THE_LOG_FILES#SHOW LOG

IN TODAYS EMAIL:

• Latest News:🚨 Google Warns Gmail Users: Update Passwords Now

• Advice & Tips: 🤝 Networking in IT: 7 Ways to Build Valuable Connections

• 🔗 The Uplink (Resource of the Week): 🛒 My Amazon Store

• Latest Episode: 💪 Building Real Confidence in IT

INDUSTRY TRENDS & NEWS:

🚨 Google Warns Gmail Users: Update Passwords Now

💻 The Ping

Google has warned its 2.5 billion Gmail users to update their passwords after hackers pulled off a wave of “successful intrusions.”

📑 The Log

• Hackers gained access by tricking users into fake sign-in pages or stealing 2FA codes.

• Only 1 in 3 users regularly update their passwords, Google data shows.

• Google is urging users to enable two-factor authentication immediately.

• A related breach of Google’s Salesforce database highlights new risks of social engineering — bad actors pretending to be IT support staff.

• Hacker group ShinyHunters may escalate tactics by launching a data leak site.

🗂️ Check the Log File

If Google accounts are compromised, it’s not just personal data at risk. For IT pros, weak security can expose client accounts, work credentials, or entire org networks.

⌨️ The Command Line

Run this command: Update your Gmail password today and enable 2FA. Audit your team’s accounts for reused or outdated logins.

ADVICE & TIPS:

🤝 Networking in IT: 7 Ways to Build Valuable Connections

💻 The Ping

Breaking into IT isn’t just about certs — it’s about who you know and the connections you build.

📑 The Log

Here are 7 ways to network as an IT professional:

1. Social Media → Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and GitHub to connect with IT pros, ask questions, and follow people already where you want to be.

2. Online Communities → Join Reddit subs (CCNA, CCNP, etc.) or Quora to ask questions, share ideas, and learn from others.

3. Industry Events → Attend conferences like Cisco Live, AWS re:Invent, VMware Explore, or DEF CON. In-person events create lasting connections.

4. Local Meetups → Use Meetup.com to find IT user groups near you. Even if they’re in the next city, showing up opens new doors.

5. Personal Website or Blog → Showcase your projects, write about what you’re learning, or start a YouTube channel/podcast to attract like-minded pros.

6. Mentorships → Seek out mentors who are already in roles you aspire to. Vet them carefully, but a good mentor can cut years off your learning curve.

7. Cold Outreach → Don’t be afraid to DM or email someone doing what you want to do. Most people are willing to share advice if you just ask.

🗂️ Check the Log File

As an IT pro, you might be the only tech person in your friend group. Networking gives you people to learn from, bounce ideas off of, and potentially land your next role or higher pay. Remember: your network = your net worth.

⌨️ The Command Line

Run this command: Pick one new networking channel this week (LinkedIn, Meetup, Reddit, etc.) and start one new conversation.

🔗 The Uplink (Resource of the Week):

🛒 My Amazon Store

Books + gear to level up in tech:

👉 amazon.com/shop/debtfreeinitwmike

OUTRO:

💪 Building Real Confidence in IT

💻 The Ping

In IT, confidence is everything. But let’s be real—sometimes you feel behind, like everyone else knows more, and you start questioning if you even belong. I’ve been there too.

📑 The Log

Here are 5 practical ways to build confidence in tech:

1. Do labs, not just books → Nothing builds belief like hands-on practice.

2. Track your progress → Small wins add up and shift your mindset.

3. Teach what you learn → Explaining to others proves you actually know it.

4. Lean on mentors & peers → A strong circle keeps you grounded.

5. Reframe failure → Every misstep is feedback, not proof you don’t belong.

🗂️ Check the Log File

Confidence isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about trusting that you can figure it out. That’s what makes you valuable in IT.

⌨️ The Command Line

Run this command: Pick one skill you’re shaky on and lab it for 30 minutes today. Action kills imposter syndrome.