Kassouf Podcast Network Presents: Cyber Matters

Kassouf

This is Cyber Matters, part of the Kassouf Podcast Network, with host Russ Dorsey, Principal and Chief Information Officer at Kassouf. Cyber Matters discusses issues that truly matter - to us, our clients, their families, and their businesses. Cyber Matters is not just about code, computers, and technical jargon. Instead, we focus on the human side of cyber and technology, discussing the impact of digital advancements on our lives and livelihoods and the key points that matter. Each episode features conversations with cyber professionals and business owners from diverse industries. These are the people at the vanguard of tech development and cyber safety, those who are driving innovation and ensuring our digital security. Whether it's dissecting a recent cyber attack, discussing the latest advancements in data security, exploring the impacts of new technology on businesses, or addressing ethical concerns surrounding cyber practices, Cyber Matters ensures that its discussions are engaging, pertinent, and most importantly, relatable to our audience. So, plug in your headphones and tune in to Cyber Matters, where we delve into the most pressing cyber issues of our time, discuss tangible solutions, and celebrate the humans behind the screen making our digital world a safer place. Welcome to a journey where cyber truly matters. Welcome to Cyber Matters. To learn more or to suggest a topic or speaker, please contact Russ Dorsey, rdorsey@kassouf.com. Note: While we strive to provide valuable insights and recommendations, please remember that the information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only. It is essential to consult with cybersecurity professionals or experts for personalized advice regarding your specific security needs. Stay informed, stay safe, and join us on this exciting journey into the realm of Cyber Matters! read less

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How the Alabama Securities Commission is Protecting Alabama Investors from Internet Fraud

How the Alabama Securities Commission is Protecting Alabama Investors from Internet Fraud

We wrap up our special series on phone, Internet, and elder fraud with Amanda Senn, Director of the Alabama Securities Commission. In part one of our conversation, Director Senn explains the Commission’s mission to protect Alabama investors against all forms of securities and investment fraud and talks about the current trends the ACS is seeing. Watch this on YouTube The Commission is committed to protecting investors against securities fraud and provides aggressive enforcement actions against any firm or individual who has violated the Alabama Securities Act or other state and federal statutes to the detriment of Alabama investors. The Commission licenses and regulates securities broker-dealers, agents, investment advisers and investment adviser representatives, and financial planners. You can prepare yourself to make an informed investment decision through Broker Check or contacting the Commission to determine if the representative and firm with whom you wish to do business are properly registered in Alabama. Our staff can also provide free information relating to the disciplinary history (crime, complaints, civil law suits, etc.), educational background and work experience of a firm or representative. https://asc.alabama.gov/ Call 1-800-222-1253 or (334) 242-2984 This is the link to the NPR “In Focus with Carolyn Hutcheson” Podcast https://www.npr.org/podcasts/946279880/in-focus-with-carolyn-hutcheson NASAA also produces a podcast that highlights real securities fraud cases, and we talk to the investigators and attorneys that worked the case.

Episodes

How the Alabama Securities Commission is Protecting Alabama Investors from Internet Fraud

How the Alabama Securities Commission is Protecting Alabama Investors from Internet Fraud

We wrap up our special series on phone, Internet, and elder fraud with Amanda Senn, Director of the Alabama Securities Commission. In part one of our conversation, Director Senn explains the Commission’s mission to protect Alabama investors against all forms of securities and investment fraud and talks about the current trends the ACS is seeing. Watch this on YouTube The Commission is committed to protecting investors against securities fraud and provides aggressive enforcement actions against any firm or individual who has violated the Alabama Securities Act or other state and federal statutes to the detriment of Alabama investors. The Commission licenses and regulates securities broker-dealers, agents, investment advisers and investment adviser representatives, and financial planners. You can prepare yourself to make an informed investment decision through Broker Check or contacting the Commission to determine if the representative and firm with whom you wish to do business are properly registered in Alabama. Our staff can also provide free information relating to the disciplinary history (crime, complaints, civil law suits, etc.), educational background and work experience of a firm or representative. https://asc.alabama.gov/ Call 1-800-222-1253 or (334) 242-2984 This is the link to the NPR “In Focus with Carolyn Hutcheson” Podcast https://www.npr.org/podcasts/946279880/in-focus-with-carolyn-hutcheson NASAA also produces a podcast that highlights real securities fraud cases, and we talk to the investigators and attorneys that worked the case.

