Monthly Archives: October 2023

AI, Cybersecurity, News, Technology

Cyber-Security, Artificial Intelligence Safety Concerns & Global Threats: Independent research reveals poor CEO grasp of the threats and critical need for investment

Report by OnePoll and Gemserv “Through the Cyber Lens: The Evolving Future of Cyber Security” available now

  • Major increase in cyberattacks from deep fake AI technologies expected… but leaders lack both understanding of threats and urgent need to invest in protection
  • 83% of respondents say generative AI* will head up future cyber-attacks – but only 16% think their organisations really understand what advanced AI tools can do

 Recent announcements by the UK Prime Minister and the impending gathering of international governments, and global organisations at the world’s first Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety Summit at the Bletchley Park next week have brought AI and cyber security to the fore.

New and timely research by OnePoll and Gemserv, the leading cybersecurity consultancy, reveals that companies must upgrade their systems now as AI threatens to make cyber-attacks more sophisticated.

Knowledge and information gaps are emerging as critical challenges, particularly for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), as the cyber threat landscape is expected to become increasingly volatile, further exacerbated by this year’s geopolitical tensions.

In their report titled “Through the Cyber Lens: The Evolving Future of Cyber Security“, the study surveys 200 CISOs across the United Kingdom and Europe, assessing the readiness of CISOs to confront their evolving challenges, particularly those stemming from the rise of AI innovation, while also exploring their expectations for the future.

 

Generative AI and Emerging Threats: The Perilous Path Ahead

The survey reveals that 38% of respondents anticipate a significant increase in cyberattacks utilising deep fake AI technologies over the next five years, with an additional 45% expecting a moderate rise. In total, a striking 83% of respondents believe that generative AI will play a more prominent role in cyberattacks. However, a mere 16% of respondents consider their organisations to have an excellent understanding of these advanced AI tools.

Mandeep Thandi, Director of Cyber and Privacy at Gemserv, commented on the research findings: “As the AI revolution transforms the landscape of cybersecurity, CISOs stand at the forefront of this change. AI is reshaping the contours of cyber defence by augmenting human capabilities, predicting threats, and fortifying organisations against the volatile cyber threat landscape.”

 

A New Barrage of challenges: Preparing for Emerging Threats & The Need for Vigilance

The ever-evolving cyber threat landscape presents CISOs with the formidable challenge of predicting and preparing for attacks. Information and budgetary resources are essential for adequate preparation. However, the survey reveals concerning statistics:

  • 69% of organisations lack access to either SIEM tooling or cyber threat intelligence, with 8% having neither.
  • 78% of CISOs believe the cyber threat landscape will become more complex and challenging over the next 12 months.
  • A significant 83% of CISOs expect to see more cyber-attacks using generative AI tools.

In this environment of uncertainty, CISOs face challenges in securing adequate budgets, making informed decisions, and recruiting and retaining the right talent. These hurdles underscore the urgency of investing in cybersecurity resources, including robust cyber threat intelligence, as a proactive measure to combat evolving threats.

When it comes to advising key stakeholders within their organisations, the research reveals that 63% of CISOs feel that their senior leadership lacks a comprehensive understanding of the imminent cybersecurity and privacy threats. Moreover, 69% of European CISOs and 61% of UK CISOs report a deficiency in cyber threat intelligence (CTI), hindering their ability to prioritise budgets and inform their boards about impending threats.

Mandeep Thandi emphasised the importance of CTI, stating, “CTI is vital for organisations as it provides proactive insights into potential cyber threats, enabling timely identification, risk assessment, and tailored defence strategies. It empowers organisations to stay ahead of adversaries, enhance incident response, and continuously improve their cybersecurity posture in the face of evolving cyber risk.”

 

New Regulations: A Ray of Regulatory Hope

Amidst these challenges, new regulations are on the horizon. The European Union’s (EU) AI Act and the UK’s Data Protection and Digital Information (DPDI) Bill are set to reshape the regulatory landscape. These regulations aim to clarify, manage risks, and strengthen rules around data quality, transparency, human oversight, and accountability.

A notable 82% of CISOs believe these new regulations will support their organisations’ growth and expansion of services. The EU’s AI Act, in particular, distinguishes between high-risk and low-risk AI tools, ensuring that organisations maintain high standards of transparency and security.

 

A Call for Resources and Resilience

In conclusion, the survey offers a sobering glimpse into the world of CISOs tasked with safeguarding digital landscapes amidst a barrage of challenges. While CISOs demonstrate unwavering resilience, the need for additional resources and support is palpable. Budget constraints, talent shortages, communication gaps, and evolving cyber threats underscore the urgency of fortifying cybersecurity efforts.

The cybersecurity landscape is ever-changing, and as threats evolve, so must our commitment to equipping CISOs with the resources they need to protect our digital future.

For more information and detailed insights, please refer to the full Gemserv survey report.

 

Awards, Business, News, Tech

Smart CT CEO named as One To Watch in prestigious list of top 50 business leaders

IT MAINTENANCE company Smart CT’s CEO Andy Morgan has been recognised as One To Watch in a prestigious list of the Top 50 most ambitious business leaders for 2023.

Mr Morgan, who led a management buyout of the 21-year-old firm Reading company two years ago, was named in the list created by investment partner LDC – part of Lloyds Banking Group.

Smart CT provides parts and engineers to maintain, install, replace and repair business-critical IT infrastructure on behalf of IT suppliers who support an extensive range of organisations – from household brands to industrial businesses – in need of connected devices including networking, servers and other workplace technologies.

Its more than 90-strong staff team, now including 50 engineers, and more than 25,000 parts stored at more than 40 locations across the UK, Europe and the US, enables it to guarantee delivery of replacement parts, and in many cases an engineer, for 500,000 devices in as little as two hours.

The LDC Top 50 champions the business leaders who are pushing for growth and building successful medium-sized businesses. John Garner, managing partner at LDC, said the leaders featured in the Top 50 are growing their businesses at home and overseas, making a positive contribution to society and driving progress against their sustainability goals.

They hail from every corner of the UK, span every sector of the economy and together employ more than 6,700 people and turn over more than £1.2bn.

