MSP & MSSP & IT Industry Notes

Sponsored by

June 2d, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

N-able Exploring Sale With Barracuda Networks As One Possible Suitor: Report

• Reported on the Channel Company
• N-able exploring a potential sale after attracting acquisition interest from private equity firms
• N-able, Barracuda Networks, and KKR have not provided comments regarding the potential acquisition
• John Holland of Corporate Finance Associates, companies might go private to avoid the costs of complying with federal securities regulations and to capitalize on strategic value perceived by private equity firms
• N-able went public in 2021 after spinning out from SolarWinds, which was acquired by Silver Lake and Thoma Bravo for $4.5 billion in 2016

Lenovo and Cisco Announce Strategic Partnership to Simplify Path to AI Innovation

• Two companies agree to design, engineer and deliver deeply integrated solutions that advance generative AI capabilities and digital workplace solutions to boost enterprise productivity
• Partnership includes go-to-market initiatives for delivering complete digital workplace, cloud networking, hybrid AI infrastructure solutions, and Lenovo managed services to customers globally

CrowdStrike and eSentire Expand Partnership to Take Over Protection of Global Carbon Black Customer Accounts

• partnership integrates eSentire's MDR with CrowdStrike's Falcon platform, providing comprehensive protection across Endpoint Detection and Response, Identity Threat Detection, Intelligence and Threat Hunting, Cloud Security, and Next-Gen SIEM
• eSentire will support customer migration from Carbon Black to CrowdStrike, fulfilling consolidation needs and improving protection for global accounts
• collaboration emphasizes the use of AI in cybersecurity, leveraging real-time attack indicators and enriched telemetry for precise threat detection and response

Dytech Group offers Managed IT Services in Orlando, Specializing in IT Solutions for Law Firms

• specializes in addressing the unique IT needs of law firms, leveraging over 40 years of experience in the Orlando community
• Services include secure cloud solutions, robust cybersecurity measures, 24/7 monitoring and support, customized software solutions, and comprehensive IT strategy consulting
• expertise in the legal sector allows law firms to focus on core competencies while enhancing efficiency and productivity through technology

FSi Strategies Announces Microsoft Copilot Roadshow

• announces its first roadshow to highlight Copilot for Microsoft 365 across five U.S. cities.
• Key points include:
  • tour starts on June 12 at the Microsoft Technology Center in Arlington, Virginia, with subsequent stops in Denver (June 26), Los Angeles, Orlando, and Atlanta
  • Led by FSi’s Microsoft Alliance Manager, Norah Salameh, and co-hosted by Microsoft, the events will showcase how organizations can leverage Microsoft Copilot to transform workflows.
  • Nabil Aitoumeziane, President of FSi Strategies, expressed excitement about sharing their expertise on Copilot and its promising impact on improving workflows.

3 Essential Benefits of Managed IT Services for the Education Sector

• Budget constraints and IT talent gaps hinder schools from leveraging technology effectively to provide quality education
• Collaborating with an MSP allows institutions to move away from break-fix mode and transform education innovatively
• Three Key Benefits:
• • Schools, often targets for hackers, benefit from enhanced cyber security provided by MSPs
  • MSPs offer access to a pool of IT experts at a fraction of the cost of hiring in-house staff
  • MSPs ensure even small organizations gain the benefits of updated technology without significant and unpredictable costs

Microsoft is killing off non-editable PDFs for good

• announces plans to develop a tool to convert non-editable PDFs into fully editable documents while preserving the original layout
  • AI-Powered Conversion: The tool, described in Microsoft's paper “Method and System of Generating an Editable Document from a Non-Editable Document,” will utilize artificial intelligence to map and identify elements within a PDF, such as text, images, and tables.
  • Maintaining Layout Integrity: The tool will use bounding boxes to ensure the layout remains unchanged and can recognize fonts and color schemes, allowing the new editable PDF to be resized without losing structural integrity.
  • Significance for Document Management: This technology aims to overcome the limitations of existing PDF converters, which often fail to maintain the original layout and font accurately.
  • Potential Security Concerns: While the tool promises enhanced document management, there is concern that it might compromise the security that PDFs traditionally offer by making them editable.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

Cybersecurity Notes

• Singing River Health System of Mississippi notified 900,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after a ransomware attack.
• Allina Health of Minneapolis, MN notified 715 patients that their PHI was stolen by a former employee.
• Johnson Memorial Hospital of Franklin, Indiana admitted in local newspaper article that it is still recovering from ransomware attack in 2021.
• Palo Alto Networks announced new technique used by hackers named “DNS Tunneling” which can be used to scan customers’ networks and transmit malware.
• • Could be launched when an employee opens an infected email
• Affiliated Dermatologists and Dermatologic Surgeons, headquartered in Morristown, NJ, notified 380,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack.
• Winter Haven Hospital in Florida notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after it was emailed by an employee.
• The Kennedy Collective of Trumball, CT, notified 851 patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attack.
• Hypertension-Nephrology Associates of Michigan notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Dell Technologies notified 49 million customers that their info was exposed after data breach.
• WebPTA Health Plan, headquartered in Irving, Texas, notified 2.43 million patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Nissan North America notified 53,000 individuals that this info was exposed after ransomware attack.

Sean Nolan, CEO and Co-Founder of Blink - AITech Interview

Customer Pain Points Addressed by Blink

• Customers often struggle to define and address engagement problems, feeling their teams are disjointed and dissatisfied.
• Frontline workers want more involvement, transparency, autonomy, and support from their employers.
• Providing convenient, easy-to-use technology helps workers feel valued and empowered
• Employee engagement is often misunderstood as being about culture initiatives when it's about day-to-day interactions
• Issues like poor communication, outdated processes, and lack of feedback contribute to frontline disconnection and discontent
• Blink addresses these challenges with solutions that ease points of tension for frontline workers

Essential Cybersecurity Certifications and Courses for 2024

AI Tech Park presents the top five cybersecurity certifications for 2024:

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Offered by ISACA, suitable for IT professionals with five years of experience in auditing, control, or security work.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Provided by (ISC)2, requires five years of experience and covers various security areas like risk management and network security.
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Accredited by ISACA, targets information security managers with at least five years of experience and covers aspects like governance and risk management.

Konica Minolta’s Laura Blackmer Named to CRN’s 2024 Women of the Channel Power 100 List

• announces Laura Blackmer, President, Dealer Sales, has been named to the 2024 Power 100 list by CRN®.
• Power 100 list recognizes influential executive leaders chosen from the annual CRN Women of the Channel list
• Honorees are selected based on their contributions, expertise, and advocacy within the channel
• Blackmer joined Konica Minolta in December 2017 and was promoted to President, Dealer Sales in 2022.
• oversees the sales and management of Konica Minolta’s extensive dealer network
• Marks Blackmer’s sixth appearance on CRN’s Women of the Channel list

Security hampers move to cloud printing

Research published by Quocirca Inc.

• 69% of customers surveyed now using cloud print management
• 74% are considering a hybrid environment
• 51% plan on installing more print servers this year
• Data security is still top barrier to wider could print adoption

Security hampers move to cloud printing

• 90% of chief information security officers (CISOs) admit their firm suffered at least one disruptive attack in past yea
  • 43% = at least once
  • 34% = “a couple of times”
  • 13% = several times

• Most concerning threats:
• • 37% = IoT devices (this category includes connected MFPs)
  • 33% = ransomware
  • • 83% admit to pay ransom
  • 30% = insider threats
  • 24% = DDoS attacks

Sponsored by

April 19, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

MAGNA5 RECEIVES TRIPLE RECOGNITION IN THE 2024 TOP WORKPLACES AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING CULTURE, INNOVATION, AND LEADERSHIP

• Wins three 2024 Top Workplaces awards: Top Workplaces USA, Culture Excellence for Innovation, and Culture Excellence for Leadership.
• Recognized for fostering an innovative, leadership-driven, and employee-centric culture.
• Top Workplaces program surveys over 20 million employees across 60 markets.
• Winners chosen based solely on employee feedback by Energage.
• CEO highlights empowering and respectful work culture.
• Importance of Top Workplaces awards being authentically from employees emphasized by Energage CEO.
• Provides a range of IT services nationally.
• Energage helps organizations turn employee feedback into credible recognition.

Stellar Cyber Partners with Acronis to Enable Managed Service Providers to Bolster Cybersecurity Capabilities

• Stellar Cyber partners with Acronis for enhanced MSP threat detection.
• Protect Cloud combines backup, security, and endpoint management for MSPs.
• Seamless integration streamlines threat detection and response.
• Benefits include improved visibility, productivity, and low false-positive rates.
• Effortless integration process with Acronis guidance.
• Empowers lean security teams for successful risk reduction.
• Acronis offers comprehensive cyber protection for MSPs and businesses.

Riding a Wave of Momentum, SonicWall Debuts New Cybersecurity Management Platform ...

• Extends cybersecurity portfolio for MSPs and MSSPs, showcased at RSA Conference 2024.
• CEO Bob VanKirk emphasizes commitment to partners and customers.
• Increased partner growth and new initiatives drive business momentum.
• Introduction of SonicPlatform for unified management of SonicWall products.
  • Offers efficient management, automation, and enhanced security.
  • Leaders available for demos and discussions at RSA Conference booth.
• SonicWall provides cybersecurity solutions worldwide, specializing in real-time protection.

Ricoh introduces industry-first Sustainability Services Dashboard to drive carbon emission reduction

• Ricoh USA, Inc. launches a Sustainability Services Dashboard for customers to manage emissions data.
• Dashboard addresses the challenge of reducing emissions from vendors and suppliers.
• Incorporates Watershed's emissions measurement technology for comprehensive Scope 3 emissions tracking.
• Benefits include regulatory compliance, actionable recommendations, and intuitive data visualization.
• Ricoh has a longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, recognized by industry accolades.

Digital Transformation’s Next Era: Generative AI and Laserfiche 12 at 2024 Empower Conference

• Laserfiche hosts 2024 Empower conference in Las Vegas, focusing on AI-driven digital transformation.
• New AI features, including Document Summarization, aim to accelerate information flow.
• Introduces 12 powerful features for administrators, enhancing usability and governance.
• Cloud Migration Readiness Assessment Tool streamlines migration planning for self-hosted customers.
• Keynote speaker Michael Keithley discusses transformative impact of generative AI.
• Celebrates 2024 Run Smarter Award winners and offers over 100 sessions at Empower 2024.

Konica Minolta Introduces Enhanced User Interface for FileAssist: A Cloud-based File Storage and Collaboration Solution

• Upgrades FileAssist's user interface, its cloud-based file storage and collaboration platform.
• FileAssist offers unified, scalable solutions for creating, sharing, organizing, and securely storing information.
• Revamped interface enhances collaboration, reduces content sprawl, and improves data access control.
• Key features include FileShare Links, FileReceive Links, GroupShare, and a Viewer for quick previews.
• Seamless integration with Konica Minolta's cloud solutions facilitates faster workflows and easy data access.
• FileAssist prioritizes data security with stringent measures to safeguard customer data.

Cybersecurity Notes

• A hacking gang claims it nabbed data on several other payers in the cyberattack on UnitedHealth Group's Change Healthcare
• • A cybercriminal group called “notchy” said it stole 4 terabytes of data
  • including information on "tens of insurance companies and others," including CVS Caremark and Medicare
  • • “notchy” claimed it was cut out of the $22 million ransom payment UnitedHealth reportedly made to affiliate BlackCat/ALPHV, but that it still has the data.
    • also said it has data on Medicare, Tricare, Loomis, Davis Vision, Health Net, MetLife and Teachers Health Trust
• CardioNet, headquartered in Pennsylvania, agreed to pay $2.5 million HIPAA fine after a breach exposed the PHI of 2,219 patients
• Federal Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center published list of top hacking groups attacking the US healthcare vertical with ransomware:
• • LockBit 3.0
  • ALPHV aka BlackCat
  • BianLian
  • Akira Ransomware
  • Dr. Mary H. Maklouf Dentistry of Burlington, NC notified 1,797 patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack.
  • Roku has disclosed a massive data breach that has compromised more than 576,000 user accounts, marking the second security incident for the company in just a month.
  • Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital of CA, notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after a paper logbook was stolen.
  • Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin notified 530,000 patients that their PHI may have been exposed after ransomware attack.
  • Greylock McKinnon Associates, Inc., a consulting firm that provides litigation support, headquartered in Boston, Mass, suffered a data breach affecting 341,650 individuals
  • Cattaraugus-Allegany Board of Cooperative Education Services in New York notified 15,204 students that their identities were exposed after cyber attack.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

PC market returns to growth

• research published by IDC
• After 2 years of decline, the worldwide traditional PC market returned to growth during the first quarter of 2024 (1Q24) with 59.8 million shipments
• growing 1.5% year-over-year
• Market share by brand:
• • 23% = Lenovo
  • 20.1% = HP Inc.
  • 15.5% = Dell
  • 8.1% = Apple

Kodak Alaris Adds Two New Scanner Series to its Mail-in Ballot Processing Solution

• Makes KODAK S3000 and KODAK S3000 Max Series Scanners compatible with its Mail-in Ballot Processing Solution.
• Introduced in July 2022 to automate ballot verification and signature checks, aiding election processes.
• Improves processing time, reduces human resource requirements, and ensures compliance with record retention mandates.
• Nassau County, Florida, experienced efficiency gains, according to Scott Miller, Director of Elections.
• Joseph Odore, Product Portfolio Marketing Manager, emphasizes the solution's speed and accuracy during election cycles.
• Captures and verifies ballot signatures, increasing processing efficiency by up to 95%.
• Compatible with KODAK S3000 and KODAK S3000 Max Series Scanners, enhancing productivity with embedded image processing.

