Clearwater, FL · Frequently asked questions

Cybersecurity questions, answered simply.

Straight answers for Clearwater and Tampa Bay business owners about malware, testing, email security, training, and managed protection.

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FAQ

Microsoft 365, email security & InboxGuard

Do you work with Microsoft 365?

Yes. InboxGuard adds onto Microsoft 365 to catch the phishing and impersonation email that gets through Microsoft Defender, and our team supports businesses that run on Microsoft 365.

What is InboxGuard?

InboxGuard adds onto Microsoft 365 to catch the phishing and impersonation email that gets through Microsoft Defender. It re-checks every message that lands in the inbox against ten checks.

Does InboxGuard replace Microsoft Defender?

InboxGuard works alongside Microsoft Defender. Defender filters first, and InboxGuard takes a second look after delivery.

Will our team notice a change?

Mail keeps flowing the same way. Your admin approves one connection, and InboxGuard runs in the cloud.

FAQ

Malware & ransomware

How do I know if a computer has malware?

Common signs include sudden slowness, pop-ups, programs you did not install, settings that change on their own, files you cannot open, and a ransom note on screen. If you notice any of these, call us and we will walk you through next steps.

What should I do first if I think we have ransomware?

Disconnect the affected computer from the network and Wi-Fi, leave it powered on, and call us. Keeping it on preserves evidence that helps the cleanup.

Do you help businesses outside Clearwater?

Yes. Our office is in Clearwater, and we serve businesses across Tampa Bay, including Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Largo.

How do we keep malware from coming back?

After cleanup, we close the gap it came through and recommend ongoing protection, such as threat monitoring, email security, and employee training.

FAQ

Penetration testing & assessments

What can a business penetration test cover?

The scope is agreed before work begins. Depending on your needs and authorization, a test may focus on a website, application, or network. The first conversation helps identify which systems matter most and what decisions the findings should support.

Will a test disrupt our day-to-day work?

Testing boundaries and timing should be discussed before any activity starts. Some techniques can affect systems, so a written scope should identify the targets, allowed methods, contacts, and how to pause if an issue occurs. We do not test systems without authorization.

What happens after vulnerabilities are found?

Findings should be explained in practical terms, including the affected system, why the issue matters, and a priority for remediation. Your team can then decide what to fix first and whether a follow-up review is useful. A consultation is a chance to discuss the deliverables for your particular scope.

Do you work with businesses outside Clearwater?

Online Securitys is based in Clearwater and welcomes inquiries from businesses across Tampa Bay, including Largo, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, St. Petersburg, and Tampa. The location of any work, timing, and service availability can be discussed during a consultation.

FAQ

Employee training

How does it start?

With a consultation. We look at your team and your goals together, then you decide the next step.

What does training include?

Short, story-style lessons, realistic phishing practice emails, and progress reports with time tracking for management.

How long are the lessons?

Short. The minutes are shown on every lesson card, so your team knows the time up front.

Who do I call with a question?

Richard Caldwell, your point of contact, at (727) 340-3921.

FAQ

Managed security

What does managed security include?

A monthly plan that combines 24/7 threat monitoring, email protection with InboxGuard for Microsoft 365, employee security training with phishing practice, and a local point of contact for questions.

Who is managed security a good fit for?

Tampa Bay businesses that want ongoing protection and one local team to call, without hiring a full-time security staff.

How do we get started?

Call (727) 340-3921 or request a consultation. We learn about your team and systems, then recommend the plan that fits.

Have a different question?

Call Online Securitys in Clearwater and get a straight answer.

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