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Vancord CyberSound Podcast

Protect your business with tips & tactics from our IT security experts

CyberSound podcast
CyberSoundTM is a podcast built by and for business owners and professionals. Tune in as our cybersecurity experts cover the latest news regarding IT security, the most recent and relevant threats organizations are facing today, and provide tips to keep your business safe.

Where to Listen to CyberSoundTM

Enter Giveaway to Celebrate our 100th CyberSound Episode!

Learn how we work together with our clients to manage, defend, and respond to their infrastructure needs.

Most Recent Episode

115

Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024: Essential Skills and Practical Tips for Personal and Business Safety | CyberSound by Vancord | Ep 115

In this CyberSound episode, hosts Jason Pufahl, Steve Maresca, and Michael Grande examine the enduring and evolving cybersecurity challenges we face today. As Cybersecurity Awareness Month reaches its 21st year, the message remains consistent—stay vigilant against threats like phishing, ransomware, and MFA bypasses. But while the themes may feel familiar, the landscape is anything but static. From QR code scams and AI-driven attacks to new techniques in credential theft, cyber threats have become more sophisticated, personal, and pervasive.

With a mix of foundational advice and timely insights, the team explores why annual reminders are still crucial, and what’s new in today’s threat environment. Discover actionable strategies to safeguard your personal and professional data, from interpreting suspicious links and QR codes to safely navigating AI tools like ChatGPT. This episode offers vital guidance on staying resilient in a world where cybersecurity risks continue to adapt and grow.

Meet the Hosts of CyberSoundTM

CyberSoundTM is hosted by cybersecurity professionals who work in the industry on a daily basis. Meet Vancord’s Jason Pufahl, Steven Maresca, and Matt Fusaro.
Jason Pufahl
VP Security Services
Steven Maresca

