Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

A recent Cisco AI Readiness Index reveals a significant gap between the urgency for AI implementation and the actual capabilities of organizations. Despite 98% of surveyed business leaders feeling pressure to deploy AI, only 13% are fully prepared, and a mere 21% have the necessary graphics processing units to handle current and future AI workloads. The receptiveness of boards to AI has also declined, indicating a growing trust and understanding gap that CIOs and IT leaders must address.The episode highlights the concerns of employees regarding AI adoption in the workplace. While 60% of firms claim to use AI tools, many workers report infrequent usage and express worries about data security and job displacement. A survey shows that only 27% of employees receive training on AI tools from their employers, leading to a reliance on self-education. This lack of structured training could hinder the effective integration of AI technologies, emphasizing the need for businesses to invest in comprehensive training programs to build confidence and competence among their workforce.Sobel also addresses the rising energy demands driven by AI, particularly affecting small businesses. Research indicates that electricity bills for small firms in the U.S. could increase by up to 70% due to the surging energy needs of data centers. This trend poses a significant threat to smaller enterprises, which may struggle to absorb these costs. The episode underscores the importance of IT firms positioning themselves as partners to small businesses by offering energy-efficient solutions and cost optimization tools to navigate these challenges.Finally, the episode explores recent advancements in AI technology, including updates from Anthropic and a new startup, Age. Anthropic has enhanced its AI chatbot, allowing users to select different writing styles, while Age focuses on quality assurance and process automation with its new product, Runner H. However, concerns about the reliability of AI tools persist, particularly regarding citation accuracy in OpenAI's ChatGPT. The discussion emphasizes the need for businesses to balance AI adoption with a strong focus on reliability, transparency, and ethical considerations to ensure long-term value and trust in AI technologies.Three things to know today00:00 Businesses Struggle with AI Adoption: Training Gaps, Board Doubts, and Workforce Concerns Persist05:12 AI-Driven Energy Demands Threaten Small Business Survival Amid Rising Electricity Costs07:53 Anthropic and Paris Startup H Expand AI Horizons with New Features and Targeted Models  Supported by:  https://www.coreview.com/msphttps://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

As inflation concerns resurface, the latest data reveals a modest rise in the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, with the overall PCE increasing by 2.3% year-over-year. Despite these inflationary pressures, the economy shows resilience, with GDP growth at an annualized rate of 2.8% in the third quarter and a steady job market. Host Dave Sobel highlights five positive economic trends, including a decrease in inflation rates and an increase in real wages, which suggest a cautiously optimistic outlook for the upcoming year.The episode also covers significant developments in the tech industry, including the resignation of Intel's CEO Pat Gelsinger. His departure comes amid growing concerns from the board regarding his ability to execute a turnaround strategy for the company, which has struggled to compete with rivals like AMD and NVIDIA. The transition to co-CEOs, David Zinsner and Michelle Johnson-Holstoss, raises questions about leadership clarity and decision-making processes at Intel, which could impact its future direction and product roadmap.Additionally, Microsoft has denied allegations that it collects user data from its Microsoft 365 applications for AI training, following a viral post that raised privacy concerns. The company reassured users that they have control over their data privacy settings and emphasized the purpose of the Connected Experiences feature. This clarification is crucial for IT professionals as they navigate discussions with clients about data privacy and the functionalities of Microsoft products.Finally, the episode introduces OpenWrt's entry into the hardware market with the launch of its user-friendly Wi-Fi 6 router, the OpenWrt One. This development marks a significant milestone for the open-source community, emphasizing repairability and user empowerment. Sobel notes that while the router may have niche appeal, it aligns with trends in ethical consumerism and decentralized technology, making it a noteworthy option for IT service providers and networking professionals. Four things to know today00:00 Inflation, Tech Trends, and Economic Resilience Shape IT Priorities for 2025 and Beyond06:50 Pat Gelsinger Resigns as Intel CEO: What It Means for the Chipmaker's Future08:56 Microsoft Denies Using 365 User Data for AI Training Amid Viral Allegations09:55 OpenWrt Enters Hardware Market with User-Friendly, Open-Source Wi-Fi 6 Router Supported by:  https://timezest.com/mspradio/https://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIon     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

Dave Sobel interviews Colin Britton, the COO of Devisee, to discuss the current landscape of automation and management applications, particularly in relation to Microsoft Intune. Colin shares insights into how Devisee is positioning itself as an "easy button" for Intune, addressing the challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in utilizing the Microsoft 365 platform. The conversation delves into the evolution of the Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) space since their time at Logic Now, highlighting the shift from data-driven decision-making to a more complex environment focused on mergers and acquisitions.Colin reflects on the differences in the RMM landscape from 2016 to the present, noting that while the industry has matured, many tools have not kept pace with the advancements in technology. He emphasizes the importance of automation, suggesting that while it is a familiar concept, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is still in its infancy within the MSP sector. Colin envisions a future where technicians can leverage AI to enhance their efficiency, allowing them to focus on higher-level tasks rather than mundane, repetitive ones.The discussion also touches on the need for a shift from endpoint management to endpoint lifecycle management. Colin argues that the current tools and processes in the MSP space do not adequately support the seamless onboarding and offboarding of devices, which is essential for modern IT environments. He contrasts the user experience of consumer devices, which can be set up effortlessly, with the more cumbersome processes often found in enterprise settings, highlighting the need for a more integrated approach to device management.As the episode concludes, Colin identifies two key areas to watch as the industry moves into 2025: the impending end of support for Windows 10 and the implementation of AI technologies. He stresses the urgency for MSPs to prepare for the transition to Windows 11, as many existing machines may not be compatible. Additionally, he points out that the adoption of AI will be a significant indicator of progress in the industry, as organizations seek to leverage these technologies to enhance their operations and service delivery. Supported by: 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

Dave Sobel engages with the audience during a live Question and Answer session, addressing a variety of topics relevant to the managed services provider (MSP) market. The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into technician density, clarifying that endpoints per technician should include all devices covered under managed services plans, not just workstations and servers. Sobel emphasizes the importance of tracking these metrics as automation and AI continue to evolve, potentially allowing for increased endpoint density per technician.The conversation then shifts to billing rates, as a listener inquires about appropriate hourly charges for a new company aiming to attract small business customers. Sobel shares insights on the significance of understanding profit margins, suggesting that new businesses should consider starting at competitive rates while being mindful of the long-term challenges of raising prices. He highlights the necessity of aligning billing rates with the overall health of the business, stressing that a sustainable model should ideally generate revenue at least 2.5 times the salaries of employed technicians.As the episode progresses, Sobel addresses the contentious topic of return to office policies, sharing audience reactions and his own perspective on the implications for employee retention and productivity. He argues that organizations that embrace flexible work arrangements may have a competitive advantage in attracting top talent. Sobel also discusses the challenges of managing asynchronous work and the importance of teaching organizations how to effectively utilize technology to enhance productivity and collaboration.Finally, the episode explores the concept of AI sandboxes, where employees can experiment with AI tools in a controlled environment. Sobel discusses the potential benefits of allowing employees to engage with AI technologies while also addressing concerns about data governance and security. He encourages businesses to rethink their approach to information sharing, suggesting that empowering employees with data can lead to better decision-making and outcomes. The episode concludes with Sobel previewing an upcoming interview with Dennis O'Shea, CEO of Mobile Mentor, who will share insights on data governance and the evolving landscape of mobile device management.  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

Host Dave Sobel sits down with Ken Carnesi, the co-founder and CEO of DNSfilter, to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within their DNS security solutions. Ken explains how DNSfilter leverages machine learning to enhance threat intelligence by analyzing both proprietary data and third-party feeds. With over 100 different feeds, the challenge lies in reconciling differing opinions on what constitutes a threat. By employing machine learning algorithms, DNSfilter can determine the most accurate threat assessments, significantly improving their response time to emerging threats.The conversation delves into the complexities of content moderation, particularly in the context of nuanced topics such as adult content and misinformation. Ken highlights the importance of human oversight in categorizing content, as machine learning alone struggles with the subtleties of context and cultural differences. He emphasizes the role of a diverse security intelligence team at DNSfilter, which engages in discussions to reach consensus on difficult categorization decisions. This human element is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by varying interpretations of content across different cultures and languages.As the discussion progresses, Ken shares insights into decision-making frameworks within the company, particularly when faced with contentious issues like misinformation during election cycles. He notes the importance of collaboration and communication among team members to ensure that decisions are well-informed and balanced. The conversation also touches on the relationships between private companies and public sector agencies, highlighting the challenges of navigating bureaucracy while striving for effective cybersecurity outcomes.Looking ahead, Ken expresses his excitement about the future of AI in cybersecurity, particularly its potential to enhance detection and automation capabilities. He anticipates that 2025 will be a pivotal year for AI integration, making advanced tools more accessible to businesses. The episode concludes with a reflection on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the responsibilities that come with it, particularly for managed service providers (MSPs) who play a critical role in safeguarding national infrastructure.  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

