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Vancord CyberSound Podcast

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

CyberSound
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

Most Recent Episode

90

AI Unveiled: From Basics to Business and Beyond

Navigating the intricate landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be daunting– but it doesn’t have to be. On this episode of CyberSound, the team provides valuable insights into generative AI, explores its strengths, weaknesses, and how it has garnered widespread attention in the professional services landscape, and discusses practical business applications across various industries.

Today, Jason, Michael, and Steve are joined by Zach Warren, Technology and Innovation Insights Lead at Thomson Reuters Institute, to shed light on this groundbreaking technology for listeners.

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
Senior Security Engineer
Matt Fusaro

Manager Security Services

Most Recent Episodes

CyberSound ep90
90

AI Unveiled: From Basics to Business and Beyond

Navigating the intricate landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be daunting– but it doesn’t have to be. On this episode of CyberSound, the team provides valuable insights into generative AI, explores its strengths, weaknesses, and how it has garnered widespread attention in the professional services landscape, and discusses practical business applications across various industries.
Today, Jason, Michael, and Steve are joined by Zach Warren, Technology and Innovation Insights Lead at Thomson Reuters Institute, to shed light on this groundbreaking technology for listeners.
CyberSound ep89
89

Connecticut Senators on the Cutting Edge: AI & Data Privacy in Focus

Connecticut has been a leader in addressing data privacy issues and Artificial Intelligence (AI) regulation through policies that protect residents and foster innovation.
In this episode of CyberSound, Jason and Michael have a thoughtful conversation with Senator Tony Hwang and Senator James Maroney of the State of Connecticut on the complexities of AI, data privacy, and the state’s approach to transparency and accountability in AI usage. The Senators address social equity concerns and emphasize the importance of a balanced and informed approach to these issues.
CyberSound ep88
88

The CIO’s Dilemma: Proving Value and Driving Strategic Change with CEOs

Often, CIOs and CISOs are faced with the challenge of needing to prove the value of implementing cybersecurity controls to secure an organization. Today, we discuss the tools available for both IT strategy and cybersecurity risk management that enable executives to drive strategic change for their business.
On this episode of CyberSound, Jason, and Michael are joined by Brian Doyle, Co-Founder of vCIOToolbox and Cybrance, to discuss his product development journey and the need he found to create simple software that helps meet business objectives and needs.
CyberSound ep87
87

Presenting: Vantage Managed Detection & Response (MDR)

Endpoint protection is a popular space in the market for businesses right now, whether it be to meet cyber liability insurance requirements or to boost an organization’s comprehensive approach against threats.
Today, Jason Pufahl, Michael Grande, Matt Fusaro, and Mike Lang, all of the Vancord team, are proud to present Vantage MDR: a cutting-edge managed endpoint detection and response solution powered by industry-leader Microsoft, fully delivered by Vancord's security experts.
CyberSound ep86
86

Recent Cyber Attacks in CT: Protecting Your Business from Financial Fraud

This summer, numerous businesses around Connecticut have fallen victim to cyber-attacks. These sophisticated and often expensive incidents remind organizations that they need good processes and controls in place to stay protected.
On this topical segment of CyberSound, Jason sits down with the President & CEO of Vancord, Michael Grande, to put a financial perspective on the implications of these attacks. Jason and Michael discuss common threat actor motives and methods, the importance of vendor management, cyber liability insurance, and best practices that organizations can employ.
CyberSound ep 85
85

The Human Element of Security Awareness Training

Technology plays a role in improving security posture, but a well-informed and educated workforce is superior to keeping an organization protected. Security awareness training is crucial to ensuring your team is empowered, productive, and safe – and it doesn’t have to be boring!
On this episode of CyberSound, Jason and Steve welcome Joel Cahill to the podcast. Joel is the CEO and Co-Founder of Vancord’s partner company, Infima Cybersecurity, a modern-day security awareness training platform designed to provide seamless, brief, and innovative training for everyone. Tune in today as the team explores behaviors and the human element of security.
CyberSound ep84
84