“The Ones to Watch are leaders making great strides and growing their businesses. They are excelling in their industries and making a positive impact on customers and employees, yet still show so much potential for future growth,” he said.

“The stories behind this year’s Ones to Watch really captured our attention and I’d like to congratulate them on their achievements so far. We’ve no doubt that this is only the beginning for each and every one of them.”

Mr Morgan said: “I’m honoured to be included alongside some great business people but the fact I’m on the list is really a credit to the business itself for being successful enough to give me that platform – and a huge credit to all the people at Smart CT who work really hard to make sure the business is in the position and performing at the level that it is. All the acclaim should go to them really.”

He attended a ceremony in Piccadilly, London, and met some of his fellow nominees for the award, which is also  supported by The Times. “The main thing about recognition like this is that it is a big help in increase the profile of the company,” he said.

“I feel like that we’ve been quietly successful in the background and never really shouted about ourselves in the past. So, hopefully this increases the profile and makes Smart CT better known and more people will think of using us.”

Find out more about Smart CT and its services at smartct.com.

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Pictured: Smart CT CEO Andy Morgan has been recognised as One To Watch in the LDC 50 most ambitious business leaders for 2023

Business News, News from England, News from Wales, South West

Dock Solutions Completes Management Buyout

Dock Solutions, the UK’s largest manufacturer of loading bay equipment, is pleased to announce the completion of a management buyout led by General Manager Joshua Hale in a deal advised on by the Cardiff-based GS Verde Group.

With a strong trading history of nearly 20 years, Dock Solutions offers bespoke manufacturing of levellers, lifts, industrial doors, and shelters, as well as product maintenance carried out by their expert team.

Joshua Hale has been an integral part of the company’s growth in recent years. Starting as an apprentice in 2016, Joshua quickly became committed to Dock Solutions’ ethos and vision, building great relationships and excelling in his role.

Joshua would eventually play a key role in growing Dock Solutions’ annual turnover from £2.6m to £4.9m in the space of four years, and the business achieving chartered status in 2020. Now, Joshua has completed an MBO of the business he first joined as an apprentice seven years ago.

Under the new ownership, Dock Solutions will remain dedicated to its commitment to go the extra mile for their customers and to upholding the history of British manufacturing and engineering with the products and services they provide.

The Management Buyout of Dock Solutions also means the business can continue its growth plans of expanding across the UK and opening a northern depot in Q1 of 2024, led by the people who know the business best.

Speaking on the MBO and his journey with Dock Solutions, Joshua said: “Back in 2016, I had a job paying £5.50 per hour, and as an apprentice I never would have thought I’d be in this position today. It is a great example of how apprenticeships work in certain industries, and I am so excited to take Dock Solutions into the future with our fantastic team at the helm.”

GS Verde Group was delighted to support Joshua and Dock Solutions in this exciting new chapter for the business, working with them throughout the deal-making process to achieve an optimal outcome for Dock Solutions’ continued success and the new management team’s ambitions for the future.

Exercise

Muay Thai Records: The Art and History of Thailand’s Premier Combat Sport

The Origins of Muay Thai

Long before the bustling streets of modern Thailand and the allure of its picturesque beaches, the country, formerly known as Siam, was home to a fierce warrior tradition. These Thai warriors were not just adept at sword fighting matches but also masters of unarmed combat. This art of unarmed combat eventually evolved into what we today recognize as “Muay Thai”.

Historically rooted in the ancient battlefield tactics of the Siamese army, Muay Thai or muay as locals would call it, can be traced back to the muay boran fighting techniques employed by the first Thai army. Over centuries, this martial art has transformed from ancient battlefield strategies to a national sport loved and practiced by the masses. A true reflection of thai history.

In Muay Thai history, there’s a legend named Nai Khanom Tom. During the Burmese-Siamese wars, he was captured but given a chance for freedom by defeating Burmese champions in unarmed combat. Using his Muay Thai skills, Nai Khanom Tom emerged victorious, proving the style’s power. Today, Muay Thai remains relevant. It’s practiced for self-defence, fitness, and dominates combat sports like MMA and kickboxing, captivating global audiences, just as it did in Nai Khanom Tom’s time. Platforms like Muay Thai Records showcases its relevance in the contemporary world.

From the Battlefield to the Boxing Ring

Muay Thai fighters are resilient and a true symbol of the fighting spirit of the Thai people. Historically, young men were taught muay Thai not only as a form of self-defence but also as a rite of passage, instilling in them discipline, respect, and a deep connection to their heritage.

The evolution from Muay Boran to modern Muay Thai is intriguing. The Siamese army and Thai army employed these techniques with precision, using the human body as the ultimate weapon. Emphasizing the “eight limbs” – the use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins – Muay Thai fighters utilize their entire body to deliver powerful strikes. This is where the term “art of eight limbs” originates, as each limb plays a crucial role in both offense and defence.

From the battlefields, these techniques transitioned to formal boxing matches with rules and regulations. The Muay Thai rules were established to ensure the safety of the fighters. Boxing gloves replaced the traditional hemp rope wrapped around fighters’ hands, and modern protective gear was introduced.

Training and Techniques: An Insight

For those keen on learning, Muay Thai training is rigorous and demanding. Training camps in Thailand immerse participants in the authentic experience, with daily regimens focused on strength training, technique drills, and sparring.

Core techniques like the powerful leg kick, the swift knee strikes, and the deadly elbow strikes are practiced repeatedly to develop muscle memory. Sparring in the boxing ring allows Muay Thai practitioners to test their skills in real-time scenarios, simulating the intensity of a real match.

What sets Muay Thai apart from other combat sports is its holistic approach. While combat sports like MMA and western boxing emphasize specific aspects of fighting, Muay Thai encapsulates the full spectrum of stand-up striking. From elbow strikes to knee strikes, every move is calculated and has its place in the repertoire of a skilled Thai boxer.

The Cultural Significance of Muay Thai

Muay Thai is more than just a combat sport; it’s a reflection of Thai culture and history. The ram muay, a traditional dance performed before fights, is a spiritual ritual that pays respect to the trainers, the ring, and the sport itself.

