Stay ConnectedIT authors and entrepreneurs Ryan Morris, Karl Palachuk, and Dave Sobel provide commentary on the changing world of technology opportunities and emerging tech.
We want to expand the discussion from the SMB IT channel to all things tech – with one eye on the future and the other on profits. Join us!
Copyright: © Copyright (C) 2019 Karl W. Palachuk
We're back for Q3 2024. Quick question of the day ... then onto the topics of the day.
Topic 1: MIT Releases the AI Risk Repository
Thanks to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for a major resource. It's definitely more for you than your clients. But we see great opportunity here.
The public database contains 700+ risks as documented by published papers. It includes many categories, based on severity and other variables.
Check it out here: https://airisk.mit.edu/
You can poke around online and gets some good information. Or download the entire database in Excel format. You can then sort, color code, or do whatever you want with the data.
And that includes providing educationi and training for your clients
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Topic 2: Shocker - Google Has a Monopoly on Search!
Okay, not really a shocker. But does it matter that a judege says so?
Does anyone care (other than other search engines)? Would breaking up Google change anything? What is most likely to actually happen (e.g., Microsoft-like consent decree)? The 1984 AT&T breakup into seven baby Bells may help us see 40 years into the future
As usual, we discuss.
Related Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/13/technology/google-monopoly-antitrust-justice-department.html
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Topic 3: NIST Releases Cryptography for Quantum Computing
See https://www.axios.com/2024/08/13/nist-post-quantum-cryptography-encryption.
Quantum computing has been ten years away . . . for more than forty years. Besides the “no harm to update,” how much attention do we really need to give to quantum computing?
We have three different perspective on how much this "news" matters. As usual. What do you think?
Topic 1: Massive Botnet Network Taken Down
Police coordinated by the European Union's justice and police agencies have taken down computer networks responsible for spreading ransomware via infected emails, in what they called the biggest-ever international operation against the lucrative form of cybercrime.
The European Union's judicial cooperation agency, Eurojust, said that police arrested four “high value” suspects, took down more than 100 servers and seized control of over 2,000 internet domains.
Related Link: https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/massive-international-police-operation-takes-ransomware-networks-arrests-110667670
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Topic 2: AI Update, because We Have To
Are strategies emerging?
Amazon is a brokerage for models Microsoft is doing CoPilot OpenAI is everywhere Apple just announced Apple Intelligence Cisco announces a pile of stuff
Is there a “killer app” coming soon?
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Topic 3: How is the M&A Frenzy affecting SMB IT?
Google “m&a in it consulting” and you’ll find articles, events, advice, and a whole lot people scrambling for the almighty dollar.
Are the KPIs used in business acquisition really the KPIs you should be using to run a solid, long-term business?
The most common way that small businesses “end” are 1) Walk away, and 2) Sell the client list. None of those people are getting 3x profit or even 3x EBITDA. Should they change their business or just keep doing what they’re doing?
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Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University
This episode is Sponsored by Karl’s next big class at IT Service Provider University.
The five-week course, Core Standard Operating Procedures for Small IT Service Providers, starts July 2nd and costs only $399. This class walks through the most important processes and procedures you need to run a successful, profitable IT company. And best of all, you get massive handouts as a "first draft" for your own SOP library.
More information at https://www.itspu.com/all-classes/classes/core-operating-procedures/
:-)
Check out the bonus Killing IT content on MSP Radio's Business of Tech podcast! Today's a great day to subscribe to that: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/
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Topic 1: The Current State of Mergers, Acquisition, and MSP Consolidation
Mergers and Acquisitions are alive and well in the MSP channel. Jay McBain from Canalys predicts a growth of M&A of 50% in 2024. In addition to MSPs themselves, he says that we’ll see some major vendors acquired as well.
The promise of these larger organizations is always that they’ll bring efficiency and profit. So far, that hasn’t happened. But that’s the promise.
Karl thinks this is a GREAT marketing opportunity for MSPs.
Related Links: https://greenwichgp.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MA-Demand-for-Managed-Service-Providers-in-2024.pdf
https://www.channelfutures.com/mergers-acquisitions/msp-m-a-staying-hot-what-to-expect
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Topic 2: The Practical Application for AI in Small Business
Are we there yet?
While AI is the most popular topic in technology, the question remains: what can we use AI for that will produce actual business value? Some industries have made great progress with AI, including manufacturing and medicine. According to a recent study, more than 93% of manufacturers (from start-ups to global giants) are already using AI in some form.
What are the implications and opportunities for MSPs and solution providers to sell their services to manufacturing clients? And what lessons can we learn to accelerate the adoption of AI in other industries?
Related Link: https://research.aimultiple.com/manufacturing-ai/
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Topic 3: How to best use predictions and analysis from guys like us.
Summary of the Larry Walsh article linked below: “IT spending growth projections should be taken with caution as they are directional and subject to change. While major analyst firms forecast healthy growth, the market is not uniformly strong, with several countries experiencing recession. Partner confidence is also dampened due to negative macroeconomic trends. Despite fluctuations in forecasts, investors, vendors, and partners rely on them for strategic planning. Channelnomics predicts conditions in the first half of 2024 to resemble 2023, with substantial improvement in the second half. Robust growth in IT spending is expected in 2025 and potentially 2026, driven by investments in artificial intelligence, data management services, and infrastructure refreshes.”
Article by Larry Walsh, Channelnomics: https://channelnomics.com/taking-it-spending-forecasts-with-grain-of-salt/
See also: "With a projected 6.8% surge in global IT investment in 2024, organizations are positioned at the brink of transformative growth. According to Gartner, worldwide IT spending it expected to total $5 trillion in 2024. This represents a 6.8 percent increase over 2023. And while this is an increase, it’s down from the previous forecast of 8 percent." https://www.teamdynamix.com/strategic-it-spending-in-2024-navigating-growth-and-innovation/
:-)
Topic 1: Chat GPT 1 year later.
AI Article Summary: Elon Musk creates his own AI company called X.AI, while Satya Nadella of Microsoft invests in OpenAI and accelerates plans to incorporate AI into Microsoft's products. OpenAI releases ChatGPT as a "low key research preview," which becomes a hit. Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, faces challenges with its own chatbot and struggles with the decision to go open-source. Microsoft introduces its own chatbot in Bing, surpassing Google's efforts. Geoffrey Hinton, a prominent AI scientist at Google, decides to quit and reflects on the rapid advancements in AI technology.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/05/technology/ai-chatgpt-google-meta.html
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Topic 2: Robots Multiplying by Thousands!
AI Article Summary: Agility Robotics plans to open a factory in Oregon to mass-produce humanoid robots, starting with their bot named Digit. The factory aims to produce 10,000 robots per year and will assist companies like Amazon with tasks such as hauling and lifting. The production of bipedal robots that are nimbler and more versatile than existing industrial counterparts presents engineering challenges, but Agility Robotics aims to make general-purpose humanoids available as soon as possible.
Other competitors in this space include Tesla, Boston Dynamics, Sanctuary AI, Figure, and Apptronik. Amazon has invested in Agility Robotics and is testing Digit in a laboratory. The concern about robots taking jobs from humans has prompted Amazon to partner with MIT to study automation's impact on work. While there is momentum behind humanoid robots, there is still more testing to be done. In a separate article, it is highlighted that America's military needs to embrace artificial intelligence and robotics to maintain its competitive advantage in future wars, but congressional and bureaucratic restraints hinder rapid mobilization and investment in these technologies.
https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-whats-next-d504c6f4-c6d1-4979-ae67-72f5bfaff090.html
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Topic 3: Will Private Equity Destroy Our Industry?
Karl speculates that private funding and private equity will be looking for serious payouts starting in 2024. With a 4-6 year window, the clock is ticking. Some companies will have an identity crisis in the years ahead, and that will become visible in 2024.
Higher interest rates will force companies to decide, “Do we want to run this company like an adult, or take our money and leave?” Those who stay will either get loans - at higher rates than we’ve seen in twelve years - or take companies private so they don’t rely on outside financing.
Investors who were promised a straight 40-50% return per year were disappointed in 2023 and that disappointment will grow in 2024. These people care nothing for the businesses they buy or the end clients of those businesses.
Our industry cannot escape the effects of this unknown element of chaos.
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Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University
This episode is Sponsored by Dave’s January class at ITSPU.com.
Dave is teaching a brand new class in January: navigating emerging technologies for MSPs. This is a five week class, which will walk through the methodology Dave uses for analyzing technologies and how you can apply that in your business to find trends and be effective in your service provider business. More info at
https://www.itspu.com/all-classes/classes/navigating-emerging-technologies-for-msps/
:-)
We're Baaaaaack!
The Killing IT team returns . . . with a fun and educational Q4 show.
Topic 1: Overworking
Have you heard the term Over Employment or Overworking? These are folks who manage to hold down two or three full time jobs using apps and BS. Are these just eager, hardworking "gig" folks, or are they thieves who are simply more interested in making money than earning an honest living?
A few links: https://www.vice.com/en/article/v7begx/overemployed-hustlers-exploit-chatgpt-to-take-on-even-more-full-time-jobs https://www.wired.com/story/remote-tech-workers-secret-multiple-jobs/ https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/news-insights/fp-weekly-checklist-avoiding-the-new-breed-of-workplace-scams-in-the-remote-work-era.html
They even have their own web site. https://overemployed.com/
Topic 2: Catch up on Artificial Intelligence
Wow! What a year.
Are we in the middle of a singularity? ow much is this like the early Internet (late 1990’s)? It seems like 2023 will be remembered as the year of AI.
We look at the good and the great - and what's next.
What do you think?
Topic 3: Metaverse – Dave offers a theory
What will augmented reality bring? It looks like the future is becoming a little more visible. New products, from Apple's Vision Pro to Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, are bringing new opportunities and will only get better with a little AI!
We discuss.
Please like and share - and send us your feedback!
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:-)
Topic 1: How much will AI change our business in the next twelve months?
ChatGPT now has over 100 million users. Government wants to regulate it. We’re past the hockey stick moment.
https://techcrunch.com/2023/05/14/u-s-tech-policy-must-keep-pace-with-ai-innovation/
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Topic 2: Oh Dear God - Minority Report crack for Ryan:
Movie clip reconstructed by an AI reading mice's brains as they watch
Researchers have put together a 30-second movie clip based on a group of mice's brain activity data that was recorded while they watched the footage
---
Topic 3: How dead is the metaverse?
KP: Not every “cool” technology has a big future. It will find its niche.
---
Resources and Links:
Topic 1: The Arms Race is Here...AI is Definitely Moving Fast, but Will It Break Things?
ChatGPT is now integrated in Bing as “Prometheus.” That sounds ominous. But Bard is also coming. And now Ernie. And Claude. Soon there will be AI bots generating “conversations” and disrupting the search industry on all sides of the globe. Is that a good thing?
Sample alternative tools - https://bing.com
...And also, apparently writing software is about to become a less-lucrative career path.
---
Topic 2: Revisiting the Cabana...
Four years ago, we set out to change the way our industry discussed IT.
We covered the scary, the quirky, and the fun of IT--all in hopes we could help others (and ourselves) understand this wild world just a little more.
Thank you for helping us do that.
This is not goodbye. We WILL see you later.
Until then, we thank you for tuning in to the Killing IT Podcast.
Contact us:
Karl https://smallbizthoughts.com/
https://smbonlineconference.com/
Dave https://www.businessof.tech/
Ryan rmorris@morrismp.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanmorris303
---
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Are your go-to cloud providers AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud?
Do you ever question whether some clients really need the complexity and expense of the big players?
Recommend a better fit with Linode and Akamai, Linux cloud hosting at a fraction of the cost of the big players.
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Topic 1: Score 1 for the Good Guys in the Cyber Wars
https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-login-0f2b3e6a-1272-4510-8fd2-c1aa9128b8db.html
In a significant development in the fight against ransomware, the FBI announces that they have shut down a notorious cyber gang after infiltrating their system months ago and secretly giving decryption keys to ransomware victims.
Topic 2: Ummmm … This is Some Seriously Scary Big Brother Stuff
Scientists have announced that they are able to see people through walls using WiFi technology. And not just the “heat blob” from Hollywood movies … but detailed movements and positions. On a scientific note, this is cool. On a security / privacy note, this is super eerie.
Topic 3: No One Is Surprised: The First Victim in the AI Wars Will Be … Ethics
Sure, generative AI is fun. We have had our laughs and we’re starting to grind the gears to find legitimate uses for services like ChatGPT … and the possibilities are incredible. But never forget that this isn’t just about technology, it’s about business. And the incumbents aren’t going to just let the upstart take over the industry. And once the race for market domination begins, the commitment to ethics and fair treatment are likely to be the first casualties.
https://www.nist.gov/trustworthy-and-responsible-ai
Princeton computer science professor says don't panic over 'bullshit generator' ChatGPT
"It is trying to be persuasive, and it has no way to know for sure whether the statements it makes are true or not," he said.
Also … this one is incredibly funny:
https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-login-77eb3638-5655-4156-b6dc-abb7129dde34.html
:-)
The Onion weighs in with the most accurate take on ChatGPT yet.
Sponsor Memo: OITVOIP
Let’s cut the FUD; don’t let anyone scare you from selling VoIP because “compliance is hard”.
With our newest Managed Compliance service, OITVOIP removes compliance headaches from the picture while you retain control of your client relationships.
Get started selling faster than ever! Visit HTTPS://oit.co/ mspradio to learn more today!
Topic 1: Sorry: Let’s talk jobs.
December: Total new jobs UP 235,000. That is despite the fact the enterprise companies (500 employees+) reduced jobs by 151,000
https://adpemploymentreport.com/ ← Great summary stats
Spotify 600 (6% of workforce) Twitter 3,700 (50% of those who lasted this long) Salesforce 7,000 (10% of workforce) Microsoft 10,000 (5% of workforce) Tesla 10,000 (10% of workforce) Google 12,000 (6% of workforce) Amazon 18,000 (1% of workforce)
Oh, and . . .
Apple 0 (0% of workforce) - Minor adjustments at retail locations
See also the big Layoff-Tracker Service at TrueUp - https://www.trueup.io/layoffs
NOTE - TrueUp also lists about 180,000 tech job openings right now.
Topic 2: The FBI crime data is not good!
We have a crime data dilemma.
The recent mass shooting in Monterey Park, CA will NOT be included in the FBI's nationwide crime statistics.
It turns out, the county as well as 33% of other law enforcement agencies, have not be using the the justice department's crime reporting system.
Does this data disconnet present new opportunities?
Topic 3: First Personal Drone to be Produced by India
No, Wally, you don’t get a flying car. But you might get a personal drone. Currently going into production for the Indian Navy. But keep your eyes open for a civilian version.
Maybe you do get a flying car:
https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2023/01/09/flying-cars-virginia-jetson
The maker of the Jetson One — a single-passenger aircraft whose manufacturer says it can take off and land from a driveway — says one of its first customers is in Charlottesville, with a delivery scheduled for later this year, per the company's website.
Sponsor Memo: NSITSP
Hey MSPs: People are talking about you - behind your back.
They're regulators and legislators. They're CISA and the states of Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana. And more.
Every state now has at least one committee in their state legislature that focuses on cybersecurity. That means regulation is coming. You can count on it.
The National Society of IT Service Providers was created to give you a seat at the table when someone's talking about you. That includes regulator, legislators, and even the media.
Find out more and join today at https://www.nsitsp.org
We're working on your behalf to turn the industry into a profession.
Topic 1: Small companies are “labor hoarding” while large companies are laying off.
https://www.utahbusiness.com/labor-hoarding-tech/
https://www.teambonding.com/labor-hoarding/
Keeping employees at any cost!
Topic 2: Understanding the Dynamics of the Tech Workforce in 2023
Data Point 1: Tech Layoffs are Happening … But Not Because Tech is Suddenly Less Valuable
Data Point 2: Tech Jobs are Less Attractive to Young Professionals https://www.axios.com/local/seattle/2023/01/09/tech-jobs-less-desireable-2023
Data Point 3: Shifting Preference for Generalists vs. Specialists … Plus a Mainstream Rise of “Business IT” Contributors
https://www.ciodive.com/news/technology-workforce-trends-2023/639543/
Amazon layoffs delivered by email. ← Low class or just modern times?
Topic 3: Cal Newport on the Digital Workplace: We got it wrong
Too much distraction. In fact, ALL distraction, all the time.
Primary thesis = We rarely get things right the first time. But we treat technology as if we do.
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/01/23/magazine/cal-newport-interview.html
See also https://www.calnewport.com/books/deep-work/
Sponsor Memo: Linode
The days of limiting yourself to the big players is coming to an end. Modernize your cloud offerings by partnering with Linode and Akamai.
The cloud landscape is growing with alternative cloud providers like Linode offering better price to performance and better support at the fraction of the cost.
There’s just some clients that don’t fit into the one size fits all box of the Big 3. Enter Linode, Linux cloud hosting at the fraction of the cost of the big players.
Your customers can save up to 70% on their cloud bill.
Find out more at https://linode.com/mspradio
Topic 1: Algorithms Need Management Training, Too!
From Wired Magazine.
Human beings excel at avoiding responsibility for difficult decisions. Management and personnel decisions are often difficult. Therefore, they are great candidates for turning decision-making over to the bots.
What could possibly go wrong?
https://www.wired.com/story/platform-work-labor-economy-ai/
Topic 2: Microsoft drops $1 Billion on ChatGPT
I should have bought more Microsoft stock yesterday. :-)
Looking to the true “next level” of product development. Microsoft was an early investor in ChatGPT
https://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-openai-investment-the-smartest-1-billion-ever-spent-2023-1
Topic 3: Apple to drop Broadcom chip and make their own.