Phone, Mail, and In-Person Scams - Part 2 of our Conversation with Lynn Shobe

Phone, Mail, and In-Person Scams - Part 2 of our Conversation with Lynn Shobe

In part two of our conversation with Lynn Shobe, retired Senior Special Agent with the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation, we talk about personal experience wtih phone, mail, and in-person financial scams. Lynn explains what to look for if you think a relative or friend is being scammed and how to handle some of the more common scams. Lynn, a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Financial Crime Investigator, has spent over half of his 40+ year career focusing on financial crime and fraud investigation. His focus on financial fraud has led him to a deep understanding of both the criminal and victim mindsets. You can reach Lynn through his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-shobe-cfe-cfci-71b89017/. According to the FBI IC3 report on Elder Fraud, criminals stole over $3 billion from our nation’s elderly in 2022 alone, costing the average victim $35,000. https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf. If you or someone you know has been a victim of elder fraud, involve local law enforcement immediately. In cases of significant monetary losses, ask your local law enforcement to involve the FBI immediately. And contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833–FRAUD–11 or 833–372–8311. https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/stop-elder-fraud/providing-help-restoring-hope. Contact Russ Dorsey, CIO at Kassouf, for more information or if you have suggestions for additional programming. rdorsey@kassouf.com.

Why Haven't We Fixed the Phishing Problem?

Why Haven't We Fixed the Phishing Problem?

In part 2 of our conversation with Joshua Crumbaugh, CEO of PhishFirewall, we ask the "billion dollar question" - Why haven't we fix the phishing problem? Joshua explains how attackers are utilizing "big data" tactics, driven by quickly evolving AI, to create sophisticated, highly adaptive phishing campaigns that can easily get by SPAM filters, leaving the users the last, best line of defense. He goes on to explain how we are perpetuating the problem by focusing resources on the hopes that better technology will prevent attacks at the expense of better end-user training that would likely prevent more attacks. We talk about how criminals are exploiting ChatGPT and other cloud services and technologies to lauch their attacks at scale. Watch us on Youtube. To learn more about building an efffective cyber awareness program, or to suggest a topic or guests, please contact Russ Dorsey, rdorsey@kassouf.com. https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuacrumbaugh/ https://www.phishfirewall.com/

The CyBUr Guy: When the Bad Guys are Targeting Your Family

The CyBUr Guy: When the Bad Guys are Targeting Your Family

This is Cyber Matters, part of the Kassouf Podcast Network, with host Russ Dorsey, Principal and Chief Information Officer at Kassouf. Cyber Matters discusses issues that truly matter - to us, our clients, their families, and their businesses. Cyber Matters is not just about code, computers, and technical jargon. Instead, we focus on the human side of cyber and technology, discussing the impact of digital advancements on our lives and livelihoods, and the key points that matter. In this episode we continue our conversation wtih Darren Mott, retired FBI Special Agent, cybersecurity professional, and the host of The CyBUr Guy podcast. We talk about phone and internet scams that target our parents and loved ones. We talk about phone scams, like the "Kidnapping Scam" that uses AI to generate the voices of family members. We talk about elder fraud and how the bad guys can convince someone to go to the bank and drain their bank account. We discuss how we can help our families avoid falling victim with some preparation and family conversations about the threats that exist. Darren's podcast is known for its engaging discussions with other FBI agents and professionals actively working in the field of cybersecurity, which has made it a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the subject. Darren explains how most scams would be prevented if the victims had just been educated, and the sad fact that in m

