Is your business increasingly worried about the visibility, performance and security of core SaaS apps delivered over the Internet?

If so, this Hear from an Expert update we ran this week is worth a good watch then! Enjoy!

Wondering how ThousandEyes can help you resolve Internet reliant performance issues proactively so your team’s be more productive? Contact us, let’s have a relaxed chat. 👍

The latest figures from the Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) Cyber Threat Report 2022-2023 serve as a stark reminder of the escalating financial impact of cybercrime on Aussie businesses. In the 2022–2023 period, the ASD reports a sobering 14% increase in the average self-reported cost of cybercrime to businesses annually, highlighting the need for continued cybersecurity vigilance, education and action.

The Financial Impact of Cyber Incidents

Small businesses, often the most vulnerable, reported average losses of AUD $45,965 due to cyber incidents, marking a significant rise from the previous year’s average of AUD $39,555. Medium-sized businesses were also hit hard, with reported losses averaging AUD $97,203, up from AUD $88,407. Even large businesses, with their substantial investments in cyber defences, weren’t immune, facing average losses of AUD $71,598, up notably from AUD $62,233.

Addressing the Cyber Threat Landscape

The cyber threat landscape is changing fast, with cybercriminals exploiting security gaps more efficiently. The report underscores a worrying trend where critical vulnerabilities are exploited within just hours of being revealed, indicating a pressing need for businesses to quicken their response to emerging threats.

The ASD Cyber Threat Report underscores the importance of strategic and thorough cybersecurity practices, including adherence to the ASD’s Essential Eight:

1. Patch Applications: Keep all software updated to the latest versions to block known vulnerabilities.

2. Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings: Disable macros from the internet to halt potentially malicious code.

3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Roll out MFA across all systems, especially for remote access, admin accounts, and sensitive data systems.

4. Regular Backups: Maintain consistent backups of vital data, test restoration procedures, and ensure backups are disconnected from the network.

5. Application Control: Use application whitelisting to allow only vetted programs to execute.

6. Restrict Administrative Privileges: Grant admin privileges only to those whose roles require it.

7. Patch Operating Systems: Apply OS patches promptly to reduce vulnerabilities.

8. User Application Hardening: Set up web browsers to block Flash, ads, and Java on the internet.

These priority measures create a foundational cybersecurity framework for organisations to combat a broad spectrum of cyber threats. Systematic implementation of the Essential Eight is key.

The Role of Cyber Awareness

A cyber-savvy workforce is fundamental to any organisation’s cyber resilience. Regular, engaging training programs that spotlight the risks of phishing and other social engineering tactics are crucial. Utilising resources such as those from KnowBe4, which offer a range of user-focused safety options, can help employees become skilled at detecting and thwarting cyber threats. A well-informed team acts as the primary defence, significantly bolstering an organisation’s security against the initial stages of cyber attacks that often exploit human interaction.

A Call for Proactive Cyber Defence

The ASD Cyber Threat Report 2022-2023 is a careful call to action for proactive cyber defence. With financial losses growing, Australian IT businesses must invest in extensive cybersecurity measures. Inaction or delayed action can have financial repercussions that reverberate beyond the immediate aftermath of a cyber incident.

At Murdoch Webster, we help modern Aussie teams understand and build a cybersafe workplace. Don’t wait for a breach to expose vulnerabilities in your network. Contact us today for a conversation on how we can ensure your cybersecurity posture is robust, resilient, and ready for the challenges ahead.

Thanks for reading, remember to follow the Murdoch Webster LinkedIn page to stay informed on industry developments.

SOURCES

1. ASD Cyber Threat Report 2022-2023, 14 Nov 23

2. China blamed as major backer behind hacking of Australian companies and infrastructure, 15 Nov 2023

Additional DOWNLOADs

1. ASD’s Cyber Threat Report 2022-2023 – 7.67MB

2. Fact Sheet – Business & Organisations – 2022-2023 – 190KB

3. Fact Sheet – Critical Infrastructure – 2022-2023 – 172KB

4. Fact Sheet – Individuals – 2022-2023 – 173KB

We’re proud to present our November edition of our on-going series, Brilliant Bios!

This month, we’re excited to present our amazing Technical Consultant, Scott Adamson. From sales to technical engineers, we’re covering all areas of our talented team and providing a little behind the scenes peak into what makes them tick.