Is this just the never-ending story of “control” of supply chain, or is there a strategy for secret development here? (Are there future technologies that are more easily developed in private, when you don’t have to share future features with an outside chip builder?)
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Every client needs Cyber Protection. But that doesn’t mean service providers have to deploy a jumbled patchwork of solutions to get it done.
Modern protection starts with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud.
Acronis combines backup, anti-malware, endpoint protection, management and robust ransomware defense all from a single console. That’s why successful MSPs use Acronis to generate more recurring revenue AND reduce churn.
It’s easy to get started at https://Acronis.com
Topic 1: Generative AI is Fun … Until the “Other” Guys Start Doing It Too
https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/31/how-china-is-building-a-parallel-generative-ai-universe/
China is aggressively building their own versions of generative AI platforms (with some obvious / inevitable filters) that do essentially the same thing as ChatGPT and Stable Diffusion. The question is whether they will be able to out-race us to the auto-content future … and whether that is a problem.
Topic 2: LastPass - Lessons for the Channel
Should we be worried? What do we expect from vendors? What’s reasonable and realistic?
https://blog.lastpass.com/2022/12/notice-of-recent-security-incident/
Is this worth discussing as a larger topic of always-on monitoring and reporting?
Topic 3: Fast Forward Into the Future: Intelligent Elevators are Coming Soon
Everyone who has ever been in an elevator knows what is good and what is bad about the experience. But changes in behavior and city culture brought on by the pandemic are accelerating the evolution of the elevator experience: facial recognition to automatically take you to your floor, provide personalized advertising / entertainment, and even provide solo rides for VIPs. The smart city concept will eventually affect everything … are we ready for elevators that know who we are?
See also: Faster: The Acceleration of Just About Everything Paperback – January 1, 2000 by James Gleick (Author)
https://www.amazon.com/Faster-Acceleration-Just-About-Everything/dp/067977548X
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic
PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation.
Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting. The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts.
Find out more about by visiting https://PCMatic.com/MSP today.
Topic 1: For Sale on eBay: A Military Database of Fingerprints and Iris Scans
Great topic for ITSPs - especially as clients get rid of equipment at the end of year. Old machines of all kinds might have sensitive data. Not this juicy, perhaps, but stories like this are great for you client-facing newsletters.
Topic 2: The age of the work-from-home whistleblower
Why are so many remote workers deciding to squeal on their companies?
Topic 3: Man Simulates Time Travel
So, what is our weekly update with AI? On the up-less existential-side, we have some fun: Time traveling with the aid of AI. No copyrgiht infringment here. Right?
Sponsor Memo: SBTTC
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
:-)
Topic 1: Meta scamming: Scammers Are Scamming Other Scammers Out of Millions of Dollars
https://www.wired.com/story/cybercrime-hackers-scams-forums/
On cybercrime forums, user complaints about being duped may accidentally expose their real identities.
Topic 2: Teens are Self-Liberating from Social Media
‘Luddite’ Teens Don’t Want Your Likes
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/15/style/teens-social-media.html
Topic 3: The Drones Are Coming (to 22 Select Locations Around the Country … Within Driving Distance of a Wal-Mart)
https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/walmart-droneup-drone-delivery-service-launches-arizona/638950/
Wal-mart announces legitimate progress on rolling out drone delivery to customers in key metropolitan areas. The forecast is to expand to 34 stores in 23 cities by year end to reach a capacity of 1M drone deliveries. And … Utah is on the list of the next markets to launch. Could a burrito delivery be in the near future?
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Sponsor Memo: Cisco
I bet you think working with Cisco is hard. They’re big, and have so much going on, and you’re … smaller.
That’s why there’s Cisco Partner Journeys, an innovative new digital experience designed to accelerate your engagement with Cisco.
Each unique journey leads you to the best tools, services, programs and portfolio offerings to help you accelerate sales, build a practice and enhance profitability.
Whether you are new to Cisco or a long-time partner, Cisco has the right journey for you.
Interested? Visit https://ciscopartnerjourneys.com/ to find out more.
Topic 1: The Bots are Coming for LinkedIn, Adding New Layers of Risk for Professionals and for Companies … but Especially for Recruiters
https://thehustle.co/12122023-LinkedIn-bots/
Bots are everywhere on social media, and some platforms are doing more to combat them than others. Now that the bots are proliferating on LinkedIn, it’s vital for everyone to think about the layers of threat and the corresponding hygiene on the career-centric platform.
Topic 2: How does AI write fiction (and online advertisements)? “Fluent BS”
https://www.wired.com/story/chatgpt-fluent-bs/
The term “Fluent Bullshit” was originally coined by The Verge:
Topic 3: Investors Call Time On FAANG Stocks – Big Tech Not Going to Lead the Next Round of Economic Growth
The iconic big tech stocks have not only dominated the conversation around the tech industry in the past decade, they have also represented the most reliable outsized sources of growth. But looking forward, industry analysts and stock market investors are indicating they do not believe these mature companies will be able to generate the dramatic growth results needed to maintain sky-high valuations. Who will fill the gap?
Sponor Memo: PCMatic
PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation.
Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts. Find out more about by visiting PCMatic.com/MSP today.
Topic 1: Should the Police have killer robots?
San Francisco approves the use of robots capable of lethal force.
Is this move inevitable, or are the arguments in favor of this just rare exceptions to the rule?
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/sf-police-killer-robots-would-have-explosives-not-guns-sfpd/
Topic 2: Data Volumes are Increasing at Such a Fast Pace, We Need New Words to Describe Just How Much There Is
And to absolutely no one’s surprise, businesses are struggling to afford the cost of managing all that data
https://www.techradar.com/news/rising-data-management-costs-are-hitting-businesses-hard
Data is the essential component of literally every dimension of the technology industry, and we’re producing more of it every day at literally astronomical rates. So much so that we have run out of words to describe just how much there is. Science is solving that part for us. But science can’t help us figure out how to pay to store / manage all of that data. Observation #1: I sure hope you are selling data storage / management solutions. Observation #2: What are the ripple implications for IT management and the services MSPs provide?
Topic 3: Chatbots and Generative AI Image Systems are Getting Pretty Good … But is that a Good Thing?
https://mashable.com/article/chatgpt-amazing-wrong
https://www.axios.com/2022/09/12/ai-images-ethics-dall-e-2-stable-diffusion
AI systems for creating content are steadily improving in terms of technical / functional capability. But the layers of ethical questions continue to stack up. How do you know if the AI chatbot is telling the truth? Is AI art actually art? If the AI is trained on the work of other artists, who should get credit?
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode – a top Infrastructure as a Service provider has resources specifically for helping MSPs explore the alternative cloud.
Discover this growing market: one of the best-kept secrets in building a scalable, thriving, modern Managed Service Provider business.
Learn about the cloud provider landscape, improving KPIs, security, and more in Linode's free ebook, The MSP's Guide to Modern Cloud Infrastructure, available now.
This resource and more at https://linode.com/mspradio
Topic 1: The FTX Contagion Has Affected VC / PE Firms that Invest In MSP Vendors
https://www.channele2e.com/news/ftx-cryptocurrency-bankruptcy-filing/
In all the noise that’s surrounding the collapse of FTX and the impact on other crypto companies, news is coming out that several major MSP investors have also suffered significant losses. Initial statements indicate that the losses were not enough to threaten the survival of the investment funds, but that there will be implications for how they make investment decisions in the future.
Topic 2: Is It Goodnight To Alexa (and other voice assistants)?
Despite billions invested and many high hopes for a new computer interface, the products in the voice assistant category have dramatically underperformed the plans of their developers – both in terms of usage and commercial value. Is there a future for interactive voice assistants … or is this another in a long line of failed voice recognition innovations?
Topic 3: Amazon Lays Off Recruiters … Could Be Planning to Replace Them With AI
https://mashable.com/article/amazon-layoff-ai-tech
Following the announcement of the largest layoffs in Amazon’s history, the company followed up with buyout offers to hundreds of recruiters, signaling the end of the season of accelerated hiring across Amazon. But yesterday at AWS Reinvent the company announced that it will continue to add staff in 2023 (specifically within the AWS division) as cloud sales continue to accelerate. So, who will do the recruiting? Turns out they are re-visiting the use of an AI recruiting system to do the work previously done by humans. Hmmmmm.
Sponsor Memo: OITVOIP
Did you know about STIR/SHAKEN? If you’re doing voice for your customers, you had better — the deadline was June 30.
This technology is focused on reducing robocalls, and providers have to take action. Are you compliant?
The team at OITVOIP has put together resources for you to learn more… or, for their customers, it’s already handled.
Want to learn more? Visit https://oit.co/mspradio/ for resources to help make sure you’re covered.
Topic 1: The Federal Communications Commission has published the initial draft of its revised high-speed internet coverage maps.
The old maps were census-block based. The new maps are based on more detailed information from broadband providers. With the old system, a huge census block would be marked as served even if only one household had broadband.
https://www.fcc.gov/news-events/notes/2022/11/18/new-broadband-maps-are-finally-here
You can examine updated maps from here:
https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/home
For an interactive map, start here and zoom in and out as desired:
https://broadbandmap.fcc.gov/location-summary/fixed
Want to see how you can make money filling the gaps? Check out:
https://broadbandusa.ntia.doc.gov/resources/federal/federal-funding
Topic 2: An Update - The Labor Situation in Technology Companies
While many large tech companies are aggressively shedding employees, some are actually positioned to absorb that talent. TikTok is specifically planning to hire 3000 new engineers.
https://www.teamblind.com/post/Meta-CTO-uses-Blind-😂-QtH4wcxQ
Topic 3: Should the Federal Government Provide Cybersecurity Insurance?
Flood, Fire, . . . and Cyber?
Insurance companies are pushing for taxpayer assistance to provide coverage in the event of catastrophic incidents.
The comment period for this topic has been extended until December 11th. https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2022-24476.pdf
See the original request for comments here: https://www.nextgov.com/cybersecurity/2022/09/treasury-seeks-comment-how-structure-cyber-insurance-program/377793/
Rather than increasing the number of laws, CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) is looking at directing behavior by asking insurance companies to enforce rules on insured companies AND paying the premiums under the right circumstances.
How big does a “catastrophic” event have to be for the government to get involved? The emerging model is based on the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program adopted after September 11th.
Sponsor memo: Cisco
I bet you think working with Cisco is hard. They’re big, and have so much going on, and you’re…smaller.
That’s why there’s Cisco Partner Journeys, an innovative new digital experience designed to accelerate your engagement with Cisco.
Each unique journey leads you to the best tools, services, programs and portfolio offerings to help you accelerate sales, build a practice and enhance profitability. Whether you are new to Cisco or a long-time partner, Cisco has the right journey for you.
Interested? Visit https://ciscopartnerjourneys.com/ to find out more.
Topic 1: Good News on the EV Front: Lithium Ion Batteries can be Recycled!
https://www.axios.com/2022/11/10/audi-redwood-ev-battery-recycling
Yes … we are headed for an EV world. No … there are not nearly enough batteries or charging stations or grid capacity to handle an EV world. But in a positive sign, it turns out that the rare Earth minerals used in LIon batteries do not degrade and can be recycled into new batteries. Increase supply. Reduce pollution. Recycle all those old battery items lying around your house. Win!
Topic 2: Nine in Ten SMBs Fear a Ransomware Attack https://www.msspalert.com/cybersecurity-research/most-smbs-fear-ransomware-attack-amid-heightened-geopolitical-tensions/ A new study from OpenText reveals that nearly 9 in 10 SMB IT security professionals fear a ransomware attack on their organization … yet most do not plan to increase cybersecurity spending. Is this a failure to communicate … or a case of intentional ignorance?
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Topic 3: Is Rude Behavior Contagious
Rude behavior on the rise: https://www.axios.com/2022/11/10/rude-behavior-frontline-workers
“Employees who experience rudeness at work are less satisfied with their jobs, less engaged with their work, less productive, less helpful, and less creative,” Taylor said.
https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/how-rudeness-can-ruin-your-workplace
Sponsor Memo: Gozynta
Do you like getting paid? Then make it easy for your customers with Gozynta Payments.
Do you teach your customers not to click on links from strange domain names like mymsp.monkeypayments.com or slowbooks.com?
Gozynta Payments uses your branding and domain name. No redirects. No confusion.
Gozynta Mobius is trusted by over a thousand MSPs to sync financial data. Their new product Gozynta Payments is built with the same care and empathy to make the payment process easy for your customers.
Gozynta is a family-owned business dedicated to making software suck less every day.
Go to https://gozynta.com/payments to learn more or get started.
Topic 1: Lessons from the Stripe Layoffs - for tech ITs, vendors, and everyone.
Stripe layed off 14% of their workforce, and were very open about the reasons. We all make mistakes in periods of rapid growth and rapid decline. This stuff is hard!
https://www.businessinsider.com/stripe-layoffs-memo-tech-sector-challenges-2022-11
https://www.npr.org/2022/11/14/1136659617/tech-layoffs-amazon-meta-twitter
Topic 2: Twitter Melting Down
Twitter has typically reviewed its products for privacy problems before rolling them out to users, to avoid additional fines from the F.T.C. and remain in compliance with the settlement. But because of a rapid pace of product development under Mr. Musk, engineers could be forced to “self-certify” so that their projects meet privacy requirements…
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/10/technology/elon-musk-twitter-employees.html
Topic 3: The Crypto Meltdown. Gaaaaaahhhhhhh!!!! (If you are an FTX investor)
Crypto for MSPs: https://youtu.be/C6hXJC0_r3o
This week the proverbial $h!t hit the literal fan and the crypto market is in full-on chaos and panic mode. What? Why? How? Where do we go from here?
Sponsor: FieldEffect
MSPs are frequently at the forefront of cyber security challenges. Between changing customer expectations and the growing threat landscape, you are stretched thin.
Need a helping hand?
Download research firm, Aite-Novarica Group’s report, sponsored by FieldEffect, and learn how offering MDR increases revenue, simplifies operations, and maximizes margins for MSPs.
This independent analysis explores the growing managed detection and response (MDR) market and how MSPs can differentiate their managed security service with the right MDR solution.
You'll also find insights from five MSPs who have added co-va-lence, a hybrid MDR solution, to their offerings and the positive impact it has had on business.
Want to learn more? Check the link in the show notes.
https://fieldeffect.com/msp-report/
Relax Focus Succeed: https://relaxfocussucceed.com/
Topic 1: U.S. workers have gotten way less productive.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/10/31/productivity-down-employers-worried-recession/
No one is sure why. So we get to make up reasons!
Can this be attributed to the Quiet Quitting Phenomon? Maybe. But maybe not. (Again, we get to come up with our own theories today.)
Perhaps, complexity is the enemy of productivity; thus, remote working might not give our brains enough buffering time between each tasks than say walking from the meeting hall to your cubicle would.
Also, as we settle into a sort of kind not really post-pandemic world, we can surmise that the line between our work lives and home lives has become less muddled. And maybe, just maybe, this means we aren't being less productive, rather we are setting healthy work to home boundaries at the expense of a project deadline...Again, just speculating.
Topic 2: Spending for Cloud Computing in 2023 is Forecast to Grow … a Lot!
https://siliconangle.com/2022/10/31/gartner-spending-public-cloud-services-will-exceed-591b-2023/
In a slight surprise, and a noticeable change of tone, Gartner forecasts that spending on cloud computing – across all 6 categories they include in the segment – will rise in 2023. Just because spending is down in some categories doesn’t mean it will be down in all categories. SaaS / PaaS / IaaS / DaaS / CMaaS / BPaaS. So many awkward acronyms!
Topic 3: US Banks spent over $1 Billion on Ransomware in 2021
...that they reported!
Time to head into the cloud of uncertainty!
Sponsor Memo: TimeZest
Does coordinating meetings and help desk calls frustrate you and your clients?
Wouldn’t it be easier if you could automate this process and it integrated with ConnectWise Manage or Autotask?
TimeZest is schedulig automation that gives you control of your schedule and removes the frustration of calendar ping pong.
As the only solution specifically designed for MSPs, it integrates with your PSA to schedule appointments right in your workflow.
And the best part? You can try it for free.
Visit https://timezest.com to try it out today.
Topic 1: Japan pushes for digitization
https://apnews.com/article/technology-health-japan-covid-public-d47817295a647379f69da9bb16160d13
Japan has stepped up its push to catch up on digitization by telling a reluctant public they have to sign up for digital IDs or possibly lose access to their public health insurance.
As the naming implies, the initiative is about assigning numbers to people, similar to Social Security numbers in the U.S. Many Japanese worry the information might be misused or that their personal information might be stolen. Some view the My Number effort as a violation of their right to privacy.
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Topic 2: Drone Swarms! No … really.
What has been thought of until now as a sci-fi plot or a Hollywood movie trick is now an actual budget line item for the US Navy. We have seen choreographed drones in large-scale performances at the Super Bowl and the Olympics … but (as far as we know) none of those drones were carrying warheads. That’s no longer a safe assumption. And the US military isn’t the only country making progress on this weaponization of small-form UAV technology.
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Topic 3: (NK) Australia flags increased penalties for data breaches following major cyberattacks
Australia will introduce laws to parliament to increase penalties for companies subject to major data breaches, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said, after high-profile cyberattacks hit millions of Australians in recent weeks.
The proposed changes would lift maximum penalties for serious or repeated privacy breaches from the current A$2.22 million ($1.4 million) to the greater of A$50 million, three times the value of the benefit obtained through the misuse of information, or 30% of turnover in the relevant period, he said.
