could target someone else, but do you really want to take the risk?

What Common Cybersecurity Gaps Are Businesses Missing?

Most business owners we talk to in Bakersfield think they’re covered because they have antivirus software and a firewall. This is a great start, but it overlooks so many other important factors:

– Expired passwords that are still active on old accounts nobody remembers

– New hires who never underwent proper security training (or any training at all)

– Ancient Windows systems that are still humming along in the background, especially with Windows 10 support ending on October 14

– Gaps in your cyber insurance requirements that could leave you holding the bag

Here’s a question you might want to think over for a while: If your business got hit tomorrow, would your insurance actually pay out? Many policies have specific security requirements that businesses don’t even know about. If you don’t meet them, your coverage could be voided.

Why a Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment Should Be Your First Move

You know how you’re supposed to check your credit score from time to time to see if someone’s been messing with your finances? A cybersecurity readiness assessment is like that, but for your business data. After all, you can’t protect what you don’t know is exposed.

Here’s what typically shows up when we assess businesses:

– Some employee email addresses are already compromised

– Passwords are being sold on underground forums

– Customer data has been floating around for months

The most upsetting part is that most business owners have no idea their information is out there. The good news is that once you know what’s exposed, you can actually do something about it.

How to Prepare for Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is like tax season for IT. If you prepare for it in advance, it’s smooth sailing, but if you wait until the last minute, it’s going to be quite a scramble. Here’s your September action plan:

– Get that Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment done (seriously, do this first)

– Review your security checklist with someone who actually knows what they’re looking at

– Plan a phishing simulation for your team; it’s better if they fail in practice than for real

– Schedule an employee training refresh before October hits

– Audit your software updates and patch anything that needs patching

Start Preparing Now For Cybersecurity Awareness Month

For businesses in Bakersfield, staying ahead of the game with solid cybersecurity measures can make all the difference when it comes to protecting sensitive data and maintaining your clients’ trust. The question isn’t whether cyber threats will increase this fall; it’s whether your business will be ready when they do.

Don’t wait until October to prepare for Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The hackers certainly aren’t waiting. Set aside 30 minutes this week to get your complimentary Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment done, and then you’ll know exactly where you stand.

If this is a priority for your operations, this is at the core of what our MSP does. Contact us today for further assistance! Are you ready to see what’s already out there with your business’s name on it? Get your Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment and make sure October doesn’t bring any unwelcome surprises!