3, Apr 2024
Strategic Technology Solutions Attains SOC 2 Type
Torrance, CA, April 03, 2024 –– Strategic Technology Solutions (STS), a firm specializing in delivering Managed IT, Cloud and Cybersecurity services to the legal sector, proudly announced today, for the fourth year in a row, its successful attainment of the SOC 2 Type II Cybersecurity Compliance. This achievement distinguishes STS as one of the few managed service providers (MSPs) supporting law firms that possess this advanced security credential.
The SOC 2 Type II Compliance is a globally acknowledged auditing standard developed to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of a service organization’s internal controls over a specified period. It focuses primarily on aspects such as security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.
STS has consistently strived to adopt an ethical and responsible approach to its operations, ensuring its clients that their valuable and confidential content is safeguarded at the highest possible levels. James Waryck, the CEO and co-founder of STS, posed the question, “If we are not operating at a high level, why should our clients?” This statement underscores STS’ commitment to excellence and its dedication to protecting its clients.
STS, with being SOC 2 Type II Compliant, eliminates the “assumption-based” aspect of risk comprehension and provides a clear and complete understanding of the existing level of risk and exposure a firm has when using STS services. It also outlines the likelihood of a breach happening and how impactful the breach would be. STS applies this proactive approach to risk management to benefit Law Firms, underscoring STS’s commitment to its clients and their security.
Security Risk
The American Bar Association (ABA) reports that approximately 29% of law firms encountered a security breach in 2023, a slight increase from the 27% reported in 2022. Furthermore, some law firms experienced significant breaches in 2023, as per LegalTech News (LTN), resulting in the exposure of sensitive client and firm data. These incidents led to substantial ransom demands and class action lawsuits.
Third-party vendor risk is a genuine concern, and understanding the vendors you do business with is a critical aspect of a robust cybersecurity strategy. Law firms that invest in securing their IT environment and mitigating risk should also scrutinize the security practices of their third-party vendors to ensure alignment.
When an IT vendor lacks robust security controls, the law firm that relies on their services becomes vulnerable to supply-chain attacks. These attacks occur when a breach affecting a vendor or supplier cascades down to impact their clients.
Sam Sheth, CIO and co-founder of STS, raises a crucial question: “How will a Managed Service Provider (MSP) safeguard your law firm’s data, and do they have evidence demonstrating effective risk prevention?” Many IT providers and vendors claim compliance, but upon closer examination, they may not be directly compliant. Some base their security claims on using AWS or Azure-based environments, assuming that these cloud platforms’ security extends to their own operating systems and tools. However, this assumption is incorrect—the secure environment provided by AWS or Azure pertains to their infrastructure, not the specific tools used by MSPs or vendors for their business operations. Would you hire an attorney that didn’t pass the bar or visit an unlicensed doctor? The same concept applies when it comes to IT Security.
While the MSP industry is not currently mandated to be cybersecurity compliant, STS believes that pursuing such compliances is the right course of action. By voluntarily adhering to high standards, STS demonstrates its commitment to clients and their security.
STS, as an early innovator in the managed IT services industry, has taken a proactive approach by incorporating the Security Maturity Level Assessment (SMLA) process, methodology, and approach into its sales and onboarding procedures. Remarkably, few MSP’s —particularly those with a legal focus – have followed suit. By embracing the SMLA process, STS demonstrates its commitment to robust security practices and its dedication to safeguarding its clients’ valuable data.
Stringent Compliance Process
The SOC 2 Type II compliance indeed demands significant investment in terms of time, resources, and financial commitment. However, for the team at STS, this rigorous process holds immense importance. It serves as a powerful testament to their unwavering dedication in safeguarding both their own sensitive information and that of their clients.
STS Commitment to Security
At STS, cybersecurity isn’t an afterthought—it’s the bedrock. As an early innovator in the managed IT services industry leveraging the SMLA process, sets STS apart, especially within the legal vertical.
