How to Implement Cybersecurity Measures as a Small Business Owner

Company Stats

Founded: 2020
Employees: 25

Episode Highlights

✅ AI deep fake attacks highlight the need for stronger online identity verification.
✅ Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is essential for securing online accounts.
✅ Cybersecurity is crucial for all businesses, regardless of size or industry.

Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Painter, CEO of Nametag, a company specializing in ID verification to protect online accounts. Founded in 2020, Nametag has grown to employ 25 people. Aaron discusses the increasing threat of AI deep fake attacks and how these incidents underscore the need for robust identity verification solutions. He shares a recent case where a deep fake video call was used to fraudulently authorize a $25 million transfer, highlighting the vulnerabilities in current security systems.

Aaron also talks about his background at Microsoft and his transition to entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of multi-factor authentication (MFA) for securing online accounts and warns against relying solely on SMS-based MFA due to its vulnerabilities. For smaller businesses, Aaron advises implementing strong cybersecurity measures, including MFA, and considering external help to secure their systems. He underscores that cybersecurity should be a fundamental concern for all businesses.

Notable Questions We Asked

Q: What was the AI deep fake attack that served as a wake-up call for you?

A: An architecture and design firm experienced a deep fake video call scam that led to a fraudulent $25 million transfer, highlighting the need for stronger online identity verification.

Q: What inspired you to start Nametag?

A: During the pandemic, several friends and family members had their identities stolen, revealing the inadequacies of traditional security questions, which inspired the creation of Nametag for better identity verification.

Q: What is your advice for smaller businesses regarding cybersecurity?

A: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all online accounts, avoid SMS-based MFA, and consider external cybersecurity experts to secure your systems.

Q: How does your background at Microsoft influence your approach at Nametag?

A: My international experience at Microsoft taught me the importance of building secure, scalable systems and informed my approach to creating robust cybersecurity solutions at Nametag.

Q: Why is multi-factor authentication (MFA) so important?

A: MFA adds an extra layer of security to online accounts, making it harder for unauthorized users to gain access, especially when using methods beyond just SMS-based authentication.

Q: What measures should companies take to protect against cyber threats?

A: Companies should adopt MFA, have secure recovery processes, educate employees about social engineering attacks, and ensure they have robust cybersecurity protocols in place.