Redefining CyberSecurity

Welcome to another insightful story from ITSPmagazine, where we bring you exclusive content directly from Hacker Summer Camp at Black Hat Las Vegas 2024. This year, Sean Martin had the pleasure of sitting down with Tom Tovar, CEO of Appdome, to explore the company’s innovative approach to mobile app security.A Dynamic Presence at Black HatBlack Hat 2024 is buzzing with energy, and Appdome's vibrant booth has become a focal point for many attendees. Tom credits his marketing team for creating an engaging and visually striking presence that truly reflects Appdome’s mission. A standout feature is a unique widescreen shot setup that, although not yet shared on social media, perfectly encapsulates Appdome's vision for mobile app security.The Origin of AppdomeDuring the conversation, Sean Martin asked Tom to share the origin story of Appdome. Tom, who began his career as a corporate and securities lawyer during the tech boom, later transitioned to roles in security and operations at NetScreen. His journey took a pivotal turn after teaching himself to code and recognizing the need for a more efficient way to secure mobile applications. Driven by frustration with existing solutions and encouraged by a venture capitalist friend, Tom set out to create Appdome, aiming to simplify and automate mobile app security.Revolutionizing Mobile App Security with AppdomeAppdome’s approach integrates security into the mobile app development process through machine learning, making it easier to incorporate essential functions like encryption and anti-tampering. Over time, the platform has evolved to include advanced features such as malware detection and fraud prevention. By automating these processes, Appdome reduces friction for developers and users alike, offering a streamlined path to robust mobile app security.Embracing Generative AI for User EmpowermentA highlight of the interview was the discussion around Appdome’s adoption of Generative AI (Gen AI). This cutting-edge technology offers automated support to users facing mobile app security threats, providing real-time guidance to resolve issues independently. This not only enhances cybersecurity but also raises awareness, helping users become more informed and vigilant.Appdome’s Expanding Influence in CybersecurityWith over 144,000 applications utilizing its platform and more than 11,000 builds handled daily, Appdome has established itself as a leader in mobile app security. Its widespread adoption across diverse industries underscores the platform’s scalability and versatility.Looking Ahead: The Future of Mobile App SecurityTom Tovar also shared Appdome’s vision for the future, including the introduction of AI-driven recommendations to further streamline security integration. The ultimate goal is to achieve an auto-defend capability, making mobile app security more intuitive and effortless for users worldwide.ConclusionThis exclusive interview with Tom Tovar at Black Hat 2024 highlights how Appdome is at the forefront of mobile app security, driving innovation and automation in a rapidly evolving landscape. As mobile threats continue to grow, Appdome’s solutions will be essential in ensuring secure, seamless experiences for users everywhere.For more insights and updates from the cybersecurity world, keep following ITSPmagazine.Learn more about  Appdome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuvNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Tom Tovar, CEO, Appdome [@appdome]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-tovar-9b8552/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from Appdome: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/appdomeView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

In this Brand Story episode as part of the On Location Podcast series, Sean Martin speaks with Rupesh Chokshi, who leads the application security business at Akamai. Connecting directly from Black Hat in Las Vegas, the discussion provides an in-depth look into the world of application security, APIs, and the challenges organizations face in today's technology-driven environment.Rupesh Chokshi starts by highlighting Akamai's evolution from an innovative startup focused on improving internet experiences to a global leader in powering and protecting online activities. He emphasizes that Akamai handles trillions of transactions daily, underlining the massive scale and importance of their operations.The conversation shifts to the pivotal role of APIs in the digital economy. With every company now being an 'app company,' APIs have become the lifeline of digital interactions, from financial services to entertainment. Chokshi points out that many organizations struggle with cataloging and discovering their APIs, a critical step for ensuring security. Akamai assists in this by employing scanning capabilities and data flow analysis to help organizations understand and protect their API landscape.A significant part of the discussion focuses on the security challenges associated with APIs. Chokshi details how attackers exploit APIs for data breaches, financial fraud, and other malicious activities. He cites real-world examples to illustrate the impact and scale of these attacks. Chokshi also explains how attackers use APIs for carding attacks, turning businesses into unwitting accomplices in validating stolen credit cards.Chokshi emphasizes the importance of proactive measures like API testing, which Akamai offers to identify vulnerabilities before code deployment. This approach not only bolsters the security of APIs but also instills greater confidence in the enterprise ecosystem.The discussion also touches on the broader implications of API security for CISOs and their teams. Chokshi advises that the first step is often discovery and cataloging, followed by ongoing threat intelligence and posture management. Using insights from Akamai's