Fujifilm to launch new A3 MFPs

announced the launch of its new Apeos series A3 office MFP series in Europe

• Key features include:
• • Print resolution of 1,200 x 2,400 dpi
  • IReCT digital image-adjustment technology that minimizes color mis-registration.
  • Versatile media handling capabilities
  • print speeds ranging from 20 to 70 ppm.
  • Unauthorized user protection, data protection, and protection against unauthorized access
  • Induction heat fusing technology
  • LED print head instead of laser
  • Super EA-Eco toner
  • Advanced scanning functions with searchable OCR
  • automatic orientation of scanned pages to upright position, correcting skewed pages, and removing blank pages.
  • https://www.fujifilm.com/uk/en...ters-European-market

Industry Leader CTS Technology Solutions Sets Standard for Email Authentication & Security Services

• introduces advanced email authentication and security solutions.
  • Features include inbound/outbound spam filters and protocols like SPF, DKIM, and DMARC.
  • CEO Joshua Futrell highlights the importance of email security in today's tech landscape.
  • Solutions are suitable for CMMC certification and can integrate with SOC and SIEM services.

Anatomy IT Launches Groundbreaking Cybersecurity Solution Suite in Wake of Industry Breach

• Introduces expanded cybersecurity suite for healthcare organizations.
• Aims to combat increasing IT system threats in the healthcare sector.
• Based on three decades of experience and feedback from over 1,000 clients.
• Aligns with NIST's cybersecurity functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.
• Services include advisory, proactive monitoring, incident response, and cyber insurance support.
• Launches Risk Discovery Tool™ to assess cybersecurity needs and provide tailored solutions.
• Committed to excellence and innovation in helping healthcare organizations mitigate risks.

Kyndryl wins multi-year managed IT infrastructure contract with Honda Europe

• Honda Motor Europe Ltd. selects Kyndryl to manage centralized IT infrastructure and modernize mainframe estate.
• Kyndryl assists in migrating critical applications to upgraded z16 mainframe, featuring on-chip AI inferencing.
• Adoption of Kyndryl Bridge provides real-time insights and AIOps services to reduce incidents and lower costs in logistics operations.
• Collaboration aligns with Kyndryl's goal of driving agility and resiliency through innovative IT applications.
• Contract extends existing partnership, with other subsidiaries having previously signed agreements with Kyndryl.
• Kyndryl, formed in 2021 from IBM's managed services division, serves over 4,000 clients globally.
• Honda Motor Europe previously partnered with IBM and operates a hydrogen fuel cell-powered data center in the US.
• Honda also utilizes Amazon Web Services for its content delivery network, showcasing a diversified IT infrastructure approach

Sponsored by

March 24th, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Chief Product Officer at Stibo Systems, Neda Nia - AITech Interview

• Neda Nia, Stibo Systems' Chief Product Officer, discusses pivotal moments from her career and the company's mission of "better data, better business, better world."
• Stibo specializes in managing various data domains, including product, location, supplier, and sustainability data, to empower businesses in making informed decisions.
• Multi-domain master data management (MDM) plays a crucial role in addressing sustainability challenges by ensuring data accuracy and transparency.
• Stibo Systems' solutions help businesses scale, drive efficiency, and meet sustainability goals.
• company is committed to sustainability and ESG goals, reflected in its culture and actions, such as planting a tree for every new customer and employee.

Navigating the Mirage: Deepfakes and the Quest for Authenticity in a Digital World

• Deepfakes fabricate videos of candidates, potentially swaying public opinion. The case of Ukrainian President Zelensky conceding to Russia highlights the disruption.
• Employees are susceptible to deepfake attacks, risking sensitive information compromise. Advanced AI-driven security detects anomalies in behavior and access patterns.
• While AI powers deepfakes, it aids cybersecurity by detecting vulnerabilities and implementing countermeasures. AI identifies potential deepfake content preemptively, bridging the cybersecurity skills gap.
• To combat deepfakes effectively:
• Legal frameworks targeting deepfake creation and distribution, along with international cooperation and ethical AI guidelines, are crucial. Media authentication frameworks and awareness campaigns empower individuals to discern real from synthetic content.
• Companies prioritize AI-driven cybersecurity to safeguard against deepfake threats. Proactive measures, like real-time breach detection and centralized understanding of the organization's baseline, maintain integrity and security.

ECI Software Solutions Announces New Alliance with Pros Elite Group to Elevate Business Analytics Capabilities in the Office Technology Industry

• ECI and Pros Elite collaborate to offer SMBs using e-automate® enhanced analytical capabilities through the PIVOT platform
• PIVOT enables businesses to analyze data from e-automate® to identify growth and profitability opportunities
• PIVOT monitors benchmarks specific to office technology companies, streamlining performance improvements
• DEX Imaging are already benefiting from PIVOT, improving service and financial performance
• e-automate® by ECI supports critical business processes, providing real-time visibility across various operations
• alliance aims to empower SMBs to remain competitive and achieve growth goals in a dynamic market
• Customers can securely share e-automate® data with PIVOT for comprehensive business analysis

With Print-Heavy Portfolio, Xerox Navigates Turbulent Waters

• Reported on Gurufocus.com
• Xerox's heavy reliance on the print segment poses substantial risks amid a mature and competitive industry facing secular decline
• Despite efforts to diversify into managed services and IT offerings, the core printer business continues to face headwinds, exacerbated by the shift toward remote work setups and supply challenges
• While contractual post-sale revenues have somewhat offset larger revenue declines, their diminishing nature leaves the company vulnerable in the long term

Cybersecurity Notes

• University of California San Diego Health notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after two email phishing attacks.
• Stanford University of California, which also operates healthcare facilities, notified 27,000 individuals that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center of Dallas, TX notified 2,094 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Stewart-Webster Hospital of Richland, Georgia most likely will be hit by a negligence HIPAA lawsuit after boxes of paper medical records were found discarded on the front lawn of the facility.
• Department of Developmental Services in Waltham, Massachusetts notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after paper medical records were left on the property.
• Jewish Home Lifecare of New York notified 501 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Lake of the Woods County Social Services of Minnesota notified 537 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Littleton Regional Healthcare of New Hampshire notified 12,614 patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attack.
• Rebound Orthopedics & Neurosurgery of Vancouver, WA notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• CCM Health of Montevideo, MN notified 29,182 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• University of Tennessee Health Science Center Physicians and Hospitals notified an unknown of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Orsini Pharmaceutical Services in Illinois notified 1,433 patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attack.
• MarineMax of Florida notified an unknown number of customers that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• KMJ Health Solutions of Michigan notified 2,191 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack
• Texas Health and Human Services Commission notified 3,392 patients that their PHI was exposed after being stolen by employee.

Scanner sales to grow

• Report published by Allied Market Research
• Desktop scanner market to grow to $8.7 billion by 2032
• CAGR (cumulative annual growth rate) of 5.7%

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

Managed Print Services revenue growth

• Research published by Maximize Market Research
• Managed print service market expected to reach $94.33 billion by 2029
• CAGR (cumulative annual growth rate) of 9.81%

Large format inkjet print sales growth

• Research published by MarketsandMarkets
• Large format color inkjet printer market expected to pass $10.4 billion in sales by 2028
• CAGR (cumulative annual growth rate) of 5%
• Driven by increasing need by applications in retail and interior design

Insight Named NVIDIA's 2024 Americas Software Partner of the Year

• Insight Enterprises awarded 2024 NVIDIA Partner Network (NPN) Americas Software Partner of the Year
• Recognized for exceptional work in assisting clients integrate AI into their business
• Elite NPN member, integrating NVIDIA AI into deep learning solutions for competitive advantage
• Offers AI Proof of Concept process through in-house Research & Innovation Hubs
• Holds NPN competencies in Compute, Networking, NVIDIA DGX AI Compute Systems, and NVIDIA AI
• Insight helps clients accelerate machine learning operations and automate AI workloads in enterprise applications
• NPN awards honor partners in various competencies and industries, including service delivery, data center networking, public sector, healthcare, and higher education
• Insight Enterprises, Inc. is a global Fortune 500 Solutions Integrator specializing in IT transformation
• Offers services in cloud, data, AI, cybersecurity, and intelligent edge

TPx's New Virtual Compliance Officer Solution Helps Companies Maintain Defensibility ...

• launches Virtual Compliance Officer solution as part of Security Advisory Services
• Aimed at helping companies manage information security compliance
• Solution offers comprehensive oversight of compliance and legal standards
• Reduces the risk of non-compliance with complex and ever-changing regulations
• Provides data-driven insights for real-time decision-making
• Budget-friendly offering for small- and mid-sized businesses

DYOPATH Ranked on CRN 2024 MSP 500 List

• DYOPATH named to CRN's MSP 500 list in the Elite 150 category for 2024
• CRN's MSP 500 list highlights top Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America
• Recognizes MSPs for enhancing efficiency, simplifying IT solutions, and optimizing ROI
• DYOPATH selected for its focus on large organizations and strategic partnerships, driving industry innovation

Konica Minolta Brings Enhanced Security and Improved Ease of Use to the Modern Workplace

• Next generation of Konica Minolta bizhub i-Series MFPs and SFPs announced
• Enhanced security features address concerns around print infrastructure security
• New Authentication Attack Detection function blocks unauthorized attempts
• Improved ease of use with intuitive user interface and expanded paper capacity

Ericsson Federal Technologies Group established in the U.S.

• Ericsson Federal Technologies Group established in the U.S.
• Aims to address specific needs of the federal market
• Provides tailored solutions and services for federal agencies
• Strengthens Ericsson's presence and commitment to the U.S. market

Microsoft to end print driver support

Reported by Tech Radar magazine

• Microsoft has stated it will no longer service third-party printer drivers on devices that use Windows OS, including Windows 11
• Will allow IPP Class Driver and Mopria-compliant print devices
• Will be supported instead of OEM drivers via Windows Update
• Printer/MFP manufacturers will not have to provide dedicated drivers
• Microsoft claims this will improve performance and reliability
• Mopria certification will be a mandatory requirement for HLK (hardware lab kit)
• Changes will take place over several years until 2027

M-Files Named Among KMWorld’s 2024 100 Companies That Matter in Knowledge Management

• M-Files Platform recognized among KMWorld's 100 Companies That Matter in Knowledge Management for 2024
• Acknowledged for pioneering solutions driving advancements in information management
• M-Files knowledge work automation platform empowers professionals to focus on core competencies
• Leveraging automation, machine learning, and AI to transform manual processes and improve efficiency

Sponsored by

March 10th, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

HP Introduces New Services and Software that Turbocharge Productivity and Accelerate a Circular Future

• Introduces WEX™, HP's first AI-enabled digital experience platform
• Announces new programs to extend the life of devices and to accelerate a circular economy
• Unveils new Managed Services offerings with tools and support needed for success
• Introduces new, simplified support packages for HP Support Services (formerly HP Active Care)

AUCloud launches managed cybersecurity packages - Security

• introduces three new Managed Cyber Security Packages, combining cybersecurity solutions and training
• • Microsoft 365 Protection & Backup package ensures continuous endpoint detection and automated backup
  • Essential Cyber Security Protection offers SOC, detection/response, and awareness training
  • Premium Cyber Security Protection includes essential features, plus Premium SOC, scanning, ACSC compliance, and consulting/training

InterVision Launches ConnectIV CX™ to Revolutionize Customer and Agent Experience

• ConnectIV CX, a revolutionary CCaaS solution for enhanced customer and employee experience
• Utilizes advanced AI and machine learning for real-time customer needs identification
• Offers flexible, scalable cloud solution with fully managed end-to-end CCaaS services.
• Powered by Amazon Connect, providing cost-effective, consumption-based pricing and enterprise-grade security.
• Reduces complexity by integrating contact center, telephony, AI, and managed services.
• Early adopters report increased satisfaction, higher sales, and reduced operational costs

Experis and ClearDATA Partner to Provide Clients with Top-Tier Healthcare Cloud Security ...