"Significant privacy breaches in recent weeks have shown existing safeguards are inadequate. It's not enough for a penalty for a major data breach to be seen as the cost of doing business," Dreyfus said.
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Sponsor Memo: Cisco
I bet you think working with Cisco is hard. They’re big, and have so much going on, and you’re … smaller.
That’s why there’s Cisco Partner Journeys, an innovative new digital experience designed to accelerate your engagement with Cisco.
Each unique journey leads you to the best tools, services, programs and portfolio offerings to help you accelerate sales, build a practice and enhance profitability.
Whether you are new to Cisco or a long-time partner, Cisco has the right journey for you.
Interested? Visit https://ciscopartnerjourneys.com/ to find out more.
Topic 1: Marketplaces — McBain is big on them, but how well do they scale down?
AWS Marketplace makes it so you find everything you need in one spot. As a seller, the appeal is apprent. As a vendor, especially a small to medium business, the playing floor might be a bit crowded.
https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/sourcecode/aws-cloud-marketplace-advantage
Topic 2: Voice-Scanning AI Aims to Diagnose Respiratory and Mental Illness … What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Whereas facial recognition software is designed to use AI to recognize your image, voice-scanning AI is designed to evaluate vocal patterns and attributes that can be used in call centers or via hearing-aid style devices to identify if the speaker is struggling with depression, anxiety, asthma, COPD, etc.
Advocates point to 80% accuracy (?!?) as a way to improve diagnostic success. Critics point to abuses of privacy … not to mention the bigger issues of fraud and violation of existing (limited) laws.
Topic 3: Disparity in Internet Speeds Does Not Equal Differences in Internet Service Prices
If we’re willing to look at the data with a clear lens, the quality : price of internet service around the US is nowhere near good enough … nowhere near equal … and nowhere near an accident.
The analysis provided in this report by The Markup shows massive disparity in access to internet services in markets across the country. And the fact that this low level of service quality exists in the country where this technology was actually invented should make our heads explode.
Clearly this is a deliberate strategy, and it isn’t going to change anytime soon. What can the tech industry do to jolt the internet security provider industry to change their strategy? How can we go around them to provide quality internet service to everyone?
Sponsor Memo: CyberFit Summit
This November, Miami will be the safest place on the internet.
MSPs are returning to Miami Beach for the Acronis #CyberFit Summit.
Not only will you hear former FBI Director Judge Louis Freeh, you’ll also witness the latest advancements in Cyber Protection … DLP, EDR,
Advanced management, and so much more. There’s even a track dedicated to MSP marketing and business growth.
The entire event will be capped off with an inspirational message from Earvin “Magic” Johnson, live and in-person. You don’t want to miss it.
Get all the details and register now at https://Acronis.events
I’ll see you there, and so will Karl.
Topic 1: Some juicy stats...
https://www.zippia.com/advice/tech-industry-statistics/
The U.S. tech market accounts for 35% of the total world market.
The U.S. tech industry is expected to grow by 6.7% in 2022.
The U.S. tech industry employs roughly 12.2 million workers as of 2020.
Check out these stats and let us know what stood out to you.
These stats open up the floor to new approaches to shake up the industry. Those currently in the industry can take these numbers as a driving force to recruit more inclusively.
Topic 2: Checking in on the metaverse: Is this a thing yet?
https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/11/meta-announces-the-1499-quest-pro/
https://www.platformer.news/p/metas-metaverse-turns-pro
Meta hosted a big event to announce … a more expensive VR headset. And in spite of some really enthusiastic promotion, the question remains whether immersive VR or integrated AR will actually be a thing. While some industrial- and business-related use cases are emerging, the user numbers don’t sound remotely impressive … suggesting that Meta Mark has work to do to convince us to volunteer to feel car sick.
Topic 3: STORY 2: THOR’s Day … the role & opportunity of mobile internet & power services
https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-whats-next-2e64fdc0-48ff-4560-9932-40e6a3607c07.html
Natural disasters have put the fragile state of our telecommunications and internet and power systems in the spotlight. To put it kindly: there are many holes. So wireless companies and others have stepped up to provide temporary coverage & access. The question is whether this is a sufficient solution for an advanced economy … and whether there is an opportunity for location technology solution providers to step in and create a point-to-point network that can meet the needs of a population amidst increasingly frequent and devastating storms.
Sponsor Memo: Huntress
hack_it returns this Nov. with hack_it 2022.
It's a hands on, interactive cybersecurity training designed to help you thin like a hacker and provide the security training you can use today to level up your own defenses.
Join Huntress Co-founder and CEO Kyle Hanslovan, Huntress threat researches, and soon to be announced special guests for two and a half days of cybersecrutiy education for the community, by the community.
Content over three days, including an optional lab and it's all virtual.
Attend from your desk, couch, swing set, or wherever you feel most comfortable.
Sign up at https://hack-it.com
Topic 1: The Open Internet as We Know It Dodged an Existential Bullet Last Week
https://www.itu.int/en/mediacentre/Pages/PR-2022-09-29-ITU-SG-elected-Doreen-Bogdan-Martin.aspx
https://www.brookings.edu/blog/techtank/2022/08/12/the-most-important-election-you-never-heard-of/
In an election for the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), members chose Doreen Bogdan-Martin from the United States – the first-ever woman to hold the post. But that is not the reason this election was monumentally important: it was literally a showdown between an open internet and an authoritarian-controlled internet. And almost every single human on Earth didn’t know it even happened … or what the consequences may have been. Consider us lucky.
Topic 2: Google Shuts Down Stadia Online Gaming Service … Does Google Have an Innovation Problem?
https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-login-555c72e1-380a-4a69-affe-e8260ae5734e.html
Google announced it’s shutting down the 3-year old Stadia gaming service … the latest in a long line of big technical breakthroughs that Google has failed to turn into big business successes. Why did this (seemingly really cool) new service not succeed? And does this hint at a bigger issue about Google’s ability to grow? Or … about the ability of tech giants in general to grow at a rate that is “enough” for their thirsty shareholders?
Topic 3: Amazon Wants to Cocoon You With ‘Ambient Intelligence’
The company’s new smart gadget uses radar to track your breathing while you sleep. It’s part of Amazon’s plan to weave its products invisibly into your life.
Meet “Halo Rise” - Because they couldn’t come up with a creepier name.
Consider it the opposite of the metaverse.
https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-wants-to-cocoon-you-with-ambient-intelligence/
Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University
IT Service Provider University helps you improve the business side of your business.
We launched IT Service Provider University in 2013 and today we offer more than twenty courses on every aspect of running your consulting business.
IT Service Provider University provides training and pathways to certification for individual IT Service Providers as well as offering company-level certifications.
Pathways Include: Management, Technician, Sales/Marketing, Service Manager, Front Office.
Learn more about professional classes and certifications at https://ITSPU.com
Topic 1: Public Cameras, Social Media, Art, and Privacy concerns
Great article on how to use publicly-available surveillance systems and open source facial recognition to mash up Instagram selfies with Earthcam video.
Artist shows all the “behind the scenes” activities that go into professional selfies - all while violating copyrights and GDPR on a grand scale.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/24/technology/surveillance-footage-instagram.html
Topic 2: Machine translation - what if the translation misses subtlety?
In our global society, we are starting to lean heavily on these online translating tools. Because of this, we are now at a place where machine translation is reasonably advanced…“Reasonably” being the operative word.
So what happens when we rely on machine accuracy in times of life and death? What are the real human implications of being lost in translation?
Topic 3: Darth no more? Is an AI Darth Vader still a valid Darth Vader?
To immortalize one’s voice–any ethics concerns here? And by doing so, will there be any room for new talent? Will we continue to recycle a pool of posthumous talent? How far will we go with synthesizing a living, breathing human?
Sponsor Memo: Nodeware
Know about Nodeware?
Nodeware is an in-demand and real-time cybersecurity solution that helps businesses reduce their risk of ransomware or other cyber attacks —all with breakthrough simplicity and affordability.
With truly continuous vulnerability scanning, even during normal business hours, you’ll get real-time alerts of network access & new found risks, with easy and insightful reports to take action on and report to your customers.
Want to learn more?
Visit https://nodeware.com/partners to find out more
Topic 1: NANC and KRUZ ETFs - Outperforming the Market
Now you too can get away with insider trading. These new Exchange Traded Funds track the performance of members of Congress.
Topic 2: US Military on social media to engage in psychological operations.
What's new this time?
Topic 3: Metaverse-as-a-Service
Nvidia is counting on metaverse FOMO to drive enterprises to its Omniverse-as-a-service platform. Think subscription-based digital twins.
Nvidia brings you a new service category. As the Register reports: You didn’t ask for it, but here it is.
https://www.theregister.com/2022/09/20/nvidia_omniverse_cloud_gtc/
Sponsor Memo: NSITSP
Are you a professional member of the National Society of IT Service Providers? If you’re within the sound of my voice, you should be!
The NSITSP is dedicated to promoting professionalism in all IT services, and improving our industry’s reputation to your clients, the government, and the media. Our industry faces challenges from ransomware, the insurance industry, government regulators, and bad actors from within.
Join the NSITSP and help us improve our industry and our reputation. Visit https://NSITSP.org and join today.
:-)
Topic 1: Could it actually be possible that the SolarWinds hack was “good” for their business?
No one would argue that being the victim of “the largest and most damaging security breach in US history” is a good thing. But as a result of the hack, SolarWinds took unprecedented steps to fundamentally reengineer their approach to security and dev-ops … and they are telling a surprisingly compelling story about how this makes them the most secure system in the industry. What’s more, it seems like customers are listening … and buying. Do you buy it?
Topic 2: Headline: Twitter is bad at data security and privacy.
Conclusion: No duh.
https://www.protocol.com/policy/mudge-twitter-whistleblower-hearing
The Twitter whistleblower testified in congress yesterday … and he made the “shocking” accusation that Twitter doesn’t have (and never has had) sufficient control systems for data protection. Thank you, Captain Obvious. This brings up a few questions: 1) does any social media company have sufficient data controls (no); 2) is there any appetite to make social media companies accountable for actual privacy / security (no); and 3) why does our society accept the presence of a tech platform that is “too big to control” and not simply turn it off if it can’t be made secure?
Topic 3: Because Security needs another piece of jargon: Beware Sock Puppet phishing
Or would you rather call the attack 'multi-persona impersonation' (MPI)? That’s the name used by researchers at Proofpoint.
Basically, this is an orchestrated attack where the bad guys control multiple email accounts and email back and forth with the target in the middle of the cc: string. The idea is to provide (fake) social proof.
Sponsor Memo: SBTTC
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at https://www.SmallBizThoughts.org
:-)
Topic 1: Any surprises in the research? SMBs need MSPs
“A new survey of over 500 IT decision makers at small and medium businesses, from threat detection and response specialist Vade, shows 69 percent say a serious breach had bypassed their current email security solution.
It's perhaps not surprising then that SMBs are increasingly likely to turn to managed service providers, with 96 percent of organizations either currently outsourcing at least some of their needs to MSPs or planning to do so in the future.”
See https://betanews.com/2022/09/08/smbs-turn-to-msps-to-improve-cybersecurity/
Topic 2: California passes well-intentioned “Age-Appropriate Design Code Act”
...and then makes it unenforceable because of absurd fines. With fines at $7,500 per affected student, the only options are 1) Go out of business, or 2) Use every penny you have to fight enforcement of the law.
https://www.wired.com/story/california-aadc-kids-privacy-age-checks/
https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/california-s-landmark-age-appropriate-3001597/
Topic 3: Police departments subscribe to a geolocation database that lets them bypass warrants to track mobile devices.
The database “Fog Reveal” is available by subscription. For less than $10,000/year, law enforcement agencies can search historical records from 250 million mobile devices. This gives them the power to create "patterns of life" analysis on individuals. The cell phone tracking tool allows them to track GPS movements going back months. Very often, this is done without warrants.
...and don’t forget www.Data.gov - over 335,000 government databases open to the public.
Sponsor: Nodeware
Know about Nodeware?
Nodeware is an in-demand and real-time cybersecurity solution that helps businesses reduce their risk of ransomware or other cyber attacks —all with breakthrough simplicity and affordability.
With truly continuous vulnerability scanning, even during normal business hours, you’ll get real-time alerts of network access & new found risks, with easy and insightful reports to take action on and report to your customers.
Want to learn more? Visit https://nodeware.com/partners to find out more.
Welcome to Episode 180 of the Killing Podcast with special guest host Nadia Karatsoreos!
Nadia has assisted channel partners and customers in building their businesses by adopting best practices and resources that are proven to accelerate success and deliver an exceptional experience to the businesses they serve.
A results-oriented professional who puts partners first, Nadia has many years of experience in business development, community and channel relations. Her career in the MSP space started with Level Platforms in 2010 and since then she has held various roles at other vendors like GFI, Datto, NetApp and now Malwarebytes. She has also served on Executive Councils for CompTIA's Managed Services, Cloud and Future Leaders Communities.
Nadia has been recognized by CRN as one of the Top Women of the Channel for multiple years (including 2022) and one of the Top 100 People You Don't Know but Should in 2016.
Topic 1: Do we need an AI “Accountability” board?
“Governments should protect residents from the harms of artificial intelligence and provide means of redress, according to researchers at the University of California, Berkeley.
In a white paper from Berkeley’s Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity, the researchers said that anyone who has been harmed or damaged from the deployment of AI should have the right to complain to an agency or department that has oversight of that AI-driven system or be able to take legal action."
https://cltc.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/AIs_Redress_Problem.pdf
Topic 2: Quietly Quitting - The Hot New Fad - without an agreed-upon definition
Some articles describe Quietly Quitting as taking back work/life balance. Other describe it as doing the bare minimum.
We speculate on what it is, and what it might mean.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/quiet-quitting-workplace-trend-just-120000048.html
Is QQ a natural consequence of employers’ push to get employees back in the office at any cost?
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/jpmorgan-ceo-jamie-dimon-rips-062715020.html?guccounter=1
The real question is: can you sincerely create engagement and community without being in the same office location 5 days a week? (Short answer: yes.)
Topic 3: Do you have the right to repair . . . your tractor?
Wired magazine discusses “jailbreaking” your John Deere.
Seriously: This will affect the larger right to repair debate.
https://www.wired.com/story/gadget-lab-podcast-562/
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode – a top Infrastructure as a Service provider has resources specifically for helping MSPs explore the alternative cloud. Discover this growing market: one of the best-kept secrets in building a scalable, thriving, modern Managed Service Provider business. Learn about the cloud provider landscape, improving KPIs, security, and more in Linode's free ebook, The MSP's Guide to Modern Cloud Infrastructure, available now.
This resource and more at http://linode.com/mspradio
Topic 1: Reverse mentoring in the technology industry increases understanding and opens opportunities for both sides of the mentor relationship
https://blog.hubspot.com/the-hustle/reverse-mentoring
Everyone knows a person of “a certain age” who is not as connected to or fluent with a new technology … even in the IT channel. And ironically, those people are much more likely to be senior executives in the business of IT. How will those highly experienced update their tech knowledge and bring new strategies to leveraging tech for business and for diversity in the industry? Talk to a youth.
See also: https://relaxfocussucceed.com/2022/06/millennials-and-gen-x-are-not-a-problem-to-be-dealt-with/
Topic 2: Apprenticeships are going into industries beyond the trades … are reinforcements on the way? Or are companies still insisting on only hiring “the best of the best” in tech roles?
https://www.axios.com/2022/08/22/apprenticeships
It’s well known that there are massive shortages of cybersecurity workers … at the same time as cyber threats are are escalating. How can the industry catch up? Certainly not by insisting on advanced credentials for candidates who need to do jobs that focus on mass quantity cyber threats. BTW: there’s a big difference between an “internship” and an “apprenticeship.”
https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-workplace/pwc-pulse-survey?rebelltitem=5#rebelltitem5
Companies are shifting from rapid hiring to layoffs … while still indicating they intend to hire. It’s a natural impulse to continuously improve the mix of talent in your workforce, but will this strategy of “only the best” ever catch up with cybersecurity needs?
Topic 3: Amazon is leaning into the healthcare industry … with some fairly predictable performance so far
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/08/19/amazon-care-patient-safety-concerns/
The notion of a business model is fairly straightforward: what you do + who you do it for x how you do it = how you make money. Not too many variables, and every time someone says they’re going to use technology to revolutionize or disrupt an industry, what they really mean is that they will replace human labor with technology for one of the business model elements. To absolutely no one’s surprise, Amazon’s efforts to disrupt the healthcare industry are leading to less human involvement in healthcare delivery. Is that a good thing?
Sponsor Memo: Gozynta
Do you like getting paid? Then make it easy for your customers with Gozynta Payments.
Do you teach your customers not to click on links from strange domain names like mymsp.monkeypayments.com or slowbooks.com? Gozynta Payments uses your branding and domain name. No redirects. No confusion.
Gozynta Mobius is trusted by over a thousand MSPs to sync financial data. Their new product Gozynta Payments is built with the same care and empathy to make the payment process easy for your customers.
Topic 1: It’s time for cybersecurity to focus on the fundamentals instead of the “glory” case
https://www.pcmag.com/news/ex-cisa-chiefs-advice-at-black-hat-make-security-valuable-and-attacks-costly
In a world where we are addicted to having every possible device connected to the internet, the attack surface for cybersecurity threats gets bigger every day. But despite the dire prognosis for current cybersecurity capabilities, it can indeed get better, says former CISA head in Black Hat keynote.
Topic 2: Why Can’t Tech Fix Its Gender Problem?