extensive data, organizations can identify and mitigate threats more effectively.The episode concludes with Chokshi reinforcing the importance of data-driven insights and AI-driven threat detection in safeguarding the API ecosystem. He notes that Akamai's vast experience and visibility into internet traffic allow them to provide unparalleled support to their clients across various sectors.For anyone looking to understand the complexities of API security and how to address them effectively, this episode offers valuable insights from two leaders in the field. Akamai's comprehensive approach to application security, bolstered by real-world examples and expert analysis, provides a robust framework for organizations aiming to protect their digital assets.Learn more about Akamai: https://itspm.ag/akamaievkiNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Rupesh Chokshi, SVP & General Manager, Application Security, Akamai [@Akamai]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupeshchokshi/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from Akamai: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/akamaiView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

In this Brand Story episode of On Location, hosts Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli sit down with Chris Pierson, Founder and CEO of BlackCloak, a digital executive protection company. Throughout their conversation, they explore the intersection of personal privacy, digital security, and the unique challenges faced by high-profile individuals in protecting their digital lives. Chris Pierson discusses the importance of proactive measures in digital security, emphasizing the need for executives and public figures to safeguard their personal information just as rigorously as their corporate data.The dialogue covers various critical topics, including the rising threats of deep fakes and the implications for personal and professional security. Pierson explains how these convincing digital forgeries can be used maliciously and provides strategies to identify and combat them. Additionally, the conversation delves into common cyber threats like phishing and business email compromise, with Pierson detailing practical strategies for mitigating these risks.Pierson also highlights the evolving landscape of privacy threats and the role of education in empowering individuals to take control of their digital presence. He shares insights on balancing security with usability, pointing out the vulnerabilities that can be overlooked by even the most tech-savvy individuals. Reflecting on his experience building BlackCloak, Pierson discusses key lessons learned while developing solutions tailored to the needs of high-net-worth and high-profile clients.The episode underscores the criticality of a tailored approach to digital security, addressing both technical defenses and user behaviors. Listeners are encouraged to think about their own digital habits and consider how they can better protect their personal information in an increasingly interconnected world.Learn more about BlackCloak:https://itspm.ag/itspbcwebNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Chris Pierson, Founder and CEO of BlackCloak [@BlackCloakCyber]On Linkedin | https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchristopherpierson/On Twitter | https://twitter.com/drchrispiersonResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from BlackCloak: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/blackcloakView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

Welcome to Hacker Summer Camp Sean Martin kicks off the episode with his signature enthusiasm, welcoming listeners to another live broadcast from the renowned Hacker Summer Camp—Black Hat USA 2024 in Las Vegas. He introduces Theresa Lanowitz, a prominent figure in cybersecurity, who shares the latest developments and insights from her venture, Level Blue.Sean Martin: “Welcome to a new episode coming to you from Hacker Summer Camp. We’re here in Las Vegas for Black Hat USA 2024, and I’m thrilled to be joined by Theresa Lanowitz. Theresa, how are you?”Simplifying Cybersecurity with Level Blue Theresa discusses the origins and mission of Level Blue, a collaborative initiative between AT&T and World Gem Ventures. She outlines how Level Blue serves as a strategic extension to organizations, simplifying cybersecurity through consulting, managed security services, and innovative threat intelligence via Level Blue Labs.Theresa Lanowitz: “We aim to simplify cybersecurity by helping you protect your business intelligence through our consulting services, predict your security investments through managed services, and mitigate risk with our Level Blue Labs threat intelligence team.”The conversation shifts to how Level Blue addresses the complexities in IT, offering practical solutions and actionable intelligence to meet these challenges head-on.Key Insights from the Level Blue Futures Report Theresa reveals exciting updates about their flagship thought leadership piece, the Level Blue Futures Report. Launched at RSA in May, this report anchors their yearly research agenda. Additionally, she introduces the C-suite Accelerator, focusing on the evolving roles of CIOs, CISOs, and CTOs in fostering cyber resilience.Collaboration Among CIO, CTO, and CISO Sean and Theresa explore the dynamics between the CIO, CTO, and CISO roles. Theresa elaborates on how, despite their shared objectives, these roles often face conflicting priorities. She highlights the importance of these roles being equal partners within an organization to ensure cohesive responses during critical events, thereby enhancing overall organizational resilience.Theresa Lanowitz: “The CIO, the CISO, and the CTO must be equal partners. If they’re not, achieving cyber resilience becomes very difficult.”The Pandemic's Impact on Cybersecurity Reflecting on the pandemic’s