Here’s why it matters:
Experience and Expertise: Over several years, STS has achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance and honed its specialization in both cybersecurity and the legal industry. This dual expertise enables STS to focus sharply on safeguarding its clients’ interests.
Client Confidence:
Guiding law firms through their cybersecurity journey, STS provides assurance. Clients know that STS has walked the path, continues to invest, and understands the nuances of protecting “their house.”
Evidence-Driven Approach:
STS’s cybersecurity strategy isn’t based on assumptions. It assesses clients’ current cybersecurity maturity, identifies risks, establishes baselines, and charts a path forward. This approach draws from tangible evidence, guided by the Center for Internet Security (CIS) 18 and the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) frameworks.
James Waryck, CEO and co-founder of STS, sums it up: “Vision backed by evidence – providing the right information to make educated and informed decisions.” STS’ commitment to security isn’t just a promise; it’s a proven reality.
Key Components of STS’s Cybersecurity Approach:
· Identifies gaps in cybersecurity programs across people, processes, and technology.
· Determines your current security maturity level base and desired level for your firm.
· Compares and contrasts your security maturity level with other firms facing similar challenges and risks.
· Recommends and prioritizes opportunities to improve your cybersecurity maturity level while reducing overall risk.
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- By Rabindra
3, Apr 2024
ISMG Unveils OT.today, a Publication and Global Resource Platform
Princeton, NJ, April 03, 2024 — In a significant move to advance the field of operational technology (OT), ISMG, a premier global intelligence and education organization focusing on IT, OT and cybersecurity, proudly announces the launch of OT.today (https://www.ot.today/).
This groundbreaking publication and resource platform has been developed to support OT professionals worldwide. It offers extensive coverage of the latest developments, technological innovations and crucial trends shaping the OT landscape.
A Comprehensive New Resource for OT Professionals
According to the Future Market’s Insights Report, the OT market will reach a valuation of $22.1 billion by the end of 2024, with 18.40% CAGR (combined annual growth rate) from 2024 to 2034.
Acknowledging the vital need for specialized news and education catering to this dynamic field, OT.today supports the entire OT ecosystem of manufacturing along with industrial and critical infrastructure asset owners and operators. Roles that will benefit from OT.today include production operators and engineers, network administrators, IT/security and audit teams, and maintenance and reliability professionals to business leadership including the C-suite and boards of directors.
“OT.today stands as a beacon for professionals and industries worldwide, offering a cutting-edge platform for mastering operational technologies,” said Sanjay Kalra, CEO, ISMG. “With its unique blend of education, AI enablement and its integration with ISMG’s broader suite of offerings – across events, professional communities and education – OT.today is poised to redefine professional development in this domain as an indispensable resource for anyone looking to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected ecosystem.”
OT.today’s “Publication + Platform” Approach Simplifies Critical Knowledge Acquisition
OT.today transcends the conventional boundaries of a publication. It embodies a vibrant, interactive arena that harnesses state-of-the-art AI technology to deliver personalized intelligence, research, content and education related to OT. Learning experiences that incorporate OT concepts will also be made available via ISMG’s education platform CyberEd.io. This combination of resources enables hands-on learning and deep understanding of intricate concepts.
In addition, OT.today will curate a series of workshops led by industry experts, global conferences and Executive Roundtables, offering unparalleled networking opportunities and insights into the latest OT advancements.
The platform also champions a global curriculum with multilingual support to cultivate an inclusive, worldwide educational community.
“OT.today represents the culmination of years’ worth of efforts and increased focus on yet another crucial technology subdomain – operational technology,” said Mike D’Agostino, general manager, ISMG. “Through these strategic integrations and collaborations, we are confident that OT.today is poised to offer a rich ecosystem of learning, networking and professional development opportunities tailored to the needs of the OT community worldwide.”