The dance, accompanied by traditional music, is a mesmerizing sight and showcases the grace and fluidity inherent in this martial art. For the Thai boxers, it’s a moment of meditation, a way to connect with their roots and prepare mentally for the bout ahead.

The beauty of Muay Thai lies not just in its techniques but also in its rich history and cultural significance. From the ancient tactics of the Siamese army to the global recognition it receives today, muay thai remains a symbol of Thai heritage and the fighting spirit of its people.

Muay Thai in the Global Spotlight

Muay Thai’s Global Rise

From the heart of Thailand, Muay Thai has burst onto the international scene, capturing the interest of martial arts enthusiasts worldwide. This isn’t just a testament to its effectiveness in the ring but also its rich traditions that resonate with people from all walks of life. Today, not just Muay Thai fighters, but MMA fighters and other combat sports practitioners integrate Muay Thai techniques into their training regimens, testament to its versatility and efficacy.

The global reach of Muay Thai can also be attributed to the thrilling matches showcased by top fighters. Whether it’s local champions in Thailand or international stars, the sport guarantees adrenaline-pumping action. The skill, precision, and strategy employed by Thai boxers is a sight to behold, making it a favorite among combat sports aficionados.

Muay Thai Records: Chronicling the Legends

In the midst of this global renaissance, there’s been an increasing appetite for in-depth information about fighters, matches, and the rich history of Muay Thai. This is where “Muay Thai Records” website comes into play.

For enthusiasts and practitioners alike, “Muay Thai Records” is a treasure trove. It’s an authentic platform that chronicles the journeys of legendary fighters, from the golden age heroes like Nai Khanom to the modern Muay Thai legends of our times. The website meticulously catalogues matches, provides insights into fighters’ careers, and sheds light on the nuances that make each fight unique.

What’s commendable about “Muay Thai Records” is its commitment to preserving the integrity and history of the sport. It’s not just a statistical archive; it’s a celebration of the art of eight limbs. Through interviews, match analyses, and exclusive content, the platform provides a holistic view of Muay Thai, making it a must-visit for anyone keen on understanding the sport in depth.

Training Beyond Borders

Muay Thai’s influence isn’t limited to the ring. With the rising interest in self-defence and fitness worldwide, more people are turning to Muay Thai training. The martial art offers a comprehensive workout, toning the human body and building muscle memory for both self-defence and sport.

Training camps in Thailand remain the mecca for serious practitioners. Yet, the art form’s global appeal has led to the mushrooming of Muay Thai gyms across the world. These international gyms, while teaching the core techniques like elbow strikes and knee strikes, also incorporate modern strength training and conditioning methods, ensuring a wholesome experience for trainees.

The Future of Muay Thai

With its deep-rooted traditions and modern adaptations, Thai boxing is poised for even greater heights. As more people embrace this martial art, its techniques and philosophy continue to evolve, making it adaptable and relevant for every generation.

As we journey into the future, platforms like “Muay Thai Records” will play a pivotal role in bridging the past and present, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Muay Thai’s legacy is preserved for future enthusiasts and practitioners.

The Historical Roots of Muay Thai

The Evolution of a Martial Art

The story of Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is deeply interwoven with Thai history. From its early origins on the ancient battlefields where Thai warriors practiced unarmed combat to its formalization as a sport, Muay Thai has come a long way. Delving into its history is like traversing through the epochs of Thailand, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, the heroics of legendary fighters like Nai Khanom Tom, and the ever-evolving techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Understanding the depth of this martial art requires a comprehensive dive into resources and records. For those wanting a deep exploration of this history, “Muay Thai Records” offers an unparalleled repository. They’ve meticulously curated ancient scrolls, texts, and first-hand accounts, allowing enthusiasts to journey through time and witness the evolution of Muay Thai from its martial roots to its present-day prominence.

Muay Boran to Modern Muay Thai

Before the adaptation of modern rules and the introduction of boxing gloves, there existed an ancient form of this martial art known as muay boran. This raw and more brutal form saw fighters’ hands wrapped in hemp rope, a far cry from the protective gear of today. Combatants employed a wide range of techniques, many of which have been integrated into modern Muay Thai.

The transformation from muay boran to the present form is a tale of adaptation, innovation, and the influence of western boxing. “Muay Thai Records” offers detailed timelines and visual content that captures this evolution, from the combat art practiced by the Siamese army to the national sport embraced by Thai people today.

The Techniques and Traditions

Beyond the punches, kicks, and knee strikes lies the soul of Muay Thai — its traditions. One such tradition is the ram muay, a dance performed before bouts, which pays respect to trainers, the sport, and the divine. Each gesture in this dance tells a story, and each fighter’s rendition is unique.

For practitioners and enthusiasts keen on mastering or understanding these nuances, “Muay Thai Records” is a beacon. The website not only breaks down techniques but also delves into the cultural and traditional aspects, providing a holistic understanding of the martial art. From the significance of the ram muay to the importance of the traditional music played during bouts, the platform covers it all.

Champions, Legends, and Their Stories

Every sport has its heroes, and Muay Thai is no exception. Over the decades, numerous fighters have etched their names into the annals of history. These are not just fighters; they are stories of perseverance, dedication, and passion.

“Muay Thai Records” dedicates a significant portion of its platform to chronicle these legends. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analyses, the website offers insights into the lives and careers of these fighters, making it a treasure for anyone interested in the human stories behind the sport.

Muay Thai is more than just a combat sport. It’s a reflection of a nation’s history, culture, and spirit. As we continue our exploration, we will delve deeper into its techniques, training regimes, and the global influence of this remarkable martial art. Stay tuned as the journey with “Muay Thai Records” promises to be enlightening and enriching.

The Artistry and Science Behind Muay Thai

Elbows, Knees, and the Eight Limbs

Muay Thai, often dubbed “The Art of Eight Limbs,” leverages punches, kicks, elbow strikes, and knee strikes, making efficient use of the entire body’s intricate movements. It’s a style that sees the human body as a weapon, with every limb having its unique purpose in combat. The precision of an elbow strike, the power of a leg kick, and the agility of a side kick – each technique embodies years of training and muscle memory.

