EChannelNews Podcast

Send us a text Presenters: Evgeniy Kharam, Cybersecurity Architect | Evangelist | Consultant | Advisor | Podcaster | Visionary | Speaker | Nim Nadarajah, C.CISO, Cyber Security, Compliance & Transformation Expert | Executive Board Member | Keynote Speaker Julian Lee, Publisher, Community Builder, Speaker, Channel Ecosystem Developer with a focus on cybersecurity, AI and Digital Transformation The Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem aims to assist Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in becoming more cybersecurity-oriented amidst industry disruptions caused by AI and regulatory changes. In this discussion, Evgeniy shared insights from the recent Black Hat event, highlighting the event’s focus on vulnerability research, contrasting it with the leadership-oriented discussions at RSA. The group acknowledged the need for strategic planning to maximize networking opportunities and the value of face-to-face interactions, despite the rise of remote communication. The focus of the discussion was on the dangers of AI poisoning, with Nim warning about the sophistication of cyber threats and the potential for silent viruses to infiltrate systems undetected. Evgeniy added that new AI developments could introduce vulnerabilities, referencing a recent exploit that allowed manipulation of AI tools. The group discussed the implications of AI systems communicating autonomously and the importance of asset management for proprietary AI models. They also noted the lack of regulatory frameworks in Canada regarding ethical AI use, emphasizing the responsibility of organizations to ensure the integrity of their AI systems. Click here to watch previous episodes on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem Dont miss our Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem Summit on Nov. 26th in Toronto, aimed at fostering collaboration among managed service providers, chief information security officers, and other stakeholders. The event will feature a unique “Shark Tank” format for vendor presentations and expert-led discussions on various topics. To learn more on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem, visit: https://cybersecuritydefenseecosystem.com/

Send us a text Chris Savio, Senior Director, Product Marketing at GoTo (fka LogMeIn), talked about GoTo’s suite of solutions, particularly the Resolve product, which provides a unified endpoint management system designed to assist managed service providers (MSPs) in transitioning from legacy systems. Chris highlighted the product’s features, including remote monitoring, mobile device management, and integrated ticketing, emphasizing its potential to enhance service offerings and revenue streams for MSPs. He also touched on the importance of secure communication channels in the context of cybersecurity, with a focus on the zero trust architecture implemented in Resolve to mitigate risks associated with supply chain attacks. Innovations in remote support were also a key topic, including the introduction of a camera share support feature that allows users to visually demonstrate device issues, thereby improving communication during remote assistance. He also described the benefits of consolidating tools for MSPs, which can lead to significant cost savings and increased productivity through automation. Finally, Chris addressed the complexities of patch management, emphasizing the need for customized policies and proactive monitoring to enhance security and performance.

Send us a text Doug Houghton, Director of Channels at Alkira (means “happy place” or “bright and sunny” in Australian Aboriginal), talked about his company’s offerings as a network infrastructure as a service provider. He emphasized the advantages of Alkira’s cloud exchange point, which simplifies cross-border connectivity, which can significantly lower total costs and operational complexity compared to traditional networking methods. The conversation also addressed the competitive landscape among cloud providers, highlighting the operational challenges of securing communications across different cloud environments and the importance of decoupled control and data planes for maintaining service continuity.

Send us a text Brendan Conlon, Global Director of Supply Chain Defense at BlueVoyant, presented the company’s multifaceted approach to cybersecurity, highlighting the critical importance of supply chain security in an era where organizations increasingly depend on third-party vendors. He noted that many companies struggle to manage these dependencies effectively, often relying on spreadsheets, which can impede their security efforts. He emphasized BlueVoyant’s role in helping organizations develop both strategic and tactical solutions to enhance their security posture and manage third-party risks, particularly in light of potential service disruptions that can significantly impact business operations. He also covered the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, with a focus on critical infrastructure and the implications of software dependencies. Finally, he discussed the importance of Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) for regulatory compliance and vulnerability management, and acknowledged the challenges posed by cyber threats, including the need for proactive risk monitoring and the innovative use of AI in cybersecurity practices.