Capitalizing on QG Media Acquisition
Following the acquisition of QG Media – a global events organization focused on OT, and which manages the CS4CA and ManuSec summits series – OT.today further cements ISMG’s information and educational leadership in the industrial sector. These channels extend the company’s ability to host specialized, OT-centric conferences and workshops globally, enhancing the learning experience and accommodating varied learner preferences, whether in-person or via multimedia digital options. Expert insights and peer-enriched content will enable the right data flow to promote operational efficiency, improve cybersecurity and ultimately drive better outcomes in OT environments.
“We are thrilled to join the ISMG family as we’ll now have access to many more resources to grow our events, expand into markets we’ve not had a presence in the past, and offer an entirely new suite of growth opportunities for both our events attendees and vendor sponsors,” said Ravi Manji, executive director and co-founder, QG Media.
Echoing the sentiment, Kudsia Kaker, managing director and co-founder of QG Media, said “Given ISMG’s focus on educating and fostering OT-centric communities, their global footprint, and access to myriad resources, we will be in a position to take our event series to new heights, and manage more and larger events as OT continues to become a vital digital transformation topic.”
A Unified Strategy for Integration
Merging OT.today into ISMG’s wealth of resources, including CyberEd.io and CyberEdBoard, will enable comprehensive educational programs in operational technology. Under this initiative, ISMG will offer a curated selection of proven OT solutions and services, enabling users to explore and adopt the latest innovations to boost operational efficacy, security and innovation within their domains.
3, Apr 2024
Loveforce International Releases Ami Cannon’s I Can Learn From You
Santa Clarita, CA, April 03, 2024 –On Friday, April 5, Loveforce International will release a New Digital Music Single. The New Single will be by Recording Artist Ami Cannon. The release is entitled “I Can Learn From You.”
The new Digital Music Single by Ami Cannon is entitled “I Can Learn From You.” It is an Indie, Country-Folk, Singer Songwriter genre song powered by nothing more than an acoustic guitar and a harmonica. Lyrically, it is about two people who don’t want to hurt each other but do. One person wants to push the other away and the other person wants to hold on despite the pain, to take the whole experience as a lesson. A complicated lyric and an all too common situation. Unlike the protagonist of the song, most who experience it will live with the trauma, and without the lesson.
“Ami Cannon’s new single offers a unique, and insightful perspective on being in a toxic relationship,” said Loveforce International CEO Mark Thomas. “We are proud to put out a Country oriented song that looks beyond the hurt to something greater.” He Continued.
Ami Cannon’s “I Can Learn From You” will be released to Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, iHeart Radio, YouTube Music, Deezer, KKBox, Pandora, Media Net, Amazon Music, Soundtrack by Twitch, Touch Tones, NetEase, Facebook, Instagram Stories, Tidal, BoomPlay, Snapchat, Pretzel, AudioMack, Yandex, Joax, Kuack, Adaptr, Qobuz, Flo, and TikTok, Resso.
3, Apr 2024
Ai Palette Appoints Ashish Jha to Spearhead Growth Consulting & Analytics
New York, NY, April 03, 2024 –Ai Palette (www.aipalette.com), a provider of AI-driven product development solutions for businesses in consumer packaged goods (CPG) industries, has appointed Ashish Jha as the Head of Growth & Solutions Consulting. With more than 14 years of experience in consulting, analytics, and business development, Jha is set to enhance Ai Palette’s growth trajectory significantly.
Ashish has joined Ai Palette as the Head of Growth Consulting, where he will lead the charge in innovation and strategy. Armed with extensive knowledge of the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) market, he is poised to steer projects that address intricate and complex client requirements. Drawing from his expertise in market research and industry insights, Ashish will also play a pivotal role in enhancing product robustness and catering to the evolving needs of prospective clients.