International Travel Safety Part 2 - While on Your Trip

International Travel Safety Part 2 - While on Your Trip

In Part Two of our summer vacation special, we discuss international travel safety and security with retired Air Force Lt. Col. Doug Wilson, co-founder of Counter Threat Group. Doug talks about the best way to be an America abroad - low key and situationally aware. He talks about how to blend in, what activities to avoid, the "right" way to get lost, and what items you should have on you for in a worst case scenario. Catch the full video here: https://youtu.be/SpIIXCxYaR4 Here are the checklist items we cover: Avoid large western branded hotels, such as Marious, Hyatt, Hilton. These are often targets for bad actors. Email your itinerary to several people, including your hotel and flights and update those people of any changes during the trip.Avoid public transportation during heavy commuting times Don't let a stranger direct you to a cab Be constantly aware of what's going on around you Avoid looking at your mobile device in public Be aware of your behavior and how you are are coming across to others Be polite and low key Avoid loud conversations, obnoxious behavior and arguments Make a mental note of all exits in every building you enter Blend in with your environment, avoid wearing "American" apparel, such as baseball caps, cowboy boots, USA t-shirts. Anonymity: Consider to what extent your physical features and dress distinguish you from locals. Avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations. If possible, avoid popular social venues, restaurants, bars, shopping areas, etc., during high activity times. Always have an out. Think about an escape path wherever you are.

Elder Fraud and Protecting Our Loved Ones from Phone, Mail, and In-Person Scams

Elder Fraud and Protecting Our Loved Ones from Phone, Mail, and In-Person Scams

In our latest podcast, we welcome Lynn Shobe, retired Senior Special Agent with the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation. We talk about phone, mail, and in-person financial fraud, and why criminals still use these "old school" methods. Lynn, a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Financial Crime Investigator, has spent over half of his 40+ year career focusing on financial crime and fraud investigation. His focus on financial fraud has led him to a deep understanding of both the criminal and victim mindsets. In the first part of this two-part podcast, we discuss the characteristics of scams and some of the tactics used. We talk about victims’ mindsets, and why so many people, especially the elderly, are fooled into handing over thousands of dollars, sometimes repeatedly. You can reach Lynn through his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-shobe-cfe-cfci-71b89017/. According to the FBI IC3 report on Elder Fraud, criminals stole over $3 billion from our nation’s elderly in 2022 alone, costing the average victim $35,000. https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2022_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf. If you or someone you know has been a victim of elder fraud, involve local law enforcement immediately. In cases of significant monetary losses, ask your local law enforcement to involve the FBI immediately. And contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 833–FRAUD–11 or 833–372–8311. https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/stop-elder-fraud/providing-help-restoring-hope. Contact Russ Dorsey, CIO at Kassouf, for more information or if you have suggestions for additional programming. rdorsey@kassouf.com.

International Travel Safety Part 1 - Preparing for Your Trip

International Travel Safety Part 1 - Preparing for Your Trip

In Part One of our summer vacation special, we discuss international travel safety and security with retired Air Force Lt. Col. Doug Wilson, co-founder of Counter Threat Group. Doug guides us through the pre-travel checklist, highlighting the essential items you should have and preparations you should make before boarding your flight. Furthermore, we explore important considerations when it comes to international flights and regions that may require extra caution. Since this is a cyber and technology podcast, we also discuss which mobile devices you should bring along and those you should avoid, as well as how to properly prepare the devices you must take. Here are the pre-trip checklist items we cover: Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html for complete checklists for international travelers. Register with the State Department Smart Traveler system. https://step.state.gov/step/ Upload your itinerary and receive real time alerts for the countries you are in. Know if proof of COVID vaccine might be required.Have a contingency plan for money and medications, even preventative medications you may need for respiratory infections, stomach bugs, etc. Take supplements to boost your immune system.Learn about the culture of the country you are visiting and observe how locals behave and what they wear. Plan to blend in. Make sure to have your passport two months in advance and make sure it is not expiring in the next six months. Always carry your passport on your person. Have a color photocopy in your luggage and a copy with someone back home. Notify your bank about using your credit card in the country prior to going. Carry limited cash and one credit card. Make sure you have written down your CC# and the customer phone number.

