
Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights
In 10 minutes daily, The Business of Tech delivers the latest IT services and MSP-focused news and commentary. Curated to stories that matter with commentary answering 'Why Do We Care?', channel veteran Dave Sobel brings you up to speed and provides resources to go deeper. With insights and analysis, this focused podcast focuses on the knowledge you need to be effective, profitable, and relevant.
Latest episodes

Jun 20, 2025 • 29min
How Startups Can Tackle Security Debt to Unlock Revenue: A Discussion with Brian Haugli
Brian Haugli, CEO of SideChannel, discusses the critical distinction between security debt and technical debt, emphasizing that while technical debt is a common challenge for CIOs, security debt is a more specific issue that often arises in startups. He explains that startups frequently prioritize speed to market over security, leading to vulnerabilities that accumulate as they defer compliance and security measures. This accumulation of security debt can hinder their growth and create significant risks, as they may lack the necessary security practices and awareness when they eventually need to address these issues.Haugli highlights the role of managed service providers (MSPs) in helping their clients navigate these challenges. He argues that MSPs should not only provide technical support but also act as trusted advisors, guiding clients to understand the business implications of cybersecurity. By framing security as a means to unlock revenue and reduce friction in sales cycles, MSPs can help clients see the value in investing in cybersecurity measures. This approach positions MSPs as heroes in the eyes of their clients, as they provide essential business advice that can lead to increased revenue.The conversation also touches on the evolving role of virtual Chief Information Security Officers (vCISOs) in the cybersecurity landscape. Haugli asserts that the demand for vCISOs is growing, particularly as regulations increasingly require organizations to have dedicated cybersecurity leadership. He emphasizes that vCISOs offer a cost-effective solution for smaller businesses that cannot afford a full-time CISO, providing them with strategic guidance and expertise to build robust security programs.Finally, Haugli discusses the need for a national cybersecurity standard in the U.S. to address the patchwork of existing regulations. He argues that without enforceable standards, organizations will continue to struggle with compliance and security, leading to increased costs and confusion. By drawing parallels to other regulated industries, he advocates for greater accountability among software vendors and emphasizes the importance of compartmentalization in cybersecurity practices, which can help organizations mitigate risks and protect sensitive information.
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

Jun 19, 2025 • 17min
The New MSP Model: Combining Automation, Emotional Intelligence, and E-Commerce for Success
The podcast discusses a transformative vision for building a managed services provider (MSP) that shifts away from traditional models focused on infrastructure management and reactive maintenance. Instead, it advocates for creating a tech services business that empowers small and mid-sized organizations to drive revenue through technology. The speaker emphasizes the importance of hiring empathetic, business-savvy individuals who can engage with clients on a human level, rather than relying solely on technical expertise. This new approach prioritizes emotional intelligence and relationship-building over conventional help desk support.The proposed team structure includes tech concierges who act as relationship managers, business process advisors who focus on optimizing client operations, automation specialists who streamline processes, and generalist troubleshooters who handle unique challenges. This model eliminates the traditional tiered support system, allowing for direct resolution or automation of issues. By humanizing the front-end interactions and automating backend processes, the MSP can deliver meaningful outcomes that genuinely benefit clients.Automation is positioned as a foundational element rather than just a feature, with the speaker advocating for the use of cloud-native management platforms and workflow automation tools. These technologies enable teams to focus on high-value advisory roles rather than mundane tasks. The podcast also highlights the potential of using AI to enhance team capabilities, making it a tool for amplifying human efforts rather than replacing them. This shift allows for a more efficient operation that prioritizes client relationships and business outcomes.Finally, the discussion touches on the financial aspects of running an MSP, emphasizing the importance of profitability over mere growth metrics. The speaker suggests that a lean team can effectively manage a smaller number of high-value clients, leading to sustainable business practices. The podcast concludes with advice on whether to build a new MSP from scratch or acquire an existing one, recommending a partnership approach to leverage complementary skills and enhance overall success in the industry.
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

Jun 18, 2025 • 15min
AI Fuels Infinite Workdays, Job Cuts at Amazon, and New Trends in IT Service Partnerships
AI is increasingly becoming a double-edged sword in the workplace, as highlighted by a recent Microsoft report. While artificial intelligence tools are intended to enhance productivity, they are inadvertently contributing to an "infinite workday," leading to heightened employee burnout. The report reveals alarming trends, such as 40% of workers checking emails by 6 a.m. and a 16% increase in meetings scheduled after 8 p.m. This shift indicates that work is encroaching on personal time, suggesting a need for companies to rethink their time management and workflow strategies to prioritize high-impact tasks over busy work.Amazon's CEO, Andy Jassy, has acknowledged that AI efficiency gains will result in job cuts within the company, reflecting a broader trend of AI adoption across various sectors. Gallup's research shows that AI usage among U.S. employees has nearly doubled, with significant increases among white-collar workers. However, despite the growing integration of AI, concerns about job displacement remain relatively unchanged, with only 15% of employees fearing automation will eliminate their jobs in the near future.The podcast also discusses the transformative impact of autonomous software agents on small to mid-sized businesses, as outlined in PAX 8's report. The findings indicate that a majority of mid-sized enterprises are already deploying AI, with a notable emphasis on the need for organizations to adapt to new operational standards. The report suggests that IT service providers must shift their focus from merely selling AI tools to becoming organizational strategists that help clients redesign workflows and manage time effectively.Finally, the episode touches on the evolving landscape of the technology channel, emphasizing the necessity for vendors and partners to adapt to emerging trends. The shift from product-based selling to outcome-based solutions is becoming essential for survival in a competitive market. As traditional marketing development funds decline, the call for performance-based partnerships is more pressing than ever, urging IT service providers to demonstrate their value and influence in driving client success. Four things to know today 00:00 Microsoft Warns of ‘Infinite Workday’ as AI Blurs Work-Life Boundaries06:19 OpenAI’s Defense Deal and MCP Push Signal AI’s Transition from Tool to Infrastructure08:58 MiniMax Launches One-Million-Token Open Model, Undercutting Cost of GPT-4 by Orders of Magnitude10:40 Techaisle: Channel Faces Structural Shakeup as Outcome-Based, Risk-Sharing Models Replace Old Playbook This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://getnerdio.com/nerdio-manager-for-msp/
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

Jun 17, 2025 • 19min
SMBs Overconfident in Cybersecurity; SEC Deregulates Amid Rising AI Threats and New Investments
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are exhibiting a dangerous overconfidence in their cybersecurity readiness, with a significant gap between their perceived capabilities and actual security measures in place. A recent report reveals that while 71% of SMBs feel confident in managing major cybersecurity incidents, only 22% have an advanced cybersecurity posture. This disconnect presents a critical opportunity for IT service providers to step in with strategic, outcome-focused solutions that emphasize not just tools, but comprehensive cybersecurity strategies.The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving, with SMBs increasingly recognizing the importance of cyber resiliency. Reports indicate that 68% of small businesses and 89% of mid-market firms understand the need for quick recovery from incidents, yet many still lack formal security protocols. As the market for cybersecurity solutions is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated $70 billion by 2034, the demand for effective strategies is more pressing than ever. The rise of cloud-based security solutions and zero-trust architecture is indicative of this shift.Regulatory changes are also impacting the cybersecurity landscape, as the SEC withdraws proposed regulations that would have required investment firms to establish written cybersecurity policies. This deregulation creates a trust vacuum that IT providers can fill by offering managed compliance and risk mitigation services. The convergence of regulatory retreat and escalating cyber threats underscores the need for proactive security measures, as the responsibility for cybersecurity increasingly shifts to the market.Amid these challenges, advancements in email security, particularly through DMARC adoption, show promise in combating phishing attacks. However, the rapid proliferation of generative AI applications is creating new vulnerabilities, complicating the security landscape. IT service providers are urged to capitalize on foundational security measures while also addressing the emerging risks associated with AI. The evolving cybersecurity environment presents both challenges and opportunities for providers who can adapt and innovate in response to these shifting dynamics. Four things to know today 00:00 SMBs Overconfident, Underprepared: Cybersecurity Misalignment Fuels $70B Market Surge05:00 SEC Pullback Leaves Cyber Gaps as Ransomware and Zero Trust Shape 2025 Risk Landscape08:50 From DMARC to Shadow AI: Why Cybersecurity Now Requires Dual-Front Defense11:45 Bifurcation in IT Services: MSP-Centric Tools and Vertical Platforms Signal Strategic Divide This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship
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

Jun 16, 2025 • 16min
AI's Impact on SMBs: Revenue Gains, Cloud Growth, and New Tools from Zoom, MailChimp, Microsoft
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly recognizing the importance of adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to stay competitive in the market. A recent survey indicates that 97% of small businesses utilizing voice AI agents have seen revenue increases. However, many SMBs still perceive AI as complicated or unnecessary, with 63% expressing concerns about their foundational capabilities to support AI initiatives. Despite these hesitations, research shows that 91% of SMBs that have integrated AI report revenue gains, highlighting a significant opportunity for those willing to embrace the technology.The demand for AI expertise is surging, with a notable shortage of talent in the IT sector. Over half of IT leaders report facing an undersupply of AI skills, a figure that has increased from 28% in previous years. While 90% of organizations are piloting or investing in AI initiatives, more than two-thirds of leaders have yet to see measurable returns on their investments. This skills gap emphasizes the need for IT service providers to step in as guides, helping SMBs navigate the complexities of AI adoption and implementation.Cloud spending has also surged, reaching $90.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025, driven by the need to optimize cloud infrastructure for AI applications. Major cloud providers like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud dominate the market, but the increasing complexity of cloud computing necessitates external expertise. IT service providers have a unique opportunity to position themselves as AI infrastructure enablers, focusing on simplifying hybrid cloud management and aligning cloud strategies with business objectives, particularly in relation to AI.Recent studies, including one from the University of Oxford, highlight the limitations of large language models (LLMs) in real-world applications, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare. While LLMs may perform well in controlled environments, their effectiveness diminishes when humans interact with them. This underscores the importance of designing AI systems that prioritize human outcomes over mere model accuracy. As companies like Zoom, MailChimp, and Microsoft launch new AI tools, the focus for IT service providers should shift from merely selling AI tools to ensuring responsible and effective deployment that delivers measurable value. Four things to know today 00:00 SMBs See AI as Key to Growth but Struggle With Skills and Strategy, Opening Door for IT Service Providers04:53 AI Boom Fuels 21% Surge in Global Cloud Spend, Forcing Providers to Tackle Hybrid Complexity and Cost Pressures07:38 AI Can Diagnose—But Can People Use It? Oxford Study Undermines LLM Utility in Critical Settings10:11 Mailchimp, and Microsoft Launch Next-Gen Tools Aiming for the Customer Experience This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://getflexpoint.com/msp-radio/https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/
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

Jun 15, 2025 • 25min
Unlocking Profitability: Andrew Bolton's Unique Approach to Tech Support for Seniors
Andrew Bolton, CEO and co-founder of TechRescue, has developed a unique approach to delivering technical services specifically tailored for seniors. With a growing client base of nearly 1,000 seniors on a monthly subscription model, Bolton's company focuses on providing empathetic and personalized tech support. Unlike traditional managed service providers, TechRescue positions itself as a "tech therapist," emphasizing the importance of human connection and understanding in every interaction. This approach is particularly vital when dealing with a demographic that may not be as tech-savvy, as Bolton highlights the evolving nature of senior users who are increasingly engaged with technology.The inspiration for TechRescue stemmed from Bolton's personal experiences with his family, particularly his grandmother's struggles with technology. Recognizing a gap in the market for services that cater to seniors, he and his team have created a supportive environment where every call is treated as a priority. The company employs individuals with backgrounds in sociology and psychology rather than traditional tech support roles, ensuring that empathy and communication are at the forefront of their service. This human-centric approach has proven effective, as Bolton notes that most calls are not about complex tech issues but rather simple, everyday problems that seniors encounter.TechRescue operates on a subscription model, offering services at $50 per month or $400 annually. The company has established metrics to maintain profitability while ensuring quality service. Bolton explains that they have a structured process for handling calls, aiming to resolve issues efficiently while still allowing for personal interaction. By focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of tech support, TechRescue has carved out a niche that resonates with both seniors and their families, who often seek assistance for their elderly relatives.Looking ahead, Bolton envisions expanding TechRescue's reach, potentially into international markets. However, he acknowledges that the biggest challenge lies in finding the right personnel who can deliver the empathetic service that defines their brand. As the company continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of providing accessible and compassionate tech support to seniors, reinforcing the idea that technology should enhance, rather than complicate, their lives.
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

Jun 14, 2025 • 23min
Inside Empath's $2M Raise: Wes Spencer Discusses Community Investment for MSP Growth
Wes Spencer, co-founder of Empath, a training and education platform for managed service providers (MSPs), discusses a unique funding model that diverges from traditional venture capital. Instead of seeking investment from typical VCs, Empath successfully raised $2 million from industry insiders, primarily MSPs themselves. This approach fosters alignment and advocacy among investors, who are also customers, but it raises important questions about scalability and governance. The conversation delves into the implications of having investors who are directly involved in the product's development and direction.The investment structure utilized by Empath is based on Y Combinator's SAFE notes, which allow for a straightforward and fair investment process without changing control of the company. Spencer explains the importance of ensuring that investors are qualified, adhering to SEC regulations to protect non-professional investors. This structure not only simplifies the investment process but also limits the amount each investor can contribute, ensuring a diverse group of stakeholders who are genuinely invested in the company's mission.Spencer highlights the demographics of their investors, primarily consisting of CEOs from established MSPs with significant revenue. These investors are motivated by a desire to influence the vendor ecosystem positively and to have a say in the direction of the platform they use. The governance model established by Empath ensures that while these investors have a voice, they do not have control over the company's day-to-day operations, allowing for a balance between investor input and the leadership team's vision.As Empath continues to grow, Spencer acknowledges the potential need for future funding rounds, including the possibility of engaging with venture capitalists. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining transparency with investors and being responsible stewards of their contributions. The conversation concludes with Spencer expressing confidence in the company's trajectory, aiming for sustainable growth while remaining committed to the community-driven approach that defines Empath.
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

Jun 13, 2025 • 18min
AI's Jagged Age: Memory Limits, Retrieval Bots, and Legal Battles Over Encryption and Privacy
AI models have a defined memory ceiling, which is reshaping the ongoing debates surrounding copyright and data privacy. Recent research from Meta, Google DeepMind, Cornell, and NVIDIA reveals that large language models have a fixed memorization capacity of approximately 8.6 bits per parameter. This finding clarifies the distinction between memorized data and generalized knowledge, indicating that larger datasets do not necessarily lead to increased memorization of specific data points. This understanding is crucial as it informs the operational mechanisms of AI models and addresses concerns related to copyright infringement.Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, has introduced the term "artificial jagged intelligence" to describe the current phase of AI development, highlighting the non-linear progress and the challenges faced by researchers despite significant advancements. Pichai's perspective reflects the mixed performance of AI models, which can exhibit extraordinary capabilities alongside notable errors. This sentiment is echoed by deep learning researcher Andrej Karpathy, emphasizing the unpredictability of AI performance and the need for a more nuanced understanding of its capabilities.The rise of AI retrieval bots is transforming how users access information online, with a significant increase in traffic from these bots. Companies like OpenAI and Anthropic are deploying these bots to summarize content in real-time, moving away from traditional search methods that provide links to multiple sources. This shift poses challenges for content publishers, as the growth of retrieval bots indicates a changing economic landscape where content is increasingly consumed by AI first, with human users following. Publishers may need to rethink their engagement strategies to adapt to this new reality.In the broader context of technology and cybersecurity, WhatsApp's intervention in a legal case concerning encryption and privacy rights highlights the growing role of platforms in surveillance debates. Additionally, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency faces leadership challenges amid a talent exodus, raising concerns about its operational effectiveness. As the IT services industry evolves, the integration of AI into various sectors, including hiring and cybersecurity, underscores the importance of execution, interoperability, and trust in automation. The future of technology will depend on how well businesses can navigate these changes and support their clients in making informed decisions. Four things to know today 00:00 AI’s Jagged Reality: Study Reveals Limits to Model Memory as Bots Redefine the Web Economy05:35 Cybersecurity Crossroads: WhatsApp Joins Apple in Legal Fight as U.S. Agency Leadership Crumbles08:29 AI Matures Into Infrastructure Layer as IT Vendors Shift Focus to Outcomes and Execution11:51 Legal Tech, GenAI, and Fast Food Bots All Show One Thing: Hype Doesn’t Equal Success This is the Business of Tech. Supported by:
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

Jun 12, 2025 • 15min
Microsoft 365 Copilot's Security Flaw, AI in Misinformation, and Emerging Cybersecurity Solutions
Microsoft 365 Copilot has been identified as having a significant security vulnerability known as Echo Leak, which allows hackers to access sensitive information without user interaction. This zero-click exploit was discovered by AIM Security after three months of reverse engineering the software. Although Microsoft claims the issue has been addressed and no customers were affected, experts warn that this flaw reflects deeper security concerns in AI systems, reminiscent of vulnerabilities seen in software two decades ago. The incident raises critical questions about the security of AI agents that have ambient access to data and the need for rethinking endpoint protection and trust boundaries.OpenAI's latest threat report reveals that state-level actors, including those linked to North Korea and Russia, are exploiting ChatGPT for cyber operations. The report outlines ten operations that were shut down, including the generation of fake job applications and social media content aimed at spreading disinformation. Notably, some campaigns were traced back to China, showcasing the use of AI in creating deceptive online personas. This highlights the strategic use of AI by malicious actors, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and security measures.ConnectWise is facing scrutiny over its recent digital certificate updates, urging customers to update their ScreenConnect, Automate, and ConnectWise RMM solutions. The company is attempting to distance itself from a previously disclosed nation-state breach while addressing concerns raised by a third-party researcher regarding configuration data handling. The rushed certificate rotation has led to reduced confidence among customers, especially given the recent history of exploitation of ScreenConnect. This situation underscores the importance of transparency and trust in vendor relationships, as well as the need for managed service providers to audit their update processes.New tools from Huntress, Netgear, and Varonis signal a shift towards more automated and resilient security solutions. Huntress has launched a Threat Simulator to enhance user engagement in security training, while Netgear's acquisition of Exium aims to simplify networking and security for managed service providers. Varonis has introduced a Model Context Protocol Server to integrate AI tools into its data security platform. These developments reflect a growing trend in cybersecurity towards realism, automation, and simplification, emphasizing the need for IT service providers to adapt and align with these evolving security landscapes. Three things to know today 00:00 From Copilot to Cybercrime: How AI Agents Are Creating New Frontlines in Espionage and Misinformation05:54 ConnectWise Urges Immediate Updates Amid Certificate Rotation, Rekindling Security Concerns After Prior Breach08:45 Automation, Engagement, and Recovery: Security Vendors Roll Out Tools That Align with MSP Priorities Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship
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

Jun 11, 2025 • 17min
O3 Pro's Launch, Reddit's Lawsuit Against Anthropic, and Cisco's New AI-Driven Networking Gear
OpenAI has launched the O3 Pro Artificial Intelligence model, which focuses on delivering enterprise-grade accuracy and enhanced tool integration, albeit at a higher cost and slower response times compared to its predecessor. The O3 Pro model is designed for complex inquiries where precision is prioritized over speed, making it particularly appealing to businesses and developers. However, the pricing structure, set at $20 per input and $80 per output, may limit access for smaller businesses and mid-market clients, potentially widening the gap between larger enterprises and smaller players in the tech landscape.The launch of O3 Pro coincides with OpenAI's significant growth, reporting 3 million business users and $10 billion in annual recurring revenue, a remarkable increase since the previous year. To support this growth, OpenAI has partnered with Google Cloud Service, diversifying its computing capabilities and reducing reliance on Microsoft. This partnership highlights a shift in the competitive landscape of artificial intelligence, as both companies prioritize meeting the massive computing demands of their clients.In addition to OpenAI's developments, DeepSeek has announced improvements to its R1 AI model, enhancing its capabilities in mathematics, programming, and logic while reducing hallucination instances. Meanwhile, Reddit has filed a lawsuit against Anthropic for allegedly using its data without permission to train AI systems, emphasizing the ongoing conflict between social media platforms and AI firms over data usage and user privacy. This legal battle underscores the importance of data sourcing and compliance for AI providers.Cisco Systems has introduced new routers and switches aimed at optimizing AI deployments in campus environments, collaborating with NVIDIA to enhance network management through automation. Apple has also announced that Intel-based Macs will no longer receive major software updates, marking a significant transition to its in-house processors. Lastly, Evergreen Services Group has reached a milestone with its 100th acquisition of a managed IT service provider, indicating the scalability of the buy-and-hold strategy in the IT services sector and the evolving landscape of ownership frameworks. Four things to know today 00:00 OpenAI’s o3-pro Targets High-Stakes AI Workloads as Adoption Soars Past 3 Million Users06:06 ChatGPT Dominates, But AI Market Fractures Amid Legal Risks and New Model Momentum10:06 Cisco Launches Smart Networking Gear as Apple Phases Out Intel Macs12:31 Evergreen Hits 100 MSP Acquisitions, $1B in Revenue, Signals Global Expansion with REDD Deal This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorshiphttps://www.huntress.com/mspradio/
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