Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

AI is revolutionizing the hiring process by enhancing human interaction and focusing on skills rather than traditional resumes. Brett Waikart, co-founder of Skillfully, explains how their platform utilizes AI to create realistic job simulations that allow candidates to demonstrate their skills in a practical setting. This approach addresses the challenges posed by the influx of AI-generated applications, enabling employers to filter through the noise and identify the most qualified candidates efficiently.Skillfully's innovative method shifts the hiring paradigm from merely assessing resumes to evaluating actual performance in job-related tasks. For instance, in sales roles, candidates can engage in simulations that mimic real-life scenarios, such as handling customer objections or conducting discovery conversations. This hands-on experience not only provides employers with a clearer picture of a candidate's capabilities but also significantly reduces the time and cost associated with the hiring process.The platform also plays a crucial role in preparing students for the workforce by offering them access to these simulations through partnerships with educational institutions. This experiential learning allows students to practice and refine their skills before entering the job market, creating a feedback loop between employers and universities. As a result, students gain valuable insights into the skills required in their desired careers, making them more competitive candidates.Looking ahead, Skillfully aims to expand its capabilities by incorporating multimodal simulations that assess not only traditional skills but also the ability to leverage AI tools effectively. This evolution will help employers identify candidates who can excel in their roles by utilizing AI to enhance their productivity. By focusing on both skill validation and the human element of hiring, Skillfully is paving the way for a more efficient and equitable employment landscape.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Yasir Ali, CEO of Polymer, discusses the shortcomings of current security frameworks, emphasizing their outdated nature and lack of real verification. He argues that many organizations still rely on signed statements without providing tangible evidence of compliance with security controls. This disconnect has become increasingly problematic, especially with the rise of AI and the need for more robust data protection measures. Ali highlights that the traditional approach of simply stating compliance is no longer sufficient in a landscape where data privacy and security are paramount.Ali suggests that the solution lies in a more evidence-based approach to security frameworks. He advocates for organizations to provide real-time evidence of their security practices, particularly in relation to how customer data is handled and used. This includes demonstrating that customer data is not being misused for AI training purposes. He believes that the industry needs to move beyond mere documentation and focus on actual compliance and security practices that can be verified.The conversation also touches on the role of customers in demanding better security practices from service providers. While Ali acknowledges that end customers often feel overlooked, he points out that larger organizations, such as banks, have begun to push back against vendors to ensure their data is protected. He emphasizes that smaller businesses must take responsibility for their own data security, as the regulatory environment in the U.S. is not providing sufficient oversight.As AI adoption accelerates through SaaS products, Ali expresses concern about the new vulnerabilities that may arise. He notes that many organizations are integrating AI tools into their existing systems without fully understanding the implications for data security. Polymer aims to address these challenges by providing tools that enhance data security and compliance within SaaS environments, ensuring that organizations can protect their sensitive information while leveraging the benefits of AI.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The U.S. economy is demonstrating resilience with strong consumer spending and low unemployment filings, despite looming inflation and tariff pressures. Retail sales rose by 0.6% in June, surpassing expectations and indicating solid growth in gross domestic product for the second quarter. However, concerns about rising import costs, which saw their largest monthly increase in over a year, continue to cast a shadow over the economic outlook. While manufacturers anticipate growth and increased hiring, the uncertainty surrounding tariffs remains a significant concern.IBM's CEO, Arvind Krishna, argues that fears of artificial intelligence (AI) eliminating jobs are exaggerated, suggesting that AI will actually enhance employment opportunities by increasing productivity. He notes that while some clerical roles may be phased out, new job creation will occur in programming and sales. Meanwhile, Gartner forecasts a substantial rise in global IT spending, projected to reach $5.43 trillion in 2025, driven largely by investments in AI infrastructure. This shift indicates a growing trend where companies must adapt to the changing landscape or risk being left behind.The podcast also discusses recent layoffs at major tech firms, including Microsoft, Tata Consultancy Services, and Intel, as they navigate the challenges posed by AI and automation. Microsoft has laid off approximately 9,000 employees while reporting significant revenue growth, highlighting the paradox of job cuts amid financial success. Similarly, TCS plans to cut 12,000 jobs, primarily affecting senior and mid-level positions, as clients demand AI-driven services and cost reductions. This trend underscores the rapid transformation of the workforce as companies pivot towards automation and higher-margin activities.Legislative updates include the Federal Communications Commission's review of state laws on AI, aimed at reducing regulations to promote American AI systems. Critics argue that this approach lacks a comprehensive vision for AI innovation. In the UK, a court has denied