effects, Theresa notes how it accelerated digital transformation, underscoring the crucial need for resilient cybersecurity measures. Despite some progress, she observes that cybersecurity often remains siloed, underfunded, and secondary in many organizations. She stresses the importance of aligning cybersecurity goals with business objectives to create a more integrated and effective approach.Proactive vs. Reactive Budgets Theresa emphasizes the significance of proactive budgeting in cybersecurity, contrasting it with the more common reactive approach. Proactive budgets, she argues, allow for better alignment of cybersecurity initiatives with business goals, which is vital for preempting breaches and addressing regulatory compliance.Theresa Lanowitz: “If you can align cybersecurity initiatives with business goals, you’re going to be proactive rather than reactive.”The Role of Trusted Third-Party Advisors Theresa advocates for the involvement of trusted third-party advisors, such as consulting and managed security services. These advisors bring valuable external perspectives and experience, which are crucial for driving innovation and ensuring robust security measures.Sean Martin: “By working with a trusted partner, you’re not giving up your creative ideas but rather ensuring they play out effectively and securely.”The Human Element in Cybersecurity As the discussion winds down, Sean and Theresa agree that, at its core, cybersecurity is about people. Theresa underscores the need for cross-functional communication within organizations and with trusted third-party advisors to achieve comprehensive and effective cybersecurity.Sean Martin: “It always comes back to the people, doesn’t it?”Conclusion The episode wraps up with Sean expressing gratitude for Theresa’s insights and encouraging continued exploration of research and innovation across various sectors. He invites the audience to explore the Level Blue Accelerator Report for actionable insights.Learn more about LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Theresa Lanowitz, Chief Evangelist of AT&T Cybersecurity / LevelBlue [@LevelBlueCyber]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresalanowitz/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from LevelBlue: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/levelblueView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

About the CISO Circuit SeriesSean Martin and Michael Piacente will join forces roughly once per month to discuss everything from looking for a new job, entering the field, finding the right work/life balance, examining the risks and rewards in the role, building and supporting your team, the value of the community, relevant newsworthy items, and so much more. Join us to help us understand the role of the CISO so that we can collectively find a path to Redefining CyberSecurity. If you have a topic idea or a comment on an episode, feel free to contact Sean Martin.____________________________Guest: Michael Piacente, Managing Partner and Cofounder of Hitch PartnersOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/michael-piacente____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/sean-martin____________________________This Episode’s SponsorsLevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cCoro: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deSquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6AppDome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuv___________________________Episode NotesIn the latest episode of the CISO Circuit Series on the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, Sean Martin and Michael Piacente join forces in Las Vegas during the Black Hat USA 2024 Conference to engage in an insightful conversation about the evolving role of the Field CISO. Sean Martin is joined by Michael Piacente, Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Hitch Partners, as they dissect the significance and responsibilities of Field CISOs in today's cybersecurity landscape.A primary focus of the episode is understanding what a Field CISO actually entails. Michael Piacente explains that the role of Field CISO varies widely across organizations, but it generally falls into two categories: customer engagement and sales enablement. Companies might hire Field CISOs to build operational risk assessments and customer relationships, or to drive the technical sales process. For instance, Field CISOs play a pivotal role in product companies by acting as trusted advisors who help communicate complex technical topics in a digestible manner to potential clients.Michael also highlights key attributes that make a Field CISO successful, such as genuine cybersecurity experience, deep technical knowledge, a reputable name in the community, and robust networking skills. Successful Field CISOs can seamlessly transition between discussing technical details and broader strategic goals with stakeholders. Their role often includes influencing product development by bringing practical insights from customers back to the engineering teams.One crucial point raised during the discussion is the integrity and trustworthiness required for a Field CISO. Sean and Michael emphasize that maintaining trust within the CISO community is paramount. Field CISOs should avoid crossing lines between promotional activities and genuine advisory roles. They assert that integrity and transparency remain foremost in these roles, as they are often looked to for unbiased, independent advice.Another topic discussed is how organizations should approach hiring for the Field CISO role. Michael Piacente points out the importance of setting clear expectations, understanding the balance between operational duties and sales enablement, and ensuring that the Field CISO is genuinely aligned with the company's mission and capable of maintaining community trust.Overall, this episode sheds light on the nuanced nature of the Field CISO role, providing valuable insights for both aspiring Field CISOs and organizations looking to hire one. As the role continues to evolve, Michael and Sean underscore the need for a thoughtful approach to defining responsibilities and fostering an environment where integrity and expertise thrive.