In this episode, Dr. Darren and Brantley Pearce discuss the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, with a particular focus on the rise of ransomware-as-a-service and its impact on small and medium-sized businesses. Brantley emphasizes the importance of managed detection and response (MDR) services, the need for ongoing employee training, and the influence of generative AI on phishing attacks. The discussion also covers best practices for securing business operations and the necessity of verifying transactions through established communication methods.

## Takeaways
* Ransomware as a service has made attacks easier and more scalable.
* Cybercriminals increasingly target small businesses.
* Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services are essential for monitoring threats.
* Employee training and awareness are critical in preventing cyberattacks.
* Generative AI is enhancing the sophistication of phishing attacks.
* Security hardening of systems like Microsoft 365 is often overlooked.
* Multi-factor authentication should extend to human interactions.
* Verifying transactions through known methods can prevent fraud.
* AI can be exploited for phishing just as easily as humans.
* Hiring a managed security service provider is a wise investment.

Audio Episode: https://share.transistor.fm/s/573c5db5

Blog Post: https://embracingdigital.org/episode-EDT263-en

source