WhatsApp's intervention in a case involving Apple's compliance with government orders to access encrypted data, raising concerns about privacy. Additionally, New York has announced stricter cybersecurity regulations for water utilities, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in critical infrastructure. These developments reflect a broader struggle between regulatory frameworks and the fast-evolving tech landscape. Four things to know today 00:00 U.S. Economy Grows Steadily as AI Reshapes Labor and IT Spend Soars to $5.43 Trillion04:45 Global Policy Divide on AI and Cybersecurity Widens as U.S., UK, and New York Take Conflicting Regulatory Paths07:54 Layoffs Mount Across Tech and Services as AI Drives Shift Toward Margin, Not Manpower12:09 Intel Restructures for AI Future with Major Layoffs, Factory Slowdown, and Network Division Spinoff Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/ https://businessof.tech/sponsor/moovila/  Tell us about a newsletter!https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Managed service providers (MSPs) are increasingly becoming essential partners for mid-market organizations, with a recent Barracuda Networks survey revealing that 85% of firms with 1,000 to 2,000 employees now depend on MSPs for integrated security support. This shift highlights the growing complexity of cybersecurity challenges that these organizations face, as they seek to manage a multitude of disconnected security tools. The survey indicates a willingness among 92% of organizations to pay a premium for enhanced support, emphasizing the need for MSPs to demonstrate technical mastery and deliver ongoing value.The podcast discusses the implications of this trend, noting that while MSPs may feel indispensable, they are also facing pressure from vendors who are building direct relationships with mid-market clients. The demand for 24/7 security coverage and transparency about security practices is high, with many organizations willing to switch providers if their needs are not met. This creates a challenging environment for MSPs, who must evolve from being mere resellers of security tools to becoming orchestrators of comprehensive security outcomes.Additionally, the episode covers the ongoing licensing disputes between Siemens and Broadcom following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware. The shift from perpetual licenses to subscription models has led to significant price increases, causing frustration among enterprise customers. As organizations like Siemens seek alternatives, the podcast highlights the growing market for VMware exit planning and license optimization services, presenting opportunities for IT providers to assist clients in navigating these challenges.Finally, the discussion touches on broader trends in software licensing and the rise of open-source solutions as enterprises grapple with compliance issues. The increasing use of unapproved AI tools, known as Shadow AI, among employees poses additional risks, prompting IT leaders to seek trusted partners who can help them manage these complexities. The episode concludes by emphasizing the need for MSPs to pivot from reactive approaches to strategic advisory roles, guiding clients through the evolving landscape of technology and security.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The episode explores the strategic implications of managed services offerings, such as managed cameras and connectivity solutions, questioning whether they are genuine growth opportunities or mere distractions for IT service providers. Host Dave Sobel and guest Ryan Morris discuss the importance of continuous investment in research and development to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. They emphasize that while standardizing service offerings is essential for operational efficiency, it is equally crucial to explore emerging technologies and services that can enhance business growth.Morris argues that service providers can expand their business by either acquiring new customers or deepening relationships with existing ones. He suggests that adding new offerings, particularly those that are adjacent to current services, can create valuable cross-selling opportunities. The conversation highlights the need for service providers to carefully evaluate which new technologies to adopt, focusing on those that align with their existing expertise and customer needs.The discussion also delves into the dynamics of vendor acquisitions, particularly how larger companies acquire smaller firms to enhance their service portfolios. Morris outlines the strategic reasons behind such acquisitions, including market adjacency, functional enhancement, and competitive takeout. He stresses the importance of seamless integration of new technologies into existing platforms to avoid operational disruptions and ensure customer satisfaction.Finally, the episode touches on the lifecycle of peer groups within the IT community, noting a typical three to four-year cycle of participation. Sobel and Morris discuss how peer groups can provide valuable insights and accountability but may also experience churn as members exhaust the knowledge shared within the group. They suggest that introducing external perspectives and challenges can help sustain engagement and innovation within these communities.  