____________________________Follow our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasOn YouTube: 📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllRo9DcHmre_45ha-ru7cZMQRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYqITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazineBe sure to share and subscribe!____________________________ResourcesLearn more about Black Hat USA  2024: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/____________________________To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit:https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring an ITSPmagazine Channel?👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/sponsor-the-itspmagazine-podcast-network

In this On Location episode Brand Story, Sean Martin speaks with Artyom Poghosyan at the Black Hat conference in Las Vegas about Britive, a cloud privileged access management platform. They explore how Britive assists medium to large enterprises in tackling identity management and security issues across multi-cloud and hybrid environments.Sean and Artyom discuss the complexities that organizations face with cloud adoption, where traditional lift-and-shift approaches no longer suffice. Artyom outlines how the incorporation of new processes and tools, such as DevOps automation, complicates identity and access management in cloud environments. Britive's approach emphasizes the need for dynamic, scalable solutions that align with the speed and agility of cloud-based development while ensuring robust security controls.A key focus is the balance between granting necessary access for operational efficiency and minimizing security risks from overprivileged accounts. Artyom describes Britive's method of dynamically granting and revoking access based on justified needs, ensuring that temporary elevated access is appropriately controlled and removed post-use.Additionally, the conversation highlights the challenges of managing identities across multiple cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure, etc.) and the diverse technologies used in modern enterprises. Artyom explains Britive's capability to provide a unified identity and access management approach that simplifies and secures these varied environments.The episode also emphasizes Britive’s potential to significantly reduce the time required for onboarding DevOps engineers, streamlining the process from days to mere minutes through automation. This not only improves operational efficiency but also vastly reduces risk by limiting standing privileges, a key security vulnerability often exploited by cybercriminals.Finally, they touch upon how Britive fits within broader organizational security strategies, particularly Zero Trust initiatives. By eliminating standing access risks and offering integration with existing security processes, Britive supports the implementation of comprehensive identity security programs that align with modern security frameworks.Sean closes the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with Artyom and the Britive team to see how their solutions can enhance identity management and security within their organizations.Learn more about Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Artyom Poghosyan, Co-Founder, Britive [@britive1]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/artyompoghosyan/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from Britive: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/britiveView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

At Black Hat 2024 in Las Vegas, Sean Martin from On Location interviews Dror Liwer of Coro, uncovering the impressive strides Coro has made in creating a truly cohesive cybersecurity platform. This conversation reveals how Coro distinguishes itself in an industry saturated with buzzwords and inadequate solutions, particularly for smaller and mid-sized businesses.Meeting in VegasSean Martin starts the conversation by appreciating the vibrant atmosphere at the Black Hat Business Hall. The colorful Coro booth, coupled with the energetic team, sets the perfect backdrop for a discussion centered on platform innovation.Sean Martin: "Here we are, Dror. Fantastic seeing you here in Vegas."Dror Liwer: "It's where we meet."The Platform BuzzThe term “platform” has become a buzzword in the cybersecurity industry. Dror explains that many companies claim to offer platforms, but these so-called platforms often result from the integration of various point solutions, which don't communicate effectively with each other.Dror Liwer: “We built Coro as a platform and have been a platform for 10 years. It's kind of funny to see everybody now catching up and trying to pretend to be a platform.”Dror criticizes how companies use “platform” to create market confusion, explaining that a true platform requires seamless integration, a single endpoint agent, and a unified data lake.Defining a True PlatformDror and Sean delve deep into what makes Coro's platform genuinely innovative. Dror emphasizes that a real platform collects and processes data across multiple modules, providing a single pane of glass for operators. He contrasts this with other solutions that merely integrate various tools, resulting in operational complexity and inefficiencies.Dror Liwer: "A real platform is an engine that has a set of tools on top of it that work seamlessly together using a single pane of glass, a single endpoint agent, and a single data lake that shares all of the information across all of the different modules."The Role of DataData integration is a