Send us a text Speaker: Omry Farajun, President, Storage Guardian Omry spoke about the critical cybersecurity strategies for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), emphasizing the necessity of documentation and incident response plans. He highlighted the creation of incident response runbooks aligned with the NIST 2.0 framework to ensure effective incident management. The importance of conducting tabletop exercises was stressed, particularly to identify communication gaps in scenarios involving compromised systems like M365. He also noted that cyber insurance companies now mandate documented incident response plans to prevent policy denials, reinforcing the need for MSPs to prioritize these strategies. Omry also touched on funding opportunities, mentioning the Ontario Innovation Centre’s initiative offering up to $200,000 in grants to enhance cybersecurity awareness among Ontario-based MSPs.

Send us a text Special Guest: Rich Dean, Senior Director of Product Management, Syncro Richard highlighted Microsoft’s role in the cybersecurity sector, particularly through their MCP servers that enable small and medium businesses to leverage AI effectively. He emphasized the importance of multi-factor authentication (MFA) in preventing cyber attacks while acknowledging that human behavior remains a significant vulnerability. He also discussed the necessity of continuous employee training to recognize sophisticated phishing attacks and recommended strategies for enhancing security, such as limiting global admin accounts and implementing just-in-time permissions. The conversation further explored the regulation and evolution of AI, with Richard noting the historical throttling of AI development due to energy and economic concerns. Finally, he stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue about AI’s impact across industries and the need for MSPs to adapt to these changes to maintain relevance.

Send us a text Presenters: Evgeniy Kharam, Cybersecurity Architect | Evangelist | Consultant | Advisor | Podcaster | Visionary | Speaker | Nim Nadarajah, C.CISO, Cyber Security, Compliance & Transformation Expert | Executive Board Member | Keynote Speaker Julian Lee, Publisher, Community Builder, Speaker, Channel Ecosystem Developer with a focus on cybersecurity, AI and Digital Transformation Adam Bennett, Co-Founder & CEO at SureStack CEO at Crosshair Cyber The Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem aims to assist Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in becoming more cybersecurity-oriented amidst industry disruptions caused by AI and regulatory changes. The session focused on updates and discussions surrounding cybersecurity events, emphasizing the importance of sharing insights among Cyber Defense members. Evgeniy discussed the practical applications of emerging technologies like AI and the concept of Zero Trust, emphasizing the need for tailored security strategies. He cautioned against blindly following AI trends, noting that while vendors promote these solutions, a more cautious approach is warranted. Nim contributed by discussing the theme of resiliency at the CDO Magazine event, highlighting the cautious adoption of AI due to privacy concerns and the impending impact of quantum computing on security. The conversation also touched on the integration of AI in various sectors, including real estate and marketing, with Adam noting vulnerabilities in large language models that could pose significant data security risks. The group discussed the risks of vendor lock-in and the importance of due diligence when selecting platforms together with the security implications of machine-to-machine communication and the need for robust security measures. Click here to watch previous episodes on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem To learn more on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem, visit: https://cybersecuritydefenseecosystem.com/

Send us a text Guest: Alain Cormier, CEO, Novipro, a well-established Canadian IT solutions provider, headquartered in Montreal, Quebec. Alain provided an overview of the company’s extensive experience in the technology sector, highlighting its role as a solution provider and integrator for both small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and large enterprises. He introduced a recent IT trends report that reflects the company’s dedication to understanding and adapting to industry developments. The report, which has been produced annually for the past decade, is based on comprehensive surveys conducted in collaboration with Leger Marketing, ensuring a well-rounded perspective on technology’s impact across various sectors. The discussion shifted to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI). For the first time, AI is expected to surpass cybersecurity in terms of business investment over the next two years. Alain expressed concerns about the perception of IT departments within organizations, revealing a disconnect between business line respondents and IT decision-makers regarding the strategic role of IT. Alain also addressed the challenges companies face in integrating AI, particularly concerning data privacy and security. He underscored the necessity for businesses to develop comprehensive cybersecurity protocols and business continuity plans, especially as cyber threats become more sophisticated. The 2025 IT Trends Report shows that while companies are doubling down on AI to boost productivity and cut costs, many are underinvesting in the cybersecurity required to protect these digital ambitions.

