IT professional gives expert tips for cybersecurity

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Via public records requests from News-Press NOW, it was indicated that the City of St. Joseph suffered a cyberattack that attacked local networks and exposed thousands of citizens' data.

Staying safe online is crucial for everyone and possessing strong cybersecurity knowledge can help protect users from data leaks and breaches.

According to Statista, in the second quarter of 2025, nearly 94 million data records were leaked in breaches.

Employee data and passwords are often targeted, especially those that are not as strong.

News-Press NOW reached out to CEO Tim Conard of TS Conard Technology Solutions for advice on how to protect personal information online, and he discussed an emphasis on password protection.

"Password managers are absolutely critical. And yes, there are some free ones, but keep in mind you always get what you pay for," Conard said.

Password managers help create and store passwords online, ensuring that users are securing their online information.

Conrad also said it is important to never interact with any unfamiliar links, messages or calls that ask for information.