For those who truly wish to understand the depth of these movements and their significance, “Muay Thai Records” offers a plethora of video tutorials and expert analyses. Whether it’s understanding the difference between a knee strike and elbow strike or the strategic positioning of the body during a bout, the platform provides invaluable insights.

Training Regimens and Camps

A crucial component of the Muay Thai journey is the rigorous training regimen fighters undertake. From strength training and conditioning to mastering the techniques, a fighter’s day is a testament to discipline, dedication, and resilience.

Thailand, the birthplace of Muay Thai, is home to numerous training camps where aspiring Thai boxers and international enthusiasts gather to hone their skills. “Muay Thai Records” showcases some of the most renowned training camps, offering a glimpse into the daily routines, the relationship between fighters and their trainers, and the sacred bond within the Muay Thai community.

Modern Muay Thai and Its Global Impact

From its ancient roots, Muay Thai has evolved into a global phenomenon, with combat sports enthusiasts and MMA fighters integrating its techniques into their repertoire. This blending of Muay Thai with other combat sports has resulted in an exciting cross-cultural exchange, where techniques and strategies from diverse fighting styles come together in the boxing ring.

“Muay Thai Records” features a series dedicated to this global journey of Muay Thai, charting its rise from the local arenas of Thailand to the international stage. Interviews with top fighters, analyses of major bouts, and features on how Muay Thai has influenced other martial arts make it an essential resource for understanding the global footprint of this martial art.

Beyond the Ring: Muay Thai’s Cultural Impact

Muay Thai is not just a sport or martial art; it’s a way of life and an intrinsic part of Thai history and culture. From young men entering the sport to establish their place in society to the traditional music that accompanies bouts, Muay Thai is deeply embedded in the Thai psyche.

“Muay Thai Records” ensures that this cultural dimension isn’t overlooked. It delves into stories beyond the ring, exploring how Muay Thai influences Thai society, art, cinema, and even fashion. This cultural lens provides a richer, more holistic understanding of what Muay Thai truly represents to the Thai people.

The Golden Age of Muay Thai

A Historical Glimpse

Muay Thai’s past is interwoven with the history of Thailand itself. The “Golden Age” of Muay Thai, a period that saw the sport surge in popularity, brought forth legends whose tales still resonate in training camps and arenas today. This era, filled with celebrated fights, exceptional Muay Thai fighters, and the integration of western boxing elements, elevated the sport to unprecedented heights.

“Muay Thai Records” offers an extensive collection of fights, interviews, and documentaries from this illustrious era. Discover how fighters like Nai Khanom Tom, a revered figure in Muay Thai history, played pivotal roles during this time.

Integration of Modern Elements

With the evolution of combat sports worldwide, Muay Thai also witnessed significant changes. The introduction of boxing gloves, influenced by British boxing, replaced the traditional hemp rope bindings. This not only brought about changes in the fighting style but also made the sport safer, paving the way for its international recognition.

Explore “Muay Thai Records” to witness first-hand the fusion of traditional muay techniques with elements of western boxing, offering a comprehensive view of how muay thai adapted without losing its core essence.

The Warriors of The Siamese Army

It’s crucial to recognize the profound ties between muay thai and the Thai military. Historically, the Siamese army integrated muay boran techniques into their unarmed combat training. These ancient battlefield tactics employed by Thai warriors, and the martial art’s significance in the military, played a vital role in shaping modern Muay Thai.

Dive deeper into this relationship on “Muay Thai Records”, where extensive coverage on the integration of these ancient techniques into the Siamese army’s training regimen can be found, providing a unique perspective on the sport’s martial origins.

The Legacy of Nai Khanom Tom

Any conversation about Muay Thai would be incomplete without mentioning the legendary Nai Khanom Tom. His story, set during the wars between Burma and the Siamese Kingdom, is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Thai fighters. After being captured by the Burmese, Nai Khanom showcased the prowess of muay boran by defeating ten Burmese fighters consecutively.

“Muay Thai Records” has dedicated a section to this Muay Thai legend, housing rare footages, interviews, and narratives that paint a vivid picture of his enduring legacy.

Muay Thai’s journey, from the battlefields of ancient Thailand to the global stage it graces today, is nothing short of inspirational. As we journey further into its world, “Muay Thai Records” promises to be the perfect companion, ensuring that every story, every fight, and every legend is meticulously documented and celebrated. Join us as we continue this exploration into the heart and soul of Muay Thai.

Muay Thai: The Art of Eight Limbs

Elbows, Knees, and a Symphony of Strikes

The essence of Muay Thai lies in its intricate symphony of strikes. Termed “The Art of Eight Limbs”, this martial art uniquely uses the human body’s eight points of contact — the elbows, knees, fists, and shins. In a traditional Muay Thai contest, you can witness a fighter using knee strikes with precision, or an elbow strike delivered with such accuracy it could turn the tide of a bout.

On “Muay Thai Records”, enthusiasts can dissect the art of these strikes, learning from the best in the business. Archived footage of top fighters demonstrates the effectiveness and beauty of combining elbow strikes and knee techniques in the boxing ring.

Training Camps: Breeding Grounds of Champions

The heart of Muay Thai beats strongest in its training camps. These camps, scattered across Thailand, have produced numerous champions and have been pivotal in maintaining the martial art’s authentic essence. With rigorous training regimens focusing on strength training, muscle memory, and honing one’s technique, they prepare fighters, young and old, for the challenging world of combat sports.

For those curious about the inner workings of these camps, “Muay Thai Records” offers an inside look. Viewers can virtually immerse themselves in the daily routines of these camps, watching as young men transform into seasoned Thai boxers.

Weight Divisions and The Path to Glory

Modern Muay Thai competitions have incorporated weight divisions, ensuring fair fights and promoting a broader range of fighters to showcase their skills. These weight divisions have produced countless local champions, each carving their path to glory, one fight at a time.

“Muay Thai Records” catalogues these champions’ journeys, from their early days in training camps to their iconic bouts, offering a holistic view of the challenges and triumphs Thai boxers face.

Combat Art Meets Modernity

While Muay Thai is deeply rooted in Thai history, it has not been immune to modern influences. Protective gear, modern gloves, and the inclusion of rules echoing western boxing have been introduced over time. These changes, though controversial to some purists, have enabled Muay Thai to grow globally, pitting Muay Thai fighters against MMA fighters and champions of other combat sports.