A Strategic Leader with Proven Success
Jha’s impressive 14+ year career spans India and North America, encompassing growth strategy, business development, and client management. He was previously heading Kantar’s AI-based analytics products and solutions in the Asia Pacific region. Jha commenced his career with L’Oreal in 2014, followed by a stint at the startup Analytics Quotient where he advised many global beverage companies such as Coca-Cola in areas ranging from insights and analytics in consumer behavior and CRM. At Kantar, he led the commercial strategy and growth of all AI/ML-based analytics solutions across the Asia Pacific region. He has a proven track record of supporting leading global brands to drive revenue, market share, and customer frequency through data-driven decisions and advanced analytics.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ashish to the Ai Palette team,” said Malay Shah, Chief Business Officer at Ai Palette. “His extensive experience in AI, analytics, coupled with his deep understanding of the evolving marketing landscape, makes him an invaluable asset to our company. We are confident that Ashish will scale our business and deliver exceptional results for our clients.”
“The AI space is a very exciting one to be in right now and in my experience consulting for top brands I’ve witnessed in close quarters some of the challenges they face in keeping up with consumer trends, building their innovation pipeline and leveraging an unbiased voice of the consumer to drive both strategic and tactical marketing decisions. I’m excited about the journey that lies ahead at Ai Palette and building products and solutions that help our customers leverage data and analytics to achieve their business goals. I believe Ai Palette’s innovative solutions have the potential to revolutionize the CPG landscape,” said Jha.
3, Apr 2024
Comcast Releases New Unlimited Xfinity Mobile Plans
West Palm Beach, FL, April 03, 2024 — Comcast announces Xfinity Mobile’s new plans, which are available starting this week. The Unlimited and Unlimited Plus mobile plans now start at $40 and $50 per line, respectively, and offer more savings than ever over the big three cell-phone network providers in the United States.
“As families look to save money, we’re offering the best value in mobile,” said Kohposh Kuda, senior vice president, Xfinity Mobile, Comcast. “Our new unlimited plans start at only $40 per line, and the more lines you add, the more you save, with $25 per line for four lines. Xfinity Mobile continues to differentiate and create an unmatched experience for customers by combining the best of WiFi and cellular to create a truly wireless experience while also saving them money.”
The new Unlimited and Unlimited Plus plans will feature:
– Industry-Leading Pricing: XM 6.0 offerings are below the industry standard for line setup fees, including competing mobile packages on the market.
– Free Mexico/Canada Benefits: Unlimited calling, texting and roaming included with new Unlimited plans at no additional cost.
– Tablet Unlimited: Works the same way your phone’s Unlimited data plan does with no line access fee.
In today’s digital age, data-intensive activities like binge-streaming shows, video chats with friends, family, or coworkers, downloading large files, and online gaming dominate consumers’ lives. Xfinity Mobile is now offering more savings per line, more premium data, and more value-added features.
3, Apr 2024
Scottsdale Philharmonic Announces New Conductor, Venue
Scottsdale, AZ, April 03, 2024 — The Scottsdale Philharmonic announced that Vanja Gjumar Nikolovski has joined the orchestra as its Principal Resident Conductor beginning with the 2024-2025 Concert Season, which starts Oct. 13.
Maestro Nikolovski graduated with majors in conducting and composition from the Saints Cyril and Methodius University of Skopje Faculty of Music, Macedonia and has conducted all over the world. “We are thrilled to have a conductor of his background join us,” says Joy Partridge, Executive Director of the Scottsdale Philharmonic.
Tickets are now available for the May 5 Scottsdale Philharmonic Beethoven Concert. The concert begins at 4 p.m., and will be held at the orchestra’s new performance home, La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Rd. in Scottsdale.
“Starting with this May 5 concert, all of our concerts will be held at La Casa de Cristo,” says Partridge. “It’s a beautiful venue that can hold 1,200 people and has ample, free parking. Our guest conductor for the May 5 concert is Nickolas Carlson.”