Principal Architect, vISO

Matt Fusaro

Security Services Director

Most Recent Episodes

PODCAST EPISODE 105
In this episode of CyberSound, Vancord’s Cybersecurity Podcast hosted by Jason and Michael, the focus is on the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the cybersecurity realm, featuring guest Fred Purdue, Managing Director of Mergers and Acquisitions at West Monroe. Fred discusses his role in assisting private equity firms through the M&A process, emphasizing the importance of IT and cybersecurity due diligence. He shares insights into the different stages of the M&A process, from initial assessments to integration strategies, and highlights common red flags and risks, such as outdated technology and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The conversation also covers the increasing necessity of cybersecurity assessments in transactions, the potential impacts of cyber risks on deal valuations, and the importance of having well-defined security and technology strategies, offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers in the market.
PODCAST EPISODE 104
In this episode of CyberSound, Vancord’s Cybersecurity Podcast hosts Jason and Michael are joined by Steve Prout, President of Vancord’s client, Alpha Q, to discuss the critical intersection of cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. Steve highlights Alpha Q’s impressive 60-year legacy, detailing its two business segments: complex component machining for major clients like Sikorsky and Rolls Royce, and precision gaging through Glastonbury Southern Gage.
Emphasizing the impact of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) on small businesses, Steve shares the challenges and costs associated with compliance, such as enhanced security measures and regulatory adherence. The discussion underscores the evolving nature of cybersecurity standards and the essential role of trusted IT partners in navigating these complexities.
PODCAST EPISODE 103
In the latest episode of CyberSound, hosts Jason Pufahl and Michael Grande engage in a thought-provoking discussion with State Senator Tony Hwang about the burgeoning risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), particularly focusing on the spread of disinformation through deepfakes. Highlighting a live demonstration created using voice cloning technology, the episode showcases the alarming ease with which convincing yet fake audio conversations can be produced.
Senator Hwang emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, advocating for both education and regulation to mitigate these risks while still fostering innovation. The conversation delves into the potential misuse of AI in manipulating public opinion, especially in the context of elections, and underscores the critical role of technology companies and consumers in ensuring the integrity of information. The episode underscores the critical balance between embracing AI's benefits and safeguarding against its potential harms, advocating for increased public awareness and legislative action to protect society.
PODCAST EPISODE 102
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason and Steve are joined by Brian Brehart of Vancord to delve into the intricate world of operational technology (OT) cybersecurity. The discussion navigates through the challenges posed by aging OT systems, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in the manufacturing sector. The conversation evolves into practical strategies for risk management, urging businesses to prioritize business continuity and revenue protection.
The team concludes with a call to action for businesses, especially smaller manufacturers, stressing the importance of assessing and addressing cybersecurity risks, even if they perceive themselves as less attractive targets.
PODCAST EPISODE 101
In this episode of CyberSound, co-hosts Jason and Michael sit down with Brian Brehart of Vancord to delve into the complexities of securing smart home devices within the context of the Internet of Things (IoT). The conversation explores the balance between convenience and security when integrating smart technology into homes, touching on topics such as wireless thermostats, smart TVs, and voice-activated assistants like Alexa.
The team encourages listeners to educate themselves on the importance of implementing robust security measures to maintain privacy, including setting up separate networks, updating router firewalls, and researching device security features. As the conversation broadens to include considerations for small businesses and the expanding range of internet-enabled devices, the team concludes by underscoring the importance of privacy in the IoT era.
PODCAST EPISODE 100
In the landmark 100th episode of CyberSound, Jason, Steve, and Michael reflect on the podcast’s growth and evolution over two years. The team celebrates the journey by reflecting on notable episodes, highlighting honorary guests, and discussing recent expansion into video and broader topics beyond cybersecurity.
With humor and enthusiasm, the team underscores CyberSound's mission: to inform, educate, and engage with integrity while helping listeners navigate the ever-evolving landscapes of business and cybersecurity.
PODCAST EPISODE 99
It is necessary for companies to proactively consider the ethical and legal ramifications of AI usage while understanding the importance of balancing technological advancement with safeguarding individual privacy rights and societal well-being. It becomes evident that privacy in the age of AI is a multifaceted and evolving realm, ripe with complexities and opportunities for thoughtful regulation and ethical implementation.
In this episode of CyberSound, co-hosts Jason and Michael welcome Rob McWilliams of Vancord, and William Roberts of Day Pitney LLP to delve into the intricate intersection of AI and privacy law. With a focus on demystifying AI and its implications, the conversation navigates through the evolving landscape of privacy policies, consent, and the burgeoning challenges posed by generative AI.
PODCAST EPISODE 98
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason and Michael welcome special guest Chris Taft, Chief Accounting Officer at Fanatics, a leading global digital sports platform. Chris emphasizes the intersection of sports, accounting, and technology while highlighting the importance of ongoing training, tabletop exercises, and board involvement for businesses to maintain a strong cybersecurity practice.
The team discusses the seasonality of sports events and tournaments, which oftentimes come with heightened opportunities for cyber threats and phishing scams. They also discuss the implications of the new SEC rule requiring public companies to report breaches, representing the growing significance of cybersecurity at the board level.
PODCAST EPISODE 97
It is crucial to understand the distinction between privacy and security, as these terms are often conflated. In this episode of CyberSound, co-hosts Jason and Michael are joined by Rob McWilliams, Data Privacy Consultant at Vancord, and Bill Roberts, Data Privacy Attorney at Day Pitney LLP to discuss the different aspects of both privacy and security and provide practical tips within the evolving landscape of cybersecurity laws.
There is a need for businesses to document their privacy processes, conduct inventories of personal data, and consider the implications of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The team delves into the current state of privacy laws, highlighting the lack of a comprehensive federal law and the increasing complexity of state regulations.
PODCAST EPISODE 96
In this episode of CyberSound, hosts Jason and Michael embark on a humorous yet insightful exploration of the complexities of planning a surprise for Valentine’s Day in the digital age. From the initial dilemma of keeping plans secret amidst shared online accounts to navigating the intricacies of incognito browsing and secure payment methods, the team offers practical tips to keep your gifts a secret on February 14th.
Delving into the nuances of online privacy, they ultimately advocate for a return to simplicity by embracing offline shopping and direct transactions. Jason and Michael remind us to stay vigilant in matters of cybersecurity while celebrating this holiday.

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