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/08/11/1056917/tech-fix-gender-problem/
Everyone can admit it: the tech industry has a massive problem with gender equity. But it’s one thing to acknowledge the problem, and another to actually do something about it. The questions that matter are: why does the problem exist…and what can we do to fix it? Hint: it’s always about the money.
Topic 3: Will Amazon Map the Inside of Your House?
https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-irobot-roomba-acquisition-data-privacy/
“AFTER DECADES OF creating war machines and home cleaning appliances, iRobot agreed to be acquired by Amazon for $1.7 billion, according to a joint statement by the two companies. If the deal goes through, it would give Amazon access to yet another wellspring of personal data: interior maps of Roomba owners’ homes.” - Wired Magazine
Sponsor Memo: Huntress
In the fight against today’s cybercriminals, we are much stronger as a community. That’s why Huntress is proud to launch the Huntress Neighborhood Watch Program: a collection of resources designed to help elevate the broader security community.
To kick off the Neighborhood Watch Program, Huntress is offering "internal use" licenses. These licenses will be available to the entire MSP community—regardless of if you are a Huntress partner or not—and will give you unrestricted access to the Huntress Managed Security Platform and their team of 24/7 threat hunters.
Harden your defenses, protect your own backyard, and better serve your customers by joining the Neighborhood Watch Program.
Join the neighborhood or learn more at http://huntress.com/neighborhood
Topic 1: Possible Topic (KP) - Apple hires Lamborghini's chief of chassis development for its Car team
Actual topic: Have we lost the distinction between industries? Can anyone get into the car business? After all, Amazon and Google want to get into it.
Recall: General Dynamics and General Electric were both into pretty much any industry where they could make money. Are the “giants” of today just the latest generation of mega conglomerates? And what does that mean for our economy going forward? How does the small business make the most of this?
Topic 2: Women are better than men when it comes to self-driving cars Women better in driverless cars than men:
When the need arises to take control, women have faster reflexes, better reactions, and are better at keeping the vehicle under control. Future SD cars may need to consider operator sex when handing over control.
Topic 3: The Cloud Native Label
Vendors keep misusing the “cloud native” label. Customers may not care.
We keep applying “cloud native” to things like Kubernetes that are expressly not native to the cloud. Does it matter?
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic
PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation.
Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts.
Find out more about by visiting PCMatic.com/MSP today.
Topic 1: The Education Market
We have all come across a job ad looking to fill an entry level position with a PhD level education. We have also witnessed countless college drop-outs excel in high-skill, high paying positions. So what do certifications achieve if not job security?
Topic 2: Knowledge, Tagging, Researching, and Cross Referencing
In this everchanging industry companies are always looking forward. And they are propelled onward by a culture and data base to let them know what they have done and can't do and are suppose to do.
Yep, it comes down to that ole cliche: Knowledge is power.
Topic 3: The Opportunities Around The Metaverse
The futurists are here. (Which also makes the presentist. Theseus's ship or something, you know.) But it doesn't mean the ideas presented by them have caught up.
The Metaverse-is it here yet?
How can we test the viability of something that isn't yet tangible? What is the metaverse forecast? And will it open up doors to new, unthinkable opportunities?
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode – a top Infrastructure as a Service provider has resources specifically for helping MSPs explore the alternative cloud.
Discover this growing market: one of the best-kept secrets in building a scalable, thriving, modern Managed Service Provider business.
Learn about the cloud provider landscape, improving KPIs, security, and more in Linode's free ebook, The MSP's Guide to Modern Cloud Infrastructure, available now.
This resource and more at linode.com/mspradio.
Topic 1: The Education Market
We have all come across a job ad looking to fill an entry level position with a PhD level education. We have also witness countless college drop outs excel in high-skill, high paying positions. So what do certifications achieve if not job security?
Topic 2: Knowledge, Tagging, Researching, and Cross Referencing
In this everchanging industry companies are always looking forward. And they are propelled onward by a culture and data base to let them know what they have done and can't do and are suppose to do.
Yep, it comes down to that ole cliche: Knowledge is power.
Topic 3: The Opportunities Around The Metaverse
The futurists are here. (Which also makes the presentist. Theseus's ship or something, you know.) But it doesn't mean the ideas presented by them have caught up.
The Metaverse-is it here yet?
How can we test the viability of something that isn't yet tangible? What is the metaverse forecast? And will it open up doors to new, unthinkable opportunities?
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode – a top Infrastructure as a Service provider has resources specifically for helping MSPs explore the alternative cloud.
Discover this growing market: one of the best-kept secrets in building a scalable, thriving, modern Managed Service Provider business.
Learn about the cloud provider landscape, improving KPIs, security, and more in Linode's free ebook, The MSP's Guide to Modern Cloud Infrastructure, available now.
This resource and more at linode.com/mspradio.
Topic 1: An Update Discussion on All Things Supply Chain--Is it getting any better?
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/07/23/chip-shortage-detroit-manufacturing/
Ongoing supply chain issues / chip shortages have caused persistent delays in the auto industry … among other impacts. The question after 2 ½ years of disruption is whether the IT supply chain is any more healthy and whether industries have learned to adapt to the new levels of uncertainty and supply.
https://mailchi.mp/protocol/why-your-supply-chain-is-breaking?e=d30f866e34
Modernizing the supply chain is an existential priority for our customers … and for our own businesses. If we can’t trust the availability of products or forecast the timing of shipments, how can we maintain credibility with our customers? Also … this would be a terrific business opportunity for a systems-thinking solution provider. Sounds like a new focus area for MSPs!
https://seths.blog/2022/07/embracing-constraints-2/
It’s time for the IT channel to re-think how we design systems and solutions for our customers: if the chip supply isn’t getting any better, simply re-selling the latest vendor product isn’t going to solve your customers’ needs any time soon. So what are you going to do about it?
Topic 2: Bill to Boost Domestic Semi-conductor Production
Recently, the senate voted on a bill that would increase domestic semiconductor production--the goal being to strengthen the American economy and to possible out-compete China.
We hope to proceed successfully! ...And hopefully with caution.
Topic 3: TECH JOURNALISM’S ACCESSIBILITY PROBLEM
“Everyone, that is, except accessibility-minded writers like Steven Aquino. Aquino, who is disabled, finds laptop keyboards difficult to use, due both to the fine motor skills required to perform the shortcuts and to the cognitive load required to remember them. The touch bar allows him to access in one tap features that would otherwise require multiple — everything from sending emails to selecting emojis.”
https://www.theverge.com/23205223/tech-journalism-accessibility-assistive-coverage
There’s also a browser extension called Axe Dev Tools:
https://www.learnui.design/tools/accessible-color-generator.html
Sponsor Memo OITVOIP
Did you know about STIR/SHAKEN? If you’re doing voice for your customers, you had better — the deadline was June 30.
This technology is focused on reducing robocalls, and providers have to take action.
Are you compliant? The team at OITVOIP has put together resources for you to learn more…or, for their customers, it’s already handled.
Want to learn more?
Visit oit.co/mspradio/ for resources to help make sure you’re covered.
:-)
Topic 1: Sony’s racing AI destroyed its human competitors by being nice (and fast)
Etiquette and risk analysis is the secret success! This perhaps suggest that talent and skill are not the only key factor to progress...and maybe not even the defining factor.
Topic 2: The Crypto Crash … Lessons from a Previous Era of Technology Crash Economics
https://www.protocol.com/fintech/dot-com-bubble-crypto-crash
The parallels between today’s crypto winter and the technology crash of 20 years ago are multiple … with some vital differences. What lessons can be drawn from past experience to help the industry survive the lean times? And what do you believe the next “real” phase of practical applications for crypto will be?
Topic 3: What Part of the Tech Industry Grows During a Recession? Domain Name Registration!
https://www.protocol.com/godaddy-paul-nicks-domains
Data from GoDaddy shows a strong correlation between economic downturns and an increase in the number of new domains registered. In simple terms, layoffs lead to entrepreneurial startup momentum. But that’s not the only force driving the online presence market … and the value of existing “good” domain names is rising. (Another killer business opportunity for Karl, who owns many domain names.)
Sponsor Memo: FieldEffect
MSPs are frequently at the forefront of cyber security challenges. Between changing customer expectations and the growing threat landscape, you are stretched thin. Need a helping hand?
Download research sponsored by FieldEffect, and learn how offering MDR increases revenue, simplifies operations, and maximizes margins for MSPs.
This independent analysis explores the growing managed detection and response (MDR) market and how MSPs can differentiate their managed security service with the right MDR solution.
You'll also find insights from five MSPs who have added co-va-lence, a hybrid MDR solution, to their offerings and the positive impact it has had on business.
Want to learn more? Check the link in the show notes.
:-)
Topic 1:
EU Passes DSA & DMA Legislation to Increase Regulation of US Tech Giants
New legislation in Europe is designed to address a gap in GDPR that left larger tech companies unregulated by providing specific rules and significant consequences for platforms that do not do enough to moderate illegal content or allow fair competition.
Topic 2: The Way Forward for Cybersecurity Progress is to Begin at the Entry Level
https://www.protocol.com/enterprise/cybersecurity-talent-gap-diversity-hiring
Cybersecurity is a massive challenge, and it’s getting more complex each day. As a result, the approach to solving the problem has become a focus on stealing away existing senior-level experts to solve the big challenges. But that approach does nothing to address the huge gaps in available people with relevant cybersecurity skills. There needs to be a shift to focus on the entry level to build a sufficient industry bench of talent.
Topic 3: It’s Hot Out There … and it Is Getting Hotter for Data Centers
https://www.protocol.com/climate/drought-data-centers-tracking-water
Data center services are a hot topic across the IT industry as customers increasingly move to public and private hosted infrastructure solutions. But data centers are also literally hot … and they require massive amounts of energy and water to keep the machines from melting. Until now, water usage in data center operations have been mostly secret, but this trend isn’t going to survive as the temperature rises … and that means cloud operators need to think of a plan to address this in practice and in public relations.
See also the heroes in Las Vegas https://www.cbsnews.com/news/las-vegas-water-conservation-grass/
26% reduction in water usage since 2002 while adding 750,000 in population.
Sponsor Memo: Cisco
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program? Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you.
With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies including Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more with the link right in the show notes.
Keywords / tags
:-)
Topic 1:
Is there value in paying these volunteers, or more value in not paying them?
Online moderators' contributions to open forum platform Reddit are estimated to be worth 3.4 million dollars in a given year. That accounts to roughly 3% of revenue Reddit generated through ads alone in 2019. In other words, you can argue there is room in the budget to compensate online moderators.
But contributing to a community/activity you are passionate drives people to participate beyond a monetary value so is it really necessary?
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/06/28/technology/online-moderators-compensation.html
Topic 2:
Russia has always been recognized as a haven for hackers.
It is not recognized as such because of its superior encryption, ingenius malware, or anything like that; Rather, it reigns number one by fear alone.
It has been instilled in us that Russia is the big bad of the cyberspace.
The drive to fight back has always been overshadowed by the fear that doing so might open up a Pandora's box of Russian retaliation.
However, as hacktivists and criminals become major players in the conflict in Ukraine, we might be able to gain some leverage in the near future.
It would mean taking a huge step towards chaos but sometimes things need to get worse in order to get better.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/05/01/russia-cyber-attacks-hacking/
Topic 3:
Yandex, the perfect Russian tech company, falls on hard times.
Yandex is what can be recognized as the "Google of Russia." They own 60% of search in Russia...Plus taxi apps, emails, robot food delivery, and more.
But now, the Kremlin has forced them to filter all of its content and create and distribute pro-government media. This has led to a loss of over 2,500 employees and a devastating blow to the company's reputation.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/06/world/europe/ukraine-russia-yandex-google.html
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic
Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation.
Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts.
Find out more about by visiting PCMatic.com/MSP today.
Episode 171 - Remote Deepfakes, Roe v. Wade: Data Privacy, G7 funds Cybersecurity
Topic 1: “More” people are using Deep Fakes to apply for remote tech jobs.
File under, “you thought the world couldn’t get any weirder.”... The employment crisis has born a new adversary: Deepfake remote workers. Thankfully, their sole intent isn't to steal your job.
Sort of.
While these deepfake applicants are actively participating in the employment process, the function of the deepfake is to phish data where it otherwise could not. This includes, job interviews, resume data, job questions, etc.
That said, as more information is gathered via the onboarding process, the easier it becomes to synthesize a perfect candidate. And if hired, this would mean access to sensitive company data.
And considering heightened labor shortages, deepfakes may have the same hiring potential as anyone else in the pool.
People Are Using Deepfakes to Apply for Remote Tech Jobs:
https://www.businessinsider.com/people-applying-remote-tech-jobs-using-deepfakes-fbi-2022-6
Topic 2: Roe v Wade: Law change implications on data privacy
What does overturning Roe Vs. Wade mean for privacy and data ownership law surrounding menstrual cycle tracking apps? And does HIPAA protect you as an individual or does it protect the company that owns your medical information?
We discuss the legal protection or lack thereof surrounding the new implications of Roe V. Wade in the digital landscape.
Topic 3: G7 funding cybersecurity . . . and setting the U.S. as the standard-bearer.
We’re the good guys, right? So we should obviously write the rules.
However, if we continue to "cut-off" those within the realm of what we as westerns deem as the good guys, we might create an even badder....well, bad guy.
Key State Official Warns of ‘Peril’ as US Pursues Cybersecurity Goals at G7 - Nextgov:
See also:
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions?
Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management.
As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue.
Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at Acronis.com.
Keywords / tags
:-)
Topic 1: 4D Time Crystals created by Google Quantum Computing.
We’ve mentioned 4D printing, which involves 3D printing with materials that then change over time. Now 4D Time Crystals designed by Google Quantum Computer.
Herein we bring you the definition of a quantum computer, along with an advancement in science brought about by said quantum computer. Let the arguments begin, but it looks like we’ve discovered a new phase of matter in physics.
Who cares? Well, we’ve actually entered the era in which quantum computers are used for truly amazing advances at a reasonable price. The 4D crystals may bust open all kinds of new advancements in manufacturing and other areas.
And our exponential expansion of technology continues. We’ll see how long before this results in changes we have to manage back in the “real” world.
From DW News:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfSbC2Y0WPo - What are Time Crystals?
From Physics Girl:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieDIpgso4no - a friendlier explanation.
Topic 2: Microsoft rolls out “Responsible AI” framework and resources
As AI becomes increasingly commercially accessible, mainstays in technology finally begin to address the need for an ethical framework. For Microsoft, this means the release of their "Responsible AI".
Primary Responsible AI page:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/responsible-ai?activetab=pivot1%3aprimaryr6
The Responsible AI Standard:
See also the extensive “Transparency Notes” on Azure, connected spaces, OCR, vision, speech, etc.
Responsible AI principles include Fairness, Reliability & Safety, Privacy & Security, Inclusiveness, Transparency, and Accountability.
See:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/our-approach?activetab=pivot1%3aprimaryr5
Topic 3: Google is paying Wikipedia for greater access to their information
This is great news for Wikipedia. But with monopolization of information, can we successfully buy into the notion that “the crowd” is smarter than any one person?
https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/22/23178245/google-paying-wikimedia-foundation-information
Sponsor Memo: Aite-Novarica Group
MSPs are frequently at the forefront of cyber security challenges. Between changing customer expectations and the growing threat landscape, you are stretched thin. need a helping hand?
Download research firm, Aite-Novarica Group’s report, sponsored by FieldEffect, and learn how offering MDR increases revenue, simplifies operations, and maximizes margins for MSPs.
This independent analysis explores the growing managed detection and response (MDR) market and how MSPs can differentiate their managed security service with the right MDR solution.
You'll also find insights from five MSPs who have added co-va-lence, a hybrid MDR solution, to their offerings and the positive impact it has had on business. Want to learn more? Check the link in the show notes.
:-)
Topic 1: Sentient AI? Is it real? Should you lose your job over it? For starters, violating an NDA and whistleblowing are vastly different reasons to be fired. Besides, this so-called sentient AI could easily just be a complex game of 20 questions; pattern matching at it's best. That said, this freaked-out-ness might be a good indicator that we are getting too close to comfort. https://www.wired.com/story/lamda-sentient-ai-bias-google-blake-lemoine/ Topic 2: Will privacy legislation happen? The internet was made for sharing data. Sooner or later, that 140 characters or less post about that weird thing your boss does with his hands would be inevitable! However, as individuals, we cherish our privacy and are entitled to at least an elective form of privacy. I mean, sharing your boss's quirks online is far from sharing your social security number or the name of your first born...Besides, he's a cool guy once you look pass his jazz hands. Additionally, enforcement of privacy laws are practical but sometimes that extra step is damning for commerce. https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/policy/federal-privacy-law-introduced?rebelltitem=1#rebelltitem1 Topic 3: Digital Twins A pop quiz for all you die hard Killing It listeners: "What is a digital twin?" That's right, the digital twin has grown lungs and is making its way into the collective consciousness after its ten year stint as a dinner table tall tale. An impending existence adjacent to the metaverse, this digital representation shifts and grows with its physical world counterpart; kind of like your weird baby cousin who decides to parrot your every word and move, it is constantly growing and learning... https://www.bbc.com/news/business-61742884 Sponsor Memo: AgileBlue AgileBlue is a 24/7 SOC, XDR and SOAR providing managed breach protection including monitoring, detection, and automated response to cloud, networks, and endpoints. Helping MSPs build their cyber business while increasing gross margins, ARR and stickiness. AgileBlue’s partner program engages, enables, supports, and rewards your business growth with a white-labeled security dashboard, pooled pricing, marketing collateral, and purpose-built sales content. A 24/7 extension of your team, learn more at agileblue.com :-)
Topic 1:
What does tech company even mean?
