Podcast Outline: "Off the Wire" Episode

Intro:

• Welcome back to "Off the Wire," the podcast helping you curb cybersecurity risks and tackle technology challenges.


• Hosts: Tanner and Anthony, IT executives with a combined 35 years of experience in IT and cybersecurity.


• Teaser for Episode 20: Upcoming giveaway in two weeks—details to come.

Main Topic: Low-Cost, High-Impact Cybersecurity Investments

1. 
   

   Introduction to the Topic

   
   
   • Discuss the challenges faced by small to medium-sized businesses in allocating budgets for cybersecurity.
   
   
   • The importance of prioritizing cybersecurity efforts even with limited resources.
   
   
   
   


2. 
   

   Understanding Budget Constraints and Other Challenges

   
   
   • Budget limitations and other constraints like legacy applications and organizational resistance to change.
   
   
   • The need to prioritize cybersecurity based on the greatest risk and potential impact.
   
   
   
   


3. 
   

   Cybersecurity Prioritization Strategies

   
   
   • Utilizing free or low-cost open-source tools when possible.
   
   
   • Considerations for choosing between free tools and paid solutions based on staff availability and skill level.
   
   
   
   


4. 
   

   Cybersecurity Frameworks and Assessment

   
   
   • Importance of assessing the current state of cybersecurity.
   
   
   • Recommendations for using the CIS framework or similar tools for benchmarking and setting priorities.
   
   
   • The value of starting with a basic maturity level and progressively advancing.
   
   
   
   


5. 
   

   Key Focus Areas for Low-Cost Cybersecurity Measures

   
   
   • Asset Management:
     
     • Importance of knowing what's on your network.
     
     
     • Free and low-cost tools like Snipe-IT and Spiceworks for asset management.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
     
     • Using free tools like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator.
     
     
     • Implementing password managers for better security and efficiency.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • Regular Updates and Patching:
     
     • The critical role of updates in preventing security breaches.
     
     
     • Options for automated patch management solutions.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • Incident Response and Business Continuity Planning:
     
     • Developing and maintaining security plans and policies.
     
     
     • Storing physical copies of these plans for accessibility during crises.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   
   


6. 
   

   Additional Low-Cost Solutions

   
   
   • Threat Intelligence:
     
     • Leveraging free industry-specific threat intelligence resources and communities.
     
     
     • Utilizing platforms like Reddit for real-time information on vulnerabilities and threats.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • Email Security:
     
     • Importance of investing in additional layers of email security.
     
     
     • Mention of tools like Avanan and Microsoft Defender.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • Optimizing Existing Investments:
     
     • Making full use of existing tools and software, especially in environments like Microsoft 365.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   • EDR Solutions:
     
     • The importance of Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) in mitigating breaches.
     
     
     • Notable EDR solutions and their benefits.
     
     
     
     
   
   
   
   


7. 
   

   Backups and Disaster Recovery

   
   
   • The necessity of regular and tested backups.
   
   
   • Considering both free and paid backup solutions.
   
   
   • The importance of documenting and testing backup processes.
   
   
   
   


8. 
   

   Creating a Cyber Go-Bag

   
   
   • The concept and contents of a cyber go-bag for emergency response.
   
   
   • Recommendations for setting up a go-bag, including tools and documentation.
   
   
   
   


9. 
   

   Connecting Cybersecurity to Business Objectives

   
   
   • Emphasizing the alignment of cybersecurity goals with overall business objectives.
   
   
   • Importance of communicating cybersecurity successes and needs to leadership.
   
   
   
   

Conclusion:

• Recap of key points and encouragement to implement the discussed strategies.


• Reminder about the upcoming Episode 20 giveaway.


• Call to action: Subscribe, share the podcast, and reach out with episode ideas or feedback.

Closing Remarks:

• Next episode preview and sign-off.