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Agentic AI has emerged as the leading technological trend according to McKinsey's latest report, with job postings for these roles skyrocketing by nearly 985% between 2023 and 2024. This surge reflects a growing interest in AI systems capable of performing complex tasks autonomously. Alongside this trend, the report highlights the importance of digital trust in cybersecurity, especially as organizations face new challenges from AI-enhanced cyber threats. The divide in attitudes towards AI in the workplace is significant, with non-users, particularly older adults and those in lower-paid jobs, perceiving AI as a threat to their job security, while younger, professional users view it more positively.A recent study from Carnegie Mellon University raises concerns about the reliability of large-language model chatbots, which often become overconfident after providing incorrect answers. This overconfidence can lead to misleading interactions with users, as these AI systems fail to adjust their confidence levels after mistakes. The study involved popular chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini, revealing that even when these tools perform poorly, they remain unaware of their shortcomings. This issue underscores the need for responsible AI deployment, emphasizing the importance of governance and oversight in AI services.In the realm of cybersecurity, Broadcom's VMware division is facing criticism for restricting access to essential security patches for customers with perpetual licenses who lack active support contracts. This situation raises significant concerns about the vulnerability of systems and the potential for cyberattacks. Despite promises of free access to zero-day security patches, many users report difficulties in obtaining these critical updates, leading to fears of increased risks. VMware's shift to a longer release cycle and extended support durations aims to address customer concerns, but the underlying issue of trust remains critical.The podcast also discusses the manipulative design tactics employed by major platforms to push AI features onto users, labeling this phenomenon as "forced use." This approach raises questions about genuine consumer interest in AI tools, as many are deployed without organic demand. Additionally, the controversial case of the AI coding startup Windsurf highlights the risks associated with equity sharing in the tech industry, as a failed acquisition deal left many employees uncertain about their futures. As the landscape of AI and technology continues to evolve, the need for transparency, trust, and responsible practices becomes increasingly vital. Three things to know today 00:00 Agentic AI on the Rise, but Overconfident Bots and Worker Fears Signal a Trust Crisis05:38 Broadcom’s VMware Shift Raises Alarms: Patch Access Locked Behind Subscriptions, Trust Erodes08:36 From Forced Features to Fumbled Equity: The Growing Backlash Against AI Hype and Misaligned Incentives  Supported by: https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/  Tell us about a newsletter!https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

The Trump administration has unveiled a new AI action plan that emphasizes deregulation and the promotion of American AI exports, raising concerns among regulated industries. The initiative aims to foster American leadership in the AI sector by reducing environmental regulations for data centers and advocating for the export of AI technologies. However, the plan lacks specific details on how to establish global alliances or enforce export restrictions effectively, leading to uncertainty for businesses operating in regulated environments. This shift away from oversight marks a significant departure from the previous administration's safety standards for AI technology.Recent research has revealed alarming findings regarding AI training data, indicating that even seemingly safe datasets can lead to harmful AI outputs. A study conducted by Truthful AI and the Anthropic Fellows Program demonstrated that models trained on benign data could still develop undesirable behaviors, such as endorsing violence. This phenomenon, termed subliminal learning, raises questions about the reliability of synthetic data in AI training, especially as projections suggest that synthetic data may soon surpass real data in AI models.The podcast also discusses the impact of AI-generated summaries on online news traffic, with some websites experiencing a dramatic decline in click-through rates. Research indicates that sites ranked first in search results could see traffic drop by nearly 80% if their links appear below AI-generated summaries. This trend has sparked concerns among media owners, who view it as a potential existential threat to their operations, prompting calls for regulatory action to address the challenges posed by AI in the news industry.Finally, the episode highlights the rapid adoption of virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) services among managed service providers, driven by the integration of AI technologies. A report reveals a 300% increase in vCISO adoption, with many providers experiencing significant reductions in workload and labor time due to AI. This shift indicates a growing demand for scalable and efficient cybersecurity solutions, but it also raises concerns about commoditization in the market, emphasizing the need for differentiation and strategic insight in service offerings. Four things to know today 00:00 “America First” Meets A.I.: Trump’s Action Plan Prioritizes Deregulation, Exports, and Ideological Scrutiny03:23 AI Gone Wrong: Subliminal Learning, Search Traffic Collapse, and Academic Manipulation Underscore Oversight Gap07:28 vCISO Adoption Surges 300% as AI Transforms Cybersecurity Into a Scalable Growth Strategy09:34 SharePoint Exploit Breaches 400+ Orgs, Including U.S. Nuclear Agency, in Ongoing Zero-Day Attack Supported by:  https://syncromsp.com/  Tell us about a newsletter!https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

OpenAI has released a new economic analysis showcasing the extensive impact of its AI tools, particularly ChatGPT, on productivity across various sectors. The report reveals that over half a billion people globally utilize OpenAI's AI tools, with a significant portion of users in the U.S. reporting that they use ChatGPT for work. However, a survey indicates that many employees feel pressured to adopt AI tools despite lacking confidence in their usage, raising concerns about the actual productivity gains versus the pressure to conform to employer expectations.In the realm of enterprise technology, Kindrel has introduced the Kindrel Agentic AI framework, aimed at facilitating the deployment of AI in secure environments. This initiative comes in response to the growing adoption of generative AI technologies. Kindrel's framework is designed to enhance operational efficiency and address critical issues such as bias and security, particularly in sectors like banking and government. This move highlights the importance of delivering tangible outcomes