EP 25 - Cyber War, Real Risk and Getting It Right From Global Conflict to Your Front Door

"Everyone assumes this is only happening to larger companies. This is happening to the Microsofts and the Targets and the Home Depots and the Best buys of the world when it's really happening to the Truitts and the Sundance Networks and the AM3s and the mom and pop flower shop and you know, the gentleman trying to run his own auto dealer."

 

Welcome to another episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast! In this episode, "Cyber War, Real Risk and Getting It Right – From Global Conflict to Your Front Door," host John Hansman is joined by co-host Emilio Mejia and guest expert Ryan for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on the rising tide of cyber threats amidst escalating global conflicts.

 

As world headlines focus on ongoing wars and ceasefires, the team breaks down what these global tensions mean for businesses here at home, particularly small and medium-sized businesses that often assume they’re safe from international cyber attackers. Drawing on real-time data, Ryan highlights the alarming spike in attempted cyber breaches coming from countries like Iran, China, and Russia—and explains why no industry or company size is immune.

 

Throughout the episode, the conversation extends beyond just technical defenses, delving into practical, actionable advice on how business owners and individuals can protect themselves. From stressing the importance of supply chain awareness and strong password policies to discussing the critical role of cyber insurance (and the pitfalls of neglecting security requirements), John, Emilio, and Ryan cover the full spectrum of cyber defense.

 

Packed with lively stories, a few laughs, and cautionary tales that haunt even seasoned IT professionals, this episode is both an eye-opener and a resource for anyone wanting to strengthen their organization’s cyber posture. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a corporate leader, or just looking to keep your personal data safe, you’ll walk away with practical tips and a renewed urgency to take cybersecurity seriously—because the risks are all too real and closer to home than most realize.

 

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00:00 War and Cybersecurity Discussion

06:02 Cyber Incident Paranoia and Recovery

08:30 "Cybersecurity: Predicting Small Business Risks"

11:31 Supply Chain Attacks and Cyber Threats

16:22 Be Mindful of Online Links

19:17 "Security: Beyond a Checklist"

20:05 Home vs. Business Conversation

24:08 Cybersecurity: Training and Consistency Essential

28:48 Two-Factor Authentication Breach Issue

32:44 Reflecting on Business Regrets

36:33 Cybersecurity Collaboration with IT Providers

37:23 IT Choices and Business Risk

40:35 "Enhancing IT with Cybersecurity"

46:42 "CD Drive Misunderstanding Humor"

47:17 CD Insertion Error Resolved

53:38 "Engage with Business and Bites"

54:36 Anticipating Next Week's Return