cornerstone of Coro’s platform. Dror explains that each module in Coro functions as both a sensor and protector, feeding data into the system and responding to anomalies in real-time.Dror Liwer: "The collection of data happens natively at the sensor. They feed all the data into one very large data lake."This unified approach allows Coro to eliminate the time-critical gap between event detection and response, a significant advantage over traditional systems that often rely on multiple disparate tools.Supporting MSPs and Mid-Market BusinessesOne of Coro's key missions is to support Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and mid-market businesses, sectors that have been largely overlooked by larger cybersecurity firms. By offering a more manageable and less costly platform, Coro empowers these providers to offer comprehensive cybersecurity services without the high operational costs traditionally associated with such tasks.Dror Liwer: “We are changing that economic equation, allowing MSPs to offer full cybersecurity solutions to their customers at an affordable price.”Fulfilling New RequirementsDror also sheds light on how Coro helps businesses comply with new regulatory requirements or cybersecurity mandates, often dictated by their position in the supply chain.Dror Liwer: "When this guy comes to you and says, ‘Hey, I need to now comply with this or do that,’ this is an opportunity to tell them, ‘Don't worry. I got you covered. I have Coro for you.’”ConclusionDror Liwer's insights during Black Hat 2024 highlight how Coro is not only addressing but revolutionizing the cybersecurity needs of small to mid-sized businesses and their MSP partners. By creating a true platform that reduces complexity and operational costs, Coro sets a new standard in the cybersecurity industry.Learn more about CORO: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Dror Liwer, Co-Founder at Coro [@coro_cyber]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/drorliwer/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from CORO: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/coroView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

In this Brand Story episode, Sean Martin gets to chat with Vivek Ramachandran, Co-Founder and CEO of SquareX, at the Black Hat USA conference in Las Vegas. The discussion centers around SquareX’s innovative approach to browser security and its relevance in today’s cybersecurity landscape.Vivek explains that SquareX is developing a browser-native security product designed to detect, mitigate, and hunt threats in real-time, specifically focusing on the online activities of enterprise employees. This solution operates entirely within the browser, leveraging advanced technologies like WebAssembly to ensure minimal impact on the user experience.The conversation shifts to the upcoming DEF CON talk by Vivek, titled “Breaking Secure Web Gateways for Fun and Profit,” which highlights the seven sins of secure web gateways and SASE SSE solutions. According to Vivek, these cloud proxies often fail to detect and block web attacks due to inherent architectural limitations. He mentions SquareX's research revealing over 25 different bypasses, emphasizing the need for a new approach to tackle these vulnerabilities effectively.Sean and Vivek further discuss the practical implementation of SquareX's solution. Vivek underscores that traditional security measures often overlook browser activities, presenting a blind spot for many organizations. SquareX aims to fill this gap by providing comprehensive visibility and real-time threat detection without relying on cloud connectivity.Vivek also answers questions about the automatic nature of the browser extension deployment, ensuring it does not disrupt day-to-day operations for users or IT teams. Additionally, he touches on the importance of organizational training and awareness, helping security teams interpret new types of alerts and attacks that occur within the browser environment.Towards the end of the episode, Vivek introduces a new attack toolkit designed for organizations to test their own secure web gateways and SASE SSE solutions, empowering them to identify vulnerabilities firsthand. He encourages security leaders to use this tool and visit a dedicated website for practical demonstrations.Listeners are invited to connect with Vivek and the SquareX team, especially those attending Black Hat and DEF CON, to learn more about this innovative approach to browser security.Learn more about SquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Vivek Ramachandran, Founder, SquareX [@getsquarex]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivekramachandran/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from SquareX: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/squarexView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

Guest: Evgeniy Kharam, Co-Founder, Security Architecture [@secarchpodcast]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekharam/Website | https://www.softskillstech.ca/____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesIn this episode of The Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin speaks with Evgeniy Kharam about the essential role of soft skills in the technology and cybersecurity sectors. While many discussions in this field tend to center on hard technical skills or the latest cyber threats, this episode shifts the focus to the often-overlooked soft skills that can drive success.Evgeniy Kharam, who is also an author and holds a key position in his company, shares insightful perspectives from his newly released book 'Architecting Success: The Art of Soft Skills in Technical Sales.' According to Evgeniy, effective communication and connection are foundational elements not just for sales engineers and teams, but for anyone working in any field, including cybersecurity. He notes that regardless