Why Ignoring Cybersecurity is Like Leaving Your Front Door Open: Insights from Cyber Guru Danny Pehar

Hello everyone, and welcome to this week's edition of Serge's Stellar People. I had the pleasure of speaking with Danny Pehar, a cybersecurity veteran with over two decades of experience this week and I boiled down some of the important parts of my video interview below.

Watch the full interview

Danny is a leading expert in the field, contributing monthly cybersecurity content to Forbes Technology Council and making regular television appearances. He collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies such as the Toronto Police Cyber Task Force and the FBI Cyber Task Force. Additionally, Danny is a bestselling author and professional keynote speaker, employing his executive cybersecurity storytelling formula to educate organizations across North America and Europe on cybersecurity.

Host: You're welcome. I really appreciate having you here today. So, let's get into it. Tell us more about what you do and who you are.

Danny Pehar: Sure. I’ve been in the cybersecurity industry for over 20 years. For the last 10 years or so, my focus has been on cybersecurity awareness training, also known as anti-fraud coaching. Essentially, I teach people how not to fall for the scams perpetrated by cybercriminals.

This is critically important because, time after time, when digital forensic assessments are conducted after a cybercrime, it often turns out that someone was tricked into doing something they shouldn't have. This trickery can be mitigated through proper education.

Host: We’ve seen a massive increase in these types of scams, especially over recent years. Why do you think this is happening?

Danny Pehar: There’s been an increase in cybercrime every year, but specifically in scams involving lies, trickery, and fraud. Twenty years ago, people were more concerned about viruses. We had viruses like the "I Love You" virus or the "Anna Kournikova" virus causing significant damage. Society caught on and we started putting technologies in place like antivirus software and firewalls. Nowadays, most new devices have some form of built-in security.

Cybercriminals have adapted. Instead of sending emails with virus attachments that get blocked by security systems, they now send clean emails filled with lies and trickery, getting you to come to them.

Host: So, are malicious actors now targeting individuals or companies more?

Danny Pehar: It's a free-for-all. They target anyone and everyone. The stereotypical image of a hacker in a hoodie working alone is misleading. Cybercriminals often operate like businesses, complete with staff, computers, phones, and daily crime quotas.

For example, the BBC did an expose by hacking security camera footage of a tech scam call center. It looked like any legitimate business, with a large number of people and equipment, tracking their progress on whiteboards.

Host: That’s fascinating and terrifying. You work with both individuals and companies, correct?

Danny Pehar: Yes, I work with anyone who has digital assets to protect. This includes small business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and large organizations across various industries like manufacturing, transportation, finance, and healthcare.

Host: Do you find people are more aware of the need for cybersecurity now?

Danny Pehar: It’s a mix. Many people find me through referrals after someone points out a vulnerability. Often, people don’t know what they don’t know. They may not realize the risks until someone flags them. Once they understand, they become more proactive.

Host: Are there any other misconceptions about cybersecurity that people have?

Danny Pehar: A common misconception is, "I don’t have anything worth stealing." Cybercriminals can exploit any data. For example, I worked with someone who fell victim to identity theft, and the perpetrator managed to take out $150,000 in their name.

Host: What advice can you offer to give people peace of mind and better protect themselves?

Danny Pehar: The key is education and a slight change in mindset. The world can be a scary place, but with the right precautions and knowledge, you can protect yourself. It's not about avoiding technology but understanding the risks and staying informed.

Host: Thank you for sharing your insights, Danny. It's clear that cybersecurity awareness is essential for everyone.

Danny Pehar: Absolutely. Stay informed, stay educated, and you’ll be able to navigate the digital world safely.

In our increasingly digital world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Danny Pehar’s insights reveal that education and awareness are our best defenses against cyber threats. Whether you're an individual or an organization, taking proactive steps to protect your digital assets is crucial. Stay vigilant, stay educated, and ensure your online safety.

The information in this interview is for general informational purposes only.  It does not constitute specific advice or create a business advisory Relationship.  If  you have specific questions or concerns, consult with a qualified professional.  Any reliance on the information presented in this interview is at your own risk.  The views expressed by the interviewee are their own and do not necessarily reflect  the views of the interviewer or any affiliated organization.

I love connecting people with people. As a professional financial planner I meet thousands of people each year, and I get valuable insights into business and services that can help my clients in areas that I am not an expert in. This newsletter and podcasts serves my desire to highlight people I personally know as a way of introducing them to others in a unique way so that you can do you due diligence by hearing them speak and seeing them on a video expressing themselves so you can make a better, more informed opinion.