• partners with ClearDATA® to offer advanced cloud compliance and security for healthcare
• Clients gain access to ClearDATA's CyberHealth™ Platform and Managed Services, ensuring HITRUST certification and HIPAA compliance
• Advantages include specialized expertise in healthcare cloud solutions and reduced audit liabilities
• ClearDATA's platform prevents, detects, and remediates compliance drift and data security gap

Skyline Technology Solutions consolidates operations with 2 new leases at Aviation Business Park

• full-service IT company, signs two leases totaling nearly 45,000 square feet at Aviation Business Park.
• renews its 28,753-square-foot office lease and signs a new 16,001-square-foot flex/R&D lease within the same business park
• Skyline works with state departments of transportation nationwide, including Maryland, on highway video streaming systems

Rhodian Group Enhances Partnership with Catalyit

• Rhodian Group unveils new options and resources for Catalyit member agencies
• As a Catalyit Premium Solution Provider, Rhodian offers managed IT and cybersecurity services
• Catalyit members gain access to exclusive service packages and co-branded marketing collateral
• Rhodian helps businesses manage networks, reduce cybersecurity risks, and comply with regulations
• Catalyit's Solution Providers optimize agency systems and processes with technology

directprint.io to attend BrainStorm in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

• directprint.io to showcase cloud-based print management benefits at BrainStorm
• Exhibiting at BrainStorm from March 10 to March 12, 2024, in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
• BrainStorm facilitates exchange of ideas among education IT professionals and ed tech vendors
• directprint.io will demonstrate its SaaS serverless print management platform.
• CEO David Jenkins highlights the platform's ability to deploy, secure, control, and track print in the cloud.

Konica Minolta Partners with PEAC Solutions

• PEAC Solutions offers tailored sales support, rigorous credit underwriting, and comprehensive finance agreement management
• Financing initially available to select dealers, with opportunities for all to access improved pricing and leasing rates
• Program supports partners in Konica Minolta’s Rev’d Up Dealer Performance program.
• Michael Mathé emphasizes commitment to dealer network growth
• Partnership aims to accelerate growth, enhance industry prominence, and drive customer excellence
• Konica Minolta supports digital transformation through its Intelligent Connected Workplace portfolio

Konica Minolta Brings Enhanced Security and Improved Ease of Use to the Modern Workplace

• introduces successors to its award-winning bizhub i-Series multifunctional printers (MFP) and single function printers (SFP)
• new devices prioritize ease of use and address workplace security concerns with advanced firmware upgrades
• "Authentication Attack Detection" function blocks unauthorized attempts, enhancing security against brute force attacks
• BitDefender protection adds layers of security, preventing malware spread and notifying administrators of threats
• Connectivity options include Microsoft Azure and Google Workspace, with single sign-on (SSO)
• The bizhub 1 Series includes eight A4 devices, covering color and monochrome options

Cybersecurity Notes

• Cybereason published new report on ransomware:
• • 56% of organizations have suffered more than one ransomware attack
  • 78% who paid ransom, suffered a second attack
  • 63% of those hit by second ransomware attack, were hit by higher ransom demands
  • 42% of second ransomware attacks were causes by different hacking group
  • 47% of those who paid ransom were able to recover all of their files
  • 84% pay the ransom
  • $1.4 million = average ransom demand from hackers46% of ransomware victims had total costs between $1 million and $10 million
    • 16% lost more than $10 million
  • 56% of ransomware victims believe hackers were inside network at last 12 months before ransomware deployed
• Empress Ambulance Service of New York agreed to pay $1.05 million to settle allegations of negligence after a cyber attack exposed 318,558 patients’ PHI. (protected health information)
• The BlackCat ransomware group of Russia is taking credit for the attack on Change Healthcare, a division of United Healthcare Insurance, which has impacted healthcare organizations’ prescription systems across the US.
• Maryville Addiction Centers of New Jersey notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack
• US restaurant chain Golden Corral, headquartered in Fayetteville, North Carolina, notified 183,000 customers that their info was exposed after cyber attack
• Cencora Pharmaceutical Solutions, headquartered in Pennsylvania, notified an unknown number of people that their info may have been exposed after cyber attack
• Zalkin Law Firm of San Diego, CA, has been sued for alleged negligence after a cyber attack resulted in exposure of info of 523 sexual abuse victims
• Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, IL announced that the hacker that hit the hospital with ransomware is now threatening to post the PHI of all of its patients on the Internet if the $3.4 million ransom is not paid

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

Sharp Business Systems Named to CRN's MSP 500 List

• named to CRN's MSP 500 list in the Elite 150 category for 2024.
• list recognizes top Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in North America, supporting businesses with managed services to enhance efficiency and simplify IT solutions
• Sharp selected for its robust portfolio of managed IT services, leveraging partnerships with technology companies to deliver optimal solutions
• MSP 500 list includes categories such as MSP Pioneer 250, MSP Elite 150, and Managed Security 100, with SBS being part of the MSP Elite 150

Leading MSP Compliance Program Releases Easy to Use Compliance Tools for MSPs ...

• announces enhancements to its Cyber Verify compliance program for MSPs and cloud providers
• aims to help MSPs achieve compliance, improve cybersecurity, and deliver Compliance as a Service solutions
• New features for 2024 include Cyber Verify Assessment Tool, Multi-Tenant and MSP Managed Controls, Built-in CaaS and vCIO Support, Updated Framework Mappings, ESP Tracking and Risk Management, and White Labeling.
• Compliance as a Service enhancements introduce a Managed Control system for seamless integration of end-user customer controls with MSP-delivered controls.
• MSPAlliance® remains committed to advancing MSPs and cloud providers with state-of-the-art tools and resources for compliance excellence

Dell Technologies and CrowdStrike Expand Partnership Delivering ..

• Dell and CrowdStrike announce expanded partnership to deliver Dell's Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services with CrowdStrike Falcon XDR platform
• Aim is to address complex cyber threats with holistic managed security solution
• Combines Dell's security operations expertise with CrowdStrike's Falcon platform for security across multi-cloud environments
• Provides scalable, outcome-based security solutions to stay ahead of sophisticated threats
• Available globally through direct solution and channel partners

Lexmark has security issues

• ITNews magazine published article warning that more than 150 models of Lexmark printers/MFPs now need a firmware update to fix 4 new security vulnerabilities
• Lexmark is a division of Ninestar of China
• Trend Micro was first to report on the issues
• Could allow a hacker to perform a remote code execution
• Hackers could run arbitrary code

Adobe to add AI to PDFs

• Adobe Corp. announced it has introduced a beta version of “AI Assistant”
• New generative AI-powered engine in Adobe Reader and Acrobat featuring:
• • Generates summaries and insights from documents
  • Answers questions
  • Formats information for sharing in emails, reports and presentations
  • Scan, summarize and distribute meeting highlights in seconds
  • Subscription pricing not announced

Sponsored by

March 3rd, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Partners Plus Expands Its Managed IT Services With A New Office In Middletown, DE

• Partners Plus, a provider of Managed IT services, has opened a new office in Middletown, DE.
• aims to bridge technological gaps by offering services like cybersecurity measures, cloud computing, and comprehensive IT support
• new office signifies a strategic move to bring IT support and services closer to local enterprises

Kyndryl named a Leader in IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Managed Public Cloud Services 2023

• named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Managed Public Cloud Services 2023 Vendor Assessment
• report evaluated 18 managed service providers focusing on digitally modernizing businesses and driving growth
• Kyndryl exceeded market standards by offering hybrid cloud solutions, FinOps, SRE, deploying various software technologies, and establishing partnerships with major public cloud providers

BCA IT, Inc. Distinguished as a Leader on CRN's Elite 150 Managed Service Providers List

• included in CRN's Elite 150 category of the 2024 MSP 500 list, showcasing excellence in IT and cybersecurity solutions
• CRN identifies top North American MSPs with innovative approaches to managed services, highlighting large, data-focused MSPs excelling in on-premises and off-premises services
• BCA IT, Inc. offers IT network services including managed IT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing
• Kenneth Henao, President of BCA IT Inc., expresses gratitude for the team's achievement, emphasizing dedication to high-quality services and solutions

Ricoh becoming a digital services firm, seeking "Fulfillment through Work"

• transitions from a premium manufacturer of office equipment to an integrated digital service provider, adapting to the changing workplace landscape
• focuses on IT services, business process automation, and communication services to enhance productivity and creativity in the workplace
• Akira Oyama emphasizes digital solutions' role in addressing modern business challenges, especially during the COVID-19 era
• Serving diverse customers, Ricoh tailors solutions for SMBs facing labor shortages and digital disparities
• Prioritizing software and cloud tech, Ricoh aims for continuous improvement

Eric Sugar, President at ProServeIT - AI-Tech Interview

• Recent interview reported on ai-techpark.com
• Eric Sugar, President at ProServeIT, guides clients in leveraging technology for business growth
• Assumes all users and devices are untrustworthy until verified, emphasizing strict identity verification and network segmentation
• Organizations must implement strict access controls regardless of location to mitigate cybersecurity risks effectively

Fulcrum IT Partners Prioritizes Business Resilience, Partners with SPECTRA to Introduce ...

• introduces SPECTRA, offering Cyber Risk Management Solutions and Warranties to Private and Public Sectors
• Kelly Carter stresses the importance of cyber risk management and customer confidence
• Fulcrum's solutions debut in the UK under the TIEVA MSP brand, offering assurance to business leaders
• Fulcrum's solutions include cash refunds and payments up to $1,000,000 for impacted services

Cybersecurity Notes

• CrowdStrike Security reports a 312% increase in use of remote monitoring and management tools by adversaries in 2023
• • Malware-free hacking attacks are up 75% YoY
  • 75% increase in cloud storage intrusions
• UVM Health Network in Burlington, Vermont admitted that the total cost of a ransomware attack was $65 million.
• Green Ridge Behavioral Health of Maryland agreed to pay $40,000 to settle allegations of negligence after a ransomware attack exposed PHI of 14,000 patients
• American Vision Partners, headquartered in Arizona, notified 2.4 million patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack
• The FBI announced it has shut down 14,000 email accounts that are apparently linked to LockBit ransomware group.
• Lexington Medical Center of West Columbia, South Carolina notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attack.
• Vyacheslav Punchukov, a Russian hacker, was arrested when he was on vacation in Switzerland, and was extradited to the U.S., and faces up to 20 years in prison for his crimes.
• Arctic Wolf Security published report:
• Wyze Home Security notified its customers that a “glitch” in its home security cameras allows users to catch glimpses inside strangers’ homes
• Change Healthcare, a prescription processor and a division of United Healthcare Insurance, notified an unknown number of customers and patients that their PHI may have been exposed after cyber attack.
• AT&T had many of its smartphone cell service customers impacted this past Thursday by a service outage

Fortra Brings Managed Extended Detection and Response (XDR) to Market

• introduces Fortra Extended Detection and Response (XDR), a managed service solution for comprehensive security coverage
• XDR combines advanced technology with security experts for tailored security outcomes
• XDR enables automated response actions and host isolation for enhanced security strategy efficiency
• XDR combines advanced technology with security experts for tailored security outcomes

Syncro Announces Seasoned MSP Leader Michael George as CEO

• appoints Michael George as CEO to drive innovation and growth for its MSP platform
• Syncro is a Seattle-based B2B SaaS company offering an all-in-one PSA and RMM platform for MSPs
• Michael George, with extensive technology leadership experience, will lead Syncro's growth
• George, former CEO of Continuum, drove significant growth in the managed IT services industry

NetGain Technologies Recognized as Top Managed Service Provider on CRN's MSP 500 List

• recognized as a top Managed Service Provider on CRN's MSP 500 List
• acknowledged for its excellence in managed services by CRN, a prominent media brand
• CRN's MSP 500 List signifies NetGain Technologies' commitment to providing top-tier managed services
• CRN's MSP 500 List identifies leading managed service providers who demonstrate excellence in delivering managed IT services to clients

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

KEENON Robotics and Konica Minolta Business Solutions (HK) Ltd. Join Hands to Introduce Advanced Service Robotics in Hong Kong and Macau

• KEENON Robotics partners with Konica Minolta Business Solutions (HK) Ltd. to introduce service robots in Hong Kong and Macau, including the DINERBOT T10
• Konica Minolta becomes the exclusive distributor for KEENON's indoor delivery robots, addressing automation needs across industries
• partnership expands KEENON's reach, bringing cutting-edge robotics to enhance customer experiences
• DINERBOT T10 offers efficiency with a large-capacity tray, motion control, and customizable head accessories

Konica Minolta Recognized on CRN’s 2024 MSP 500 List

• listed on CRN's MSP 500 list in the MSP Elite 150 category for 2024, marking its ninth inclusion
• list acknowledges the crucial role of MSPs in supporting businesses through managed services, optimizing IT solutions, and enhancing ROI
• Konica Minolta offers IT services, including network design, helpdesk support, and IT security, tailored to meet diverse business needs
• MSP 500 list showcases service providers driving growth and innovation in the industry, enabling businesses to optimize IT budgets and focus on core objectives

Xerox to deploy Verizon Network as a Service Solutions framework for IT modernization

• Accelerates Xerox's Reinvention through Verizon's NaaS Solutions framework
• Verizon Business aims to empower customers in the digital age with flexibility and scalability
• Xerox's Focus: Simplifying systems for enterprise-wide efficiency and scalability, with Verizon's NaaS as global network infrastructure
• Subscription Model: Enables strategic resource allocation without substantial upfront investments, driving Xerox's network transformation

Upland Software reports quarterly earnings

• Total revenue down 8% to $72.2 million
• Subscription and support revenue down 8% to $68.2 million
• GAAP net loss was $16 million
• (provider of solutions such as; Interfax, FileBound ECM, PlanetPress, etc.)

Equipment leasing in January

• Report published by Equipment Leasing and Finance Association
• Companies borrowed 6% more to finance equipment investments YoY
• Signed up for new loans, leases and lines of credit worth $9.3 billion, down 26%
• Credit approvals = 76%

CrowdStrike and Ignition Technology Partner to Address UK Market Cybersecurity Demand

• partners with Ignition Technology as a strategic distribution partner in the UK to increase availability of the CrowdStrike XDR Falcon platform
• Ignition Technology's SaaS cybersecurity focus and market-leading partner network complement CrowdStrike's industry-leading Falcon platform to address growing cybersecurity demand in the UK

Radware Drives New Revenue Streams for Managed Security Service Providers

• Offers MSSPs flexible options to extend managed security services, driving new revenue streams and business growth
• can rebrand and resell Radware's Cloud DDoS Protection and Cloud Application Protection Services to defend against cyber threats
• providers like US Signal are leveraging Radware's program to enhance cyber defense portfolios and customer experiences
• security solutions use AI algorithms to protect user experiences while reducing false positives

Sponsored by

February 18th, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

AI Growth And Acquisitions Ahead: Fulcrum IT Partners Aims To Hit $2B Sales Target In 2024

• Reported on CRNNEWS.com
• Fulcrum IT Partners targeting $2 billion in sales in 2024
• Plans to grow through acquisitions and organic expansion
• Focus on artificial intelligence (AI) solutions and services
• Emphasis on cybersecurity, cloud computing, and managed services
• Aims to become a top player in the IT channel industry
• Anticipates strong demand for AI-driven technologies
• Strategy involves identifying complementary companies for acquisition
• Plans to leverage expertise in AI to drive growth and innovation
• Commitment to delivering value-added solutions to customers
• Confidence in achieving ambitious sales target through strategic initiatives

TeamLogic IT Selects NinjaOne to Manage More Than 100,000 Endpoints

• NinjaOne selected as endpoint management platform for TeamLogic IT
• TeamLogic IT to streamline remote management of over 100,000 endpoints
• NinjaOne automates critical tasks including patch management, software deployment, monitoring, alerting, proactive remediation, and secure remote access
• NinjaOne serves over 17,000 customers, including dozens of enterprise organizations managing more than 50,000 endpoints each
• TeamLogic IT provides advanced technology solutions including managed IT services, cybersecurity, business continuity, cloud services, data/voice/connectivity, and consulting/support to companies of all sizes
• With nearly 300 locations across North America, TeamLogic IT helps companies minimize downtime, improve productivity, and secure their IT infrastructure

Buchanan Technologies Recognized on CRN's 2024 MSP 500 List

• Buchanan Technologies named to CRN's MSP 500 list in the Elite 150 category for 2024
• CRN's MSP 500 list recognizes top Managed Service Providers in North America
• Divided into three sections: MSP Pioneer 250, MSP Elite 150, and Managed Security 100
• Aimed at showcasing MSPs driving growth and innovation in the industry
• Buchanan Technologies serves midsize, enterprise, and Fortune 100 companies worldwide with comprehensive IT solutions
• MSP 500 list will be featured in the February 2024 issue of CRN and online
• Established in 1988, Buchanan Technologies offers innovative IT services to organizations across the United States, Canada, and Europe
• Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance through media, events, consulting, education, and marketing services

What are Managed Security Services (MSS)?

• Managed security services include 24/7 monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and remediation
• CrowdStrike's managed security services leverage the Falcon platform, powered by artificial intelligence and threat intelligence, to identify and stop threats in real-time
• Managed security services help organizations enhance their cybersecurity posture, reduce risk, and improve overall security resilience.
• CrowdStrike's team of experts provides proactive threat hunting and analysis to identify and mitigate potential security breaches
• Managed security services are tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of each organization, providing customized protection against evolving cyber threats
• CrowdStrike's managed security services, organizations can focus on their core business activities while having confidence in their cybersecurity defenses

Cybersecurity Notes

• Northern Light Health System of Maine notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI may have been exposed after cyber attack
• Equilend Holdings Corp. of New York City, NY notified an unknown number of clients that their info may have been exposed after ransomware attack.
• Hewlett Packard Enterprise, headquartered in Houston, TX, notified an unknown number of customers that their info may have been exposed after another ransomware attack.
• US Fertility LLC, the operator of more than 100 fertility clinics across the United States, has proposed a $5.75 million settlement to resolve a class action lawsuit that was filed in response to a data breach that exposed the data of around 900,000 patients.
• Verizon notified 63,000 employees that their info was exposed after a recent cyber attack
• Adena Health of Chillicothe, Ohio, was hit by a lawsuit alleging negligence after a cyber attack that exposed PHI of a number of patients.
• Maricopa Community Colleges of Arizona reported yet another cyber attack breach that exposed an unknown number of students identities

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

Managed print services to grow

• Report from Reliable Research Reports
• Expected to reach $61.4 billion by 2026
• CAGR (cumulative annual growth rate) of 8%

ChatGPT vs. Copilot: Which AI chatbot is better for you?

• CoPilot: CoPilot is an AI model designed to assist developers in writing code
• ChatGPT: ChatGPT, on the other hand, is an AI model primarily focused on generating human-like text based on the input it receives

Konica Minolta Launches Next Evolution of Workflow Automation with Dispatcher Stratus

• launches Dispatcher Stratus, a new cloud service offering people-based document processing for businesses of all sizes.
• integrates powerful automation capabilities with intelligent collaboration features to streamline workflows and increase interactivity.
• Features include scan capture, automated document processing, and people-to-people collaboration, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
• Manuel Couceiro, Vice President of Solutions Engineering Center at Konica Minolta, emphasizes the importance of automating and streamlining communication processes
• utilizes robotic process automation (RPA), machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI) to grant organizations flexibility in implementing total process automation

Small businesses lack printer/MFP security

• Survey published by Sharp, a division of Foxconn
• 33% of small business owners admit to have no security measures at all for printers/MFPs
• 16% admit to being impacted by a printer/MFP breach
• 23% educate employees about printer/MFP security

C-suite Guide to Responsible AI: Navigating Ethics for Success

• Artificial intelligence (AI) revolutionizes businesses by analyzing data, making predictions, and automating processes.
• Increasing AI usage brings ethical concerns, requiring chief information officers (CIOs) to be vigilant and address biases.
• IT professionals must adopt a process-driven approach to develop unbiased AI systems.
• article provides an overview of AI ethics, highlighting its impact on CIOs and their role in the business landscape.
• Companies aim to drive automation and data-driven decision-making but may face unintended consequences without proper rules and regulations.
• New guidelines, backed by primary research, address ethical concerns in AI implementation.
• Leading IT companies and industries using AI take interest in shaping ethical standards to uphold integrity.
• Neglecting ethical considerations in AI can lead to legal, regulatory, reputational, and financial repercussions.

CrowdStrike and Ignition Technology Partner to Address UK Market Cybersecurity Demand

• partners with Ignition Technology as a strategic distribution partner in the UK to increase availability of the CrowdStrike XDR Falcon platform
• Ignition Technology's SaaS cybersecurity focus and market-leading partner network complement CrowdStrike's industry-leading Falcon platform to address growing cybersecurity demand in the UK
• aims to provide customers and partners access to the industry's best security platform, stopping breaches and accelerating sales
• emphasizes commitment to working with strategic partners like Ignition Technology to deliver differentiated customer success and market expertise

TPx Recognized on CRN's 2024 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 List

• TPx, named to CRN's Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Elite 150 category for 2024.
• marks the seventh consecutive year TPx has been recognized in the Elite 150 category.
• Elite 150 category acknowledges large MSPs with a focus on data centers and a strong mix of on- and off-premises services.
• MSP 500 list aims to recognize MSPs driving growth and innovation in the industry, enabling businesses to focus on core goals without stretching financial resources.
• TPx, founded in 1998, offers comprehensive managed IT services including internet, networks, cybersecurity, and cloud communications.
• Channel Company, which compiles the MSP 500 list, aims to empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users through media, events, consulting, education, and marketing services.

IT Weapons Secures Coveted Spot Among Canada's Top 50 Best-Managed IT Companies

• secures a coveted spot among Canada's Top 50 Best-Managed IT Companies
• recognition highlights IT Weapons' commitment to excellence and innovation in delivering IT solutions and services
• one of Canada's top managed IT services providers, IT Weapons offers a wide range of services, including cybersecurity, cloud solutions, managed infrastructure, and consulting services
• company's dedication to providing exceptional service and value to its clients has contributed to its success and recognition in the industry
• IT Weapons' inclusion in the Top 50 Best-Managed IT Companies list underscores its reputation for delivering high-quality IT solutions and services to businesses across Canada

Align Recognized on CRN's 2024 MSP 500 List in the Pioneer 250 Category

• named to CRN's Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer 250 category for 2024.
• CRN's MSP 500 list recognizes leading North American solution providers demonstrating innovative and forward-thinking approaches to managed services.
• MSP 500 list is divided into three sections: MSP Pioneer 250, MSP Elite 150, and Managed Security 100, acknowledging companies with different business models and focuses
• recognized on the MSP 500 list every year since 2014, marking its 11th consecutive list feature
• Channel Company, compiles the MSP 500 list, aims to enable breakthrough IT channel performance through media, events, consulting, education, and marketing services

PaperCut attains ISO 27001 certification

• announced its attainment of the respected ISO 27001 Certification, confirming compliance with internationally recognized standards for information security best practices.
• ISO 27001 standard defines requirements that an Information Security Management System (ISMS) must meet, providing guidance for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system
• Conformity with ISO 27001 indicates that an organization has implemented a system to manage risks related to the security of data owned or handled by the company, adhering to best practices and principles outlined in the International Standard

Sponsored by

January 28th, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

How IT Managed Services Can Boost Your Company's Productivity

• Enhance Security and Compliance:
• • Stringent security procedures and adherence to industry regulations ensure data protection
  • Regular maintenance inspections prevent vulnerabilities and enhance client confidence and loyalty
• Booting Competency and Efficiency:
• • Automation of repetitive tasks streamlines business operations
  • Access to seasoned experts through managed services enables swift and effective innovation implementation
  • Proactive solutions minimize interruptions, keeping your business ahead of the competition
• Availability of Up-to-Date Technology:
• • Access to cutting-edge technologies gives a competitive advantage
  • Customizable solutions meet specific business needs, accelerating the digital transformation process

Another Stellar Year for TeamLogic IT -- Managed IT Services Franchise Receives Numerous ...