Host Dave Sobel welcomes Dennis O'Shea, CEO of Mobile Mentor, a managed services provider (MSP) with a unique background in mobile technology. Dennis shares insights from his extensive experience in the industry, particularly focusing on the generational differences in attitudes toward data security and privacy. He highlights how younger generations, especially Generation Z, have a more relaxed approach to sharing personal information, influenced by their social media habits, contrasting sharply with the more privacy-conscious attitudes of older generations.The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of device usage in the workplace, where mobile devices are becoming increasingly prevalent. Dennis recounts his journey from working at Nokia to founding Mobile Mentor, where he initially focused on helping businesses adopt mobile technology. As Microsoft introduced Microsoft 365, Dennis recognized the need for comprehensive security across various device platforms, leading Mobile Mentor to expand its services to include endpoint security for a diverse range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.Dennis also discusses the impact of regional regulations on data security practices, particularly comparing the stringent privacy laws in Australia and New Zealand to the more relaxed regulatory environment in the United States. He notes that organizations in regulated markets tend to take security more seriously, often having dedicated budgets and personnel for security, while those in unregulated markets may adopt a more casual approach. This disparity highlights the importance of understanding local regulations and their influence on organizational security practices.As the episode concludes, Dennis emphasizes the critical need for organizations to establish robust data governance frameworks, especially in light of the increasing integration of AI technologies. He warns that many organizations are unprepared for the challenges posed by AI, particularly regarding data classification and protection. By automating basic IT operations, organizations can free up resources to focus on data governance, ultimately positioning themselves to leverage AI effectively in the future.  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 opens with a report on a major telecommunications breach attributed to Chinese government hackers known as Salt Typhoon. This breach has compromised American telecom infrastructure, allowing unauthorized access to phone calls and text messages. With fewer than 150 individuals confirmed as monitored, the potential impact could extend to millions, raising alarms among U.S. officials about the fragility of secure communications as the nation approaches a critical transition period.The episode also highlights a joint investigation revealing national security risks associated with U.S. companies selling advertising data that can track military personnel movements. This data poses tangible threats to the safety of service members, particularly those stationed at key military sites in Germany. In response to the growing complexity of cybersecurity risks, New Jersey-based insurer Crum & Forster has introduced a professional liability insurance policy specifically for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), providing them with protection against personal liability in the face of potential legal claims.Host Dave Sobel then shifts focus to developments in the European cloud market, where a new initiative called the European Cloud Competition Observatory has been launched to monitor Microsoft's compliance with a recent settlement aimed at enhancing market competition. This initiative is crucial for smaller IT service providers who may struggle with restrictive licensing terms. Additionally, the episode discusses the impending departure of FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, whose leadership has significantly influenced broadband access and digital equity in the U.S.The episode concludes with a discussion on the intersection of AI and labor, particularly in the context of OpenAI's halted video generation tool, Sora, following protests from artists regarding their treatment. Sobel emphasizes the importance of ethical collaboration in technology development and the implications of Uber's new division focused on AI training and data labeling services. The episode wraps up with insights into the challenges faced by doctors using AI for diagnostics, highlighting the need for effective engagement with technology to maximize its potential in medicine. Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of critical issues shaping the future of IT and cybersecurity. Four things to know today00:00 Telecom Breaches, Data Exploitation, and CISO Liability: The Growing Complexity of Cyber Risk05:23 How European Cloud Competition, FCC Leadership, and CISA Training Shape IT’s Future08:47 Why OpenAI and Uber’s Latest Moves Raise Crucial Questions About AI and Labor10:42 What AI in Medicine, the Workforce, and Defense Teaches Us About Trust and Simplicity  Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/   Supported by:  https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/https://mspradio.com/engage/     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

There is a growing urgency for organizations to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) amidst a notable lack of readiness. A recent Cisco report reveals that while 85% of IT leaders feel they have less than 18 months to act on AI, only 13% believe they are fully prepared to harness its potential. The episode highlights the structural challenges organizations face, particularly in data management, with 80% of respondents reporting issues that hinder their AI initiatives. Despite these obstacles, companies are planning to significantly increase their IT budgets for AI over the next five years.The episode also explores various use cases of AI across different sectors. BBVA has expanded its use of ChatGPT, acquiring 3,000 licenses for OpenAI's enterprise tool, which has reportedly boosted productivity among employees. However, the bank faces challenges in integrating this technology with its existing systems. Meanwhile, Microsoft is introducing specialized AI models tailored for industries like manufacturing and agriculture, aiming to address specific operational challenges and drive adoption at scale.In the education sector, OpenAI has launched a free online course to help K-12 teachers incorporate ChatGPT into their classrooms. However, skepticism remains among educators regarding the efficacy and ethical implications of using AI tools in education. A survey indicates that a significant portion of teachers believes AI may do more harm than good, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of AI's limitations, particularly concerning privacy and data use.The episode concludes with updates on VMware and Intel, noting the challenges both companies face in the current market. VMware's new cloud service aims to streamline private cloud setups, while Intel's recent processor launch has not met performance expectations, leading to a reduction in federal grants under the CHIPS Act. Sobel emphasizes the opportunities for IT service providers and competitors to step in and offer value-driven solutions as these industry giants navigate their respective challenges.Four things to know today00:00 Urgency Outpaces Capability: Organizations Struggle With AI Readiness Amid Growing Demand03:34 From Banking to Farming to Classrooms: How AI is Reshaping Productivity and Operations06:56 VMware’s Price Hikes and Intel’s Missteps Open Doors for Competitors in Virtualization and Processors09:23 Microsoft’s Recall AI, OpenAI’s GPT-4o, and Anthropic’s Integration Protocol Supported by:  https://www.coreview.com/msphttps://tdsynnex.com/StreamOneIon     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

Early challenges faced by Artificial Intelligence Personal Computers (AIPCs), include productivity gaps, consumer confusion, and adoption barriers. A recent study by Intel highlights that users of AI-equipped PCs are less productive than those using traditional computers, losing an average of 15 hours a week on digital chores. Despite the potential for generative AI to streamline these tasks, many consumers remain unaware of AIPCs, leading to misconceptions about their utility and security. The additional cost of AIPCs, which can be 5 to 15 percent higher than traditional models, further complicates consumer interest in upgrading.The episode also delves into a disconnect between business leaders and IT staff regarding data management. A survey conducted by Morning Consult for Capital One reveals that while 77% of business leaders find accessing necessary data easy, 70% of IT personnel spend significant time resolving data issues. The findings indicate a lack of confidence among technical staff in their organization's data culture, with only 35% believing it to be strong. This disparity underscores the need for improved data management practices as organizations strive to implement advanced AI technologies.Host Dave Sobel highlights the resilience of micro-business owners, with 75% relaunching new ventures after setbacks, according to GoDaddy's 2024 Annual Venture Forward Report. Despite economic uncertainties, nearly 40% of these new ventures have become their household's primary income source. The report also notes a significant increase in women-owned micro-businesses, now at 51%, and a diverse age representation among entrepreneurs. This resilience suggests a growing entrepreneurial spirit, even in challenging economic times.The episode concludes with a discussion on the evolving landscape of managed service provider tools, as new entrants like NinjaOne and Halo PSA gain momentum, pushing traditional leaders like Kaseya to reassess their strategies. The shift in the market indicates a potential opportunity for disruption, particularly as the role of artificial intelligence continues to grow. Sobel emphasizes the importance of adapting to these changes and the need for organizations to effectively utilize technology to remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.Four things to know today00:00 AI PCs Face Early Challenges: Productivity Gaps, Consumer Confusion, and Adoption Barriers05:35 Amazon Doubles Down on Anthropic With $8 Billion Investment, Strengthening AI and Cloud Synergy07:23 Remote Work Demand Persists Despite Drop in Postings: The New Talent Tug-of-War10:50 Canalys 2024 Report: New Entrants Shake Up MSP Tools Market, Legacy Brands at a Crossroads   Supported by:  https://getthread.com/mspradio/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

In this bonus episode of the Business of Tech, host Dave Sobel engages in a compelling conversation with Martin from Bitdefender, who describes his role as a popular scientist focused on making cybersecurity research more accessible and understandable. Martin Zugec highlights Bitdefender's long-standing commitment to research, particularly in Romania, where a wealth of security researchers contribute to the field. He emphasizes the importance of visibility for their groundbreaking work, aiming to inspire researchers who may feel their contributions go unnoticed.The discussion shifts to the evolving profile of cyber criminals, particularly in the context of ransomware. Martin explains that the landscape has changed significantly since 2017, with a clear distinction between operators—primarily based in Russia—and affiliates who operate globally. He likens the cybercrime ecosystem to a gig economy, where individuals can leverage their unique skills, such as negotiation or business acumen, to participate in this illicit market. This transactional nature allows for a diverse range of participants, complicating the fight against cybercrime.As the conversation progresses, Martin delves into the challenges of disrupting the cybercrime ecosystem. He notes that trust is a critical component of this world, and takedown operations can destabilize the entire network of criminals. For instance, when Bitdefender releases a decryption tool, it not only aids victims but also creates mistrust among affiliates and operators, leading to internal conflicts. Martin shares insights into how law enforcement agencies are beginning to adopt psychological tactics to undermine the trust within these criminal networks, showcasing the innovative approaches being taken to combat cyber threats.Finally, Martin stresses the importance of prevention and the human factor in cybersecurity. He points out that many organizations fail to recognize the early signs of an attack, often focusing solely on the final stages of encryption. By understanding that cyber attacks can take weeks or even months to unfold, companies can better prepare and respond to threats. The episode concludes with a call for improved public-private collaboration in cybersecurity efforts, emphasizing the need for streamlined communication between organizations and law enforcement to effectively combat the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime.  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