Enjoy! ✈️

Introduction

I have done a lot of different things within the realms of technology and I have enjoyed working for a wide variety of employers. More recently I worked for a rural local government where I got to know Leanne and worked with a couple of the engineers from Murdoch Webster. This eventually led me to the Murdoch Webster team!

What were some significant life experiences that led you to where you are now?

During my final year of high-school, I was involved in a serious road accident which resulted in an extended hospital stay. Finishing my studies and securing a spot at University despite missing most of my classes led me to believe I could accomplish most things if I was willing to make the effort. Relocating from the big country town known as Geelong to inner city Melbourne as a young person was an incredible experience – meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, but my life as I know it now really started when I met my partner of 17 years and became a step-dad to her three children.

Life at Murdoch Webster

Q: What’s your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
Chips and Coca-Cola, also known as the breakfast of champions. Well not so much Coca-Cola these days. 🥤

Q: What’s the most memorable team outing or event you’ve had at Murdoch Webster?
The recent ‘Pretty in Pink’ BBQ supporting the Breast Cancer Awareness Network, a fun day and raised money for a great cause. 🌭

Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
Cybersecurity seems to be an arms race and the good guys will need to leverage AI to help identify emerging threats and vulnerabilities, as the criminals will probably find ways to use this technology. It has already been demonstrated that ChatGPT can be used to create malware. 🌐

Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
Hard to predict how technology will change, no doubt we will see the end of organisations running IT systems in-house. The focus will be entirely on leveraging cloud-based infrastructure, and cybersecurity will probably be a much bigger part of what we do. ☁️

Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?
The professional development and opportunities to learn from some of the best engineers. A great inclusive culture and team-building exercises such as the recent day of volunteering at the Melbourne Lost Dogs Home. Murdoch Webster is more than just a place to work, they’re a lot of fun as well. 🎉

Q: What’s the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
I’m a bit of a ‘metal head’, and most things that were deemed ‘alternative’ or ‘grunge’ back in the 90s. 🤘

We had a wonderful morning hosting our annual #LadiesofIT Pink Lady brunch!

The #LadiesofIT community showed out for our Pink Lady brunch while supporting the wonderful Breast Cancer Network Australia! 💕

Held at The Smith Prahran Hotel, the event started off with some networking and light finger food. As always, the venue looked stunning, the perfect stage for our celebration of women in tech. Your support made this event our largest gathering yet, with over 50 fabulous femmes in attendance! 🥳

We were fortunate enough to have the BCNA team join us including the CEO, Kirsten Pilatti. Leanne Taylor, the driving force behind the #LadiesOfIT and our in-house sales maestro at Murdoch Webster, kicked off the event with an uplifting introduction. Kirsten and Wayne Pales (Chief Digital Officer) gave us an amazing insight into the work BCNA are doing and their personal journey in joining the organisation. 🎀

We’re proud to present our October edition of our on-going series, Brilliant Bios!

This month, we’re delighted to showcase our amazing Associate Consultant, Ben Warner. From sales to technical engineers, we’re covering all areas of our talented team and providing a little behind the scenes peak into what makes them tick.

Enjoy! ✨

Introduction

I have always had a keen interest in technology. It’s something that I’ve been curious about for a while. Even in my previous roles in construction and hazardous materials, I was thinking about a pathway into tech.

I was working as a physical security technician when the curiosity of how networks operated, communicated and how to protect them became something I wanted to pursue. This started my tech journey, eventually leading me to Murdoch Webster.

What were some significant life experiences that led you to where you are now?

I would say the most significant would be during covid. To alleviate some of the lockdown induced boredom, I signed up for a Cert IV in Cybersecurity. I thought this would help me in my day job as a lot of it concentrated on networking. While that was the case, it also ignited my passion for securing networks and cybersecurity. Following that, I signed up for the Digital Jobs Program in Victoria and was fortunate enough to find Murdoch Webster!