of how advanced one's technical skills might be, the ability to connect with people, convey ideas clearly, and build lasting relationships is crucial.One of the primary points that Evgeniy discusses is the changing landscape for sales engineers. He mentions that the role has evolved significantly over the years. Previously, sales engineers primarily focused on giving demos and technical presentations. Today, they are expected to be deeply involved in the sales process, understand procurement intricacies, and effectively communicate technical merits and business values. HostSean Martin addresses the barriers that often exist within organizational cultures, where roles are tightly defined, and stepping outside of one's designated lane can be frowned upon. Evgeniy suggests that this old-school mentality needs to shift. Everyone in a company—from engineers to marketers and beyond—is involved in sales in some way. From making a strong first impression to ensuring clear and intentional communication, soft skills can enhance every aspect of organizational interaction.The duo also touches upon the importance of continuous self-improvement. Evgeniy advises that one of the best ways to practice soft skills is outside the workplace. Whether making a cashier smile or engaging in meaningful conversations with strangers, these efforts contribute to refining one's ability to connect and communicate effectively.Sean Martin concludes the episode by highlighting that everyone is, in essence, always selling something—whether it's a product, a service, or simply themselves. The more refined these soft skills, the better positioned anyone will be to achieve success in their respective fields. For those interested in taking a deeper dive into this topic, Evgeniy's book is a must-read, offering practical tips and strategies to help professionals hone their soft skills and, ultimately, architect success.About the BookIn today's crowded marketplace, technology alone isn't enough. Architecting Success equips sales professionals and anyone in tech and science to unlock their full potential through the power of soft skills.Architecting Success: The Power of Soft Skills in Technical Sales. Connect to Sell More is a practical guide for architects, sales professionals, and anyone in the technology and science sectors to enhance their effectiveness. The book begins by exploring the historical dynamics between sales and technical teams, emphasizing how soft skills can bridge the gap between these traditionally siloed groups. It highlights how focusing on mentoring, problem-solving, listening, teamwork, and empathy can connect to increase sales.Here is a call to action for technical sales professionals to embrace and cultivate their soft skills. By engaging and reflecting, readers can unlock their full potential and achieve personal and professional excellence in the competitive world of technical sales.___________________________SponsorsImperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYqITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazineBe sure to share and subscribe!___________________________ResourcesArchitecting Success: The Art of Soft Skills in Technical Sales: Connect to Sell More (Book): https://amzn.to/3MVTYhTLinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ekharam_softskilltech-new-book-activity-7223356920441585664-NGrq___________________________To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

In this Brand Story episode as part of the Black Hat Event Coverage featuring Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli, guest Art Poghosyan, co-founder of Britive, discusses the evolution and challenges of identity and access management (IAM) in the modern technological landscape. Sean and Marco engage Art in a conversation that covers everything from the significance of effective IAM for businesses to the innovative solutions Britive is bringing to the market.Art shares the story behind the foundation of Britive and its journey from conception to a leading provider of cloud-native privileged access management solutions. He highlights the shift from static to dynamic identities, emphasizing the importance of automating and authorizing access in real time to meet the needs of modern DevOps and cloud environments.The conversation also touches on how traditional security measures are adapting to new cloud-based infrastructures, highlighting the growing complexity and necessity for advanced IAM solutions. Marco brings in a critical perspective on the changing nature of technology and security, questioning how modern companies can sustain their operations amid rapid technological changes.Art shares insight into the convergence of new ideas and the maturity of contemporary technologies, suggesting that today's advancements provide unique opportunities for innovative solutions. Sean and Marco steer the conversation to practical applications, with Art providing real-world examples of how Britive's technologies are being implemented by enterprises facing complex security challenges. He explains how Britive's API-first approach aids in operationalizing security without imposing on performance or user experience.Furthermore, the episode sets the stage for an upcoming deeper conversation at the Black Hat event, where Art, Sean, and Marco will continue exploring IAM and the critical role Britive plays in shaping the industry's future. Listeners also get information on how to connect with Art and the Britive team at the event.Learn more about Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Art Poghosyan, Co-Founder, Britive [@britive1]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/artyompoghosyan/ResourcesCloud PAM: https://itspm.ag/britivxya3Learn more and catch more stories from Britive: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/britiveView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story