• Ended 2023 with 17% increase in annual networkwide revenues
• Outperformed the managed services provider industry average growth of 12.5%
• Recognized, #1 IT Services franchise in Entrepreneur magazine's 2024 Franchise 500
• Ranked No. 7 on the Orange County Business Journal's list of "Fastest-Growing Large Private Companies" in Orange County, California, with 56% revenue growth over the past two years
• Secured No. 279 position on the 2023 Franchise Times Top 400 list, which ranks the largest U.S.-based franchise systems by global systemwide sales
• Credits strong network of TeamLogic IT franchisees for the company's recognition as a leader in the managed services provider (MSP) industry
• TeamLogic IT as a national provider of advanced technology solutions catering to companies of all sizes

Rhodian Group Partners with Renaissance Alliance

• partnership aims to offer cybersecurity, managed IT, and compliance services to agencies in the insurance, banking, healthcare, private equity, and other industries
• Rhodian will offer managed IT services to Renaissance member agencies, including services with and without virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI)
• Cybersecurity tools and services, as well as assistance with cyber policy, will be provided
• Rhodian's cybersecurity services include vulnerability scanning, risk assessments, and incident response

Flexential Named Managed Service Provider of the Year, North America in Wasabi Partner ...

• Recognizes large year-over-year revenue growth, services capabilities, and overall partnership with Wasabi
• Flexential's Position:
• • Leading provider of secure and scalable data center solutions
  • FlexAnywhere platform offers colocation, cloud, interconnection, data protection, and professional services, tailored to diverse customer needs
• Flexential customers use Wasabi storage for secure off-site backup, long-term archiving (including compliance retention), and reliable back-end storage

AITech Interview with Elad Inbar, Founder and CEO at RobotLAB

• How has the perception and utility of robots changed over the years?
• • Elad Inbar's lifelong love for robots has shaped his career and entrepreneurial ventures
  • Regular visits to Taiwan's electronics markets reflect Elad's ongoing interest in sensor, motor, and controller board developments
  • rise of "connected toys" post-iPhone (2007) sparked Elad's interest, opening up possibilities for smartphone-enabled robotics
  • Necessity-driven robot building underscores Elad's hands-on and problem-solving approach to fill gaps in product availability

From Man to Machine: Robots Reimagine the Executive Playbook

• Clear Communication:
• • Use concise and effective language
  • Ensure your message is easily understandable
• Time Management:
• • Prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines
  • Set realistic goals and deadlines.
• Critical Thinking:
• • Analyze situations and information objectively
  • Make informed decisions based on evidence

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal proces

Americas Demand for IT, Business Services Slows in Q4, Amid Economic Concerns, ISG Index™ Finds

• Demand for IT and business services in the Americas decreased in the fourth quarter.
• Economic and geopolitical concerns contributed to a 5% YoY decline in the Americas ISG Index™, reaching $11.8 billion in Q4.
• Managed services ACV in Q4 was $5.2 billion, up 5% YoY but down 13% sequentially

• Managed Services
• • Contract restructurings were a significant driver, with ACV reaching $2.5 billion, the highest quarterly level ever
  • ITO ACV rose 23%, driven by strong demand for applications and data center services, while BPO ACV fell 31%
  • A total of 348 contracts were awarded in Q4, driven by contract restructurings
• Xaas
• • ACV for XaaS was down 12% in Q4, totaling $6.5 billion
  • IaaS ACV was down 18% YoY, reaching $4.0 billion, while SaaS saw a 1% increase to $2.5 billion
  • XaaS represents 55% of combined market ACV, down from 61% a year ago

Sherweb offers Managed Service Providers enhanced cybersecurity powered by AI with SentinelOne®

• introduces SentinelOne, a global AI security leader, in its marketplace

• Sets new cybersecurity standard using AI
• Autonomous platform ensures enterprise-wide threat protection
• Simplifies threat monitoring and management for MSPs
• SentinelOne’s solutions now accessible through Sherweb’s marketplace
• Partnership aims to drive meaningful growth for MSPs

Box Acquires Crooze to Transform Enterprise Content Management with AI and Metadata-Powered Applications

• acquired Crooze, a no-code enterprise content management applications provider on the Box Platform
• will integrate Crooze's team and technology, including its no-code app builder and metadata capabilities, to enhance business-critical processes such as contract lifecycle management and digital asset management
• acquisition aims to modernize enterprise content management (ECM) and leverage AI for improved content management in the cloud
• Crooze provides a no-code builder, extensive metadata tools, customized dashboards, forms, document generation capabilities, and integration with Box Relay for automated content workflows
• According to IDC, the worldwide content services applications market, including ECM, is expected to grow from $15.1 billion in 2022 to $23.8 billion in 2027 at a CAGR of 9.6%

Ricoh on ‘lack of technology adoption'

• reported on print monthly.co.uk
• Chancellor Jeremy Hunt emphasizes the need for combining the UK's startup culture with the productivity of Germany and the US to enhance overall performance
• 15% productivity gap with Germany, attributing it to Germany's higher investment in plant and machinery per worker
• findings reveal that 85% of UK businesses were not utilizing AI in December 2023, and 83% had no immediate plans to adopt AI in the near future
• Despite hosting the AI Safety Summit in November 2023 to position the UK as an AI innovation leader, the adoption gap raises doubts about the pace of integration
• Ricoh Europe research shows a misalignment between employee expectations of workplace technology and the actual technological provisions by employer
• In the printing industry, 77% express the desire to automate for efficiency, but 52% still operate on legacy or manual systems, highlighting a significant automation gap

Sponsored by

January 22nd, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

CrowdStrike Recognized by Global Governments for Compliance Standards

• Completed the IRAP (Australian InfoSec Registered Assessors Program) and TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) assessments
• Previously certified by the Spanish National Cryptologic Center (CCN) and received Impact Level 5 (IL5) authorization from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
• Certifications expand access to CrowdStrike's AI-native Falcon XDR Platform.
• Focus on providing leading protection to more organizations across the Australian government and the European automotive supply chain

"Navigating the IT Landscape in 2024: Key Insights from the State of IT Report"

• reported on Spiceworks
• Investment Trends:
  • 66% plan increased IT investments
  • 4% anticipate a decrease, 30% expect no change
  • Optimism prevails despite economic challenges
• Strategic Focus:
  • IT crucial for achieving organizational goals and managing risks
• Spending Categories
  • Assessed across eight categories, including hardware, software, and cloud services
• Challenges for ITDMs:
  • Decision-makers face complexity amid economic instability
  • Budget flexibility requires careful decision-making
• Technology Approaches:
  • Over 95% prefer a mix-and-match infrastructure approach
  • Less than 5% choose entirely in-house or outsourced strategies

• Impact of Cloud-Based Strategies:
• • Cloud strategies increasing but balanced with in-house importance.
  • Outsourced/in-house ratio is 40%, challenging one-size-fits-all cloud perceptions.
• Organization-Specific Decision-Making:
• • 'Right' technology decisions vary based on organization size, budget, and strategy.
  • Tailored approaches are essential

Verinext Names Matt Bynum, Senior Vice President, Managed Services

• appointed Matt Bynum as Senior Vice President, Managed Services
• is returning to Verinext after serving as a solutions architecture leader at Amazon Web Services for nearly two years
• Bynum will lead the Verinext managed services team to ensure effective delivery and accelerate customer adoption

AITech Interview with Arun Shrestha, Co-founder and CEO at BeyondID

• Over 20 years of experience building and leading enterprise software and services companies.
• Committed to partnering with customers for strategizing and deploying cutting-edge technology
• Career spanning over a decade supporting enterprise customers.
• Evolution from client/server architecture to Web 1.0, Web 2.0 (Service Oriented Architecture), and now toward Web 3.0
• Emphasis on app-to-app integration, APIs, and cloud-based services, including digital identities supported by Okta
• Adopt Zero Trust services as a fundamental principle for security planning and implementation

Aligning AI with Humanity: A Roadmap for Responsible Development

• AI is expected to enhance our lives in areas such as safe mobility and time-saving tasks, possibly reaching human-level performance
• crucial for business leaders to ensure AI aligns with human intent and product promises
• Clear rules for AI learning are crucial, and failure to express them may lead to disappointment in AI potential
• Recognizing the fast-changing world, shaping data with evolving expectations in mind informs AI products

Konica Minolta Delivers Layered Security Approach and Solutions for MFP Clients

• overview of Konica Minolta's dedication to ensuring the security of MFPs
• Emphasis on the importance of a layered security approach in the context of multifunction printers
• Explanation of secure printing features to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive documents
• Document management solutions to control and monitor the flow of information within organizations

Fulcrum IT Partners Outlines Expansion Strategy for 2024

• making significant investments, forming partnerships, and alliances in 2024
• plan aims to enhance business outcomes and value for Fulcrum customers by providing flexible, expansive, and secure managed IT services, particularly focusing on Microsoft solutions
• Acquisition of PayiQ to deliver data-driven insights to retail customers, focusing on understanding customer behavior, cryptocurrencies, and touchless payments
• Acquisition of Razor, a private AI-as-a-service provider specializing in data and AI for Retail, Healthcare, and Manufacturing, leveraging Microsoft and DataQI Generative AI

WidePoint Awarded More than $70.3 Million in IT and Security Services Contracts During Q4 2023

• Wins include $64.9 million in new business, $1.3 million in commercial contracts, and $69 million in government contracts
• Federal contracts involve key agencies such as DHS, Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Courts, FEMA, and HHS.
• signed contracts in Telecom Expense Management and MMS with a major airline, and multi-year MPS contracts with healthcare and bottling enterprises

Cybersecurity Notes

• Refuah Health Center of New York agreed to pay a $450,000 fine and spend $1.2 million on cybersecurity solutions to settle allegations of negligence after a ransomware attack.
• Capital Health of Trenton, NJ is reporting that the LockBit ransomware gang claims to have stolen 7 terabytes worth of PHI, which it could resell for as much as $250,000.
• The Folek Centers of Virginia notified 6,965 dental patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attacks.
• Mountain Dermatology Specialists of Colorado notified 2,705 patients that their PHI was exposed after email phishing attacks.
• Lone Peak Physical Therapy of Montana notified 5,809 patients that their PHI was exposed after paper medical records and laptop computers.
• First Choice Dental locations in Wisconsin notified 1,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health of Missouri notified 502,438 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Salem Community Hospital/Regional Medical Center of Salem, Ohio notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Northwell Health of New York has notified 3,891,565 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Mercy Medical Center of Iowa notified 97,132 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Cook County Health of Illinois notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Crouse Health of Syracuse, NY notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• ProSmile Holdings of New Jersey notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Bosch Corp. notified customers in automotive industry of its Roxroth pneumatic torque wrenches that the devices could be exploited by hackers.
• LoanDepot, headquartered in Irvine, CA, notified an unknown number of customers that their info may have been exposed after ransomware attack.
• Mark Kevin Robinson, former VP of Commonwealth Health of Kentucky was sentenced to 2 years probation and $140,000 fine for illegally sharing PHI with a software vendor.
• Novant Health of Winston-Salem, North Carolina agreed to pay $6.6 million to settle allegations of negligence after HIPAA breach.
• The Erie VA Medical Center notified 2,380 patients that their PHI was exposed after mailing error.
• HMG Healthcare, headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI after cyber attack.
• Family Healthcare of North Dakota notified 53,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal proces

Digitech Systems Recognized as Outstanding Cloud Information Management System

• Digitech Systems' ImageSilo received Buyers Lab (BLI) 2024 Pick Award as Outstanding Cloud Information Management System
• praised for easy implementation, lower costs, simple setup, superb cybersecurity, and powerful workflow engine that doesn't require coding
• ImageSilo, launched in 1999 as the world's first cloud-based enterprise content management service, continues to uphold traditions of information security, process automation, and safe document collaboration

Ricoh on ‘lack of technology adoption'

• reported on print monthly.co.uk
• Chancellor Jeremy Hunt emphasizes the need for combining the UK's startup culture with the productivity of Germany and the US to enhance overall performance
• 15% productivity gap with Germany, attributing it to Germany's higher investment in plant and machinery per worker
• findings reveal that 85% of UK businesses were not utilizing AI in December 2023, and 83% had no immediate plans to adopt AI in the near future
• Despite hosting the AI Safety Summit in November 2023 to position the UK as an AI innovation leader, the adoption gap raises doubts about the pace of integration
• Ricoh Europe research shows a misalignment between employee expectations of workplace technology and the actual technological provisions by employer
• In the printing industry, 77% express the desire to automate for efficiency, but 52% still operate on legacy or manual systems, highlighting a significant automation gap

HP sued for preventing non-OEM supplies

• Lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois
• Seeks an injunction against HP requiring the company to disable its printer firmware updates from preventing the use of non-HP branded supplies
• Also seeks monetary damages greater than $5 million

AI Adoption to Drive Revenue: 88% of Business Leaders Set to Prioritize

• 56% of global business leaders express confidence in future growth, up from 42% a year ago
• Focus on customer experience, innovation, talent, sustainability, and supply chains for increased investment
• 88% of leaders plan to invest in AI and generative AI for innovation and revenue growth
• AI expected to play a significant role in critical decision-making in the next five years
• Life sciences lead in AI adoption, with nearly half of critical decision-making supported by AI in five years
• 61% of leaders consider cybersecurity threats a risk to business growth, up from 39% in 2023

Sponsored by

January 15th, 2024

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Touch7 Announces Full Compliance with Adobe Creative Cloud 2024

• Touch7 Color System is now fully compliant with Adobe Creative Cloud 2024.
• Graphic designers and printers can easily add neon and pastel colors to designs using Touch7, with just a few clicks.
• Color-Logic develops color communication systems and software tool sets for special effect printing applications, providing brand owners and designers the ability to differentiate themselves with dynamic print results.

Lexmark Leaps Into NRF 2024 With New Connected Retail Solution That Delivers Personalized Content for Retailers

• Lexmark to showcase retail-ready printers and solutions at NRF 2024 from Jan. 14 to 16 in New York at booth #5810.
• Featured product: Lexmark Engagement Automation Platform (LEAP) enables retailers to drive sales and foot traffic through hyper-localized social media ads.
• LEAP supports retailers with engagement, automation, and loyalty applications for personalized promotions and offers.
• Other offerings at NRF include solutions for control and visibility with a single signage platform, customer attraction and engagement, retail-rugged devices, cloud-based savings, and environmentally sustainable technologies.
• Lexmark focuses on creating cloud-enabled imaging and IoT technologies to transform information into insights and drive business outcomes.

SentinelOne® Positioned as a Leader in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms for Third Consecutive Year

• SentinelOne is a three-time Leader in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms, showcasing its consistent leadership.
• Company invests in AI-powered security technology to tackle complex threats and protect against an expanding attack surface.
• Singularity Platform provides top-notch endpoint protection, covering endpoints, cloud, data, and identity. It includes AI-powered detections, autonomous controls, and proactive security management.
• With over 1,460 positive reviews on Gartner Peer Insights, SentinelOne is highly rated for its proactive threat prevention, machine learning algorithms, and automation capabilities.

Codestone recognized as a Top 50 Managed IT Service Provider

• Named industry leader for Cloud and Managed Services, enhancing the company's collection of industry accolades.
• Achieved #1 EMEA/UK Partner for SAP, Microsoft Gold Partner with multiple accreditations, and other specialist designations, showcasing versatility.
• Underwent a rigorous assessment in twelve crucial business areas, reflecting a commitment to excellence and precision scoring by a Business Intelligence AI algorithm.
• Emphasized dedication to customer service excellence, with plans for further enhancements in 2024, demonstrating a customer-focused approach.

Magna5 Highlights Strong 2023 Results as the Demand for Managed IT Services Continues to Grow

• Magna5 achieved a remarkable 50% revenue increase in 2023, nearly double the industry growth rate.
• Completed two strategic acquisitions, expanding market presence in core geographic areas.
• Ended 2023 with over 220 skilled professionals, serving 700 clients across 37 states from 6 regional centers.
• Recognized on the Inc. 5000 list, MSP 501 ranking, and CRN's MSP 500 list, showcasing innovation and leadership.

CrowdStrike Named a Leader in 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Endpoint Protection Platforms

• Named Leader in 2023 Gartner Magic Quadrant for EPP for the fourth time, showcasing consistent market dominance and innovation.
• Positioned furthest right for Completeness of Vision and highest for Ability to Execute, indicating strong strategic vision and effective execution.
• Falcon XDR platform, an AI-native solution, effectively analyzes trillions of security events to stop breaches at machine speed.
• Revolutionary single-agent Falcon platform provides industry-leading protection across endpoints, cloud, identities, and data, reducing costs and complexity.
• CrowdStrike's Falcon Complete MDR service, recognized by Gartner, offers 24/7 management, monitoring, threat hunting, and remediation, addressing cybersecurity skills gap.

Accenture to Acquire Navisite to Help Clients Modernize and Reinvent Their Businesses with Cloud

• Accenture acquires Navisite to enhance application and infrastructure services, aiding North American clients in IT modernization for the AI era.
• Navisite contributes 1,500 team members, including 400 cloud engineers with 2,000 certifications, strengthening Accenture's capabilities in cloud transformations.
• Aims to help clients reinvent businesses by embracing new technologies, with Navisite's team supporting areas like cloud, infrastructure, and application services.
• Collaboration focuses on scaling services, providing guidance for modernization, and creating agile, resilient businesses, aligning with both companies' growth objectives.

Synagex Acquires Ascentek in Merger of Managed IT Service Providers.

• Synagex strengthens its service portfolio through Ascentek acquisition.
• Synagex's cybersecurity proficiency, including the Cybersecurity Maturity Model, enhances defense against evolving threats.
• Merger addresses challenges in dynamic IT landscapes, providing robust support to diverse sectors.
• Ascentek's founder, Ted Frederick, becomes CTO, ensuring smooth leadership transition.
• Synagex expands its reach, serving various industries and U.S. cities remotely.

Five tips to make digital transformation work

• Reported in IMD.org
• Software Flexibility:
  • Leverage software's adaptability for continuous refinement based on user feedback.
• User Experience Measurement:
  • Use tools like Medallia to assess both customer and employee experiences continuously.
  • Employ a "launch and listen" approach for prompt resolution of user-identified issues
• Strategic Issue Prioritization:
  • Apply the Pareto Principle to focus resources on the most impactful 20% of issues.
• Cost Perspective Shift:
  • Include ongoing improvement costs in the project budget, recognizing decreasing costs over time.

Cybersecurity Notes

• We estimate that ransomware attacks killed between 42 and 67 Medicare patients”, in a report published by the University of Minnesota School of Public Health
• In 2023, 2,207 hospitals, schools and governments were directly impacted by ransomware.
• Fallon Ambulance Service of Boston, Massachusetts notified 911,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• KCTV is reporting that Liberty Hospital of Missouri is cutting employee hours as a result of cyber attack that hit hospital in 12/2023.
• Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center of Seattle, WA reports that hackers threatened to “swat” patients if hospital did not pay ransom after ransomware attack in 12/2023.
• HealthEC Software of Edison, New Jersey notified 4,452,782 patients that their PHI may have been exposed after cyber attack.
• Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, a law firm headquartered in San Francisco, CA, disclosed that more than 600,000 individuals were impacted by a data breach that happened in early 2023.
• Carthage (N.Y.) Area Hospital, Ogdensburg, N.Y.-based Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center and Watertown, N.Y.-based North Country Orthopaedic Group filed a lawsuit Nov. 29 alleging that the unknown individuals "conspired to carry out the complex cybercrime and movement of stolen
  "
  • lawsuit against the LockBit members was initiated to empower the hospital group, known asNorth Star Health Alliance, to issue a subpoena compelling Boston-based cloud storage firm Wasabi Technologies to surrender data that LockBit stole from the hospital group in a data breach that took place on Aug. 31.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal proces

Square 9 Unveils Comprehensive Guide For Understanding Document Management

• Provides a comprehensive document management guide covering features, benefits, implementation, and best practices.
• Document Management Solutions enhance workplace security, collaboration, and productivity.
• Guide assists organizations in managing document growth, offering tools for streamlined processes.
• Offers expertise in content management, accounts payable automation, OCR, and information management for educational institutions and HR.

Trace3 Acquires Tail Wind Informatics To Spearhead Data Strategy Consulting –

• Acquires Tail Wind Informatics, signaling a deliberate expansion of capabilities.
• Solidifies its position as a leader in data strategy consulting.
• Acquisition brings additional expertise, fostering innovation and a broader service range.
• Aims to gain a competitive edge by combining strengths for a comprehensive service portfolio.
• Focus on how the acquisition enhances overall value for clients seeking data-driven solutions.

CRITICALSTART® Launches Asset Visibility to Ensure Managed Detection and Response

• Critical Start launched the Asset Visibility offering as part of Managed Cyber Risk Reduction (MCRR).
• Purpose of Asset Visibility:
  • Enhances proactive security measures.
  • Identifies assets needing protection, validates endpoint security controls, and pinpoints risk areas.
• Challenges in Cybersecurity:
  • Organizations face challenges managing cyber risk, maximizing technology, and optimizing costs.
  • Critical Start's 2023 report highlights the struggle with continuous security posture monitoring (90%).
• Endpoint Security Coverage:
  • Endpoint Security Coverage Gaps included in MDR service at no extra cost.
  • Reveals and mitigates weaknesses in attack surfaces.
• Components of Asset Visibility:
  • Included with Critical Start MDR:
    • Endpoint Security Coverage Gaps: Identifies risk exposure.
    • Asset Inventory: Provides a consolidated view of assets.
  • Additional Capabilities:
    • Asset Criticality Ratings: Tags assets for prioritized remediation.
    • Unified Host Inventory: Creates a single source of truth.
    • Data Administration and Management: Offers in-depth analysis and reporting.
    • Self-service Integrations: Enables integration for broader asset visibility.

Xerox to terminate over 3,000 employees

Announced new “Reinvention” reorganization plan

• Includes getting rid of 15% of its total workforce, which is over 3,000 people
• “decision to reduce our global workforce was a difficult but necessary step toward establishing long
  term viability for Xerox”
• “cuts will come across all levels and areas of our organization”
• “simplifying products within core print business”
• “increasing efficiency across global business services”
• “boosting focus on IT and other digital services”
• Executives apparently departing the company include:
  • Mike Pietrunti (U.S. Dealer Partner Leader)
  • Joanne Collins Smee (EVP and President America)
  • Tracey Koziol (EVP of Global Offering Solutions & Chief Product Officer)
• Leadership team now comprised of:
  • Steve Bandrowczak (CEO)
  • John Bruno (President & COO will lead enterprise print, digital services and IT services)
  • Louie Pastor (Chief Transformation & Administrative Officer)
  • Flor Colon (Chief Legal Officer)
  • Xavier Heiss (CFO)
  • Deena Piquion (Chief Growth & Disruption Officer)
  • Jacques Edouard Gueden (Chief Channel & Partner Officer)
  • Fred Beljaars (Chief Delivery & Supply Chain Officer)
  • Suzan Morno Wade (Chief Human Resources Officer)
  • Chris Fisher (Chief Strategy Officer)

Blue Sky Digital has been acquired by Aurora Managed Services

• CFI announced that it acted as exclusive financial advisor to Blue Sky Digital in its acquisition by Aurora Managed Service
• Blue Sky Digital, a leading Managed Print Solutions provider has been sold to Aurora Managed Services
• combination of Aurora and Blue Sky Digital will enhance both businesses and, importantly, benefit new and existing customers

Kyocera Printers Open to Path Traversal Attacks

• Nature of Vulnerability:
  • Path Traversal Vulnerability (CVE-2023-50916)
  • Allows attackers logged onto the network to manipulate the backup database path.
  • Attackers can authenticate the path, potentially gaining access to hashed Active Directory credentials.
• Exploitation Details:
  • Attacker needs network access.
  • Attackers alter the backup database path through manipulation.
  • Kyocera had a safeguard, but it could be bypassed via web interception proxies or direct requests to the application endpoint.
  • Depending on IT settings, the authentication message might contain hashed Active Directory credentials (NTLM hashes), especially if NTLM traffic restriction policies are not enabled for remote servers.
• Response:
  • Kyocera addressed the vulnerability by releasing a patch in late December.
  • Trustwave researchers initially disclosed the flaw in a blog post.

