Cyber Attack on Asahi Brewing Giant: A Wake-Up Call for Businesses Everywhere

A Proactive Security Strategy with Multiple Layers Beyond Grandma’s Lasagna

A global brand like Asahi is Japan’s biggest brewer and the owner of Peroni, Pilsner Urquell, and Fuller’s. When such a brand suffers a cyber-attack, it shuts down shipping and customer service in its home market. Business owners everywhere should take note. If a multinational enterprise with thousands of employees is affected, then businesses with global resources can also be disrupted. Therefore, small and midsize businesses (SMBs) in Texas are even more at risk.

At SofTouch Systems (STS), we view incidents like this as real-life lessons. These events are not distant news. They show what happens when systems aren’t properly shielded against today’s threats.

Ashi Brewing Giant hit by Cyber Attack showing big business risk.

What Happened to Asahi?

According to the BBC, Asahi reported a “systems failure” caused by a cyber-attack that:

  • Halted order and shipment operations across Japan
  • Suspended customer service
  • Left no timeline for recovery

The company confirmed no personal data leaks but admitted its Japanese operations — which account for roughly half of global sales — were severely affected. European brewing and UK operations were spared, but Japan is Asahi’s core market.

What makes this even more concerning? In its 2024 corporate report, Asahi openly listed cyber-attacks as a “main risk.” These attacks have the potential to disrupt business. They can damage brand value and choke cashflow. They knew it was a threat. Yet even with that foresight, the attack still succeeded.

Lessons for Texas Businesses

You don’t need to run a global brewery for this story to apply to your company. It doesn’t matter if you operate a 25-seat nonprofit, a construction firm, or a medical practice. The risks are the same. Only your resources to recover are smaller.

Here’s what SMBs should learn from Asahi’s misfortune:

  1. Downtime costs money — No sales, no shipping, no revenue. Even if no data leaks occur, operations grinding to a halt bleeds cash.
  2. Customer confidence is fragile — Service disruptions erode trust. Once clients doubt your reliability, they may not return.
  3. Acknowledging risk isn’t enough — Asahi’s own report listed cyber-attacks as a danger. Recognition without robust prevention is little more than a note on paper.
  4. Recovery takes time — Without tested backup and recovery processes, your “return to normal” can stretch into days or weeks.

How STS Shields Businesses from “System Failure”

At SofTouch Systems, we’ve built our No Surprise IT approach around one simple idea: transparency plus prevention. We provide SMBs with enterprise-level security without enterprise-level costs or confusion.

  • 24/7 Monitoring & Response — constant watch over email, devices, and networks
  • World-Class Tools — partnerships with Bitdefender (endpoint protection), 1Password (password management), and ???VPN (secure connectivity)
  • Backups & Disaster Recovery — tested, verifiable, and ready for fast restoration
  • Compliance & Reporting — aligning with HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and other frameworks so you stay audit-ready
  • Continuity of Support — named local tech teams and bilingual help desk for Central and South Texas businesses

This isn’t about plugging one gap — it’s about creating a shield that keeps operations running, day and night.

The Hard Truth About Budgets and Targets

What Asahi hasn’t said is just as important as what it did:

  • The company’s public statement does not disclose how much it spends on security.
  • It also hasn’t revealed what this attack has cost in lost revenue, recovery expenses, and reputational damage.

But one thing is certain: If your security budget is too low, you are putting a target on your back. The risk increases when your income is too high. Cybercriminals don’t discriminate — they go where the payoff is.

For Texas SMBs, the lesson is clear: invest proportionally in your IT defense. Security isn’t an expense to cut — it’s insurance for your future.

You have the Power!

Don’t wait for your company’s name to make the headlines. Schedule a free Cybersecurity Health Check with SofTouch Systems today. Let us show you how “No Surprise IT” can keep your operations safe. It can also make them predictable and resilient.

Contact STS for a Free Security Assessment

Extending Windows 10 Support, Legally

Microsoft Recently announced that they will be extending Windows 10 Security Updates to eligible Windows 10 installs, until October 13th, 2026.

What’s Happening?

For years, Microsoft has signaled that Windows 10’s end of support would arrive in October 2025. That date made businesses and home users nervous. Many had no budget, appetite, or need to rush into a full Windows 11 migration.

Recently, Microsoft confirmed that security updates for Windows 10 will now be available until October 13, 2026—but with conditions. This doesn’t mean every Windows 10 computer is automatically safe. The updates will be delivered through a paid “Extended Security Updates” (ESU) program. This approach is similar to how Microsoft handled legacy versions like Windows 7.

So, what does this mean for you, your business, and your IT strategy? Let’s walk through the key questions.