“Muay Thai Records” hosts a plethora of matches that highlight these cross-discipline bouts, an essential viewing for anyone keen on understanding the evolution of this combat art in the context of other martial arts.

From its ancient roots in the Siamese army to its modern-day avatar in glitzy arenas, Muay Thai’s journey is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As we delve deeper into its multifaceted world, “Muay Thai Records” remains an invaluable resource, capturing every nuance and every narrative that has shaped this beloved martial art. Stay with us as we further unravel the complexities and beauty of Muay Thai.

Cybersecurity, News, Tech Thought Leadership

Futureproofing – What the Biggest Cyber Threats are likely to be to Your Business in 2024

CYBER CRIMINALS will become more sophisticated next year – creating a wave of new threats for businesses, a leading expert has warned.

Roy Shelton, the CEO of the Connectus Group, said “businesses of all sizes” need to take steps to boost their defences.

Speaking to raise awareness in Cyber Security Month, Mr Shelton said:  “As attacks become more sophisticated, organisations need to evolve their approach to security to stay ahead of the game.”

 

According to Check Point’s cybersecurity predictions for 2024 the threats broadly fall into seven categories: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; GPU farming; Supply chain and critical infrastructure attacks; cyber insurance; nation state; weaponized deepfake technology and phishing attacks.

The biggest threats which are set to emerge are predicted to include:

  • A rise of AI-directed cyberattacks: Artificial intelligence and machine learning have dominated the conversation in cybersecurity. Next year will see more threat actors adopt AI to accelerate and expand every aspect of their toolkit. Whether that is for more cost-efficient rapid development of new malware and ransomware variants or using deepfake technologies to take phishing and impersonation attacks to the next level.

 

  • Impact of regulation: There have been significant steps in Europe and the US in regulating the use of AI. As these plans develop, we will see changes in the way these technologies are used, both for offensive and defensive activities.

 

  • Hackers will Target the Cloud to Access AI Resources. As the popularity of generative AI continues to soar, the cost of running these massive models is rapidly increasing, potentially reaching tens of millions of dollars. Hackers will see cloud-based AI resources as a lucrative opportunity. They will focus their efforts on establishing GPU farms in the cloud to fund their AI activities.

 

  • Supply chain and critical infrastructure attacks: The increase in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, particularly those with nation-state involvement, will lead to a shift towards “zero trust” models that require verification from anyone attempting to connect to a system, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the network. With governments introducing stricter cybersecurity regulations to protect personal information, it will be essential for organizations to stay ahead of these new legal frameworks.

 

  • The staying power of cyber warfare: The Russo-Ukraine conflict was a significant milestone in the case of cyber warfare carried out by nation-state groups. Geo-political instability will continue into next year, and hacktivist activities will make up a larger proportion of cyberattacks.

 

  • Deep fake technology advances: Deepfakes are often weaponised to create content that will sway opinions, alter stock prices or worse. These tools are readily available online, and threat actors will continue to use deepf fake social engineering attacks to gain permissions and access sensitive data.
  • Phishing attacks will continue to plague businesses. Software will always be exploitable. However, it has become far easier for threat actors to “log in” instead of “break in”. Over the years, the industry has built up layers of defense to detect and prevent intrusion attempts against software exploits. With the relative success and ease of phishing campaigns, next year will bring more attacks that originate from credential theft and not vulnerability exploitation.

 

  • Advanced phishing tactics: AI-enhanced phishing tactics might become more personalised and effective, making it even harder for individuals to identify malicious intent, leading to increased phishing-related breaches.
Finance and Banking, Global Mobility, News, Overseas Property, Retirement

Why moving to Italy could be good for your wallet  

  • Tax breaks provide incentives for workers, retirees and high net worth individuals
  • Financial attractions are complemented by lifestyle benefits
  • Moving to Italy Show in London on 28th November to provide full details

Moving to Italy could be a seriously smart move for workers, retirees and high net worth individuals (HNWIs) looking to make their money stretch further. According to the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK, there are three special tax regimes that are serving to attract a diverse range of individuals from different backgrounds to Italy.

Aiming to attract highly skilled employees and entrepreneurial self-employed individuals, the “impatriate” tax regime applies to taxpayers who commit to move their tax residency to Italy for at least two years. They have to work mainly from Italy, with business trips abroad not exceeding 183 days per year. The reward for those who take up the offer is a 70% income tax exemption. For individuals who move their residence to one of the Southern Italian regions (Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily), that exemption bumps up to 90%.

The impatriate tax regime runs for five years, with the possibility to extend it for a further five years at a reduced 50% income tax exemption rate. The extension is an option for those who have a child under the age of 18 or who purchase a residential property in Italy at any time during the year before they become tax resident there or the five years after.

That said, it’s important that potential immigrants stay up to date with the latest financial incentives. At present, the Italian government is reviewing and reforming its taxation system, including the impatriate tax regime. Alessandro Belluzzo, President, Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK, has warned that the percentage of tax benefit currently offered may reduce and that the conditions necessary to access it may alter, though nothing has been approved so far.

“Draft taxation reforms that have been published in Italy indicate that the impatriate tax regime may be changing in the near future. Yet there is no indication that the scheme will end. As such, anyone considering making a move to Italy needs to keep up with the latest legislation and factor that into their plans.”

Alessandro Belluzzo, President, Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK

The Moving to Italy Show taking place in London on 28th November 2023 is the ideal place to access the latest information. Expert speakers will be delivering presentations and seminars, while exhibitors will be on hand with information on the latest financial and legal aspects of moving to Italy. Free to attend, the event will take place at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall, with tickets bookable online in advance.

Tax incentives for pensioners and HNWIs moving to Italy are unlikely to be affected by the current taxation reforms, according to Belluzzo, who points out that there has been nothing to indicate these two schemes will be impacted.

The crux of the pensioners’ tax regime is a 7% flat rate tax on foreign-sourced pension income, as well as on all other foreign-sourced income and gains. Italian-sourced income and gains are subject to ordinary income tax under the scheme, which applies for a maximum of 10 years from the tax year of the transfer. However, it doesn’t apply to the entire country – the scheme is aimed at those moving to certain areas of southern Italy, namely any municipality in Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Molise, Puglia, Sardinia or Sicily that has a population of fewer than 20,000 residents.

For HNWIs, the “new tax residents” (NTRs) regime aims to make a move to tax residence in Italy financially rewarding. Under the scheme, HNWIs can pay an annual lump sum tax of €100,000 for up to 15 years on any foreign-source income, as well as capital gains realised on foreign investments and other foreign asset disposals. No Italian wealth taxes will apply to those assets and there is no requirement to report assets held abroad in the tax return (the “Fiscal Monitoring”) nor to disclose them in any way to the Italian tax authorities. Italian-sourced income and capital gains continue to be subject to ordinary Italian tax rules.

There are further benefits for HNWIs in relation to inheritance and gift taxation. NTRs are subject to Italian inheritance and/or gift tax only on assets and rights existing in Italy upon the date of their succession/gift. No Italian inheritance or gift tax will apply on assets outside of Italy.

The NTR regime can extend to one or more qualifying family members, as well, with a very broad definition of what constitutes family. Each family member on the scheme pays an annual flat tax of €25,000.

“For all tax incentives, there are of course fine details to be explored and understood. This is why access to specialist legal and financial experts, such as those at the Moving to Italy Show in November, is an essential part of exploring the benefits of relocating.”

Alessandro Belluzzo, President, Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK

 

For more information, please contact the Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK: www.italchamind.org.uk, email csanfratello@italchamind.org.uk or telephone 0207 495 8191.

Diversity & Inclusion, Diversity in Tech, Gender Disparity, STEM, Tech, Technology

Lets Break Barriers! Revolutionizing Recruitment to Empower Women In Tech

Written by Jenny Briant, Academy Operations Director at Ten10

Diversity has been a constant struggle for businesses, particularly in the tech industry and it comes simply just comes down to the lack of accessibility. We know that diverse teams can offer businesses so much, but outdated practices have made creating a diverse team challenging. Recruitment practices that aren’t always accommodating for women, particularly mothers, mean hiring teams are deterring a large population of potential talent.

Your job description is your first point of contact with a candidate. As such, it plays a central role in their perception of the company, the job role itself and the work environment. Bias language can seem subtle but makes an impression on a potential female candidate. I’ve previously seen words used such as ‘dominant’, ‘assertive’ or even something like ‘rockstar programmer’ – these can be so off-putting and daunting. These are words that are largely associated with men and often, albeit perhaps unintentionally, reflect traditional gender roles and stereotypes that can deter a female applicant.

Soft skills are increasingly becoming more important, especially in the tech industry; an industry that has historically placed emphasis on hard technical skills. One of the things I have recognised when I talk to female candidates is their hesitancy when they think they don’t have the right qualifications for a role despite clearly having demonstrable soft skills that are transferable to a lot of roles. Soft skills can mean anything from influencing others to emotional intelligence to resiliency, and all are hugely valuable to companies. And this is the case more so now than ever before as automation of technological skills increases, the need for soft skills, critical and creative thinking, as well as people management will become ever more important. There are also more roles in technology than ever before and roles beyond these super-technical skills.

 

How to change the workplace to accommodate them?

Imposter syndrome is a massive problem for women throughout the workforce, and disproportionality affects them, over their male colleagues. Essentially, imposter syndrome describes the feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt in your ability at your job. Mothers in particular, are more likely to experience this when returning to work, feeling that they need to work harder to prove themselves among their male counterparts, and the drive to prove they’re ‘unburdened’ by their childcare responsibilities.

Fortunately, the tech industry especially can now can very easily offer flexibility. Remote and hybrid working has been a game changer for many working mothers and gives them a chance to continue their careers as well as be there for their children. Despite this, frustratingly some companies still seem stuck on the rigid structure of the 8 hours a day, 5 days a week in the office. If businesses were open to changing work structures, this would accommodate a larger proportion of women.

Mentorship programmes are also vitally important to changing the narrative of women in the world of tech. Companies need to ensure they have a strong team of women who help to break down stereotypes and barriers that typically discourage women from a career in the tech They can inspire women to set higher career goals and pursue opportunities they might not have considered otherwise and offer real-life, practical advice based on their own experiences. Whether that’s through outreach programmes or internally, women need to see what is possible from inspiring role models who have been through the process.

 

Why is it important?

It seems ridiculous that in 2023, we still have an industry where women are severely underrepresented. I must acknowledge that this has changed a lot over the last 20 years or so and it is going in the right direction, but we can’t ever get complacent. At the moment, we aren’t tapping into and harnessing such a large proportion of potential talent, largely due to stereotypes and subliminal messaging throughout education and the workplace. Recruitment is the first hurdle, and we’re still often failing.

One of the things I have seen more times than I should have are women interviewing for a job and having strong feelings of doubt that they can’t do this. Given how disproportionately imposter syndrome affects women, my team and I have added a question at the end of our interview process for female applicants: “Do you think you can do this?” If the response is uncertain, we will spend time reviewing their CV and highlighting exactly why they would be a good fit and why their skills are important. Taking that time to reassure women that they have just as much right and capability to be in the tech arena as a man, has made a massive difference to our recruitment process and I like to think, is helping to move towards an equal opportunity in the industry. The UK has set its sight on becoming a ‘tech superpower’ but if we’re not opening our doors to women and providing the right opportunities, we simply won’t get there.

 

News, Recruitment, UK, USA

SmartRecruiters Q3 Release supercharges reach to candidates globally

SmartRecruiters, an All-in-One Hiring Platform, today is introducing the latest expansion of talent acquisition updates designed to broaden global reach and productivity. The new release includes over 27 product enhancements and 15 new partner integrations offering smarter workflows, seamless integrations and bulk actions that empower global talent leaders to achieve more with less.

“I’m excited about the remarkable progress we’ve made in the past few months,“ said Rebecca Carr, Chief Product Officer of SmartRecruiters. “We’ve been listening to customer feedback and responding with investments that address their largest challenges. In a market undergoing significant change, enabling our users to find quality candidates with fewer resources is top of mind.”

Key features and benefits:

  • Expand job posting reach and visibility with access to over 2700+ job boards, including popular platforms like Indeed and SEEK.
  • Efficiently reach candidates via text and WhatsApp through SmartMessage’s advanced features, including templates, bulk messaging, and expanded geographic reach.
  • Upgraded discovery capabilities, with customizable filters for skills, experience, location, and last active date, to identify premium candidates quickly.
  • Simplifying the process of generating multiple job offers simultaneously, speeding up communication and improving acceptance rates while reducing time-to-offer.

For more information on the Q3 product release visit our What’s New page.

About SmartRecruiters

SmartRecruiters is dedicated to reshaping the future of talent acquisition. Through innovative products and services, we empower businesses of all sizes to attract, select and hire the best talent. SmartRecruiters’ next-generation platform serves as the hiring operating system for 4,000 customers like Bosch, LinkedIn, Skechers, and Visa. Companies with business-critical hiring needs turn to SmartRecruiters for best-of-breed functionality, world-class support, and a robust ecosystem of third-party applications and service providers.

For more information visit www.smartrecruiters.com/news or follow us on LinkedIn.

AI, News, Tech, Technology

AI tops concerns of UK Tech Leaders; only 12% are prepared for generative AI demands as they call for heavier regulation

  • 90% believe stronger regulation of AI is essential, but 66% say it won’t solve all the risks
  • Just 2 in 10 organisations have an AI policy in place
  • Only 1 in 10 report having large scale implementations of AI
  • AI, In-Office Mandates and unlocking ROI are top concerns from the world’s largest and longest running annual survey of technology/digital leadership

Before international governments meet this week at Bletchley Park for the world’s first AI Safety Summit, a global study of tech leaders (CIOs, CTOs etc) has found that only 1 in 8 (12%) in the UK are prepared for the demands of generative AI. An overwhelming majority (90%) believe heavier AI regulation is essential, but the scale of the challenge is clear, with two thirds (66%) believing tighter regulation won’t solve all the issues and risks that come with this rapidly developing technology.

These findings are revealed today in the 25th annual Nash Squared Digital Leadership Report, the world’s largest and longest running annual survey of technology leadership[1]. Over the last 25 years, the research has taken in the views of over 50,000 technology leaders.

 

Other key AI findings[2] in the UK include:

  • AI still at the experimentation stage globally and in the UK – Despite the explosive predicted market growth of AI, only 1 in 10 technology leaders in the UK report having large scale implementations of AI, a figure that hasn’t changed in five years.
  • But the AI ripples are beginning to widen – Almost half of organisations in the UK (48%) are either piloting or conducting a small scale implementation of AI. When it comes to generative AI, this figure is currently around a third.
  • Few have an AI policy in place – Just 2 in 10 (21%) of UK organisations have an AI policy in place, and more than a third (37%) have no plans to attempt such a policy at this time.
  • Data privacy – a key concern for implementing generative AI – More than a third (35%) of technology leaders in the UK are concerned about data privacy as an issue for implementing generative AI.
  • A tsunami of AI driven cyberattacks around the corner? – Although cyberattacks are down year-on-year, the report warns that generative AI has the potential to take cybercrime to a whole new, very dark, level, as new forms of attacks emerge.
  • Benefits of AI outweigh the risks – However, unregulated wild west or not – more than seven in ten of technology leaders in the UK think that the benefits of AI outweigh the risks.
  • Jobs lost – The average percentage of jobs that technology leaders in the UK feel will be lost to automation is 15%.

 

Bev White, CEO of Nash Squared, said:

“Over the years there has been much hype about the potential for AI, but this year our research suggests we may have reached a tipping point. AI sits at the intersection of people and technology, and with the recent mass adoption of generative AI, the opportunities and challenges for organisations is potentially vast. It could be the trigger that prompts an avalanche of AI investment – similar to the mass adoption of cloud over the last ten years. This just makes the regulation and governance of AI more important than ever. Despite their keenness, many tech leaders admit that they don’t have a clear picture of the way forward and feel unprepared for the challenges ahead. Establishing clear guardrails, guidelines and ethical safety nets around AI is simply essential. Otherwise, what could be one of the truly transformational enablers of the modern age could instead become one of its biggest, risk-laden destabilisers.”

 

Tech Leaders Plan for Cautious Investment

  • Technology spend – After the hyper growth during and coming out of the pandemic, expectations of technology spend and investment in people have returned to more ‘normal’ levels. Four in ten (42%) of technology leaders in the UK expect their overall IT/technology budget to increase during the next 12 months – a figure broadly in line with pre-pandemic years.
  • Increase in headcount – A similar number of technology leaders in the UK (48%) expect to increase their headcount. This figure is the second highest reading in the last decade outside of the pandemic peak, although a significant fall on last year.
  • Innovative tech investment largely stalls – One casualty of the pandemic that still seems to remain, is that investment in emerging tech is being held back with the exception of pilots in AI, quantum and the metaverse.

 

Inclusion and Hybrid Working

  • Full week in-office mandates hits number of women being hired in UK tech – The report found that a high number of mandated days in the office appears to have had a negative impact on the proportion of female new hires in the tech team over the last two years. For UK companies without mandated in-office days, 28% of the tech team hired recently is female. This number drops to 21% at UK companies with a mandated 5 days in the office. The fall in women in UK Tech was recently highlighted by ONS jobs data[3], finding that the number of women working in UK Tech had dropped by 3,000 at the same time as the sector recorded one of the fastest growth rates in tech employment (up 85,000).
  • In-office mandates work better for smaller organisations – A high majority (83%) of small organisations in the UK report that their in-office policy is working well compared to 64% of large organisations. Twice as many large organisations (36%) to small organisations (17%) report that their policy is working poorly.
  • No movement in the number of female tech leaders – This year 12% of technology leaders in the UK identify as female, very similar to last year’s. This is a disappointing stagnation in what has been a painfully slow and shallow upward trend in recent years.
  • Female members of the tech team – Globally female representation on tech teams remained at 23% year-on-year, with the US doing marginally better (27%) and UK businesses the same as the global average at 23%.