Send us a text Sase Janki, CEO of J-SAS, talked about the challenges organizations face regarding cybersecurity protection and compliance. He identified three major pain points: the fragmentation caused by multiple tools complicating compliance efforts, audit hesitancy stemming from uncertainty about compliance status, and the complexity and cost of traditional Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) tools that deter smaller organizations from pursuing compliance initiatives. He cautioned against a checkbox mentality and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes ongoing monitoring and automated evidence collection. Sase also underscored the critical role of compliance for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), asserting that it is essential for demonstrating security capabilities and creating new revenue streams. He proposed a strategy for MSPs to conduct compliance assessments, which could reveal security gaps and lead to additional service offerings. Compliance should be viewed as a structured approach to managing security needs rather than an overwhelming task. See more from J-SAS by clicking here.

Send us a text Speaker: Omry Farajun, President, Storage Guardian Omry spoke about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and the importance of personal relationships in the managed service provider (MSP) sector. He highlighted the need for MSPs to pivot from traditional backup and disaster recovery services to cybersecurity solutions, emphasizing the significance of integrating platforms and maintaining effective communication during incidents. He also introduced Storage Guardian’s incident response planner, which aims to assist MSPs in managing cybersecurity incidents, while also stressing the necessity of alternative communication methods as outlined by the NIST 2.0 framework. Stay tuned for much more from Storage Guardian in the coming months.

Send us a text Fraud fatigue sets in even as Canadians face more personalized scams. Geoff Morton, Senior Director, Fraud Strategy at RBC, discussed new poll data about the rise in targeted scams and how Canadians are feeling about the steps they must take to help protect themselves against fraud. Geoff highlighted a shift in fraud strategies, where criminals are increasingly targeting clients directly rather than banks, prompting RBC to enhance its fraud detection capabilities through real-time technology. Despite a decrease in certain types of attacks, he emphasized the ongoing need for investment in security measures and the importance of user responsibility in safeguarding personal information. Geoff elaborated on the collaborative effort required to combat fraud, involving banks, telecommunication companies, and social media platforms. He pointed out the rise of crypto investment scams, which exploit the public’s limited understanding of cryptocurrency and often use deceptive tactics, such as deep fakes, to lure victims. The conversation also touched on the emotional impact of scams, particularly romance scams that transition into crypto fraud, highlighting the psychological vulnerabilities that scammers exploit. A survey indicated that a large majority of Canadians feel that fraud attempts have increased, leading to a sense of “fraud fatigue.” While seniors are often viewed as the most vulnerable demographic, Geoff pointed out that fraud affects all age groups, necessitating robust fraud controls. The discussion underscored the importance of distinguishing between legitimate and fraudulent communications in the digital age.

Send us a text Guest: Marty Sprinzen, Founder and CEO of Vantiq Julian and Marty explored current trends in AI, particularly generative AI, and its potential to automate processes in real-time. Marty emphasized Vantiq’s mission to enhance disaster response by merging data from diverse sources, which can provide actionable recommendations to first responders during emergencies. The dialogue highlighted the critical role of technology in addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters. The conversation also touched on the dual nature of AI. Marty acknowledged the potential for AI to enhance productivity while cautioning against overhype. He talked about the implications of AI on the workforce, suggesting that while some jobs may diminish, new roles requiring creativity and adaptability will emerge. The need for proper guidelines in AI implementation was emphasized, particularly regarding cybersecurity risks associated with employees using AI without oversight.