Extending Windows 10 Support, Legally: Microsoft recently announced that they will be extending Windows 10 Security Updates to eligible Windows 10 insalls, until October 13th, 2026.

Why Did Microsoft Extend Support?

Microsoft rarely changes support timelines unless the customer base is still very large. Hundreds of millions of devices are still running Windows 10. This includes government agencies, healthcare providers, nonprofits, and small businesses. Cutting off security patches in 2025 would have left too many systems vulnerable.

By offering this extension, Microsoft provides breathing room for organizations to:

Budget migrations without disrupting daily operations.

First, the requirements.

Plan hardware refreshes more strategically.

Test Windows 11 compatibility with industry-specific software.

  • Your device must be already running Windows 10 22H2. Home, Professional, Pro Education, and Workstation editions all qualify.
  • This offer from Microsoft is FREE for consumers. Organizations will need to work with their IT support staff to understand Microsoft’s rules for corporate devices. Specifically, devices joined to a domain are ineligible.
  • Devices must have internet access to complete the enrollment. Note that a single Microsoft account can enable up to 10 devices for Extended Support.

Based on the requirements, and stated cost for corporate PCs, SofTouch Systems expects Microsoft to extend this offer to consumers further, next year, but likely with a price tag attached.

— Derek

What are the advantages?

You need just a small extension if you’re simply not ready for a new PC. Or you might be investigating other options, like migrating to Mac or Linux. This will give you that time.

If you are looking at migrating to Linux, chances are that your existing PC can run it just fine.

  • More Time to Prepare
  • Businesses can continue running Windows 10 without fearing an immediate security cliff. That extra year offers time to schedule IT projects. It allows for staff training on Windows 11. Upgrades can be staggered to match budget cycles.
  • Reduced Business Disruption
  • Some industries rely on critical legacy apps that don’t yet run smoothly on Windows 11. This extension buys them time to ensure full compatibility before migrating.
  • Predictable IT Costs
  • Instead of emergency upgrades in 2025, companies can plan gradual rollouts. This approach balances licensing, hardware, and IT labor expenses across two fiscal years.
  • Legal and Secure
  • Unlike sticking with unsupported systems, the ESU program ensures machines continue to receive Microsoft-backed security patches. This keeps businesses compliant and auditors satisfied.

What are the disadvantages?

Obviously, putting off purchasing a new PC if you need one can be very counter productive.

  • It’s Not Free
  • Extended Security Updates are a paid service. The exact cost structure varies, but historically Microsoft increases the price each year of extension. That means the longer you hold onto Windows 10, the more expensive it gets.
  • Delay Can Breed Complacency
  • While extra time is helpful, it’s easy for organizations to push migrations off indefinitely. That can lead to a last-minute rush in 2026—costlier and riskier than planning ahead now.
  • Limited Scope of Updates
  • The ESU program provides security patches only. No new features, performance upgrades, or bug fixes will be released for Windows 10. Businesses risk falling behind in user experience and productivity features available only in Windows 11.
  • Hardware May Still Be Aging
  • Even if Windows 10 is supported until 2026, your physical machines are still aging. Old hardware often becomes the weakest link—slower, less reliable, and harder to secure against modern threats.

Obtaining Extended Support

Step 1, go to Settings, and locate the section that states “Enroll in Extended Support Updates”.

Windows Settings (in dark mode) with enrollment option for Windows Extended Security Updates for 2025.

Choose Enroll Now.

Step 2, Windows Extended Security Updates (ESU) dialog will appear.

Choose Next.

Step 3, Sign into your Microsoft Account. Enter your account email address.

Again you need to enter your account password.

Enter your two-factor (2fa) code.

You do have 2fa turned on for all your important accounts, right?

Step 4, read the extensive Extended Security Update Terms of Use, and Privacy Statements.

Click Enroll.

That’s it! The next screen will show that you are enrolled.

All done!

For more information, take a look at Microsoft’s Extended Security Update page, here:

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates

Chrome’s 10 New AI Features Ranked: What They Mean for Your Business

Google Chrome is getting smarter — much smarter. Powered by Google’s Gemini AI, the browser now offers 10 new AI-driven features. These features improve security. They streamline productivity. They simplify everyday browsing. For small and midsize businesses in Central and South Texas, these upgrades are more than just “nice to have.” They represent tangible ways to work safer and faster online.

At SofTouch Systems, we help our clients cut through the hype and focus on what actually makes a difference. Below, we’ve listed all ten new features, followed by answers to some of the most common questions businesses may ask.