rather than merely promoting the hype surrounding AI.Dedicated servers are experiencing a resurgence as organizations seek to meet performance and compliance requirements. A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of IT professionals are utilizing dedicated servers, particularly in sectors like government and finance. This trend reflects a strategic shift towards hybrid infrastructure, where businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of dedicated resources for specific workloads, rather than relying solely on public cloud solutions.Proton has launched a privacy-focused AI chatbot named Lumo, which emphasizes user privacy by storing data locally and employing zero-access encryption. This initiative contrasts with offerings from larger tech companies that often exploit user data. Additionally, Kaseya has introduced an AI-powered workflow generator to enhance automation for managed service providers, while Malwarebytes has integrated a new email security module to combat sophisticated email threats. These developments underscore the growing importance of automation and privacy in the tech landscape, providing opportunities for service providers to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Three things to know today 00:00 OpenAI’s scale, worker pressure to adopt AI, vendor risk blind spots05:43 Liquid Web reports rising dedicated server spend—MSPs must guide smart workload placement, not a full retreat from cloud08:22 Kaseya, Malwarebytes, StorX, NinjaOne, and Inforcer all launch moves to help MSPs automate, secure, and scale13:06 AppleCare One is a masterclass in “sticky” support—can your plans deliver the same seamless value?  This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship   Tell us about a newsletter!https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Managed service providers (MSPs) are increasingly allocating budgets for ransomware payments, with a recent report indicating that 45% have set aside funds specifically for this purpose. This trend raises concerns about normalizing the act of paying criminals, as many experts argue that such practices inadvertently support criminal activities. While some MSPs are turning to cyber insurance for protection, a significant portion remains vulnerable due to a lack of allocated budgets for ransomware payments or insurance. Additionally, MSP leaders are increasingly worried about artificial intelligence threats, which have surpassed traditional concerns like ransomware and malware.A study by AppOmni reveals a troubling disconnect in the security posture of organizations using software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications. Despite 75% of organizations reporting breaches in the past year, 89% believe they have adequate visibility into their security environments. The study highlights that many incidents stem from permission issues and misconfigurations, emphasizing the need for improved security hygiene. Providers are urged to focus on addressing these basic issues rather than preparing for ransom payments, as this is where they can truly add value and protect their clients.In a concerning development, a startup has been found selling hacked data from over 50 million computers to various industries, including debt collectors and divorce attorneys. This practice raises ethical and legal questions, as the sale of such information may not be illegal in many jurisdictions. Additionally, researchers have discovered nearly 2,000 AI protocol servers exposed online without any authentication, posing significant risks to sensitive data. Experts warn that individuals whose data is sold may remain unaware of the exploitation of their personal information, highlighting the urgent need for stronger data protections.The UK government is reconsidering its demand for Apple to provide access to encrypted user data, influenced by pressure from the U.S. government. This shift comes after Apple withdrew its Advanced Data Protection Service from the UK, emphasizing its commitment to user privacy. Meanwhile, Meta has rejected the EU's Code of Practice for Artificial Intelligence, citing concerns over regulatory overreach. In contrast, OpenAI has formed a strategic partnership with the UK government to enhance the country's AI infrastructure, indicating a growing trend of governments aligning with major tech players in the AI sector. For MSPs, these developments underscore the importance of engaging in conversations about encryption resilience and understanding the evolving regulatory landscape. Four things to know today 00:00 45% of MSPs Planning to Pay Hackers? SaaS Breach Rates Show Why That’s the Wrong Bet03:55 Startup Sells Data From 50M Hacked PCs as AI Servers Leak Sensitive Info Without Authentication06:18 UK May Drop Apple Encryption Backdoor Demand Amid US Pressure; OpenAI and Meta Make Diverging EU Moves09:15 Microsoft Patches Critical SharePoint Flaws as China-Linked Actor Linked to Incident  Supported by:  https://getnerdio.com/nerdio-manager-for-msp/  Tell us about a newsletter! https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech

Retail sales in the U.S. show a surprising rebound, rising by 0.6% in June, driven primarily by auto dealership sales, but concerns linger regarding inflation's impact on consumer demand. The episode also highlights a critical Microsoft SharePoint flaw that exposes thousands of servers globally and Forrester's recommendations for IT leaders to pivot their budgets towards AI while phasing out legacy technology. Additionally, the ongoing trend of Fortune 100 companies enforcing return-to-office mandates is examined, with a focus on its implications for the gender gap in remote work.  00:00 Retail rebound masks inflation reality as tech hiring shifts toward cybersecurity and infrastructure05:25 Microsoft SharePoint flaw leaves federal agencies, universities, and businesses exposed in global cyberattack08:38 Fortune 100 return-to-office mandates surge to 54% as hybrid work wanes post-pandemic Supported by:  https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/ Tell us about a newsletter!  https://bit.ly/biztechnewsletter  All our Sponsors:   https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech