Latest news with #Heimdal
Business Insider
a day ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Report Reveals Tool Overload Driving Fatigue and Missed Threats in MSPs
London, United Kingdom, August 11th, 2025, CyberNewsWire New Heimdal study reveals how tool sprawl creates blind spots, with over half of providers experiencing daily or weekly burnout Survey of 80 North American MSPs shows fragmented security stacks drive fatigue, missed threats, and business inefficiency Security tools meant to protect managed service providers are instead overwhelming them. A new study from Heimdal and FutureSafe reveals that 89% of MSPs struggle with tool integration while 56% experience alert fatigue daily or weekly. The research exposes a dangerous paradox. MSPs experiencing high alert fatigue are significantly more likely to miss real threats. The very tools deployed to enhance security are creating blind spots through exhaustion. The Scale of the Problem The average MSP now runs five security tools, with 20% juggling seven to ten and 12% managing more than ten. Only 11% report seamless integration. The remaining 89% must flip between separate dashboards and waste time on manual workflows. One in four security alerts prove meaningless, with some MSPs reporting that 70% of their alerts are false alarms. Among MSPs managing 1,000+ clients, 100% report daily fatigue. "MSPs are drowning in complexity, not from threats, but from the tools meant to stop them," said Jesper Frederiksen, CEO at Heimdal. "Every new point solution adds another agent, console, and alert stream. That noise exhausts people and quietly degrades protection." Beyond Security Operations Agent fatigue extends beyond alert management. Disconnected platforms slow billing processes, complicate client onboarding, and create compliance reporting headaches. "Agent fatigue isn't just a tech issue. It's a business risk," said Jason Whitehurst, CEO at FutureSafe. "MSPs are juggling tool after tool, but they don't work together." The Solution Hiding in Plain Sight Despite widespread recognition of the problem, only 20% of MSPs have consolidated their security solutions. Those who have reported fewer alerts, faster response times, and happier staff. Key Survey Findings 56% experience alert fatigue daily or weekly, 75% at least monthly Only 11% enjoy seamless tool connectivity MSPs using 7+ tools report nearly double the fatigue levels High false positive rates triple the chance of missing genuine incidents The 20% who consolidate report better outcomes across all metrics Research Methodology The State of MSP Agent Fatigue 2025 surveyed 80 North American MSPs in H1 2025, combining quantitative analysis with thematic coding of over 300 free-text responses. Users can download the complete report free at: About Heimdal Established in Copenhagen in 2014, Heimdal empowers security teams and MSPs through unified cybersecurity solutions spanning endpoint to network security, including vulnerability management, threat prevention, and ransomware mitigation. Contact Head of Content & PR
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Heimdal's Latest Podcast Episode Unpacks Long-Term MSP Marketing Strategies with Paul Green
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heimdal, a leading provider of unified cybersecurity solutions, announces the release of Episode 2 of its podcast series, The MSP Security Playbook. This episode features Paul Green, a renowned MSP marketing expert, who shares insights on building long-term client relationships and effective marketing strategies for managed service providers (MSPs). In this episode, Paul Green discusses: A three-step marketing system: building audiences, growing relationships, and converting relationships, emphasizing that MSP sales cycles can span several years. The "only you" rule: focusing on tasks that only you can do, while delegating, outsourcing, or automating the rest. The importance of client retention, noting that clients are slow to join and slow to leave, making initial relationship-building crucial. Additionally, the episode's MSP Hot Seat segment addresses strategies for justifying security investments when clients are hesitant about costs. "Your goal with all of your marketing is to get the right message in front of the right person at the right time. Because it could be another 10 years before they're ready to switch again," said Paul Green. The MSP Security Playbook podcast aims to equip MSPs with practical insights and strategies to enhance their cybersecurity offerings and business growth. Episode 2 is now available on major podcast platforms: YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify About Heimdal Founded in Copenhagen in 2014, Heimdal empowers CISOs, security teams, and IT administrators with unified, proactive defense across the entire IT estate. Its award-winning cybersecurity solutions span endpoint to network security, covering vulnerability management, privileged access control, Zero Trust, and ransomware prevention. Press Contact: Madalina PopoviciMedia Relations Managermpo@ This information was brought to you by Cision The following files are available for download: Heimdal Releases Episode 2 of MSP Security Playbook Podcast Featuring MSP Marketing Expert Paul Green MSP Playbook Podcast Ep 2 - Paul Green View original content: SOURCE Heimdal Security Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The hidden price of free: How businesses' cost-cutting tech choices compromise your security
Free software is everywhere, used for email, marketing, accounting, scheduling, and even storing customer data. For small businesses under pressure, it's a tempting way to cut costs and stay afloat. But 'free' often comes with strings. Many of these tools don't offer strong security, putting your customers or clients at risk. What looks like a smart financial move can end up compromising sensitive information. Plenty of businesses, from healthcare to retail, have learned this the hard way. Data breaches tied to free platforms aren't rare, and the consequences can be serious. Just because a tool saves money doesn't mean it's the right choice. If it's not built to protect sensitive data, it might cost you and your customers much more down the road. Heimdal explored this issue to highlight how popular free software tools can weaken cybersecurity and what businesses (and consumers) can do to stay protected. Free software isn't really free. To stay in business, these tools often make money by tracking users, selling data, or running ads. They can collect user data by scanning emails, monitoring activity, or analyzing documents, and it's rarely clear how the data is used or stored. Without strong protections in place, customers can end up paying the price with lost privacy. Businesses might save a few dollars using free platforms, but the trade-off can mean weak security, intrusive advertising, and data leaks. Free platforms often lack essential security features like encryption, multi-factor authentication, and monitoring tools. These gaps can make sensitive information easier to access and exploit. Even trusted brands make compromises in their free versions. For example, Microsoft's no-cost Office stores files on OneDrive by default and displays ads. This setup raises concerns about privacy and control over users' stored content. The most troubling part is that customers don't choose these tools—businesses do. But when something goes wrong, it's the customers who suffer. Their data may be exposed, sold, or stolen. Free software might help balance a budget, but the real cost is often passed on to someone else. Legal and compliance risks Using free software can do more than risk data. It can also break the law. Industries like healthcare, finance, and legal services must follow strict compliance standards and data protection rules. Free tools may not be equipped with the features needed to meet those requirements. Take healthcare, for example. HIPAA requires encryption for patient emails containing health information, yet most free platforms don't offer that protection by default, which can lead to provider violations, fines, and lawsuits. Any business collecting customer information, such as emails, names, or payment details, has a legal obligation to safeguard it. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has outlined specific steps businesses should take after a breach, from notifying users to fixing the issue, and they don't take violations lightly. From retail to healthcare, real-world breaches show how cutting corners on tech can expose sensitive data, violate regulations, and damage trust. The following examples highlight what happens when cost-saving decisions put customers at risk. Retail and e-commerce data exposures Online shopping is convenient, but only if businesses keep customer data safe. Many small retailers use free or cheap tools to handle payments and store personal details. Without strong security, that choice can cause damage. Drizly's 2022 breach is a clear example. After ignoring known vulnerabilities, the alcohol delivery company and its CEO faced FTC action when millions of customer records were compromised. It's no longer in business. Insecure systems can lead to fraudulent charges, identity theft, and long-term credit damage for customers. Hackers can use leaked details to open accounts or apply for loans. Retailers may not intend harm, but skipping secure systems puts people at risk. Saving money shouldn't come at the cost of customer trust and safety. Small business service providers Law firms, consultants, and accountants often handle highly sensitive client data. But when they rely on free tools, they may be putting that information at risk. Free cloud storage isn't always secure, and file-sharing tools pose similar risks. Without alerts or monitoring, unauthorized access can go unnoticed, leaving confidential documents exposed. In 2024, Illinois-based accounting firm Legacy Professionals suffered a data breach that exposed the personal information of nearly 217,000 individuals, including Social Security numbers and health data. Multiple lawsuits were filed, alleging the firm failed to implement reasonable security measures or notify victims promptly. A single breach can shatter client trust in these types of businesses. Once it's broken, it's tough to rebuild. Plus, if data like Social Security numbers or banking info gets leaked, clients could face real financial harm. Healthcare privacy breaches Using free tools in healthcare puts providers at serious risk. Without proper security, these tools can lead to HIPAA violations. Take free email platforms, for example. If they don't encrypt messages, patient info gets exposed with every send. That kind of slip can trigger identity theft, insurance scams, and even job discrimination. Onsite Women's Health experienced this firsthand. In October 2024, the Massachusetts-based provider suffered an email data breach that exposed the personal details of over 350,000 people. Lawsuits followed, claiming the company didn't do enough to protect patient data. Customers can spot weak digital security if they know what to watch for. Many small businesses using free tools leave behind clues. One red flag? Free email addresses. A business sending messages from @ or @ might not be using secure, business-grade email services. Custom domains usually offer stronger protections. Sketchy websites are easy to spot if you know what to look for. No 'https,' a broken padlock, or browser warnings usually mean the site isn't secure. Pay close attention to payment pages. If you're redirected to a site you don't recognize or don't see trusted logos, that's a red flag. Maybe the system is outdated or missing encryption. Even random software ads can be a clue. They might mean the business is running on older, less secure tools. These signs aren't foolproof, but they help people protect their data. Business practices that signal risk Some businesses make it pretty easy to spot security problems if you know what to look for. Pay