Send us a text Presenters: Evgeniy Kharam, Cybersecurity Architect | Evangelist | Consultant | Advisor | Podcaster | Visionary | Speaker | Nim Nadarajah, C.CISO, Cyber Security, Compliance & Transformation Expert | Executive Board Member | Keynote Speaker Julian Lee, Publisher, Community Builder, Speaker, Channel Ecosystem Developer with a focus on cybersecurity, AI and Digital Transformation Adam Bennett, Co-Founder & CEO at SureStack CEO at Crosshair Cyber The Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem aims to assist Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in becoming more cybersecurity-oriented amidst industry disruptions caused by AI and regulatory changes. The discussion focused on insights from the RSA conference, noting the necessity for strategic planning to navigate the multitude of vendors and sessions effectively. All acknowledged the value of networking opportunities and the importance of pre-planning to maximize engagement. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of lead generation at conferences, with Nim sharing an anecdote about unrealistic expectations for leads. The group discussed the challenges of forming meaningful connections in crowded environments. The conversation shifted to the significance of identity in cybersecurity, emphasizing the need for organizations to secure both human and non-human identities and to establish clear policies governing AI usage. Evgeniy highlighted the importance of training employees on data sharing implications to enhance security awareness. Julian shared insights on productivity improvements achieved through basic AI applications, while Nim emphasized the challenges of training AI systems. Click here to watch previous episodes on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem

Send us a text Manuj Aggarwal, Founder of TetraNoodle Technologies, addressed the growing interest in AI among Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and the urgency for them to adopt AI technologies. He shared his recent achievement of having a scientific paper on AI adoption accepted by the Mensa Foundation Journal, which aims to provide a structured approach based on real-world experiences. The conversation also delved into the transformative potential of AI in enhancing human intelligence and decision-making, particularly in healthcare. Manuj explained that AI could improve drug interaction analysis, potentially reducing adverse effects. He predicted a future where personalized medications are developed based on genetic information. He discussed the role of MSPs in implementing AI to improve efficiency, suggesting that creating a private AI tailored to their business strategies could automate routine tasks and enhance client services. See other interviews with TetraNoodle here

Send us a text Special Guest: Rich Dean, Senior Director of Product Management, Syncro Rich talked about his role at Syncro, particularly in the context of the company’s upcoming launch and its strategic shift towards becoming a Microsoft-centric independent software vendor (ISV). Rich also addressed the challenges faced by MSPs, particularly the need for modernization in Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) and Professional Services Automation (PSA) tools. He spoke about the overwhelming number of tools that MSPs currently manage, which complicates operations and can lead to burnout. He highlighted the importance of adapting to evolving cybersecurity threats, especially in identity management, and acknowledged the transformative role of AI in the industry. He also detailed Syncro’s initiatives, including the introduction of security baselines and a custom synchronization tool, which are designed to streamline user onboarding and improve security management. Click here for previous interviews with Syncro.

Send us a text Ryan Devers, VP Product Strategy of J-SAS, discussed the challenges and opportunities for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in Canada regarding compliance. He highlighted that many Canadian companies are not prioritizing compliance, presenting a significant opportunity for MSPs to educate their clients. He emphasized the flexibility of ProtechSuite in addressing various compliance frameworks, such as SOC 2 and ISO 27001, and its role in helping MSPs track improvements in their clients’ cybersecurity posture. The importance of maintaining compliance year-round, particularly in relation to cyber insurance policies, was also underscored to ensure organizations can recover quickly and substantiate claims. Ryan elaborated on the capabilities of ProtechSuite, which aids MSPs in managing compliance effectively. The platform facilitates cybersecurity posture assessments, enabling MSPs to identify security gaps and track improvements. It also assists in cyber insurance compliance by documenting necessary controls and policies.

Send us a text Presenters: Evgeniy Kharam, Cybersecurity Architect | Evangelist | Consultant | Advisor | Podcaster | Visionary | Speaker | Nim Nadarajah, C.CISO, Cyber Security, Compliance & Transformation Expert | Executive Board Member | Keynote Speaker Julian Lee, Publisher, Community Builder, Speaker, Channel Ecosystem Developer with a focus on cybersecurity, AI and Digital Transformation The Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem aims to assist Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in becoming more cybersecurity-oriented amidst industry disruptions caused by AI and regulatory changes. Evgeniy shared insights from his book addressing communication barriers in the technology sector, particularly for MSSPs, while Nim introduced his book concept titled “Betrayal,” which explores the emotional complexities in relationships between MSSPs and their clients. The discussion also covered the evolving role of AI in cybersecurity, highlighting both its potential benefits and challenges. Nim raised concerns about the perceived value of AI-generated responses, stressing the need for a human touch in service delivery, while Evgeniy noted that AI can automate tasks but must not compromise service quality. The conversation shifted to the risks posed by insider threats and the vulnerabilities associated with third-party suppliers, with Nim citing that 75 to 85% of breaches occur through these channels. Evgeniy advocated for designing secure connections and implementing multiple layers of protection to prevent breaches. Julian reflected on the increasing complexity of cybersecurity since the pandemic, underscoring the necessity for robust security measures to safeguard against both internal and external threats. Click here to watch previous episodes on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem To learn more on Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem, visit: https://cybersecuritydefenseecosystem.com/

Send us a text Special Guest: Dee Zepf, Chief Product Officer, Syncro In this dicsussion, Dee talked about the evolving landscape of Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) and its implications for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). She emphasized the critical juncture RMM is at, highlighting how MSPs are adapting their traditional tools to incorporate new solutions, particularly in light of advancements in AI. She addressed the complexities MSPs face, including the integration of cloud services, identity management, compliance, and cybersecurity. Dee noted that while routine tasks may decrease due to automation, the demand for skilled professionals capable of managing sophisticated systems and training AI will increase.

Send us a text Special Guest: Michael George, CEO, Syncro In this interview, Michael discussed the industry’s evolution/back and forth of platform vs. point solutions – how and why that has evolved over time and where it’s heading. He talked about the profitability challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs), which typically range from 10-20%. He highlighted the increasing pressures on technicians due to compliance and cybersecurity issues, emphasizing their critical role in maintaining security, especially with the rise of remote work. He discussed the complexities faced by IT professionals and the potential consequences of lapses in IT support, using a recent incident involving a vendor's update failure as an example of the stakes involved. The conversation also covered the growing reliance on technology among MSPs and the need for streamlined platforms to enhance operational efficiency. Michael pointed out the overwhelming number of products MSPs manage, advocating for automation to alleviate repetitive tasks and improve technician engagement. He stressed the importance of integrating AI into cybersecurity measures, noting the significant risks small to medium businesses face from cyber threats.

Send us a text Guests: Likky Lavji and Beata Jirava The conversation focused on the overwhelming challenges individuals face today, including economic pressures, with Likky emphasizing the importance of managing perceptions in a changing environment. Beata shared her personal journey from a communist upbringing to becoming a strategic consultant and founding the Integrity Wellness Clinic, which addresses mental health needs exacerbated by the pandemic. Likky recounted his experiences as a refugee and the impact of early bullying on his leadership style, advocating for a shift from fear-based to collaborative leadership. Both speakers highlighted the necessity of adopting an abundance mindset to navigate current economic challenges. The conversation also addressed the high-stress environment of the IT industry, with Likky discussing the hidden stresses intensified by the pandemic. He shared his personal health struggles, including strokes linked to stress, and urged a focus on controllable factors amidst uncertainty. Beata emphasized the critical role of mental health in leadership, identifying fundamental needs such as well-being, authenticity, and belonging. She noted that true happiness must originate from within, rather than from external validation, and highlighted the importance of fostering supportive environments for growth.