 

Tech Talent Shortage

  • Mass skills shortages ease slightly – This year 53% of technology leaders in the UK say that a skills shortage is preventing them from keeping up with the pace of change, down from the record 68% last year as technology demand and skills supply move a little more in balance.
  • Skills in demand – However, although scarcity of top skills for every type of technology professional has fallen year-on-year, there still remains a shortage with the most scarce skills being data engineers, enterprise architects, software engineers and technical architects.
  • Demand for cyber skills sees largest fall – In recent years cybersecurity skills have occupied the top three most scarce skills, but this year has seen one of the largest falls in demand in the UK (down 24%) as technology leaders focus their limited budgets on completing their transformation and revenue generation ambitions rather than shoring up security.
  • Potential impact of AI-driven cyberattacks on skills – Despite this drop, a quarter of technology leaders in the UK still struggle to find the right cybersecurity skills. The report also suggests that, if AI begins to generate new levels of cyber risk, cyber specialists may once again top the league table of skills in demand.

 

Technology/digital leaders on the board

  • New tech drives need for technology/digital leaders to be on the top table – Over two thirds (70%) of technology leaders in the UK are members of the operational board/executive management team, the highest level for almost 15 years (2009), when this trend started to be tracked by the report. Over the last five years there have been signs of a decline in executive committee  membership, but the report says that this is now on the rise due to the proliferation of new technologies like generative AI, where technology leaders can offer a unique and valuable perspective to the top table.
  • A seat on the executive committee also helps outperform the competition – When UK tech leaders are given a seat at the top table this delivers advantages over the competition, including a 35% uplift in adopting new technology, and a 16% advantage in attracting and retaining talent.

 

Bev White, CEO of Nash Squared, concluded:

“After the once-in-a-generation spike in investment in technology that we saw due to the pandemic, things have settled down to more like normal now. But this ‘normal’ remains substantial and significant, as digital technologies are central to how the modern business operates. That’s why, as our report shows, having a technology specialist like the CIO on the executive committee delivers measurable benefits.

However, for any business to perform at its best, the working model needs to be right. There is a fascinating and very much live debate going on at the moment as to what kind of in-office mandate businesses should adopt. There is no single answer here, of course – it will vary for each individual business. However, our research shows that there are clear risks to the diversity agenda in pushing too far in the back-to-office direction. This needs to be very carefully monitored and managed if we want to ensure that technology drives up its levels of talented women.”

 

References

[1] This year a survey of 2,104 technology leaders globally took place between 22nd June 2023 and 18th September 2023, across 82 countries. In the UK, 1,185 technology leaders were surveyed.

[2] Technology leaders in the UK were either asked for their views on the AI market, or specifically generative AI, a subset of AI. In this press release, the term AI refers to the entire AI market in the UK, and the term ‘generative AI’ refers to generative AI applications such as ChatGPT.

[3] ONS Employment by Industry Data – 15th August 2023

 

About the Report

In its 25th year of publication, the 2023 Nash Squared Digital Leadership Report is the world’s largest and longest running survey of senior technology decision makers. Launched in 1998 and previously called the CIO Survey, it has been an influential and respected indicator of major trends in technology and digital for over two decades. This year a survey of over 2,104 technology/digital leaders globally (1,185 in the UK) took place between 22nd June 2023 and 18th September 2023, across 86 countries.

 

To request a full copy of the results, please visit https://www.nashsquared.com/dlr

Cancer, Healthcare, News

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Why Our Focus Should Be on Increasing Access to Preventative and Diagnostic Resources

MUCH more needs to be done to boost access to breast cancer screening in developing countries, a leading humanitarian expert has said.

Shameet Thakkar’s warning comes as the world marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time where efforts to raise awareness about the disease intensify, and people around the planet come together to support those affected and help others gain the knowledge they need to prevent it.

Through his role as managing director of Leicester-based Unimed  Procurement Services, Mr Thakkar partners with purpose-led organisations to source and deliver diagnostic equipment to countries in need.

One recent project saw Unimed deliver 351 portable scanners to Ecuador – which will help thousands of women in the country to receive an earlier cancer diagnosis.

But Mr Thakkar said much more help is needed in other parts of the world.

 

Shameet Thakkar

 

He said:  “Raising awareness of the importance of early detection through regular screenings like MRI, mammograms and ultrasound scans is a vital part of our fight against breast cancer,” he says.

“Preventative actions are key, making breast cancer more treatable and curable when found at an early stage, therefore increasing the chances of successful treatment and survival. When it is diagnosed at an advanced stage, treatment often involves more aggressive therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Detecting it early may allow for less invasive and less debilitating treatment options.

“But what about developing nations, who simply cannot afford to offer these vital diagnostic services to their populations?

 

“The lack of equal access to healthcare around the world doesn’t solely translate to the inability to receive treatment, but also extends to preventative and diagnostic resources, which in turn causes more individuals to become ill,  creating a vicious cycle.

“One of our most recent projects involved delivering 351 portable ultrasound machines to Ecuador in South America, delivering this much-needed diagnostic equipment to the country to ultimately help strengthen its health system, in line with our mission to increase equitable access to healthcare.

“Preventive and diagnostic care is key to building more inclusive and resilient healthcare systems, but we have a long way to go before this vision becomes a reality.

“The focus on treatment within developing countries stems from the need to cure those who are already sick – in most cases a large portion of the population – meaning that a profound shift in our priorities needs to take place to  create change in the long term.

“Prevention is an essential part of our overall efforts to combat breast cancer and improve the well-being of individuals and communities at risk.

“We need to increase our efforts to give everyone an equal chance to protect themselves against this disease, not just those who are fortunate enough to live in countries that can effectively tend to their healthcare needs.”

 

 

He added:  “Within breast cancer research, a lot of thought has rightly been given to early detection, but many neglect to consider that less fortunate populations simply don’t have access to the diagnostic equipment that is instrumental in fighting this disease.

“And we can’t forget the emotional and economic impact of breast cancer, which places a significant burden on individuals, families – particularly those who are already struggling with poverty – and healthcare systems as a whole.

 

Learn more about the key role of prevention in improving global health:

https://www.unimedps.com/post/the-link-between-strong-health-systems-and-prevention-building-resilience-to-improve-global-health