Alabama Technology Foundation / 2023 Alabama Business Technology Conference

Alabama Technology Foundation / 2023 Alabama Business Technology Conference

In this episode, we talk to Renee Bord, Executive Director of the Alabama Technology Foundation, about the Foundation's mission to position Alabama as a leader in technology by providing the State's largest academic STEM database, connecting students pursuing degrees in any of the STEM fields with Alabama businesses relying on a local STEM workforce. In addition to the student database, the Foundation works to fund STEM scholarships, arranges internships, and promotes other apprenticeship programs. In this first episode, Renee explains how Alabama businesses that get involved with the AFT benefit from access to the growing database of STEM students. She also highlights how students who register with the database can connect with potential employers statewide. As part of this mission, the Foundation is hosting the 2nd Annual Alabama Business Technology Conference at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center on September 14 and 15. The plenary lineup features IT and Workforce thought leaders who will explore emerging threats and trends of vital interest to all professionals, as well as provide insights on how to retain talent in Alabama. Admission for the two-day event is only $25 for the keynotes and breakouts, with lunch and dinner options available à la carte. This makes it one of the best educational values this year. For more information contact Renee Borg, Renee.Borg@rsa-al.gov And check out these sites for information on the Foundation and the Conference. https://atf.alabamatechnologyfoundation.org/s/ https://atf.alabamatechnologyfoundation.org/s/atf-conference

Building A Culture of Cyber Awareness in Your Business

Building A Culture of Cyber Awareness in Your Business

In this episode, we chat with Joshua Crumbaugh, CEO of PhishFirewall, about his career in cyber security as a an ethical hacker, and how his study of human behavior and psychology made him very effective. We talk about how lesson learned as an ethical hacker led him to found PhishFirewall. PhishFirewall is a phishing attack simulation platform that employs adaptive AI, as well as fundamental principles of psychology, such as positive reinforcement, varied repetition, and adaptive learning, to quickly build phishing awareness at a subconcious level. Joshua refers to this as buidling "human virus definitions." In our discussion, Joshua shares insightful tactics on how these foundational psychological principles, when applied correctly, can serve as powerful tools in creating comprehensive cybersecurity awareness for any company seeking to improve their cyber-security posture. He emphasizes that these methodologies are not exclusive to large corporations, but rather, they can be effectively employed by organizations of any size. By doing so, companies can fortify their defenses against an extensive array of cyber threats, ensuring the digital safety of their operations. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and tips from one of the industry's leading experts. To learn more about building an efffective cyber awareness program, or to suggest a topic or guests, please contact Russ Dorsey, rdorsey@kassouf.com. https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuacrumbaugh/ https://www.phishfirewall.com/

Sloss Tech 2023: Celebrating Birmingham's Tech Entrepreneurs - 08.04.23 @ The Lyric

Sloss Tech 2023: Celebrating Birmingham's Tech Entrepreneurs - 08.04.23 @ The Lyric

This is Cyber Matters, part of the Kassouf Podcast Network, with host Russ Dorsey, Principal and Chief Information Officer at Kassouf. Cyber Matters discusses issues that truly matter - to us, our clients, their families, and their businesses. Cyber Matters is not just about code, computers, and technical jargon. Instead, we focus on the human side of cyber and technology, discussing the impact of digital advancements on our lives and livelihoods, and the key points that matter. Deon Gordon, President of TechBirmingham, talks to us about the return of Sloss Tech and the significance of this event to our tech community and the professionals and businesses that rely on a strong tech presence in this region. Sloss Tech brings together the best and the brightest of today’s tech entrepreneurs, both nationally and locally. The event’s mission is to become a hub for Birmingham’s tech community, where founders, startups and companies can share ideas, build relationships with one another, and push the boundaries of innovation. To learn more about SlossTech or to suggest a topic or guest, please contact Russ Dorsey, rdorsey@kassouf.com. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/NqgCeQ3Vw0k Sloss Tech info here: https://sloss.tech/ Agenda and tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sloss-tech-2023-tickets-588387742577 TechBirmingham info: https://techbirmingham.com/

The CyBUr Guy: Raising cybersecurity awareness through education & avoiding scams

The CyBUr Guy: Raising cybersecurity awareness through education & avoiding scams

This is Cyber Matters, part of the Kassouf Podcast Network, with host Russ Dorsey, Principal and Chief Information Officer at Kassouf. Cyber Matters discusses issues that truly matter - to us, our clients, their families, and their businesses. Cyber Matters is not just about code, computers, and technical jargon. Instead, we focus on the human side of cyber and technology, discussing the impact of digital advancements on our lives and livelihoods, and the key points that matter. In this episode of Cyber Matters we're excited to welcome Darren Mott, retired FBI Special Agent, cybersecurity professional, and the host of The CyBUr Guy podcast. In part one of our conversation, we delve into the backstory of The CyBUr Guy and Darren's mission to raise cybersecurity awareness and promote cyber safety for individuals and business. His