Sponsored by

December 10th, 2023

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Barracuda Networks Advances Partner Program

• launches Barracuda Partner Success Program
  • Recognizes sales across resale, MSP, and marketplaces, providing benefits based on total sales
  • Rewards aligned with Land, Adoption, Expansion, and Retention/Renewal model for customer success
  • Aimed at enhancing customer loyalty and sales
  • Designed for growth in resale, managed services, or cloud marketplace partnerships
• Program accommodates various partnership models, essential for IT professionals managing collaborations
• Aligns incentives with customer success phases, reflecting the IT team's focus on ensuring customer satisfaction and retention
• Relevant for IT professionals to enhance service quality and maintain strong client relationships

Iteris Introduces Multi-Level Cloud-Enabled Managed Services to Optimize Traffic Detection

• introduces an upgraded VantageCare® program for optimized traffic detection tech at intersections
• cloud-managed service to maximize traffic detection investments
• Three-tiered Plans: Standard, Maintenance Assist, and Performance Assist plans for varied agency need
• Advanced analytics and support in higher-tier plans for proactive maintenance and operations
• Works seamlessly with Vantage detection systems in Iteris’ ClearMobility® Platform
• Essential component for safer, efficient, and sustainable mobility solutions

Packet Fusion Announces Its IT Advisory Practice: Empowering Businesses to Accelerate Business Outcomes

• Strategic Guidance: Emphasizing strategy over technology in IT decisions
• Expert Team: Dedicated researchers, architects, and vendor partnerships
• Technology Focus: Unified Communication, Cybersecurity, Cloud, AI, and more
  • Continuous Value: Providing ongoing support, insights, and innovation
  • About Packet Fusion: Trusted IT advisor with a focus on technology change4-Step Approach: Evaluation, Implementation, Optimization, Transformation

Wildcat Launches Platform with Corey Weiner to Pursue Managed Services and Digital ...

• partners with Corey Weiner to establish Wink Tech, targeting acquisitions in managed IT services and digital transformation sectors
• Aims to acquire tech companies with loyal customer bases and unique services to drive growth in a changing industry landscape
• Acknowledges pivotal role of managed IT services in modern business operations and the significance of digital transformation
• Approach offers a flexible, long-term investment approach, valuing innovation and growth potential

First Focus buys Melbourne-based MSP Rock IT, looking for more acquisitions

• Reported on crn.au
• First Focus will absorb Rock IT's Victorian and Philippines teams
• This is First Focus's sixth acquisition in three years
• CEO Ross Sardi emphasizes the desire to continue seeking opportunities for further acquisitions that complement organic growth

SaaS Alerts Extends Protection Beyond Core SaaS Business Apps with App Wizard, Pushes for Industry Change

• introduces App Wizard, extending security monitoring to more SaaS apps for MSPs
• App Wizard enables integration with SaaS apps through viable APIs, boosting cybersecurity
• MSPs gain a new revenue stream by monitoring and highlighting user behavior in diverse apps
• Potential financial impact: increased monthly and annual recurring revenue per app
• CEO emphasizes the need for software developers to enhance security for MSPs globally
• MSPs encouraged to support the campaign by signing the petition for stronger API security

Rhodian Group Partners with Applied Systems to Provide Hosted Email Solutions

• Rhodian Group and Applied Systems collaborate to offer upgraded email services
• Rhodian Group provides managed IT, cybersecurity, and Microsoft-based email solutions
• Applied's agents shift from Hosted Exchange to Rhodian's Microsoft technologies
• Goals: Enhanced security, scalability, and value for mutual customers
• Rhodian Group: Expertise in IT, cybersecurity, and compliance services.
• Applied Systems: Global leader in cloud-based insurance software solutions.

Secureworks Named A Leader In Managed Detection and Response Services In Europe By ...

• acclaimed as a Leader in The Forrester Wave™ for Managed Detection and Response Services in Europe, Q4 2023
• commends Secureworks for "quick time to value," "strong investigative capabilities," and streamlined onboarding
• earns highest ratings in 22 evaluation criteria, notably excelling in time efficiency, investigations, dashboards, and pricing transparency
• aids European organizations in responding to cyber challenges and reducing ransomware impact while enhancing cyber resilience
• Secureworks: A global cybersecurity leader leveraging Taegis™, an XDR platform, to empower customers in detecting advanced threats and enhancing cybersecurity operations

A Bold Claim - Printers are better with PaperCut | director's cut

• PaperCut brings order to printing chaos, streamlining the process and ensuring smooth operations
• Administrators wield powerful tools to manage print queues, track usage, and set rules, ensuring better control over resources
• offers user-friendly interfaces, mobile printing, secure release queues, and cost allocation features, empowering users to print smarter and more efficiently
• reducing wasted paper and toner, PaperCut champions sustainability, making the printing process more eco-friendly.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal proces

TWAIN Working Group Announces TWAIN Direct Cloud Scanning with Searer Business Technology

• TWAIN Working Group (TWG), a not-for-profit organization providing and fostering a universal public standard for image acquisition devices
• announced today that Searer Business Technology (SBT) has deployed their SBT Executive Series accounting/ERP application, with their scanning component now powered by TWAIN Direct
• TWAIN Direct is a free, open-source standard that eliminates the need for users to install vendor-specific device drivers to communicate between TWAIN Direct enabled scanning devices and image-capture applications

No1 App Co. Ltd Launches GemScan AI: Scanner & PDF Editor

• Converts images to editable documents, preserving original layouts
• Supports PDF, JPG, TXT, and editable formats
• PDF Viewer Annotator & Editor for on-the-go edits
• AI-driven Magic Erase removes unwanted elements intelligently
• Comprehensive Doc Editor & File Manager included

Brother eyes printer data security amid digital revolution

• reported on businessnewsaustralia.com
• Print Significance: Despite the digital shift, 70% of businesses print daily, highlighting its continued importance
• Printer Security Oversight: Cybersecurity concerns often ignore office printer vulnerabilities
• Brother's Emphasis: Stephen Nicholls stresses comprehensive printer security within document management
• Security Challenges: 27% of IT security incidents are linked to print-related issues
• Brother's Solutions: Developed secure printing products to address security gaps
• Advanced Printer Range: Brother unveils A4 color laser printers with robust security features
• Enhanced Security Measures: Includes encrypted USB keys, cloud data encryption, and job control capabilities
• Security Focus: Password protection, disabling unnecessary features, and data encryption are paramount
• Market Expansion: Brother targets the high-volume 'workhorse enterprise market' with secure printers.

Sharp Business Systems Supercharges Showroom Displays... Here's How They Did It

• reported on avnetwork.com
• Sharp Business Systems showcases modern hybrid workforce solutions
• Mersive Solstice Platform optimizes Sharp and NEC displays for varied showroom settings
• Solstice integration boosts collaboration and digital signage for a more informed workplace
• Mersive Solstice enables seamless wireless presentations and conferencing
• Innovative setups encourage impactful collaborations and connections
• Solstice Cloud provides detailed room usage data for better space optimization
• Solstice Pods reinforce corporate messaging for remote and in-office workers
• Visual communication enhances inclusivity among remote workers

Square 9 Ends 2023 with 16 Major Customer-Backed Awards

• Square 9 Softworks: Leading AI-powered Information Management provider in 2023
• Earned 16 excellence awards across G2, Capterra, TrustRadiu
• Recognized for customer-centric services and 11 major titles from G2
• Acknowledged for Best Support, Relationships, Usability, and more
• President Stephen Young emphasizes commitment to value, service, innovation

CrowdStrike Named a Leader in MDR by Forrester in Europe, Q4 2023

• leads in European MDR (Q4 2023), scoring highest in key areas
• Advanced XDR, deep expertise in threat intel, incident response
• Top detection among 16 vendors, effective against adversaries
• Falcon Complete for Service Providers expands global MDR, EU hosting for data privacy in Europe

Sponsored by

December 3rd, 2023

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use re-marketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Seacoast Capital Announces Investment in Focus Technology Solutions, Fund V Closing

• Seacoast Capital supports Focus Technology Solutions with equity and debt, enabling a management buyout and future growth
• Chris Caprio, former CFO, becomes CEO as Doug Alexander transitions to the Board
• investment from Seacoast Capital Partners V, L.P., a $280M fund focused on fostering growth
• Boston-based IT firm providing hardware, software, managed services, and cybersecurity solutions
• Caprio acknowledges Seacoast's backing; Alexander expresses confidence in Focus and Seacoast partnership
• Financial terms undisclosed

TPx Updates Security Advisory Services Portfolio to Support Amended FTC Safeguards Rule

• Tailored compliance assessments for revised FTC Safeguards Rule
• • Customized cybersecurity training addressing compliance needs
  • Improved incident response for rapid breach resolution

• Comprehensive assessments for regulatory adherence.
  • Custom training empowering employees with compliance knowledge
  • Swift incident response to mitigate risks and maintain compliance
• Enhanced services immediately available to TPx clients
• TPx offers managed services, including cybersecurity solutions and unified communications

Dytech Group Brings Microsoft Cloud Managed Services and IT Support to Winter Park ...

• Expert integration into Microsoft Cloud for enhanced productivity
• Tailored support for Winter Park businesses' unique needs
• Implementation of cutting-edge security protocols
• Dytech is a technology solutions provider specializing in cloud services, cybersecurity, and IT support

Cybersecurity Notes

• Idaho National Laboratory notified “hundreds of thousands” of current and former employees that their info was exposed after ransomware attack
• Autozone, a car parts retailer, notified 185,000 customers of 7,000 stores that their info was exposed after cyber attack
• WellTok, maker of patient engagement solutions, based in Denver, CO, notified 3.5 million patients that their PHI may have been exposed after cyber attack
• CareTree, maker of patient advocate solutions, based in Chicago, IL, notified 1,097 patients that their PHI may have been exposed after cyber attack
• Yakima Valley Radiology of Washington notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• St. Joseph’s Medical Center of Yonkers, NY paid a $80,000 HIPAA fine to settle claims of negligence after it illegally shared PHI of COVID-19 patients with a local reporter
• The City of Long Beach, CA notified an unknown number of citizens that their info may have been exposed after cyber attack
• Systems East, Inc. of New York, provider of online payment processing services, notified an unknown number of customers that their info may have been exposed after cyber attack
• Vanderbilt University Medical Center of Nashville, TN notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Crystal Lake Health Centers of Michigan notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Southwest Behavioral Health Center of Saint George, Utah notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Longhorn Imaging Centers, aka South Austin Health Imaging of Texas notified an unknownnumber of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Woodfords Family Services of Maine notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• WellLife Network Inc. of New York notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• UT (University of Texas) Health East notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Daviess Community Hospital of Washington, Indiana notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Wyoming County Community Health System of Warsaw, NY notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Medical University of South Carolina notified 1,758 patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Fenway Health of Massachusetts notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI may have been exposed when it was mailed to wrong patients
• Southland Integrated Services of Garden Grove, CA notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack
• Warren General Hospital of Warren, PA notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack

Quocirca study of print servers

Claims that 48% of organizations are increasing the number of print servers on their network

• 32% of IT stated that print server costs are a top print management challenge

Voters turning to fax to reach politicians

Washington Post newspaper is reporting that Americans are starting again to use fax to communicate with elected officials

• Are frustrated that they can not get through on the phone
• Fax generates a “physical piece of paper they can not ignore”, stated one voter

How to Avoid Being a Victim of a Black Friday or Cyber Monday Scam

• Check reviews and URLs before entering credit card details.
• Watch out for unexpected pop-up windows during payments.
• Be mindful of the amount of personal data requested.
• Refrain from shopping on open hot-spots to prevent potential hacking
• Employ a Virtual Private Network for secure connections on public Wi-Fi

AI-Powered E-commerce Strategies for Festive Season Success

• E-commerce Challenges During Festive Seasons
  • Staff shortages
  • Supply chain disruptions
  • Shifting customer behaviors
• AI's Crucial Role in E-commerce
  • Automation for efficiency
  • Data-driven insights for higher sales
• AI Strategies in E-commerce
  • Customer Support Bots
    • g., H&M's Kik bot for fashion advice
  • Personalized Recommendations
    • Using AI to suggest tailored products (e.g., Stitch Fix)
  • Content Creation and Advertising
    • AI tools for efficient campaign creation (e.g., Plumy for Shopify)

Gartner Says Cloud Will Become a Business Necessity by 2028

• Gartner forecasts cloud computing as an essential business requirement by 2028
• Emphasizes the transformative role of cloud technology across industries
• Predicts that the cloud will evolve from an option to a necessity for businesses globally
• Identifies factors like agility, scalability, and innovation as key drivers for this shift
• Anticipates a radical transformation in business operations due to cloud integration
• Highlights the need for organizations to prepare and strategize for this imminent shift
• Foresees increased reliance on cloud-based infrastructure for core business functions
• Points out the potential challenges in security and data governance as the cloud becomes ubiquitous
• Recommends businesses proactively adapt their infrastructure and policies for seamless cloud adoption

Sharp Synappx™ Cloud Print Print Management Solution - YouTube

• YouTube video link https://www.p4photel.com/topic...ent-solution-youtube

Quocirca survey results published

• 78% say printing is important to their business
  • 64% say printing will still be important in 2025
  • 84% say investing in IT security is top priority
• 66% = cloud computing
• 53% = mobility

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

TWAIN Working Group Announces TWAIN Direct Cloud Scanning with Searer Business Technology

• TWAIN Working Group (TWG), a not-for-profit organization providing and fostering a universal public standard for image acquisition devices
• announced today that Searer Business Technology (SBT) has deployed their SBT Executive Series accounting/ERP application, with their scanning component now powered by TWAIN Direct
• TWAIN Direct is a free, open-source standard that eliminates the need for users to install vendor-specific device drivers to communicate between TWAIN Direct enabled scanning devices and image-capture applications

IBM Collaborates with AWS to Launch a New Cloud Database Offering, Enabling Customers ...

