I sit down with cybersecurity thought leader David Meister, who leads global MSP efforts at Check Point Software, to talk big trends and smart strategies for MSPs in 2025. We dissect Checkpoint’s new ransomware report, the rise of AI-powered phishing emails, and why attackers are shifting focus to extortion. David gets candid about the challenges of moving from MSP to vendor, how Check Point is building a unified, user-friendly platform, and why humility must be part of your security playbook. We round it out with practical advice, real stories, and resources you won’t want to miss. 

Why Listen? (Takeaways List)

• Understand how ransomware tactics are evolving in 2025
• Learn how AI is changing the cybercriminal landscape
• Hear expert advice on securing cloud-based email
• Discover the risks of overconfidence in cybersecurity
• Most important security misconfigurations—and how to fix them
• How MSPs can adapt to the commoditization of cybercrime
• Insights into Checkpoint’s new MSP platform and resources
• Real-world stories from both MSP and vendor perspectives

David Meister is the Global Head of MSP at Check Point Software Technologies. Originally from Australia and now based in Utah, David brings years of hands-on experience in managed service leadership, sales, and cybersecurity. He’s dedicated to helping MSPs succeed against today’s toughest threats.

• Website: https://www.checkpoint.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemeister1/

Companies, Products, and Books Mentioned (with URLs)

• Avanan: https://www.checkpoint.com/products/email-security/
• Perimeter81: https://www.perimeter81.com
• Cyberint: https://cyberint.com
• Pax8: https://www.pax8.com
• Microsoft 365: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365
• CryptoLocker (reference): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CryptoLocker
• ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
• Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/
• Grok (xAI): https://grok.x.ai/
• Copilot: https://copilot.microsoft.com/
• Verizon Breach Report: https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/reports/dbir/

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• Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
• Host: Marvin Bee
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