attention to how they handle your data. If they dodge security questions or give vague answers, that usually means their protections are weak or nonexistent. Privacy policies packed with generic language are another warning sign. If they don't say how data is stored, whether it's encrypted, or who can access it, they're probably not taking security seriously. Be wary if a company asks for info they don't need, like your birthdate, just to sign up for a newsletter. That usually means they're collecting data for marketing or even selling it. And if a tool forces everything into cloud storage without options, that's a hit to your control. No transparency? No real privacy. Before sharing your data Sharing personal information shouldn't be automatic. Before filling out a form or buying something online, consider how that business handles your data. Ask direct questions. How is your data stored? Is it encrypted? Who can access it? If the business can't answer clearly, that's a red flag. The FTC expects transparency, and so should you. Read the privacy policy. Look for details on data sharing, storage time, and security measures. If it's vague or hard to follow, that's not accidental. Do a little research. Check for HTTPS in the URL, valid security certificates, and online reviews. See if the company has had breaches or complaints. Trust your gut—if something feels off, walk away. A cautious pause now can save you headaches later. After your data has been shared Even if you're careful, breaches can still happen. Once a company has your information, it's smart to stay alert. Watch for unusual activity in your bank accounts, emails, and credit reports. Tools like credit monitoring or breach alerts can help you spot trouble early. You can also check online databases to see if a company you've used has been breached. If you feel something is wrong, act quickly. Change your passwords and freeze your credit if needed, then report the issue and keep records. The FTC offers a helpful guide for the next steps. Know your rights and don't stay silent. Depending on your location, you might qualify for credit monitoring or compensation, and you can report mishandling to the FTC, your state attorney general, or consumer protection agencies. Affordable alternatives to free software Businesses don't have to choose between overspending and risking security. Plenty of budget-friendly tools offer real protection without the downsides of free platforms. Many paid options are built for small businesses and include encryption, access controls, and support. When you consider the hidden risks of free software, affordable paid versions start to look like smart investments. Open-source tools can also be secure. Many are well-maintained and ad-free, but they may require IT support to set up properly. Using a risk assessment checklist (e.g., What data is stored? Who owns it? Is it updated regularly?) can help guide smart choices. Breaches can cost far more than subscriptions. Spending a little now can protect trust, data, and your bottom line later. Minimum security standards worth paying for Some security features are nonnegotiable when handling sensitive data. These protections are worth paying for: Automatic updates to fix vulnerabilities fast Strong logins with multi-factor authentication Encryption for data while it's moving and when it's stored Role-based access and audit logs to track who's doing what Backup and recovery systems in case something goes wrong These features cut the risk of breaches, protect your reputation, and keep you out of legal trouble. It's smart IT and smart business. Consumers aren't helpless when it comes to data protection. Speaking up and making informed choices can help push businesses to do better. Start by asking questions. Don't hesitate to ask how your data is stored, whether it's encrypted, or who has access. These conversations can nudge companies toward stronger security. Choose where you spend. Supporting businesses that invest in secure systems helps raise the standard. Avoiding those that cut corners sends a clear message. Stay informed. Know your rights and keep up with trends in data security. Stay alert. Use strong passwords, keep software updated, and monitor your accounts. Free software may offer convenience, but it often comes at a price—one that customers or clients may end up paying. Businesses and consumers alike have the power to change that. This story was produced by Heimdal and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AI-powered social engineering scams are getting savvier. Here's how consumers can protect themselves
Social engineering and AI-driven fraud are climbing to the top of global security concerns. The World Economic Forum lists them among the biggest cybersecurity threats of 2025. And the threat is no longer just spam emails with obvious typos. Today's scams are targeted, convincing, and increasingly powered by artificial intelligence. We're not just talking about phishing links or fake support calls. We're talking about deepfaked voicemails from loved ones. Phony messages that sound like your boss. Emails that mirror your own writing style. AI makes it easy to personalize deception on a massive scale. In this article, Heimdal breaks down where social engineering started, how it's evolving with AI, and who's most likely to fall for it. We'll highlight real-world examples and finish with straightforward steps to help individuals and organizations protect themselves. Social engineering relies on psychological manipulation. Scammers trick people into revealing personal information or taking actions they wouldn't normally consider. Basically, it's convincing someone to act against their interests, exposing their private or confidential information. The concept isn't new. Early scams go back to in-person cons. But the digital shift changed everything. The internet opened new ways to deceive people. Online platforms gave scammers more reach, resulting in faster, broader, and more convincing scams. According to the FBI's 2024 