• AI-Workload Management: Amazon RDS for Db2 simplifies AI workload management across hybrid cloud environments.
• Scalability and Efficiency: Provides scalable, cost-effective, high-performance data management for modern cloud-native architectures.
• Automation of Tasks: Streamlines time-consuming database administrative tasks like provisioning, backups, and monitoring.
• Operational Expertise: Combines Amazon RDS's operational proficiency with IBM Db2's experience in critical workloads.
• Integration with IBM's Capabilities: Enables leveraging IBM's integrated data and AI capabilities on AWS for efficient data management and scaling AI workloads.

CGI joins Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA)

• Collaboration with MISA amplifies CGI's security solutions for clients
• Raymond Daoud stresses CGI's commitment to robust security in digital transformations
• MISA: Network of integrated security solutions aiding against evolving cyber threats
• CGI's cybersecurity expertise spans defense, intelligence, and complex environments
• CGI: Global IT consultancy offering diverse services for digital transformation

Konica Minolta Delivers Layered Security Approach and Solutions for MFP Clients

• Tailored Security Solutions:
  • Offers customizable security layers based on office size and work styl
  • Stresses additional security for sensitive sectors like healthcare, finance, etc.
• Print Device Security Measures:
  • Automated tools like encryption, data deletion, and real-time alerts for multifunction printers (MFPs)
  • bizhub SECURE Services provide enhanced password protection and encryption
• Advanced Security Offerings:
  • BitDefender-powered antivirus for real-time malware scanning.
  • Shield Guard and Dispatcher solutions for comprehensive monitoring and secure workflow management.
• Continuous Innovation and Support:
  • Commitment to ongoing updates and new measures to stay ahead of cyber threats
  • Immediate availability of various security levels and educational resources

Sponsored by

November 27th, 2023

Arcoa Group

Why partnering with ARCOA makes sense
Electronics Recycling is an important and profitable part of the IT asset lifecycle, but it can be overwhelming with all you already do, varying state regulations, and the limited resources at hand. That’s where ARCOA comes in. When you partner with ARCOA, you get all the benefits of a big company without any of the capital investment. We’ve been doing this since 1989 and have the expertise, certifications, and nationwide resources to get the most for all your clients’ retired IT assets. Plus, positioning your clients as environmental stewards not only elevates their appeal to consumers, it meets government requirements and avoids fines.

What partnering with ARCOA looks like
Our role is to make it easy for you to bring more value to your clients. We work with you to help stretch your clients’ IT budget by reducing the total cost of ownership of their electronics. We’re experts at identifying and implementing the solutions your clients need for the end-of-use remarketing, recovery, and recycling of their technology assets. The sooner you involve ARCOA, the sooner you and your client.

Xerox enters into a first lien term loan credit

• Xerox secured a $550m first lien term loan after buying Carl Icahn's shares.
• The loan repays previous bridge loans and is supported by guarantees and asset security.
• Major financial institutions arranged the loan, with terms until November 2029 and variable amortization rates.
• Xerox's $542m purchase of Icahn's shares was initially financed through a new debt facility.
• Xerox shares varied from $16.01 in September to a low of $12.10 in late October, recently closing at $13.62.
• Xerox skipped Drupa 2024 but attended the Printing United Expo in Atlanta last month.

SonicWall Acquires Managed Detection and Response Services Tailor-Made for MSPs/MSSPs

• SonicWall has acquired Solutions Granted, Inc., bolstering its cybersecurity offerings for MSPs with SOCaaS, MDR, and tailored managed services.
• aligns with SonicWall's aim to empower partners with cost-effective threat defense solutions and automated services.
• Leaders emphasize the need for MDR and integrated threat protection, catering to today's cybersecurity demands.
• The combined services aim to provide automated threat identification across diverse customer environments, leveraging AI for efficacy

Cybersecurity Notes

• Homeland Property Management Inc., headquartered in Kentucky, notified “hundreds of thousands” of tenants that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Jeffco Public Schools of Colorado notified 90,000 students that their info was exposed after recent cyber attack.
• Booking.com notified an unknown number of customers that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Butte School District of Montana notified an unknown number of students that their info was exposed after ransomware attack.
• Henry County Public Schools of Georgia notified an unknown number of students that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Pacific Union College of California notified 56,041 students that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Pulaski County Public School District of Virginia notified an unknown number of students that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Decatur Independent School District of Illinois notified an unknown number of students that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Beaverton Public School District of Oregon notified an unknown number of students that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Butler County Government in Pennsylvania notified an unknown number of citizens that their info was exposed after cyber attack.
• Intel Corp. announced new security vulnerability, named “Reptar”, in CPUs in desktop PC, mobile devices and some servers, and has issued a patch.
• AMD Corp. announced new security vulnerability, named “CacheWarp”, in CPUs in desktop PC, mobile devices and some servers, and has issued a patch.
• Financial Asset Management Systems, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, notified 164,796 patients that their PHI was exposed after data breach.
• Southeastern Orthopaedic Specialists of Greensboro, North Carolina notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• St. Bernards Healthcare of Jonesboro, Arkansas notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• The Harris Center for Mental Health of Houston, TX notified 599,367 patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack.
• Truepill, aka Postmeds, headquartered in Hayward, CA, notified 2.36 million patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Sutter Health of Sacramento, CA notified 845,000 patients that their PHI was exposed after ransomware attack.
• Crystal Run Healthcare of Wallkill, NY notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack.
• Otsego Memorial Hospital of Gaylord, Michigan notified an unknown number of patients that their PHI was exposed after cyber attack

CrowdStrike Brings AI-Native Cybersecurity to Small Businesses

• CrowdStrike introduces Falcon Go, AI-driven cybersecurity solution tailored for small and medium businesses (SMBs)
• Falcon Go aims to bridge the gap in cybersecurity defenses for SMBs
• To mark its debut on Amazon Business, Falcon Go is offered at a reduced price during the Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday shopping weekend.
• CrowdStrike sees Amazon Business as a crucial channel to reach millions of SMB buyers

directprint.io to showcase serverless printing at CITE 2023

• Gathering CTOs, Directors of Technology, educators, administrators, and superintendents
• event will take place in Sacramento, CA at the SAFE Credit Union Sacramento Convention Center between November 27 and 30
• cloud-based print management's impact on simplifying school and district printing infrastructure
• Supports 5,000+ printer models via Google Workspace and Microsoft 365

MSSP Alert Names CISO Global to 2023 Top 250 Managed Security Services Providers List

• secures a spot on the esteemed MSSP Alert Top 250 Managed Security Services Providers list for 2023
• Chosen for growth, innovation, and market impact
• CISO Global's inclusion among the top 250 MSPs highlights its dedication to delivering cutting-edge security services globally
• CISO Global, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, offers managed cybersecurity and compliance provider

Four Inc. Launches MSP Acceleration Program for Public Sector

• announce the launch of the MSP Acceleration Program for Public Sector
• Supporting MSPs in expanding within the government market
• MSP Acceleration Program for Public Sector is a comprehensive support system tailored to the unique needs of MSPs
  • Tailored Contract Access: MSPs will have access to a portfolio of government strategic IT sourcing vehicles covering a vast majority of the federal, state and local agencies.
  • Expert Guidance: MSPs gain access to a team of seasoned professionals with a deep understanding government procurement processes and regulations. This guidance includes assistance in proposal development, compliance, and navigating the government contracting landscape.
  • Cybersecurity Compliance: Recognizing the critical role of cybersecurity in government contracts, this program equips MSPs with resources and training to meet the highest standards of security compliance required by the government.
  • Strategic Networking Opportunities: This program fosters valuable connections with key stakeholders in the public sector, creating avenues for collaboration and contract opportunities. MSPs will have access to Four Inc.’s extensive partner, manufacturer, and government network.
  • Dedicated Support: A dedicated account manager will be assigned to each participating MSP, providing personalized assistance in identifying opportunities, and potential networking connections.

Four Inc. Launches MSP Acceleration Program for Public Sector

• Many companies flooded workplaces with tools for efficiency but didn't match them to employee needs, causing a mismatch.
• Before heavy IT investments, organizations need clear success markers based on historical and real-time data.
• Contextual insights are crucial to understand tech impacts, enabling better planning for growth, mergers, and updates.
• IT leaders now connect tech issues to the bottom line, improving strategic planning by quantifying IT's monetary value.
• Improved digital platforms help companies quickly measure and fix tech issues affecting employee productivity.

Atos set to continue delivering hybrid cloud and core infrastructure services for public healthcare in Western Australia with 5-year contract renewal

• renews a 5-year, A$242M contract with WA Health’s Health Support Services (HSS) focusing on managed services, hybrid cloud, and infrastructure
• delivers technology for digitalizing health records in Western Australia, maintaining high healthcare standards
• Atos and HSS worked on transitioning and digitalizing WA Health ICT systems, involving private and managed public cloud services

Radware Signs Managed Security Service Provider Reseller Agreement with Feenix ...

• signs MSSP reseller agreement with Feenix Communications Limited in New Zealand
• Radware offers Cloud App Protection, Cloud DDoS Protection, and DefensePro® DDoS Protection tailored for various environments
• Feenix becomes an MSSP reseller, combining Radware's security with their network solutions
• Feenix provides secure network services; Radware empowers global enterprises.

Lock in on Cyber Security with ARCOA

• IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Manages the secure disposition of end-of-life IT equipment
• Data Destruction: Ensures sensitive data is completely erased from devices before disposal
• Asset Remarketing: Resells refurbished IT assets to maximize value recovery
• Recycling Services: Provides environmentally responsible recycling of electronics
• Compliance & Reporting: Offers documentation and reporting to meet regulatory standards
• Secure Logistics: Handles the safe transport of IT assets throughout the disposal process

Arlington IT firm announces second merger

• Reported on arlnow.com
• C3 announced its merger with Ingalls Information Security, a company based in Woodworth, Louisiana
• consolidation aims to strengthen the company's position as a leader in the competitive IT solutions landscape

EY announces strategic alliance with BlueVoyant to help enterprises successfully deploy and effectively run Microsoft 365 E5 advanced security tools and solutions

• announces a strategic alliance between BlueVoyant, a cyber defense company
  • Provides strategy, architectural design and implementation of cybersecurity remediation and managed services
  • Helps counter threats, manage vulnerabilities and reduce risk levels for enterprises and their vendor ecosystems
  • Streamlines cybersecurity program management using unified Microsoft software solutions and business platforms

Hospital admits its printers/MFPs were hacked

Tri-City Medical Center of Oceanside, California, announced it was hit by a cyber attack

• During attack; “a note printed out of very printer at the same time and then everyone was running around shutting off printers”, according to article in San Diego Union Tribune newspaper
• 100 employees were apparently laid off as a result of the attack
• Has not yet stated how many patients had their personal medical info (aka PHI or protected health information) stolen as a result of ransomware attack by hackers
• (did not state what brand of printers and MFPs that hospital uses)

FileHold Enhances Document Management System with New Features

• Advanced full-text search for faster document retrieval
• A user-friendly interface catering to diverse technical skills
• Scalability to suit businesses of all sizes
• Praised by consultants for scalability and user-friendliness
• Commitment to comprehensive document management prioritizing security and efficiency