Life at Murdoch Webster

Q: What’s your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
A strong black coffee is generally a good starting point! It keeps me focused and alert after battling sleepless nights with my 3 wonderful children… ☕

Q: What’s the most memorable team outing or event you’ve had at Murdoch Webster?
The volunteering day at The Lost Dogs Home. Not only did we get to learn more about the work they do, we were also able to give back to them. We also had the chance to pet some puppies… 🐕🐈

Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
In the future, I believe cybersecurity experts will work closely with AI to tackle cyber threats through a symbiotic relationship. AI will assist in identifying and mitigating threats at speeds beyond human capacity, while experts will provide oversight, strategy, and ethical guidance to ensure AI systems are effective and aligned with human values. This collaboration will enhance cyber defence and adapt to evolving threats more efficiently. 🤖

Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
A day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now would likely involve cutting-edge technologies and a highly dynamic work environment. They might start their day by analyzing advanced AI-generated threat reports, using augmented reality interfaces to investigate potential cyber incidents. Throughout the day, they’d collaborate with global teams in real-time, leveraging virtual reality for immersive meetings and training exercises. This futuristic cybersecurity professional would be skilled not only in traditional security practices but also in managing AI-driven security solutions and adapting to emerging threats in the rapidly evolving digital landscape 🌐

Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?
I have only been with the MWTG team for only a month, but so far, I would have to say it’s the people and the team culture they’ve created. They have made me feel welcome from day 1, the camaraderie and support given to every team member is second to none. After years of playing team sport and being involved in sporting clubs, a crucial factor in success is having a great team to rely on when you need it 👍

Q: What’s the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
Depending on the challenge it is usually some late 90’s or early 00’s indie rock, more serious challenges can require some blues and souls 🎸🎶

Our September edition of our Brilliant Bio series is here!

This month, we’re thrilled to present our amazing Associate Network Engineer, Brianna Sonter. From sales to technical engineers, we’re covering all areas of our terrific team and providing a little behind the scenes peak into what makes them tick.

Enjoy! ✨

Introduction

I have always loved being around and working in tech. When I graduated university and moved to Melbourne, I decided that I wanted to put my degree to work.

I wanted to find the perfect company to grow and learn in, Murdoch Webster was just that.

What were some significant life experiences that led you to where you are now?

Moving from Queensland to Melbourne after University brought about profound changes in my life, introducing me to new perspectives and challenges that fostered my personal growth and adaptability. It broadened my horizons, expanding my social and professional networks which led me to wanting to be a part of an amazing group of network engineers.

Life at Murdoch Webster

Q: What’s your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
Coffee, it enhances my focus and alertness during complex problem-solving sessions and marathon troubleshooting sessions. With each sip, it keeps me energized and enables me to navigate intricate network landscapes with a clear mind and sustained dedication. ☕

Q: What’s the most memorable team outing or event you’ve had at Murdoch Webster?
The Ladies of IT events, getting together with wonderful women in the industry. As a woman in IT, connecting with fellow female professionals in the field provides an uplifting space to exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges, and build a network of support that bolsters my confidence and motivation. These gatherings amplify the impact of our voices, foster mentorship opportunities, and inspire me to pursue greater success while promoting diversity within the industry. 💪

Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
Cybersecurity experts and artificial intelligence will collaborate closely in the future to rapidly identify and respond to evolving cyber threats. AI will automate threat detection, allowing experts to focus on strategic decision-making and adaptive defence measures, resulting in a more effective and proactive cybersecurity ecosystem. 🤖

Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
In a futuristic landscape, a network engineer begins their day by interfacing with an AI-driven dashboard that analyses real-time network data, predicts potential disruptions, and recommends pre-emptive adjustments. Leveraging augmented reality tools, the engineer seamlessly troubleshoots complex issues by visualizing and manipulating network components in a virtual environment, while collaborating with AI-generated solutions for enhanced efficiency.

Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?
The company culture is perfect for me as well as everyone’s work ethic. Work culture and ethic hold immense significance to me as they lay the foundation for a productive and fulfilling professional journey. A positive work culture fosters collaboration, innovation, and a sense of belonging, while a strong work ethic ensures commitment, diligence, and the achievement of meaningful goals. Those two things are what I value most about being part of the team.

Q: What’s the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
A girlie pop playlist featuring a mix of Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Charlie XCX, Black Pink, PeachPRC and others. The catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and empowering lyrics help create a positive and energized mindset, boosting confidence and focus as we delve into complex problem-solving tasks.

The contrast between the light-hearted music and the serious nature of cybersecurity serves as a refreshing mental break, enhancing creativity and resilience in the face of each challenge. 🎶

What a day we had! 🩷

Together with our amazing #LadiesofIT, we participated in BCNA’s Field Of Women and stood in the center of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) – Joined by over 10,000 others!

The Field Of Women ceremony was exciting and inspiring. Surrounded by a sea of pink warriors, it was great to see so many supporting a great cause. With the sun shining brightly, our #LadiesofIT stood with 10,000 others in the center of the MCG as heartfelt tributes were given. ☀

BCNA created a wonderful tribute to all those affected by breast cancer, we were proud to be supporting them by participating. The ceremony came to a close with tears in eyes but a stronger sense of unity and hope developed as a result.

We then went on to enjoy an amazing footy game between the Dees and Hawks. A perfect close to a great day of community spirit, celebrating our breast cancer warriors! 🥳

Here’s a quote from one of our #LadiesofIT:

“A moment in time when you truly felt, what was a ‘field of love and support’!”

 

This is just the start of our fundraising journey 🔥

We’re raising $10,000 for the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and we need your help to do it!

Visit our fundraising page to follow our journey, if you’d like to contribute, any donation is massively appreciated.

Thank you for you support, stay tuned for more updates!

Welcome back for another Brilliant Bio!

Today we’re excited to share a little more about our fantastic Technical Account Manager, Martin Walters. From sales to technical engineers, we’re covering all areas of our talented team and providing a little behind the scenes peak into what makes them tick. Enjoy! 👍

Introduction

I grew up a country boy in Warrnambool/Koroit Victoria. I started my work life at the age of 14 in a little IGA supermarket, eventually becoming an assistant store manager. These early experiences laid the foundation for my strong sense of customer service.

Moving on to my education, I attended Ballarat/Fed Uni, where I studied a Bachelor’s in Information Technology. During my 4 years there, I was fortunate to secure a placement at IBM, which had a call and data center right on campus. This exposure polished my customer service skills further and developed my technical expertise. Working with user account management and access control for large customers, handling active directory and midrange computing (AS400) systems all added to my skill set.

Post-graduation, I joined IBM as an Associate Project Manager. But instead of starting small as a post-graduate normally would, I was thrown into large transition and transformation projects for IBM clients like BHP and NAB. I had a number of great mentors at IBM. They guided me through various aspects of IT delivery, ranging from documentation writing and procedural transitions to data centre infrastructure deployments.

After my time at IBM, I went into telecommunications, joining Telstra for the first time. I became part of a team tasked with developing and commissioning a new application to recalculate data usage and billing charges. This role exposed me to the application development processes, agile project methodologies, and cyber-security requirements, setting me up for future roles in cyber-security.

My journey brought me back to Telstra a second time, this time through their acquisition of VMtech, where I served as a Technical Project Manager in the Melbourne office. Here, I had the opportunity to work on Network (Cisco), Cyber (Palo Alto Networks) and data center projects. This further enhanced my skills in managing smaller, more agile, and frequent projects. It was during this period that I got to experience the sales and pre-sales components of project delivery, connecting me with numerous professionals, including Murdoch Webster’s Senior Sales Executive Leanne Taylor.

As my journey progressed, I took on a leadership role as a manager at Telstra, leading a team of Project Managers. It was shortly after this that I left Telstra and eventually became a part of the Murdoch Webster team!

What were some significant life experiences that led you to where you are now?

• My decision to go to Uni, it 100% changed the course of my life.

• Career defining projects at IBM & Telstra. One of these involved being a Project Manager for the first phase of the Wireless and Core Network upgrade at Marvel Stadium, in 2021/2022. Managing the roll out of hundreds of Cisco AP’s and network switches.

• Working on Leanne’s projects (7-Eleven) with the opportunity to build relationships with her and the customers. I got to demonstrate my customer service, even as a Project Manager. I would be up at 3am to solve issues with the project technical team who cared just as much as I did.

Life at Murdoch Webster

Q: What’s your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
Chocolate! It gives me a sugar rush, I’m not sure it fuels much though. 🍫

Q: What’s the most memorable team outing or event you’ve had at Murdoch Webster?
Our 2022 Christmas Party! 🧑‍🎄 I got to celebrate with MWTG for the first time, it was even better as 2022 was a transformative year for MWTG. We also have a volunteer day coming up which I’m looking forward to.

Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
AI will give Cyber experts and organisation managers a greater view of probabilistic risk and should help organisations make decisions. I also think AI is a big risk area for Humanity in general as it’ll move too fast for humans to react or intervene. 🤖

Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
Working on great projects to deliver outcomes for customers while continuing to build great relationships with customers, partners and future employees! 🎉

Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?

Making a difference for our customers and helping them to achieve their business outcomes. Building relationships with customers, partners, and rest of the MWTG team. I mainly value helping Murdoch Webster to continue expanding!