IC3 Report, this explosion in connectivity has dramatically expanded the scale of attacks. No one is immune to social engineering, but some people and places see more damage than others. Older adults face the highest losses. In 2024, individuals 60 and older reported the most complaints to the Internet Crime Complaint Center. They also lost more money than any other age group at over $4.8 billion, up 43% from 2023. Phishing/spoofing and tech support scams hit this group hardest. Where you live also matters. California, Texas, Florida, and New York had the most reported complaints and the highest losses last year. California saw over $2.5 billion in losses, while Texas lost more than $1.3 billion and Florida about $1 billion. Organizations are just as vulnerable. The WEF's 2025 Outlook highlights how critical sectors, such as government, healthcare, finance, and infrastructure, face heightened cyber risks. Today's scams build on familiar tricks but are more convincing. However, classic methods still dominate. Phishing, business email compromise (BEC), romance scams, and fake tech support calls remain go-to techniques. In 2024, the FBI received over 193,000 phishing and spoofing complaints, and BEC scams caused $2.77 billion in losses. AI is making scams like these harder to spot. Deepfakes. Scammers fake a loved one's voice or mimic an executive in a video. Hyper-personalized phishing. AI crafts clean, accurate, and targeted emails. Automation. Large-scale attacks launch in seconds with little effort. The cost is staggering. According to the IC3 report, investment fraud (often AI-driven) led to $6.57 billion in losses in 2024. Cryptocurrency fraud reached $9.3 billion, with adults over 60 most affected. What was once obvious is now polished and personal. Urgency and fear remain core tools among scammers. One common scam begins with a fake call or message claiming a loved one is in danger. Victims are pressured to act fast—send money, share banking info, or buy gift cards. Empathy-driven scams work just as well. Romance scams build trust and then ask for money. The latest twist is generative AI tools. Criminals now use them to build fake identities and clone online profiles. The IC3 warns that this tactic is spreading, especially in financial fraud, with criminals using AI-generated text, images, audio, and video. Whether it's fear or empathy, the goal is the same. Scammers hope to convince victims that a problem is real and get them to act before thinking. Stopping these scams starts with spotting the signs. Verify money or data requests through a separate, trusted communication channel. Question urgency. Don't act on impulse when receiving unsolicited messages. Look for deepfake signs, such as robotic speech or visual glitches. Use strong passwords and enable MFA. Train employees to detect phishing and fraud attempts. Require verification for fund transfers and sensitive data requests. Use strong email filtering and anti-phishing tools. Report scams at or contact your local FBI office. Social engineering isn't slowing down. It's adapting, and fast. AI gives scammers new tools to make old tricks far more believable. What used to be low-effort deception is now hyper-targeted, high-tech manipulation. But while the tools may be new, the core defense remains the same: awareness, verification, and quick reporting. Think before acting, pause when something feels rushed, ask questions, and don't be afraid to confirm through another channel. Technology can help, too. MFA, strong passwords, and smart filters all put up real barriers between scammers and their targets. The FBI urges everyone, individuals and businesses included, to report scams and share information. Even one report could help someone else avoid the same trap. Staying ahead of AI-driven scams requires preparation. The more you know, the harder it is to be fooled. This story was produced by Heimdal and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Heimdal Launches New Podcast: The MSP Security Playbook
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, May 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Heimdal Security launches a new podcast, The MSP Security Playbook - a show for managed service providers ready to scale smarter, boost profitability, and lead with next-gen cybersecurity solutions. The first episode features Nigel Moore, founder of The Tech Tribe, who discusses how MSPs can move beyond reactive IT support models and embrace more consultative, future-focused roles. "What got you to where you are now won't get you where you want to go next. You've got to blow the whole lot up and reinvent your MSP from the ground up," Moore says. Also featured is a Threat Briefing from Adam Pilton, cybersecurity advisor at Heimdal and former UK Cyber Detective. Pilton outlines urgent risks tied to legacy router vulnerabilities and offers practical steps MSPs can take to enhance client security. The podcast is hosted by Jacob Hazelbaker, Business Development Representative at Heimdal, who brings a field-level perspective to the discussions. Each episode of The MSP Security Playbook highlights real-world strategies, expert insights, and actionable advice to help MSPs streamline operations and stay competitive. Available now on: YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify About Heimdal Founded in Copenhagen in 2014, Heimdal® empowers CISOs, security teams, and IT administrators with unified, proactive defense across the entire IT estate. Its award-winning cybersecurity solutions span endpoint to network security, covering vulnerability management, privileged access control, Zero Trust, and ransomware prevention. For more information, visit Heimdal. Press ContactMadalina PopoviciMedia Relations Managermpo@ This information was brought to you by Cision The following files are available for download: Press release - Heimdal Launches New Podcast: The MSP Security Playbook The MSP Security Playbook by Heimdal View original content: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