RoW is a good resource to better gauge who can call themselves a tech company. We might want to reframe this seemingly exclusive title. What is the criteria a company must meet to be able to slap this title on a business card?
https://restofworld.org/2022/newsletter-latin-america-tech-company/
Topic 2: Do we think subscription / consumption model is souring?
The ideal business model is evershifting. But the supscription based and reoccuring model is exploding. With our indiviudalistic society, people want to exercise their right to choose...So as long as you are focused on customer success, it's more than likely said choice would be in your favor.
Topic 3: Trackers are working - a bit of follow-up on the Wired story.
Crypto has moved from the “anonymous” nirvana to a perfect paper trail. Well, bitcoin trail.
Historic sanctions against Russia-based cryptocurrency exchanges have had a desired effect, but robust enforcement of laws to counter money laundering internationally is needed to really thwart ransomware perpetrators, according to witnesses testifying before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
Dave’s interview - business of tech -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6hXJC0_r3o
Sponsor Memo: SBTTC
his podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
:-)
Topic 1: Update on that Apple Self-Repair Kit for iPhone Screen
The basic program includes two large Pelican cases full of equipment and tools, which you rent for $49/week plus a $1,300 deposit. Then the repair kit is about $10 cheaper than taking your phone to the Apple store for the service.
At this point, the self-repair program appears to meet enough requirements that you can check the box and say there IS a self-repair option. But it is not the simple, elegant “Apple” experience you might have assumed you would have.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/25/technology/personaltech/apple-repair-program-iphone.html
One of many videos you can find: https://www.macrumors.com/2022/05/04/apple-self-repair-program-hands-on/
Topic 2: “Digital Nomad” Visas Are Becoming Quite Competitive
30 Best Digital NOMAD VISA and Residency Programs for Remote Workers in 2022
https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/countries-offering-digital-nomad-visas-and-residency/
How “Digital Nomad” Visas Can Boost Local Economies
https://hbr.org/2022/05/how-digital-nomad-visas-can-boost-local-economies
This article includes a great summary graphic.
Topic 3: Techies reject worker surveillance
About half of tech employees would jump ship rather than have their productivity monitored via audio/video recording, keystroke tracking or similar methods, according to a Morning Consult poll shared exclusively with Axios' Ina Fried.
Why it matters: Employers are experimenting with new, often controversial ways of keeping tabs on an increasingly remote workforce.
By the numbers: More than half of tech workers wouldn't take a new job at a company that surveils its employees, the survey found.
About 3 in 5 tech workers who are currently working either partially or entirely remotely said they have no interest in returning to the office full time.
About 3 in 5 tech workers also said they would be open to using virtual reality for training and professional development.
https://www.axios.com/2022/05/31/tech-workers-quit-employer-recorded-surveillance
Vendor Memo: Field Effect
When it comes to delivering cyber security services to your clients, there’s a lot to consider – and even more at stake. Firewalls and antivirus don’t provide enough protection anymore and adding more tools to an already complex tech stack is expensive and difficult to manage.
The Field Effect Partner Momentum Program, together with their award-winning security portfolio, solve these issues by making it easier for MSPs to:
-Deliver complete cyber security protection; -Unlock new revenue streams; -Simplify operations; -And stand out from the competition.
Learn more and connect with the Field Effect team today by visiting: fieldeffect.com/MSPRadio
Topic 1: Shredding the Myth of Anonymity in Bitcoin
Wired recently published a long, detailed story of how law enforcement agencies around the world collaborated to bring down the largest child abuse sex network in history. One key element in this take-down is the “trick” of turning bitcoin from an anonymous tool into a perfect record of evidence.
This story truly is the modern equivalent of the Al Capone story. Once agents have access to a few crypto wallets, they can then use the public Bitcoin blockchain data to identify every transaction, and every buyer or seller. All of this data is unique, unalterable, and publicly accessible.
A few key points:
Bitcoin has been used extensively by criminals on the promise that it’s anonymous and untraceable.
Bitcoin exchanges are “permanent, unchangeable, and entirely public” in nature. Once one Bitcoin transaction is connected to a specific legitimate account, an entire web of related transactions can be built.
https://www.wired.com/story/tracers-in-the-dark-welcome-to-video-crypto-anonymity-myth/
Somewhat related story: Man gets life in prison for traveling to Vietnam to sexually abuse children.
Topic 2: 911 Needs to Move to the Cloud. What's taking so long?
"Modern" 911 systems are actually old, outdated, and far more complex than they would be if you rebuilt the system from the ground up.
But rebuilding all that infrastructure takes time and costs money. Plus, if you get it wrong, people die.
https://www.protocol.com/enterprise/emergency-911-cloud-contact-center
Topic 3: CISA Addresses Self-Attestation for IT Service Security
It would be impossible to have government agencies test and verify everything they are charged with regulating. But, as we saw with Boeing’s 737 Max, there are real consequences for letting companies regulate themselves.
The Computer Information Security Agency just released “guidance” around security services sold to government agencies. Basically, they want companies to declare (and eventually document) their compliance with security frameworks such as CMMC.
Note that the National Institute for Standards and Technology released similar guidance as well, in addition to being the home of CMMC and other standards.
Quote from the NIST report: “The external system service providers discussed in this publication include cloud service providers.”
See: https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-161r1.pdf
Vendor Memo: Gozynta
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week?
That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire lego death star.
Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation.
Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at gozynta.com
:-)
Topic 1: Found all those Great Resignators: They’re working somewhere else.
Looks like a basic shake-up that forced a number of employers to treat their employees like humans.
Maybe, and we're only speculating here, the working person realizes they don't have to work somewhere that has no decent pay, no decent benefits, no decent work evironment, and so on...Maybe.
Consistent data shows that this so called Great Resignation is about worker power.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/05/13/business/great-resgination-jobs.html
Topic 2: Truly terrifying – AI + Ransomware:
https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-enterprise/ai-ransomware-microsoft-rodney-clark
The unholy combination of AI + Ransomware is upon us.
It's time to draw up a plan to prepare your business for the looming ransom payment.
Topic 3: Roe v Wade implications for privacy rights:
The spread of data science is inevitable. Is imploying a privacy regulation futile or ABSOLUTELY necassary?
Vendor Memo: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions.
With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources.
And do it all addressing data governance and compliance.
Want to learn more? Check out Egnyte.com/mspradio, and when you do, tell them Dave sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Ransomware leads to the first casualty in the higher education market as Lincoln College closes permanently due to cyberattack in December 2021. Who was their MSP … and why was there not a plan in place?
Ten years ago, a system failure of more than 24 hours could mean the end of your business. Today, with ransomeware on the rise, what are the odds of hundreds of schools, hospitals, businesses etc. going under? As this inevitable threat unfolds, it begs the question: Why haven't we implimented data back ups as the standard?
https://www.engadget.com/lincoln-college-ransomware-attack-shut-down-covid-19-164917483.html
Topic 2: Let’s not ignore Apple’s 180 on Right to Repair
...But, of course, it’s right to repair their way, and does not play nice with so-called partners.
Conceptually, Apple's 180 on the Right to Repair is heading in the right direction! That said, the right to repair doesn't necessarily mean access to the right to an easy repair.
https://www.computerworld.com/article/3641328/apple-gives-in-on-right-to-repair.html
Topic 3: Market sentiment - end of times!
Trends predicate yet another recession. But with record numbers and a growing demand in the tech realm, the recession might be the best time for you to invest.
But before you put on those rose tinted glasses, you might want to weigh in the drag this slump might have on potential customers.
https://www.axios.com/2022/05/09/next-tech-downturn-cheat-sheet-recession
https://fortune.com/2022/05/09/tech-hiring-slowing-down-job-market/
Sponsor Memo: Cisco
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program?
Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you.
With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies inculding Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more with the link right in the show notes. https://lnkd.in/gsydMya
:-)
Topic 1: Colloquium: What do we think the permanent changes are to “the workplace” after the pandemic. What percentage will go back? Is hybrid permanent forever? Has the concept of office changed forever from a technology perspective? If yes, was this something we should have seen coming and covid just sped it up? What’s next that we might not have seen coming?
Topic 2: Declaration for the Future of the Internet
Splinternet - China and Russia
And the actual 3-page declaration:
Topic 3: Big Tech salaries revealed Ryan
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: SBT Tech Community
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community.
Check us out at SmallBizThoughts.org
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start.
Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls.
The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year.
We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone.
Join us today at SmallBizThoughts.org
:-)
Topic 1: Should businesses embrace or avoid social media?
Can we talk about “social media” without focusing too much on Elon?
I think we all love the concept of the Marketplace of Ideas...but the Internet somehow turns that into silos of sewage.
With Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit, the marketplace allows ignorance and stupidity to win. Maybe they even enhance the ability of misinformation to be taken more seriously than knowledge and wisdom.
Topic 2:
Data breaches happen then nothing.
https://www.vox.com/the-goods/23031858/data-breach-data-loss-personal-consequences
Topic 3: The evolving “next normal” of employment.
This story will continue evolving for a while. The employee’s market won’t last forever. But some changes will last. Also: One learns a lot of lessons from one’s first job. :-)
Return-to-office is driving Gen Z to quit https://www.businessinsider.com/return-to-office-great-resignation-gen-z-thinking-about-quitting-2022-4 Related articles: Employers who want to see their offices filled again could see some workers quit. Sixty-four percent of workers around the world said they would think about a new job if they had to go back full-time. The age of the tyrannical boss is over — and managers who don't give employees more freedom will face a talent reckoning https://www.businessinsider.com/tyrannical-bosses-managers-employee-work-from-home-freedom-great-resignation-2022-4
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions?
Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud.
It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management.
As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue.
Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at Acronis.com.
Topic 1:
Hospital Robots Are Helping Combat a Wave of Nurse Burnout
Moxi and other delivery-focused assistants have become even more critical as the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed health care workers to their limits.
https://www.wired.com/story/moxi-hospital-robot-nurse-burnout-health-care/
Topic 2:
DHS investigators say they foiled cyberattack on undersea internet cable in Hawaii
https://www.cyberscoop.com/undersea-cable-operator-hacked-hawaii/
https://thisishowtheytellmetheworldends.com/
https://www.audible.com/pd/This-Is-How-They-Tell-Me-the-World-Ends-Audiobook/1635577179
Topic 3:
The DTC model is failing to generate proSts, and founders are rushing to partner with big-box retailers like Target after years of shunning them
https://www.businessinsider.com/dtc-brands-wholesale-partnerships-are-key-on-path-to-profitability-2022-4
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Egynte is back with their 2022 MSP Summit. Hear what’s new at Egnyte from the Senior Leadership team.
Learn from an open discussion with a panel of your peers. Choose from a variety of sessions with experts, including Tiffani Bova, Chief Growth Evangelist at Salesforce.
The event is May 12, 2022, Win prizes, network with peers, all in a half day online event.
Register for free right at engyte.com/mspradio
:-)
Topic 1: Changing language to avoid censors
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/04/08/algospeak-tiktok-le-dollar-bean/
Topic 2:
The rise of the 9pm work hour
https://www.theatlantic.com/newsletters/archive/2022/04/triple-peak-day-work-from-home/629457/
Topic 3: Russian Tech Migrating by the Thousands
Between 50,000 and 70,000 tech workers have already fled Russia, and 70,000 to 100,000 more could leave in April. With flights to the West canceled, they have wended their way to countries where Russian citizens can still travel visa-free.
https://www.wired.com/story/russian-techies-exodus-ukraine/
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode – a top Infrastructure as a Service provider has resources specifically for helping MSPs explore the alternative cloud.
Discover this growing market: one of the best-kept secrets in building a scalable, thriving, modern Managed Service Provider business.
Learn about the cloud provider landscape, improving KPIs, security, and more in Linode's free ebook, The MSP's Guide to Modern Cloud Infrastructure, available now.
This resource and more at linode.com/mspradio.
Topic 1: Without a federal privacy law… what’s our take?
Keeping up with the Joneses (NSA): https://www.wired.com/story/inside-the-nsas-secret-tool-for-mapping-your-social-network/
Topic 2: Does Quantum Computing really have a hype problem?
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/03/28/1048355/quantum-computing-has-a-hype-problem/
Topic 3: Burrito delivery.. Is here. Or there.
Finally!
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
When it comes to delivering cyber security services to your clients, there’s a lot to consider – and even more at stake. Firewalls and antivirus don’t provide enough protection anymore and adding more tools to an already complex tech stack is expensive and difficult to manage.
The Field Effect Partner Momentum Program, together with their award-winning security portfolio, solve these issues by making it easier for MSPs to:
-Deliver complete cyber security protection; -Unlock new revenue streams; -Simplify operations; -And stand out from the competition.
Learn more and connect with the Field Effect team today by visiting: fieldeffect.com/MSPRadio
:-)
Topic 1: “Return on Character” Exchange Traded Fund focuses on companies run by a character!
But, somehow, Tesla and Meta are not part of the index. Perhaps too much character is just too much.
Links:
Related article from Harvard on the role of “character” on business success:
https://hbr.org/2015/04/measuring-the-return-on-character
Topic 2: The Shift Away from Reseller Models Accelerates … But Are MSPs Ready to Adapt?
Not a technology conversation, per se … but a conversation about the business of technology. The shift to recurring revenue, consumption economics, and an ecosystem approach to customer engagement / support has been coming for years. Last week Microsoft stepped on the accelerator and not all partners are thrilled with the change.
Links
https://www.crn.com/news/cloud/new-petition-calls-new-microsoft-partner-score-impossible-
Topic 3: AI to help troubled kids
Links:
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting. The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts. Find out more about by visiting PCMatic.com/MSP today.
:-)
Topic 1: The big switch-off: Workers want a legal right to ignore out of hours emails The majority of employees would support a new law giving them a 'right to disconnect' from workplace communications.
Links:
Topic 2: TSA allows Arizonians to use their e-drivers license
TSA enables Arizona residents to use mobile driver’s license or state ID for verification at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport | Transportation Security Administration
Topic 3: Managed Services Market Growth & Trends
Managed Services Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Solution, By Managed Information Service (MIS), By Deployment, By Enterprise Size, By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030
The global managed services market is expected to reach USD $731.08 billion by 2030. The market is projected to register a CAGR - compound annual growth rate - of 13.4% from 2022 to 2030.
Links:
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
:-)
:-)
Topic 1: Public Databases Stumble into War in Ukraine
Early in the Ukraine invasion, Google Maps and Flight Radar 24 found that their data were being used by the Russians to view auto and air traffic inside Ukraine. We've touched on related topics like this for years, so we weren't super surprised.
Links:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2022/02/25/google-maps-ukraine-invasion/
https://www.flightradar24.com/blog/a-look-at-some-military-activity-in-airspace-around-ukraine/
Topic 2: People Find Deep Fake Faces More Trustworthy than Real Faces
You want beautiful symmetry? Program it!
Link:
https://singularityhub.com/2022/02/21/people-trust-deepfake-faces-more-than-real-ones-study-finds/
Topic 3: Hacker Gets Pissed Off and Takes Down North Korean Internet
Link: https://www.wired.com/story/north-korea-hacker-internet-outage/
-- -- -- Sponsor Memo: SafeDNS
SafeDNS - the Web filtering solution for MSPs.
with an ever-increasing number of cyberattacks and data loss - customers ask “how to deal with it?”
Answer -Add an extra layer of protection: Web filtering solution on a DNS level. Deploy SafeDNS and be protected in minutes. with a Reseller panel and Whitelabel capability, generate more recurring revenue with AI-powered DNS Threat Protection. all with 24/7 support. Want to learn more? For details, please contact us - https://safedns.com
:-)
Topic 1: Hackers without Borders - Welcome to 21st Century Warfare
A new humintarian group emerges in the wake of armed conflicts in Ukraine. Hackers without Borders aim to aid victims of war via the cyberworld.
Topic 2: Microsoft finds itself in the middle of a war in the Ukraine
In stopping malware attacks, they find themselves taking sides, and working with our government. Analogies to Detroit carmakers in WWII are natural.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-finds-foxblade-malware-on-ukrainian-systems-removing-rt-from-windows-app-store/
Topic 3: How Big Technology Systems are Slowing Innovation
The assumption has always been that technology is the source of innovation: new capabilities that enable businesses to do things they couldn’t before and empowering small businesses to compete against large entrenched market leaders. But the latest evidence suggests that technology systems adopted by large firms may be having exactly the opposite effect.
This story is behind a pay wall.
https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/02/17/1044711/technology-slowing-innovation-disruption/
https://drive.google.com/file/d/17aXAtn_6n-xux271KMQdtWBU9FKpyAxu/view?usp=sharing
--- --- ---
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust/default deny foundation Finally - a light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting. The perfect compliment to your current security stack. No minimums and no annual contracts. Find out more about by visiting PCMatic.com/MSP today.
-- -- --
Keywords / tags
:-)
Special guest co-host: Susanne Tedrick - Principal Infrastructure Specialist; Azure for Sports - Microsoft | LinkedIn
Topic 1: Texas Sues Meta Over Facial Recognition
Texas is suing over past use of facial recognition technology. The suit accuses Facebook of violating the state's privacy laws by capturing biometric data on tens of millions of Texans without properly obtaining consent.
Topic 2: Why Companies are not cutting back on office space.
Let's discuss how leaders can best support hybrid work environments and the steps needed to meet workers where they, well, work best.
https://hbr.org/2022/01/why-companies-arent-cutting-back-on-office-space
Topic 3: NFTs - Hype, Facts, and Future
While NFT’s initial hype might not meet reality in the short term, is it akin to a fad, or does it have the potential to be a transformational technology area?
Source: Gartner Hype Cycle Ranks NFTs at 'Peak of Inflated Expectations' Amid Craze - Decrypt
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Fusion Energy Will Save The World (Eventually)
The most successful nuclear fusion test shows impressive progress and potential at the JET tokamak reactor in the UK.
Link:
https://www.science.org/content/article/european-fusion-reactor-sets-record-sustained-energy
Topic 2: Monitoring vs Observability
We are quickly moving into a new era when it comes to monitoring technology. In fact, we need distinctions between observining, monitoring, and responding. Where do we draw the new lines?
Links:
https://thenewstack.io/monitoring-vs-observability-whats-the-difference/
Topic 3: Ugly … but useful?
Motorola has announced a new wearable 5G neckband that provides power to special AR/VR headsets. The neckband is particularly ugly and includes a a mini computer with touchpad, SIM card slot, speakers, and other goodies. It also provides 5G connectivity to the headset.
We discuss the ugliness, the usefulness, and what it tells us about the future of technology.
Link:
https://thenextweb.com/news/motorola-xr-lenovo-neckband-headset-analysis
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: BVOIP
BVOIP — the Cloud communications offering designed specifically for IT providers, bvoip offers a complete Unified Communications suite which can also be tightly integrated via Microsoft Teams. Bvoip delivers the modern workforce cutting edge features including Contact Center, integration to your business apps, and real time visibility into your remote workers.
You control the price, with a unique hybrid model that avoids the complex dial tone taxation or compliance bullseye. Don’t get stuck in a vendor relationship that works against you! Bvoip is channel only company that’s here to support you. Find out more by visiting https://bvoip.com/mspradio
:-)
Topic 1: Nike Sues StockX for NFT Sale of Their shoes
Follow this story if you can. Strictly speaking, an NFT is simply a blockchain receipt that you own a specific thing. StockX sells NFTs that are actually fungible. You can trade you NFT for a physical shoe they hold in a locker for you.
Google Nike StockX NFT and you’ll see ads from StockX that use the Nike name and images. But they are not an authorized Nike retailer. StockX says they’re not selling Nikes, only tokens. Trademark law is confused on the issues.
But this isn’t the only issue like this. Turning "Magic the Gathering" cards into NFTs – but not by the owner.
Links:
https://www.retaildive.com/news/nike-sues-stockx-over-nft-shoes/618340/
Topic 2: Dave's Sad, Irritating Venture into NFTs
Caution: Adult language.
Topic 3: SpaceX Loses 40 Satellites to Solar Storm
Solar storms have knocked out forty car-sized satellites. Worse storms coming. Sun has 11 year cycles and the hyperactivity will peak in 2025.
We think this comes at a very interesting time in the history of technology.
Link:
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Cisco
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program? Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you. With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies including Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more with the link right in the show notes. https://lnkd.in/gsydMya
:-)
Topic 1: $3.6 Bil in Stolen Bitcoin Recovered
$900,000,000 still missing. Bad news: blockchain doesn’t stop people from stealing your stuff. Good news: Once the government finds it, they can prove exactly where it was stolen.
Surprisingly normal money laundering techniques.
- https://www.barrons.com/articles/bitcoin-hack-cryptocurrency-justice-department-51644340993
Topic 2: Do we have a trust deficit?
Our comments on an article in the Atlantic. A serious follow-on to the "zero trust" of crypto currency.
Topic 3 option - Revisiting NVidia-ARM Deal
Have we over-regulated, or is this good for everybody? Nvidia and Arm had worked out an extensive arms-length deal that was quite complicated. Clearly, they were designing a merger with regulators in mind.
Softbank bought Arm for $36 B and was looking forward to getting a payoff on that investment. Is this just about money, or also about technology?
- https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2022/02/nvidia-abandons-66-billion-arm-purchase/
Sponsor Memo: SafeDNS
SafeDNS - the Web filtering solution for MSPs.
With an ever-increasing number of cyberattacks and data loss - customers ask “how to deal with it?”
Answer -Add an extra layer of protection: Web filtering solution on a DNS level. Deploy SafeDNS and be protected in minutes. with a Reseller panel and Whitelabel capability, generate more recurring revenue with AI-powered DNS Threat Protection. all with 24/7 support. Want to learn more
For details, please contact us - https://safedns.com
:-)
Topic 1: The “Antiwork” movements, The Great Resignation, and the stupidest movement in America
You've seen the movement. But you may have missed the Reddit page. Did you miss the anti-work interview gone wrong? Check out
https://mashable.com/article/antiwork-subreddit-fox-news-interview
With some counterpoints on loyalty:
Topic 2: Apple Airtags Revisited: Bringing stalking to the masses.
Airtags are certainly not the only tags out there. But, as with all things, Apple brought them to the masses. And that includes the masses of criminals who somehow take everything good and misuse it.
Bad behavior includes following women from a bar after slipping an airtag in her bag, and tracking expensive cars so you can steal them more easily.
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/jan/20/apple-airtags-stalking-complaints-technology
Scary video watched over 3.9 million times on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@angel.edge95/video/7033117374861577477
Topic 3: It's time for a Robot Roundup!
Where do we stand? Can (should) robots deliver booze? Do they have rights as pedestrians? Is outsourcing policing to them a good idea? Or should they just unload trucks?
https://www.zdnet.com/article/should-robots-be-able-to-deliver-booze/#ftag=RSSbaffb68
https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/26/22902568/boston-dynamics-stretch-robot-logistics-dhl-deal
https://listverse.com/2019/03/18/10-times-robots-were-brutally-assaulted-by-humans/
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Linode
Linode is the alternative to costly and complex cloud providers. Serving nearly a million developers and organizations around the world, Linode accelerates innovation by making cloud computing simple, affordable, and accessible.
As the world’s largest independent cloud provider, Linode gives its partners the ability to: - Improve margins without sacrificing performance - Provide solutions that include 100% human support your customers can rely on - Scale on a platform with proven reliability - Eliminate vendor lock-in - Offer a smarter alternative for multi-cloud management - Design solutions with no pricing surprises
Join the movement to a simpler, alternative cloud. Visit https://Linode.com/mspradio
:-)
Topic 1: Is 2022 the Year to Embrace the Grind?
Is this your year to take on big challenges, set the cruise control, or something else? This topic was inspired by our friend TC Doyle at Channelnomics.
“Not every year or period is destined to be a transformative one. For every 1945, 1989, or 2001, there are plenty of 1913s, 1953s, and 2005s.”
https://channelnomics.com/2022/01/embrace-the-grind-thats-2022/
Topic 2: Mark Cuban Takes on Walmart.
Is he disrupting anything? What about basic strategy?
“The ultra-straightforward business plan of undercutting middle men and offering a proven product for a better price than anyone else seems almost quaint today, but Cuban knows what he’s doing — in a generic way, at least. “
https://techcrunch.com/2022/01/24/mark-cuban-cost-plus-pharmacy-lower-prices-reduce-stress/
Topic 3: Activision bought by Microsoft.
This is much more than a gamer play. Does this give us a peek into the future of edge computing and next-level technologies that coordinate operations across the internet?
We have some opinions.
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out Egnyte.com/mspradio, and when you do, tell them the guys at Killing IT sent you.
:-)
Recorded as "Killing IT Live" - and then we picked out these three topics.
Sponsor Memo: Cisco
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program? Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you. With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies including Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more with the link right in the show notes.
Topic 1: Prognostication request - Is shared workspace going to be the largest source of New Jargon in 2022?
Do you know what "Benching" or "Desking" are? You could probably guess what shared desking is.
We look at the possibilities of future workspace. There is clearly more than one answer.
Related Links:
https://www.askcody.com/blog/the-ultimate-modern-workplace-office-jargon-cheat-sheet
https://www.bos.com/inspired/11-modern-workspace-terms-you-should-know/
Topic 2: Don't Gloat About Your Competitors' Troubles
Wherein we examine the difference between your marketing blog and your technology/security blog. You can be really great from the security viewpoint, but we discuss whether that discussion should leak over to the marketing side of the house.
Corporate marketing is not the place to talk about your competitors' security issues.
Link:
https://www.datto.com/blog/datto-information-security-team-notice-atera-advisory-for-msps
Topic 3: Karl loses a one dollar bet on driverless cars
And other “cutting edge” technologies have also not fared as well. How much is just hype and how much is just slower than we projected?
:-)
Announcement: Do not miss Killing IT Live! next Wednesday. Register at https://www.killingitlive.com.
Topic 1: Sonos Patent Infringement
Sonos has a major win against Google in their patent infringement. We this to launch into a discussion of patents (use and abuse) in the technology industries.
Link: https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/6/22871121/sonos-google-patent-itc-ruling-decision-import-ban
Topic 2: McDonalds sees massive recycling and carbon neutrality
Is this the future of building? The future of franchising? Look for this to affect other industries as well.
Topic 3: CA DMV ‘revisiting’ its approach to regulating Tesla’s public self-driving test
For years, Tesla has tested autonomous vehicle technology on public roads without reporting the results to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. All other car makers are required to report this data.
And then . . . viral videos of horrible Tesla accidents have put pressure on the DMV to stop this special treatment. Among other things, this reminds us of Boeing validating its own safety tests on the 737 Max.
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: IT Service Provider University
After eight years of training IT consultants, Small Biz Thoughts is now launching IT Service Provider University, providing training and certifications for all kinds of technology consultants. Certification pathways include Technician, Service Manager, Sales and Marketing, Manager/Owner, and Front Office. More information at https://www.itspu.com
-- -- --
:-)
Reminder:
Killing IT Live is January 19th Register now http://killingitlive.com/
-----
Topic 1: A Dose Of Reality: Big Promises vs. Small Results in Emerging Tech
Money makes innovation possible. But there seems to be a disconnect between big, big investments and successful innovations. We look at the failure of big market growth through actual, tangible products. How do we reconcile this divide?
https://www.fastcompany.com/90708339/were-living-in-an-age-of-big-tech-promises-and-small-results
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Topic 2: Revisiting Remote Work Predictions for 2022
Any favorite remote work predictions? We have long-term trends that have been overwhelmed by the pandemic changes. Will remote go back to what it was? Probably not, but how much change will be permanent. We look at recent trends and then . . . well, we speculate.
https://www.vox.com/22839563/remote-work-climate-change-house-prices-cities
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Topic 3: Chip shortage might be bringing us a new generation in automotive technology.
Qualcomm announced that they've made a a deal for Volvo and Polestar to use Qualcomm's "Snapdragon Cockpit" chips along with an operating system from Google. These chips will be in those cars later this year.
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security. Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow-listing.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency. Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Note: Don't miss Killing IT Live - January 19th at 9am Pacific - Register now at https://killingitlive.com
Topic 1: The “Cyberdemic” will continue, according to Experian.
Record breaking number on cyber breaches. Many elements conspire against us. What can you do?
Topic 2: OpenSource and the internet. Solid code, to a point.
Should we have a way to hold someone responsible? Is a "Software Bill of Materials" a good idea or bad idea?
Links: https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/12/17/1042692/log4j-internet-open-source-hacking/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/sbom-good-intentions-bad-analogies-uglyoutcomes-alex-gantman/
Topic 3: Winning by being human?
When cyber criminals are doubling down on AI and expensive programming, perhaps we need to take a lower-tech approach to defeating them. Here are some options.
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Sponsor Note: Calyptix
Cyber security for small business is overwhelming. Unprecedented threats, escalating rhetoric and limited resources. So lean on your community. The Calyptix Community Shield automatically unites small businesses and raise the costs and challenges for cybercriminals by harnessing threat intelligence from our community. If they attack any one of us, everyone gets the benefit with Community Shield.
An example? A log4J blocklist for scanners and exploits, rolled out specifically for outbound events - All for no added cost. By working together, we will prevail. Learn more at https://calyptix.com and tell them we sent you.
:-)
Note: Don't miss Killing IT Live - January 19th at 9am Pacific - Register now at https://killingitlive.com
Topic 1: Is troubleshooting possible when complicated becomes complex?
If no one person can make a technology, can anyone fix it? What does complexity mean for our industry? Will we need to change our troubleshooting practices going forward? Give us your feedback.
Link:
https://thenewstack.io/why-intuitive-troubleshooting-has-stopped-working-for-you/
Topic 2: Can the corner store get digitally transformed?
Here's some good news: The corner store might be your next gold mine! It's actually amazing how few of these shops have made their way into modern technology. This might keep you employed for the next ten years.
Link:
Topic 3: Metaverse from a Microsoft perspective.
Satya Nadella gave his perspective on the metaverse and what it might look like. Surprise! Microsoft makes the hardware and software that will make it happen.
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-discusses-metaverse-and-2021-work-norms
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Acronis
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at https://Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Fake Fake news . . . Birds Aren’t Real
Birds Aren’t Real, or Are They? Inside a Gen Z Conspiracy Theory.
Links: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/09/technology/birds-arent-real-gen-z-misinformation.html
Topic 2: China uses American influencers to promote their version of reality
Links: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/12/13/technology/china-propaganda-youtube-influencers.html
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VBULHi6E_rGV2gjygFFPzYpEFXAYXcfW/view?usp=sharing
Warning: This page is (oddly) very poorly designed. If your system autoplays, it will play about twenty videos all at once.
Topic 3: What to know before you take a job in a hybrid workplace
It’s hard to maintain culture. And it’s not a good fit for everyone.
Link: https://www.wired.com/story/what-to-know-new-job-hybrid-workplace-remote-work/
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Register NOW for Killing IT Live - January 19th - Register now http://killingitlive.com/
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Sponsor Note: PC Matic
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security.
Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency.
Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Topic 1: F.T.C. Sues to Stop Blockbuster Chip Deal Between Nvidia and Arm
Arm provides technology that other chip makers need. Does this give Nvidia an unfair advantage? And is the merger a completely unnecessary move prompted by the need for investors to show a profit?
What is the channel takeaway?
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/02/technology/ftc-nvidia-arm-deal.html
Topic 2: What will smartphones be like in ten years?
We actually come to a consensus on this for a variety of reasons. We think we know what phones will look like; we have different ideas about the functionality.
Link: https://gizmodo.com/what-will-smartphones-be-like-in-10-years-1848138666
Topic 3: AWS Announces IoT TwinMaker to Accelerate the Creation of Digital Twins
One of Ryan's favorite topics. Well, it's here! Will you get a digital twin for Christmas next year?
More than a static "snapshot," digital twins are data-driven representations of things like in the real world, updated with real- or almost real-time data so we can study potential behavior of the things they represent. AWS has built a system so you can play with this technology and find new uses for it.
https://futureiot.tech/siemens-aws-to-push-for-accelerated-digital-twin-adoption/
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them the guys at Killing IT sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: China mucking around with Iran and Israel
China attacks Israel and makes it look like Iran did it. Meanwhile, Iran really is attacking Israel. And now Israel is attacking Irananian fuel supplies and Iran is exposing personal dating profiles of Israelis. It looks like Israel is attacking Iranian train systems, and Iran is attacking Israeli water systems.
Attacks against citizens are causing political unrest in both countries.
Links:
https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/08/10/1031622/chinese-hackers-false-flag-iran-israel-fireeye/
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/27/world/middleeast/iran-israel-cyber-hack.html
Topic 2: Robots are not yet smart enough to take most jobs
Robots are getting better, but still require lots of human interaction. They are becoming "just another tool" that humans interactively use.
Link:
https://www.wired.com/story/amazon-warehouse-robots-worker-shortage/
Topic 3: Amazon Private 5G
Amazon private 5G is now available to deploy. They even supply the equipment for free: You just pay for usage. Will this be a disruption?
Links:
https://www.zdnet.com/article/aws-ceo-announces-private-5g-at-reinvent-2021/
Configure at: https://pages.awscloud.com/Private5GPreview.html
https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-awss-move-into-private-5g-networking-is-significant/
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Gozynta
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at https://Gozynta.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Apple goes after the NSO Group
Apple takes companies to court to prevent them from cracking into Apple phones. This touches on privacy as well as treating huge corporations as nation-states. Science fiction or reality?
Links:
https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/sourcecode/taking-down-pegasus
https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/23/22798917/apple-nso-group-spyware-pegasus-cybersecurity-research
Topic 2: McDonald’s and the ice cream machine - update
We covered the "right to repair" issue regarding McD's ice cream machines. Now the picture is a lot more complicated. You never know where intrigue can be found. We also touch on the value of service contracts and how that fits in the mix.
This might also be the first use of IOICT - Internet of Ice Cream Things.
Link: https://www.wired.com/story/mcdonalds-ice-cream-machine-hacking-kytch-taylor-internal-emails/
Topic 3: We’re Going to “Armageddon” an Asteroid
NASA just launched a rocket that will -- in 1 year -- crash into an asteroid so they can measure the impact on its orbit. The purpose: to practice and learn whether we could alter the path of an asteroid in the future if it were headed toward Earth. Sweet!
Links:
https://www.cnn.com/2021/11/24/world/nasa-dart-asteroid-mission-launch-scn/index.html
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at https://Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: New Fad - Work from Work Wednesdays
Zooming from the office is what the NYT calls the “Worst of both worlds.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/11/16/business/return-to-office-hybrid-work.html
Topic 2: Apple has killer deals with several State DMVs
Apple having states pay for their tech rollout -- how much is their responsibility, when Apple controls the tech?
https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/14/22781570/apple-making-states-pay-digital-id-service
Topic 3: Electric Vehicles are super hot - including used.
Overview https://www.virta.global/global-electric-vehicle-market
Rivian https://www.investopedia.com/rivian-ipo-what-happened-and-why-it-matters-5209505
Used EVs https://www.wired.com/story/used-evs-hotter-demand-ever/
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Cisco
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program? Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you. With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies including Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more at https://lnkd.in/gsydMya
:-)
Topic 1: Skimpflation: Will this affect us?
Aside from basic inflation, will the labor shortage cause this for IT services?
Topic 2: China’s Privacy Law
China's new policy looks "western" at first, but is used for strick tracking of citizens. The Personal Information Protection Law allows the government to blacklist companies, including those outside the country. Will companies go along or opt out of the largest market in the world?
Do providers really care?
https://www.wired.co.uk/article/china-personal-data-law
Topic 3: Hackers are stealing data today so quantum computers can crack it in a decade
It makes sense once you hear it. But it's still surprising.
-- -- --
:-)
Sponsor Note: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Looking at Tech Companies as nation states
When one organization has so much money and does so many things that they "compete" with nation states, should we begin to treat them that way? Note that one article is from Foreign Affairs magazine.
Links:
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/world/2021-10-19/ian-bremmer-big-tech-global-order
See also the book: The Big Switch by Nicholas Carr
Topic 2: Using AI to parse CEO’s words
Is this truly useful AI or just a faster version of the obvious?
Link:
Topic 3: Facebook shuts down facial recognition
Facebook is shutting down their facial recognition program - and deleting the database altogether. Have they found a soul? Is this actually a good business decision? What don't we know about this big decision?
Links:
https://www.protocol.com/bulletins/facebook-shutting-down-facial-recognition
https://gizmodo.com/google-is-going-to-charge-cops-for-your-data-1841221086
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at https://Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Trolls Are Born, Not Made
While self esteem is a factor, Internet trolls don’t have low self esteem. They have a high tendency to sadism. When mixed with high self esteem, you get a troll.
Who are these people and how did they become trolls. Research gives us some insights.
Topic 2: Async Business Collaboration Models
One of Karl's favorite topics! Let's focus on focus. Asynchronous communication goes a long ways to making focus possible and effective.
If you can find people who work asynchronously, and give them the right tools, amazing things can be done.
https://www.protocol.com/workplace/async-work-goodbye-meetings
Topic 3: Desperate for Workers, Restaurants Turn to Robots
It’s about time! Lines have gotten longer and longer due to pandemic upheaval and a shrinking workforce.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/19/business/restaurants-robots-workers.html
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Gozynta
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire Lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at https://Gozynta.com.
:-)
This special edition of The Killing IT Podcast was recorded before a live audience in a special presentation made possible by Cisco.
If you missed the “Live” portion, register at killingitlive.com to listen to the bonus topic and receive announcements about the next Killing IT Live broadcast. -- -- --
Topic 1: After much fanfare, what’s up with The Contract for the Web two years later?
Sir Tim Berners-Lee's project - The Contract for the Web - promised to encourage governments to ensure access and privacy; corporations to encourage the best and discourage the worst in people; and citizens to be both creators and collaborators.
Well, two years later, we don't think much has changed.
Links:
https://contractfortheweb.org/
https://contractfortheweb.org/2021/10/07/save-the-date-join-us-to-launch-the-tech-policy-design-lab/
-- -- --
Topic 2: Has the Dream of AI Died? Faded? Evolved?
One article on this topic asks whether "losing AI" would be a bad thing. The trend looks like China is way ahead of the west, except with regard to the moral use of artificial intelligence. Another article reports that some computer experts think ending human oversight is a very bad idea.
What are the stakes of us losing our edge because we have ethics?
Links:
https://www.vox.com/recode/22725044/china-ai-race-pentagon-wechat
-- -- --
Topic 3: Smart Cities Produce Unfathomable Amounts of Data.
This topic ties together several of our ongoing discussions: AI, analytics, 5G, privacy, automation, simulation, environmental impact, tech impact on real life, and big business opportunities.
But are we any smarter or better off?
https://www.axios.com/smart-city-5g-data-privacy-0f8e6535-3cad-4ceb-86a2-dd4cefcd28a7.html
-- -- --
NOTE: You can catch the BONUS topic at https://www.killingitlive.com.
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
Did you know Cisco helps Managed Services Providers directly? Know about the Cisco Partner Program? Focused on helping partners combine managed services expertise and service creation with innovative Cisco technology and proven go-to-market resources, there’s a program option for you. With provider pricing, MDF, and marketing resources coupled with Cisco’s leading technologies including Meraki, Duo, and Umbrella, learn more at https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/partners/partner-with-cisco/provider.html
:-)
Interesting tidbit of the day: Statistics
Don't forget to join us for Killing IT Live - October 20th - https://www.killingitlive.com
Topic 1: Slack upended the workplace -- and gave power to the employees
Slack (and other technologies) are revealing some inner turmoil at companies such as Apple. Is this something caused by the technology, or merely revealed by the technology? We discuss culture and more.
Link: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/11/slack-office-trouble/620173/
Topic 2: Amazon Copied Best-Selling Products and then Rigged their Search Result
Meme for this: From the movie Casablanca . . . "I’m shocked - shocked I tell you.”
Question: Even though this is India, does it affect how our Congress will try to hold Amazon accountable?
Link: https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/amazon-india-rigging/
Topic 3: Convergence of AV and IT . . .
Other industries are learning the IT space. Well, at a minimum, they're learning the language. This turns into a debate about marketing share and specialization. And "specialization" looks different, depending on the perspective you start with.
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
:-)
Fun question of the day . . . If you were offered the position of mayor of your city, would you take it?
. . . wherein two of our hosts determine that they are two halves of a politician.
-- -- --
Promo: Join Us for Killing IT Live - October 20th Info and registration at killingitlive.com No editing. No second takes.
Join hosts Dave Sobel, Ryan Morris, and Karl Palachuk for this special live event.
You’ll see behind the curtains as we prep and produce a live show. PLUS, we’ll stick around and answer questions so YOU can be part of the show as well.
We’ll record an episode of the podcast for you — broadcast live with video!
-- -- --
Topic 1: Amazon’s bi-annual report on government requests for data . . .
Over 30,000 requests for information from various governments around the world for the six months ending June 30th. This includes subpoenas, search warrants, and court orders (or their equivalent in various countries).
This includes requests regarding Amazon Echos, Ring devices, etc. It does NOT include requests related to AWS, which only numbered 632!
The number of devices with your personal information, photos, and data is growing every year. Remember, that robot dog serves more than one master.
https://d1.awsstatic.com/Information_Request_Report_June_2021_x.pdf
Topic 2: Is Facebook’s problem just “hubris?” We can fix this!
“I don't think the Facebook Files show a company that is evil or incompetent. It seems to show a company that is in way too deep, but still thinks it can totally get things back under control.”
Topic 3: CISA Issues Guidance to Mitigate Threats to Autonomous Vehicles
CISA has published more guidance. Once lesson is: MSPs are not their only target. Another Lesson: Emerging tech is being held to some reasonable standards.
Links:
https://www.hstoday.us/nppd/cisa-issues-guidance-to-mitigate-threats-to-autonomous-vehicles/
https://www.cisa.gov/autonomous-vehicle-security
-- -- --
Remember to sign up for Killing IT Live - free!
Killing IT Live - October 20th Info and registration at www.killingitlive.com
:-)
Question of the Day: What was your first W2 job?
Topic 1: Vendors Selling Around their Partners
Listener Lucy asks: "Why the **** do vendors keep overlooking the sales rep who owns the customer in their Channel program?"
There's natural tension between vendors and their solution provider partners. Why do we have to keep revisiting this topic?
(Also, she agrees with Dave that a sandwich requires two pieces of bread.)
Topic 2: Thoughts on taking UI to government activities
Dominos (and other) have made some huge advancements in tracking the progress of their services. This is both a UI (user interface) and a CX (customer experience) topic. So where is the government when it comes to next-gen UI and CX?
Link: https://statescoop.com/why-government-technologists-love-dominos-pizza-tracker/
Topic 3: Facebook/Instagram for Children?
Holy smokes. Thankfully, Facebook has decided to "hold off" on releasing a version of Instagram geared toward children. We universally think it's a bad idea. But we also point out that lots of other platforms are targeting children - illegally.
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/27/technology/facebook-instagram-for-kids.html
-- -- -- Sponsor Note: Think you know PC Matic? Think again. PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security. Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow-listing. Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency. Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP. Be sure to ask about PC Matic’s exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Question of the Day: What is a photo?
Topic 1: When AI Breaks Bad
Once again we address the question of ethics and AI.
From Axios: "A new report about artificial intelligence and its effects warns AI has reached a turning point and its negative effects can no longer be ignored." Have we reached the point where we should automatically look for the negative effects first?
Link: https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-future-0a5d2e2c-acd8-422b-a37c-1fc93f78a76f.html
Topic 2: Let’s look at CISA . . . again.
Last week we talked about the CISA advice for your customers. Here we revisit, and look at the “Low fruit” considerations that you might actually decide to adopt today. These include Backup documentation, Client data segregation, and Financial health of IT service providers.
Link: https://www.cisa.gov/publication/risk-considerations-msp-customers
See also Karl's blog posts on this: - https://blog.smallbizthoughts.com/2021/09/the-government-is-telling-your-clients.html - https://blog.smallbizthoughts.com/2021/09/three-things-you-should-do-in-response.html
Topic 3: Next Gen Crowd Sourcing?
Pondering . . . is there a new name for the group behavior that's emerging on the Internet in the 2020's? For example: - TikTok investors follow members of Congress - Reddit investors manipulate the stock market - Amateur sleuths help in the search for missing persons
Question: Is there a name for this kind of activity? It seems like there's something other than "crowd sourcing" here.
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/20/style/gabby-petito-case-tiktok-social-media.html
Sponsor Memo:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire Lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at www.Gozynta.com
:-)
Question of the day: What is a sandwich?
Topic 1: Apple Pay . . . Again
The headline says Apple lost … but the article makes it clear that Epic is the one who is disappointed and is appealing.
Let see: Epic violated their agreement and owes Apply $3.5 Million. But Apply can’t have those kinds of agreements going forward. And Apple’s not a monopoly.
Seems confusing, but it does mean there will be other options to pay for in-app purchases on AppStore apps to work around Apple. But Epic still doesn’t think that is enough. Let the lawyer games begin.
Link: https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/10/22662320/epic-apple-ruling-injunction-judge-court-app-store
Topic 2: Microsoft Study Finds Problems with Employee Productivity in Remote Work
In a study or more than 60,000 employees, Microsoft find that the shift to remote work has hurt communication and collaboration. A separate study shows that individual workers feel better supported by bosses than ever before. The first finding looks bad for employee productivity and long-term innovation; the second suggest happier, more productive workers.
Note: Microsoft also announce that employees won’t be returning to the office in October as expected.
Topic 3: Cybersecurity Vulnerability Could Now Impact a Business’ Credit Rating … Things are Getting Serious!
Startup BitSight generates reports on the likelihood that an organization will be breached. They just received a $250 million investment Moody’s. Moody's provides corporate "credit rating" information. In your future: Credit ratings base on Cybersecurity preparedness.
Sponsor note:
Threats to client data constantly evolve, so your strategies must evolve too …but knowing where to get good guidance isn’t always easy.
Well, nowhere will you hear more helpful insights from leading cyber protection experts than at the Acronis #CyberFitSummit. I’m going again –this year in-person, in Miami – and you should join me. Experts like Erick Simpson; Larry Walsh; and Acronis’ Amy Luby will show you how to boost profits, reduce risk, and improve your team’s productivity, as well as the latest cybersecurity strategies, technologies, and processes. In person and online, Learn more about the Acronis #CyberFit Summit World Tour at https://Acronis.events
:-)
Topic 1: CISA Guidelines for MSP Clients
Like it or not, the US Government has defined Managed Services, and published guidelines for your clients and prospects to evaluate you! We expect a lot of heat - and maybe some light - to come out of this document.
Related Links: - https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ncas/current-activity/2021/09/03/cisa-insights-risk-considerations-managed-service-provider
Topic 2: Forcing options to Apple Pay and Google Pay
In the continuing saga of Apple (and others) forcing app developers to use their pay systems, the government of South Korea has decided that Apple and Google cannot force game makers and others to use only their payment gateways. This is, of course, the beginning of other nations jumping into fray.
We comment - including how this might affect potential lawsuits in the US.
Topic 3: Tesla building their own chip to train self-driving vehicles
What? Tesla joins the chip-making industry - because they can't buy the chips they need! Is this a sign of impending disruption for Intel, AMD, and others? Tesla has a unique demand, given the specific requirements of their autonomous vehicle strategy. And if they can't buy chips elsewhere, they're going to make their own - for now.
Link: https://link.wired.com/view/5e3f0a597e553f71453d575deurb4.7s9/5a9cf463
-- -- --
Sponsor Note:
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security.
Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency.
Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Topic 1: Gartner's Latest Hype Cycle - Emerging Technology
How can you use Gartner's research in your business? Does it matter if truly useful changes are at least two years out?
Gartner Hype cycle graphic: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/gartner-identifies-3-themes-to-watch-for-in-emerging-technologies/
Topic 2: AI for Changing Accents
Is this cool? What are the best uses for it? And, as always, we dig into the ethical use of AI.
There are clearly some benefits for folks with hearing issues or rare spoken dialects. As always, good-vs-bad depends on what people do with the application.
Topic 3: Impact of Remote Collaboration on Business Travel
This topic will continue for quite a while. Here's the latest from Bloomberg.
Remote communications and collaboration tools have been so successfully developed and deployed in the past 18 months that 84% of CEOs indicate they plan to spend significantly less on business travel going forward.
-- -- --
Sponsor Note: Egnyte
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Change the storage to change ransomware?
Can you create storage that cannot be changed? Is ransomware-free data storage possible . . . and right around the corner?
Related Link: https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-enterprise/cloud-storage-ransomware-zero-trust
Topic 2: Shadow IT: Is it Real? Not real?
Are you the shadow IT? Does it really just mean outsourced IT? And that leads us to ask, is the conversation about shadow IT really just a conversation for really large companies?
Related Link: https://www.protocol.com/newsletters/protocol-enterprise/saas-shadow-it-cio
Topic 3: A New Chip Cluster Will Make Massive AI Models Possible
Cerebras says its technology can run a neural network with 120 trillion connections—a hundred times what's achievable today.
Related Link: https://www.wired.com/story/cerebras-chip-cluster-neural-networks-ai/
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo: SBT Technology Community
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at Small Biz Thoughts.org. Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success. Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
:-)
Topic 1: Apple Privacy Revisited
We talked about this last week. Well, so did everyone else.
Apple introduced a new technology to screen for child pornography . . . and a spirited debate has ensued. Last week the Killing IT guys weighed in on the topic and now we want to revisit the ongoing debate and address some of the concerns about the “slippery slope” and the “permission” to access data on personal devices. Including some new twists on CSAM Screening Technology.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/11/technology/personaltech/iphone-update-sex-abuse.html
Topic 2: Evolution in Supply Chain Management
Toyota is famous for revolutionizing supply chain management, particularly with "Just-in-Time" inventory. Now, fifty years down the road, we're finding that J-I-T had a lot of problems in the middle of the pandemic. Now, Toyota is responding again with a newer, more flexible approach to inventory. We look at supply chain issues generally, with a context of cars, chips, and toilet paper.
https://fortune.com/2021/08/02/toyota-cars-chip-shortage-semiconductors/
Topic 3: CRN Reports on Industry Trends
. . . But they're headlines don't align with their data. We were puzzled at the need to put extra energy into cheer-leading as compared to reporting the hard truth. We discuss.
Sponsor Memo: Acronis
Threats to client data constantly evolve, so your strategies must evolve too …but knowing where to get good guidance isn’t always easy. Well, nowhere will you hear more helpful insights from leading cyber protection experts than at the Acronis #CyberFitSummit. I’m going again –this year in-person, in Miami – and you should join me. Experts like Erick Simpson; Larry Walsh; and Acronis’ Amy Luby will show you how to boost profits, reduce risk, and improve your team’s productivity, as well as the latest cybersecurity strategies, technologies, and processes. In person and online. Learn more about the Acronis #CyberFit Summit World Tour at https://Acronis.events
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:-)
Topic 1: Drones.. May not be coming.
We've been ushering drones for years. But where are they? Why in the age of the drone advancing so slowly? Amazon is slowing things down a bit.
https://www.wired.co.uk/article/amazon-drone-delivery-prime-air
Topic 2: What should the penalty be for data misuse?
Data misuse is a growing topic. In addition to the recent Supreme Court case, we're seeing companies make pre-emptive moves to make sure employees are not accessing data they have access to. This is a potentially huge issue for IT service providers. After all, we touch lots of client data, and our employees need to keep their eyes to themselves.
https://www.vice.com/en/article/g5gk73/google-fired-dozens-for-data-misuse
Topic 3: Apple to Scan the iCloud for Evidence of Child Sexual Abuse
No one’s going to argue with the goals here. But what’s next? Once the system is put in place to scan the contents of iCloud, will Apple resist looking for other illegal activity? Will the IRS pressure them to look for activity that indicated tax evasion? If nothing else, it’s a chink in the armor of “privacy by default.”
https://techcrunch.com/2021/08/05/apple-icloud-photos-scanning/
Sponsor Memo: PC Matic
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security.
Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow-listing.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency.
Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Topic 1: The Disconnect Between Marketing, AI, and Reality
AI is awesome . . . until it's not. We look at the need for transparency with AI data. How do you challenge AI bias in court? Should IA data be used in legal cases? Most importantly, how do YOU make money helping your clients with AI?
Topic 2: Board Incentives and Cybersecurity
How should (could) boards of directors stay up to date on cybersecurity? Is it even possible for boards to stay up to spec if it's not their primary area of expertise? How can boards do something to gain the knowledge they need for corporate governance? Again: What role can YOU play in helping client boards know what matters in an ever-changing world?
https://www.philvenables.com/post/cybersecurity-the-board-s-perspective
Topic 3: Spy vs. Spy - How do we track deep fakes at scale?
Can we look forward to a future of "verified" video and stories? It would be a combination of technology plus data distributor agreements, plus audience desire for reality. Is there an opportunity for you in this field?
Sponsor Memo:
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them the guys from Killing IT sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Why is there derision for "alternative" solution stacks?
Dave asks . . . why do people like to put down Chromebooks and Macs? Do they actually love their Windows-centric world?
We have fun, and we hope we make some points worth considering in a modern world.
Link:
https://www.thurrott.com/mobile/chrome-os/chromebook/253503/a-tale-of-two-chromebooks
Topic 2: Forget work/life balance: Now get back to work.
Last week, Mary Erdoes (chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase asset and wealth management business) laid it on the line: If you want to be successful in the world of banking, you should expect to work 12-hour days, six days a week. Period. Her argument is that you can get your desired ten thousand hours of training in a few years.
She doesn't mention that you'll probably destroy your family and develop life-long habits that will literally kill you much younger than people who have more balance in their lives.
Link:
Related article: The boss wants you back in the office. Now.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/return-to-work-the-boss-wants-you-back-in-the-office-11627079616
Related web site:
https://www.relaxfocussucceed.com
Topic 3: QR Codes Finally Found a Foothold in the Pandemic. Now let’s talk privacy.
Restaurants adopted e-menu technology en masse during the pandemic. Scan the QR code, and browse the menu. And pay. All good. But you have just placed a data-gathering and marketing system between you and your food.
Yes, we have opinions.
Link:
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/26/technology/qr-codes-tracking.html
Sponsor Note:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire Lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at Gozynta.com
:-)
Topic 1: The Impact of China on the Cybersecurity Industry & Data Protection
China was on both sides of the cybersecurity story last week. On one hand, they were accused by the whole world of orchestrating the attack on Exchange servers. On the other hand, they starting cracking down on cybersecurity internally.
This also has direct implications for US companies selling into China. What will be the impact of these moves on the US security market and our domestic business operations?
Links:
https://www.protocol.com/china/china-cybersecurity-self-sufficiency
Topic 2: Another New Application for Video: TikTok Resumes
TikTok had introduce a "Resume" service. Will you go there for your next hire? Could video essays be the next thing in hiring?
Through July 31, job seekers can upload video resumes with the hashtag #tiktokresumes. Is this just a Gen Z thing?
https://www.businessinsider.com/tiktok-wants-to-be-linkedin-for-gen-z-tiktok-resumes-2021-7
Topic 3: Toronto airport tests facial recognition software . . . without disclosing it
For several years, the Province of Ottowa tested facial recognition in crowds at the airport. What are the disclosure rules? What’s the ethics here?
-- -- --
Vendor Memo:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at https://www.Gozynta.com
:-)
Topic 1: Revising RMM - Ready for Disruption?
Question - Is the problem super sophisticated and difficult or crazy simple and easy? We summarize a few arguments as well as look at the next topic: IOS. One of us is ready to drop RMM; one is not; and the tie goes to . . ..
Links:
https://www.wired.com/story/it-management-tools-hacking-jamf-kaseya/
Topic 2: Next Generation of Tires . . . on a 3D printed shuttle bus
This one's a fun story about several future-facing technologies working together. First question: Why did it take 120 years to make airless tires that work? Second question: Can we see what this means for the future of the support industry for tires?
Link:
Topic 3: Shorter Work Week Experiment in Iceland Produces “Groundbreaking Improvements”
Karl loves the conclusion but can't accept research. But we jump on the opportunities for workers, management, and companies of various sizes.
Link:
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-57724779
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/07/12/a-4-day-workweek-is-the-norm-in-iceland-could-the-us-follow-.html
-- -- --
Vendor Memo:
Think you know PC Matic? Think again. PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security. Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allow listing.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency. Find out more about by visiting https://pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Episode 120 - Riffing on Cybersecurity and the IT Industry
After the Kaseya attack, there really was nothing else to talk about.
In a slightly different format, we take the full show to just enjoy a totally unrehearsed discussion of the state of cybersecurity and what it means for the IT industry.
Lots of opinions here. Give us your feedback. Share with a friend.
Always more good Killing IT Podcasts at https://killingit.smallbizthoughts.com
Vendor memo:
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at www.Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Neuro Diversity - a different approach to thinking about thinking.
We're always looking for people who think differently. But we also put some serious limits on how different we are willing to accept. In this article, TechCrunch looks at the idea of inviting a wider variety of people into the world of cybersecurity hiring.
Link: https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/22/addressing-the-cybersecurity-skills-gap-through-neurodiversity/
Topic 2: Are robo cops actually doing anything to reduce crime?
It doesn't look like it. Maybe Robots AREN’T the answer. Calls to 911 have gone down. But crime hasn't.
Is there still some good to tease out of this story?
Topic 3: Tech Giant Battles - Lots of updates this week!
Case dropped against Facebook over Instagram and What’s App.
Somewhat unrelated: “Non-Agression Pact” between Google and Microsoft means they’ll each help the government go after the other.
Also somewhat unrelated: Amazon asks FTB Chair to sit this one out.
Links:
-- -- --
Vendor Memo:
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp, and when you do, tell them we sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Apple Healthcare. Are you onboard?
Apple is considering direct health care. So, they're testing out a service with their own employees. Of course it all started with data. Now they're connecting devices and data to actual hands-on clinical care.
Are you comfortable with this care from an IT company? If so, is Apple the company?
Link: - https://www.theverge.com/2021/6/16/22536623/apple-primary-care-project-data-watch-app
Topic 2: Do we need a Federal Agency for Data Privacy?
Proposed legislation would create a data privacy agency for the United States. Good? Bad? Or just ugly? We discuss.
Once again, we note that legislation and compliance are the wave of the future.
Link: - https://www.vox.com/recode/2021/6/17/22536907/gillibrand-data-protection-act-privacy
Topic 3: Can AI Measure Joy?
Talkwalker is a company that uses AI to help find information across the Internet using artificial intelligence. Now they've applied their technology to evaluate how much users love specific brands. We list the big results, but also focus on a fun result: Choosing a much-loved brewery.
Quote: “The brewery scored more than 15 points in the category defined by artificial intelligence-identified expressions of joy. Average Joy Score for the top 50 most loved brands was 4.”
Links: - https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2021/06/great-lakes-brewing-co-lands-on-list-of-worlds-most-beloved-brands.html - https://www.talkwalker.com/resource/report/love-brand-report-eng-2021-final.pdf
-- -- --
Vendor Memo:
This podcast is sponsored by the Small Biz Thoughts Technology Community. Check us out at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
Forms, templates, and checklists are just the start. Our Community includes ALL of the best-selling books on managed services in all available formats, plus free training, members-only programs, and the best business training available to managed service providers anywhere.
Plus, we have weekly live members-only Zoom calls. The average member saves more than 200% of their membership cost each year. We are totally dedicated to YOUR success.
Just because you're in business for yourself doesn't mean you have to go it alone. Join us today at www.SmallBizThoughts.org.
:-)
Topic 1: Is "Patch and Zero Trust" Even Possible?
What does doing something different look like? How much do we need to rethink all this? Or, perhaps, is it possible to provide appropriate security at the small end of the market but impossible at the enterprise level?
With the explosion of IOT, security may in fact be impossible. If that's true, what else can we do?
Topic 2: Status update on getting back to the Office
This is still an evolving story. Workers would like to stay home more; managers would like them to be in the office more. This might be the biggest change to come out of the pandemic/recession of 2020-2021.
Link: https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/16/your-boss-might-tell-you-the-office-is-more-secure-but-it-isnt/
Topic 3: Amazon "burning through" employees
What does this tell us about Amazon? And since they are a massive employer, does this massive turnover affect the larger employment market?
Employee churn is so high that some Amazon execs are reportedly worried about running out of people.
Links: https://www.businessinsider.com/amazon-warehouse-turnover-worker-shortage-2021-6
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/06/15/us/amazon-workers.html
-- -- --
Vendor Memo:
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at Gozynta.com
:-)
Topic 1: FBI Creates Their own App to Snag Hundreds of Bad Guys Around the World
Yes - we use the word “Badass.”
We know you've heard about this one by now. But it's the biggest cyber story of the year, so we have to cover it. Great article/press release from the FBI.
A few summary notes: 800 arrests; 8 tons of cocaine; 22 tons of marijuana; 2 tons of methamphetamine/amphetamine; 6 tons of precursor chemicals; 250 firearms; and more than $48 million in various worldwide currencies. On top of that, the FBI has initiated dozens of public corruption cases.
. . . and MORE!
Topic 2: AI Hall of Shame
Great new resource to help AI stay on the right side of "ethics." The actual artificial intelligence database is at https://incidentdatabase.ai. This is intended to be a resource to remind us all that AI honestly has a potentially evil side that we need to keep track of.
https://www.wired.com/story/artificial-intelligence-hall-shame/
The database: https://incidentdatabase.ai/
Topic 3: Supreme Court Rules on Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
The ruling is, basically, that misusing a computer to which you have access is different from using a computer beyond the level of access you are supposed to have. The said that a police officer didn’t “hack” any part of the computer system. He merely used the computer he had access to to do something he shouldn’t have done.
Note two things. First, we have really old laws written before the web existed, and they are being used to regulate today’s behavior. Second, the courts, as a rule, do not understand what we do for a living. WE need to be involved in the way our industry is regulated.
https://techcrunch.com/2021/06/03/supreme-court-hacking-cfaa-ruling/
-- -- --
Sponsor Note:
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Amazon devices will soon automatically share your Internet with neighbors.
Amazon introduces "sidewalk" network sharing.
This feature is ON by default. At this point, Amazon's new mesh network sharing is experimental. How do you feel about that? Is this OK from Apple but not from Amazon?
Read in Ars Technica: https://apple.news/AfIgdLQgQRZyr-N3QGbK69A
Topic 2: The Era of the Digital Leash is well on its way. Now add some AI analysis.
Bosses putting a 'digital leash' on remote workers could be crossing a privacy line. We've reported about watching both students and employees. Now we find this constant monitoring moving into warehouses and more types of employees. We seriously question whether this is a good thing.
Read in CNBC:
https://apple.news/ATt9jvg7uR1ihlKylsRprMA
Topic 3: Emotion-tracking AI.
Even if we can, should we?
Emotion-detection AI meets eye-tracking technology. A major merger claims to be able to tell how you're feeling (when driving).
The really interesting question is, what other applications could use this technology? AI that can recognize emotions has the ability to bring us more-social robots as well as improve customer service chatbots.
The emerging question with AI seems to be: Should we?
Read in ZDNet: https://apple.news/AW3l5FPbjRymvie18rh7V_A
-- -- --
Sponsor Note:
Think you know PC Matic? Think again.
PC Matic is working with MSPs to deliver true zero trust/default deny endpoint security.
Allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. A light weight, simple to deploy & easy to manage approach to application allowlisting.
Layering a default deny approach provides MSPs of all sizes the ability to again focus on prevention, and PC Matic delivers this without impacting performance or efficiency.
Find out more about by visiting pcmatic.com/MSP
Be sure to ask about PC Matic's exclusive lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime time national TV campaign.
:-)
Topic 1: Google Replaces Bert with MUM
At I/O 2021, Google introduced MUM — Multitask United Model. According to Google, this new language model is 1000 times more powerful than BERT, the search engine they released in 2019. MUM is coming to Google products sometime in the future.
Note: BERT = Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers.
Did BERT change your life two years ago? Will you actually notice the move to MUM?
https://yoast.com/google-bert/
Topic 2: Drones as first response to 911 calls.
The Chula Vista police drones can now cover 100% Of of the City For Emergency Calls. And they are deploying drones at "first response" to emergency calls. Of course the drones have video recording and two-way communications.
Channel note: Go get some of this money!
https://www.kpbs.org/news/2021/mar/19/chula-vista-police-drones-100-city-emergency-calls/
Topic 3: Forum topic - Ethical vs Contractual obligation
Warning: Tough discussion of ethics in business. What do you and your clients owe each other? Can you limit your client relationships to transactions?
And in the area of security, can you actually inform clients enough that they can make good decisions to operate at a lower level of security? How do we begin to talk about standards around these conversations? It's fine to say "Buyer beware" - but only if the buyer has some chance of understanding what that really means.
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo:
Are you still using on-prem file servers and VPNs to share files with remote workers? Egnyte is a business class cloud sharing solution that works more like your on-prem server than other solutions. With a security first approach to file sharing and collaboration, Egnyte offers multiple options for sharing files and collecting files from outside sources. And do it all addressing data governance and compliance. Want to learn more? Check out https://Egnyte.com/msp. And when you do, tell them we sent you.
:-)
Topic 1: Does the obvious stupidity in the Crypto-verse help to increase or decrease the adoption of crypo currencies?
A bit of crypto news this week. But on the serious side, what does this activity mean?
Elon Musk makes fun of crypto currencies and the market goes wild (down). Dogecoin created as a joke. Now it's going crazy. Then two winners created a spinoff coin because “people seem to like dogs” and became millionaires.
https://u.today/dogecoin-spin-off-turns-struggling-brothers-into-overnight-millionaires
https://www.vox.com/recode/2021/5/18/22441831/elon-musk-bitcoin-dogecoin-crypto-prices-tesla
Topic 2: Ann Arbor to Launch Autonomous Shuttle Service October 11th
But there's one already operating in Fairfax, VA. We have some questions about the experience . . . and we send Dave off to do some homework.
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/autonomous-shuttle-pilot
Topic 3: Lower hash rates, and video cards that aren’t graphics cards.
NVidia is finally making some moves to tackle the shortage of video cards despite the continuing chip shortage. They're designing video cards with lower hash rates, so they're not attractive to crypto-miners. And they're creating cards designed for mining with actual video output.
We'll see what competitors do, and how quickly this has a visible effect on graphic card availability for plain old gamers.
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo -
Did you know that the average MSP spends 10 hours manually inputting accounting data each week? That time is 120 prospect calls, a month’s worth of the Business of Tech, or building an entire Lego death star. Gozynta Mobius can make your life easier through accounting automation. Automatic sync of invoices, expenses and inventory from ConnectWise Manage into QuickBooks Online in just a single click of a button.
With onboarding, direct support, and regular feature releases, Gozynta is a family owned company dedicated to making software suck a little less each day. Visit us at https://gozynta.com
:-)
Topic 1: Military practices controlling hundreds of robots and drones at once - with AI
Like it or not, AI is coming to military operations. It might be cheaper, but is it safer? But is the reliance on AI a problem?
Links:
Topic 2: What can we learn from the Colonial Pipeline hack?
How should companies respond? And are there real consequences for companies that get hacked?
We discuss.
Topic 3: Proposed law says discriminatory behavior should not be subject to non-disclosure agreements.
Is the NDA … too much?
Ifeoma Ozoma is a technology policy expert with experience leading global public policy efforts at Pinterest, Facebook and Google. When she left Pinterest, she couldn't tell anyone that she left over complaints she had filed about wage discrimination and retaliation. She could not speak out because the company non-disclosure agreement forbid it.
Now she is pushing legislation to make it illegal to include this kind of behavior in NDAs. After all, NDAs are intended to protect intellectual property, not potentially illegal behavior.
Link: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/may/10/pinterest-discrimination-ifeoma-ozoma-nda
:-)
-- -- --
Sponsor Memo -
Are you still relying on a frustrating patchwork of legacy solutions? Modernize your cybersecurity and data protection with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud. It’s a single solution that combines backup, anti-malware, and endpoint protection management. As an MSP, you can easily improve clients’ security posture, eliminate complexity, and generate more recurring revenue. Learn more about Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud at Acronis.com.
:-)
Topic 1: Burger King diverts McDonalds customers - via Waze
This one is kinda cool because it's so sneaky. With just a taste of big data. When people are close to a McDonalds billboard and headed toward a restaurant, Waze lures them off to a Burger King instead. Just sneaky, or actually immoral?
Link:
Topic 2: Girl Scout Cookies by Drone
Not a burrito or pizza. But it's pretty cool to get your cookies by drone. Makes us ponder: Are there things you would actually pay a premium to get via drone? We're thinking yes for cookies, and probably no for a ream of paper.
Link:
https://dronelife.com/2021/05/02/girl-scout-cookies-by-drone-wing-helps-local-troop-deliver-video/
Topic 3: Basecamp Fumbles the Diversity and Inclusion Conversation
Background: Some folks at Basecamp were doing something stupid (keeping a list of customer names to make fun of). That led to a discussion of appropriate behavior. But that discussion was cut off from the top. Some employees were still unhappy, and vocal about it. That led to an offer of a severance package for anyone who didn't like it. Well, about one third of the company decided to leave!
Link:
https://www.theverge.com/2021/5/4/22419799/basecamp-ceo-apologizes-staff-new-post
Sponsor Memo:
PC Matic — Endpoint Security built on a zero trust philosophy, allowing only trusted applications and blocking all the rest. Light weight, simple to deploy, easy to manage, find out about PC Matic's unique lead sharing program for MSPs backed by a prime-time national TV campaign. Together, we bring advanced security solutions combined with more than sales enablement … we bring actual leads. Find out more about PC Matic by visiting PCMatic.com/msp/.
:-)
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