Demystifying Threat Hunting vs. Incident Response

Threat Hunting and Incident Response are two tactful measures that help an organization’s cybersecurity journey. But what is the difference between them?
Join us today as Jason, Matt, and Steve dive into the separate services, and discuss the proactiveness of Threat Hunting and the neutralization of breaches through Incident Response. The team also explores where forensics comes into play and how the maturity of an organization can determine what toolsets are appropriate to implement.
CyberSound ep83
83

Fraud in Higher Education

Higher education institutions have become top targets for student fraudulent activity and scamming. As these threat actors continue to advance, it is more important than ever for universities to have the right tool sets in place to detect and filter out fake student applications.
In this episode, Jason and Steve welcome Maurice Simpkins, President of A.M. Simpkins and Associates, to discuss the interconnection of higher education fraud and cybersecurity. Both parties have the common goal of keeping institutions protected and maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity.
CyberSound ep82
82

MOVEit Vulnerability Exploitation: June, 2023

Progress Software’s file-transfer tool MOVEit recently experienced a massive exploitation. What does this mean for the users of the software and the service providers with clientele under this tool?
Today, Jason, Matt, and Steve walk through the incident and notification processes while advising of basic steps to be proactive against these types of attacks. The team emphasizes that these basic recommendations apply to those involved with the MOVEit vulnerability and those dealing with sensitive data transfers.
CyberSound ep81
81

Vancord Security Constitution: The Digital Citizen’s Guide

We, as digital citizens of the United States, have cyber duties to fulfill to ensure the protection of our data and devices.
In celebration of the 4th of July, Jason reads the Vancord Security Constitution that recognizes the importance of remaining vigilant and practicing safe habits online, especially during the holiday season.
CyberSound ep80
80

How is AI Transforming Cybersecurity?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) advancements are shaping the digital world at a revolutionary pace. From ChatGPT and image generators to solving ransomware attacks and providing curated learning, AI has demonstrated many positive usages. However, there are motivators to slow this process down, with concerns surrounding the potential threats artificial intelligence may pose.
In this episode, the CyberSound team addresses incoming AI tools, reviews how the population will likely navigate them, and have an open dialogue on their feelings towards this actively developing software.
CyberSound ep79
79

Mandated Cybersecurity Education in K-12 Schools

Just this year, North Dakota passed House Bill No.1398, becoming the first state in the country to require cybersecurity education in K-12 schools.
Today, Jason, Matt, and Steve discuss the specific curricula put in place, explain how programs can be tailored to younger audiences, and stress that this kind of education is just as important as other core subjects. Tune in to explore this new law that is leading change in cybersecurity.
CyberSound ep78
78

Privacy Concerns with TikTok

Numerous states have placed a formal ban on the use of the popular social media platform TikTok, leaving users to question its safety surrounding data and asset privacy.
Today, Jason, Steve, and Matt discuss the restrictions, current threat model, and perceived threats in hopes of easing some concerns. The team encourages being proactive and protecting your data before worrying about platforms accessing it.
CyberSound ep77
77

NERCOMP 2023 Annual Conference Recap

Last month, the Vancord team attended the NorthEast Regional Computing Program (NERCOMP) Conference, which annually brings together individuals in IT and higher education. From ransomware concerns to heightening security awareness and meeting compliance deadlines, many productive conversations took place.
Tune in as Jason and Steve sit down with Krystal Racine, Account Executive at Vancord, to playback a few interview clips from NERCOMP of attendees' cybersecurity experiences.
CyberSound episode 76
76

Understanding Data Breach Notification Laws

A data breach has occurred in your organization– what now? Who do I legally have to notify? What types of data require notification? There are many influencing factors in state data breach laws that organizations must consider regarding discloser requirements.
Today on Cybersound, Jason, Steve, and Matt are joined by Vancord’s Data Privacy Consultant, Rob McWilliams, to discuss the overall message: If you are equipped to respond properly to incidents, you should seek guidance to meet your regulatory obligations.
CyberSound episode 75
75

Security Challenges Facing Operational Technology

As cyber threats increase, so does the importance of keeping your critical infrastructure systems secure. Inventorying your operational technology (OT), being aware of the risk, and implementing cybersecurity best practices are ways to maintain and assess these devices.
Today, Jason, Matt, and Steve address these fundamental issues and guide you on where your organization needs to be when protecting your infrastructure.

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