The Scottsdale Philharmonic’s musical selections for the May 5 concert will include:
– Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3 with Pianist Svetlana Obregon Saens, a co-founder and owner of Ostinato Conservatory of Music. Saens enjoys a successful career as a pianist, collaborative artist, and educator, and is a prizewinner in many international competitions, including International Music Festival “Musica Classica” in Ruza, Russia and the 6th International Competition “Music Without Limits” in Lithuania.
– Suppé: Banditenstreiche Overture “If I Loved You” from Carousel with Soprano: Melissa Solomon
– Beethoven Leonore Overture No. 3
“The vision of the Scottsdale Philharmonic is to become a valley-wide symphony,” Partridge explains. “This is why we offer free live streaming for all concerts, low ticket prices, free tickets to all students and Active Military/Veterans, and anyone who needs financial assistance but still wants to experience the joy of classical music.”
The Scottsdale Philharmonic is a non-profit organization. Although the group charges for tickets, this income only covers about 30 percent of the costs. Therefore, the other 70 percent of its support must come from individual donors. “If you appreciate classical music and would like to help us fulfill our mission, please visit the website to make a donation today,” Partridge says.
Tickets are available for $20-$35, and can be purchased online at www.scottsdalephilharmonic.com. Season tickets also are available. Upcoming concert dates are Sundays June 30, Oct. 13 and Nov. 17. Attendees are asked to check the website for more details.
3, Apr 2024
New 2.4″ IPS TFT LCD Displays at Newhaven Display
Elgin, IL, April 03, 2024 –Newhaven Display releases six new 2.4” size, In-Plane Switching (IPS) displays to their LCD TFT product line. With IPS technology, these displays are capable of truer color reproduction, better optical characteristics, and better image consistency from any viewing angle. There are two different brightness options to choose from: a standard brightness model and a high brightness model with up to 1200 nits that’s sunlight readable. In addition to brightness options, there are two touchscreen options including resistive and capacitive touch. The capacitive touchscreen gives a more premium appearance when using this display in applications and will elevate user experience with multi-touch capability. Additional benefits of the capacitive touch model include a built-in I2C interface and durable cover glass.
These 2.4” IPS displays provide additional design improvements including built-in EMI shielding and a top bezel frame for added protection. They offer user-selectable parallel or serial interface modes for flexibility within multiple project requirements. This allows the displays to be compatible with multiple development platforms such as Arduino development boards. This new product line was engineered with compatibility in mind. The new design has the same mechanical footprint as the TN display, making them compatible with existing overlays, enclosures, and other assembly components of the TN display, allowing easy integration into your existing projects. Engineered to redefine excellence in a compact form, this new line of 2.4” displays will elevate any project.
Features
· 2.4” IPS screens
· 240×320 pixel resolution
· Sunlight readable, high brightness option
· Full viewing angles
· 8-bit/16-bit parallel or 3-wire SPI interface
· Capacitive, resistive or no touchscreen
· Built-in ST7789VI Driver IC
· Built-in EMI Shielding
· Compatible with 2.4” TN Models
Product Part Numbers:
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP-CTP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP-T
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP-CTP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP-T
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP
3, Apr 2024
Laura Eddy’s Newly Released Going Forward
<img class=”aligncenter wp-image-10058 size-full” src=”https://hellokotpad.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Laura-Eddys-Newly-Released-Going-Forward.jpeg” alt=”Laura Eddy’s Newly Released Going Forward” width=”428″ height=”612″ />
<p style=”text-align: justify;”><strong>Naples, FL, April 03, 2024</strong> — “Going Forward: Path to Peace”: an insightful reflection that offers spiritual encouragement. “Going Forward: Path to Peace” is the creation of published author, Laura Eddy, a dedicated wife, mother of three, and grandmother of two.</p>
<p style=”text-align: justify;”>Eddy shares, “Mom claims she was woken in the middle of the night with God whispering the name of my book, ‘Going Forward’ without even knowing what I was writing about. I trusted and went with it. Trusting requires complete dependence upon God for direction, purpose, fulfillment and strength to follow His plans for our lives.</p>
<p style=”text-align: justify;”>“In order to continue ‘Going Forward’ one has to be an overcomer. Overcomers are followers of Christ who successfully resist the power and temptation of the world’s system. An overcomer is not sinless but holds fast to faith in Christ until the end. He does not turn away when times get difficult.</p>
<p style=”text-align: justify;”>“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6”</p>
3, Apr 2024
Hibu Integrates Amazon Ads Sponsored Display Into Its Digital Marketing
Cedar Rapids, IA, April 03, 2024 — Hibu’s proprietary technology platform seamlessly integrates best-in-class digital marketing services and advertising channels, leveraging AI and machine learning, performance optimization, and real-time notification features to create powerful synchronized digital marketing programs that help clients drive leads, manage those leads, and convert them into valued customers.
Sponsored Display leverages Amazon Ads rich audience insights built from shopping and streaming signals, advanced AI, and machine learning technology to engage audiences across Amazon, Twitch, and thousands of apps and websites. Amazon Ads Sponsored Display is available to businesses both on Amazon and ones not selling on Amazon, including the vast majority of local businesses that Hibu specializes in helping, such as home services contractors, auto repair, consumer services, and travel and hospitality.
Nick Hopkins, Hibu’s VP of Product Strategy and Development, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating, “We saw the potential for bringing these rich audience capabilities to the tens of thousands of SMBs we partner with across the US. Our early testing has validated our initial optimism, and we’re thrilled to now make Sponsored Display available to all our eligible Hibu Solution clients.”
With Sponsored Display now integrated into Hibu’s suite of digital marketing solutions, clients can expect enhanced reach, engagement, and conversion opportunities, further empowering their business growth strategies.
“We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Hibu by together integrating Amazon Ads Sponsored Display into Hibu’s suite of digital marketing solutions. We look forward to continuing our work with Hibu to help their small business clients succeed with the expanded availability of Sponsored Display.” – Jamie Lomas, Vice President, Global Growth – Amazon Ads
3, Apr 2024
ASHA KA MAHOTSAV: Interfaith Easter Celebration Brings Hope and Unity
New Delhi, April 3rd, 2024: The Chavara Cultural Centre Delhi, in collaboration with the Delhi Syro Malabar Youth Movement (DSYM), hosted a heartwarming Interfaith Easter Celebration titled ‘Asha Ka Mahotsav’ (Celebration of Hope) on April 2nd, 2023, at the Diocesan Community Centre (DCC) of Sacred Heart Cathedral Catholic Church in New Delhi.
This event transcended religious boundaries, fostering a spirit of unity and hope. Dr. Fr. Roby Kannanchira CMI, Director of the Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests and participants. He said, “We come together today to celebrate the message of Easter, a message of hope, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. This interfaith gathering is a testament to the power of faith to bring people together and promote understanding and peace.”
Delivering the benedictory addresses were Most Rev. Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto of the Archdiocese of Delhi and Most Rev. Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, Bishop of Faridabad. Archbishop Bharanikulangara emphasized the importance of strengthening interfaith relations in the capital, he said: “We aim to strengthen inter-religious relations, fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities.”
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of HE Mr Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile. He highlighted the role of ambassadors in building peace and the collective responsibility to address global challenges like climate change, hunger, and terrorism. Ambassador Angulo remarked, “As ambassadors, we are builders of peace. Everyone has a role. The resurrection of Jesus symbolizes hope, reminding us of our shared humanity.”
The ceremonial cutting of the Easter cake by the Ambassador of Chile and other dignitaries marked the joyous occasion. The evening concluded with vibrant cultural performances, uniting participants in a celebration of diversity and harmony.
This Interfaith Easter Celebration served as a platform for fostering dialogue, understanding, and solidarity among people of different faiths, embodying the true spirit of Easter: a celebration of renewal, hope, and peace.