Chrome's 10 New AI features Ranked: SofTouch Systems

The 10 New AI Features in Chrome

Google announced these enhancements in its official blog and outlets like Tom’s Guide. Here’s what’s coming to your browser:

  1. Enhanced Gemini Nano Security – AI that blocks phishing sites, fake pop-ups, and scam notifications.
  2. One-Click Password Resets – Chrome will reset compromised passwords on supported sites automatically.
  3. Multitab Organization & Summaries – AI that sorts and summarizes multiple open tabs.
  4. Agentic Browsing Assistant – Lets Gemini execute multi-step tasks like scheduling or form-filling.
  5. Search AI Mode in the Omnibox – Ask complex questions directly from Chrome’s address bar.
  6. Gemini in Chrome (Core Button) – A dedicated Gemini button for contextual assistance across browsing.
  7. Ask Questions About Current Page – Get on-page answers and AI-suggested questions while reading.
  8. AI Memory for Finding Past Sites – Search in plain language. (“What was that site with the invoice tool last week?”).
  9. Deeper Google Apps Integration – Seamlessly access YouTube, Maps, or Calendar inside Chrome.
  10. Smarter Notification Blocking – AI to filter annoying or malicious pop-ups and permissions.

FAQ: What Businesses Should Know About Chrome’s Newest AI Features

Q: Are these features enabled by default?
Some are rolling out gradually and may require users to turn them on in Chrome’s settings. Enhanced security tools will eventually be background defaults, while agentic browsing will be opt-in.

Q: Will this replace the need for a password manager?
Not quite. Chrome’s password reset is helpful, but it is not as comprehensive or secure as dedicated tools like 1Password. We recommend using both.

Q: How much of my browsing history does Chrome’s AI “remember”?
Chrome’s “memory” is designed to help you recall pages, but businesses should review privacy policies carefully. Sensitive organizations may want to stop this until clear policies are in place.

Q: Are these features available on mobile?
Most are desktop-first, but Google is extending some (like scam detection and password resets) to Android and iOS soon.

Q: What’s the risk of relying too heavily on AI in the browser?
Automation can reduce human error, but businesses still need training and oversight. AI will help, not replace, smart IT practices.

Ranking Chrome’s AI Features

We’ve ranked them by practical impact for SMBs and everyday users:

RankFeatureWhy It Matters Most
1Enhanced Gemini Nano SecurityStrongest defense against phishing, scams, and fake websites.
2One-Click Password ResetsSaves time after breaches, reduces human error, improves safety.
3Multitab Organization & SummariesReduces “tab overload” for researchers and multitaskers.
4Agentic Browsing AssistantPromising time-saver for repetitive tasks.
5Search AI Mode in OmniboxFaster, smarter access to complex answers.
6Gemini Core IntegrationThe backbone for all the other AI features.
7Ask Questions on Current PageHelpful for comprehension and research.
8AI Memory for Past SitesGreat for recall, but secondary to security/productivity.
9Google Apps IntegrationUseful for workflow, but marginal improvements.
10Smarter Notification BlockingRefinement rather than transformation.

How Organizations Can Leverage These Features

Non-Profits:
Grant writers often keep dozens of tabs open across government websites and funding platforms. Multitab summaries can cut research time in half, while enhanced scam detection protects against phishing attempts that target donation portals.

Small and Midsize Businesses (SMBs):
Local retailers or service providers benefit most from one-click password resets and scam detection. When employees manage dozens of vendor logins, compromised passwords are a huge liability. Chrome’s AI can help reduce that risk instantly.

Digital Nomads:
Frequent travelers juggle Wi-Fi connections and online tools. They can use agentic browsing to auto-complete forms. They can also rebook flights or schedule meetings across time zones. This saves time and reduces errors when working on the road.

Educational and Religious Institutions:
Schools and churches increasingly rely on online platforms for donations, class scheduling, or live streaming. Smarter notification blocking prevents malicious pop-ups from disrupting student or congregational devices. AI memory helps staff easily locate past lesson plans or event resources.

Why This Matters for Texas Businesses

For SMBs in San Antonio, Austin, and beyond, the takeaway is clear:

  • Cybersecurity First – AI-driven scam prevention and password automation reduce the risk of breaches.
  • Productivity Boost – Multitab summaries and smarter search cut wasted time.
  • Change Management – AI “memory” and agentic browsing raise new privacy questions. Training and policies will be critical.
  • Adoption Curve – Many features will roll out gradually. Businesses should test them with a small team before wider deployment.

At SofTouch Systems, we guide businesses through these transitions. We ensure that new AI features enhance your workflow. These features do not create new risks.

Your Next Steps

  • Review your company’s password management policy. Consider pairing Chrome’s reset feature with a professional Password Manager like 1Password (now available through SofTouch Systems).
  • Train your team on recognizing scam sites and phishing emails. Our Ransomware Protection Guide is a good starting point.
  • Book an IT Security Audit with SofTouch Systems to ensure your business is ready for these AI upgrades.