Q: What’s the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
Haha! I use music to relax, not to pump me up. I think the answer you want here is “Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins” 🎵

 

In partnership with our mates at KnowBe4, we hosted Date Night on Us (with us) last night to a full capacity cinema – our largest event ever! 🥳

We were thrilled to enjoy a talk from Candice Sellwood @ KnowBe4. Candice shared some amazing tips for our non-technical guests on how to better understand security threats and be proactive online in protecting yourself. Then it was time for the lights to go down and for another adventure with Indiana Jones! 📽

Interested knowing more about the dangers of phishing? Download our Threat Awareness datasheet and reach out with any queries. 👍

Below are some great pictures snapped of our event last night. Did you take any? We’d love to see them! Send them our way or share with us on Linkedin!

#MurdochWebster #KnowBe4 #MovieMagic #IndianaJones

Our growing team here at Murdoch Webster hail from all corners of the world with amazing stories and great life experiences – so it’s time we shared them with you! We’re excited to kick off our second episode of our new series ‘Brilliant Bios’, a friendly exposé into the wonderfully talented people that make up the team here at Murdoch Webster.

Today we’re excited to share a little more about our fantastic Sales Operations Coordinator, Jo Sajjan. Let’s dive in with a friendly Q&A style interview. 👍

Introduction

I am a Kiwi Indian and the Super Mum to a beautiful boy who means the world to me! Originally born in India, I moved to New Zealand – Auckland in 2015 with my husband. After completing my Master’s in Business Administration in Auckland, I started working in IT Sales and Account Management. We visited Melbourne on a holiday in 2018 and fell in love with the place! We wanted to move in 2020 but then Covid hit, and our plans of moving went on hold. We finally moved here in March 2023.

I joined Murdoch Webster as a Sales and Operations Coordinator. A few months in now, I’m continuing to focus on providing fantastic customer experiences. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the amazing Murdoch Webster team that takes a proactive role in supporting women across the IT sector in tangible, significant ways.

Life at Murdoch Webster

Q: What’s your favourite office snack, and how does it fuel your cybersecurity success?
Nutbars and chocolates keep me happy and positive! 😃

Q: What’s the most memorable team outing or event you’ve had at Murdoch Webster?
My First Event at Murdoch Webster. It was our #LadiesinIT event for Mothers Day! 🌺

Q: How do you think cybersecurity experts will work together with artificial intelligence in the future to tackle cyber threats?
With the continuous evolution of technology and smart devices, cyber security professionals, aided by powerful AI tools and advancements, play a crucial role in safeguarding organisations’ networks and systems. AI will also enhance various industries and transform the way we live and work.

Q: Imagine a day in the life of a Murdoch Webster employee 10 years from now. How do you envision it?
Murdoch Webster will be global, spread across multiple countries. They will also have employees who can work from any part of the world, a massively expanded team.

Q: What do you value most about being part of the Murdoch Webster team?

I value the work culture, flexibility, and hybrid working at Murdoch Webster the most. As a mother, achieving a perfect work-life balance is essential to me. The flexibility and hybrid working model allow me to work remotely, from home, and take leave without feeling guilty when my son needs me. It makes me more productive, as I don’t have to stress about the daily commute and can focus on both work and personal responsibilities.

Q: What’s the go-to playlist or song that gets your team in the zone for tackling cybersecurity challenges?
Adele: Sky Fall, I Drink Wine.
Ed Sheeran: Bad Habits.

CyberForce represents the top 1% of partner engineers, renowned for their exceptional security expertise and customer-centric approach.

Here at Murdoch Webster, building connections, driving successful outcomes and delivering real-world results keeps us motivated and moving every day.

As a Palo Alto Networks Platinum Innovator, Certified Professional Service Provider and founding partner in CyberForce, we’re always excited to work closely with customers to deliver on their own #CyberSuccess story.

“Partnering with Palo Alto Networks for well over a decade now, we’ve built a strong foundation together in real, tangible customer success.

As a CyberForce Hero, I’m proud to lead the ongoing growth of our technical capabilities in close alignment with the many CyberSuccess stories we have under our belt.”

– Chris Mearns, Chief Technology Officer

Respecting the private nature of the trusted work we undertake with many of our clients, we are pleased to share how we assisted a recent Australian government department to dramatically improve their cyber-security posture.

A fantastic experience for our customer and another successful team effort with our wonderful technology partner Palo Alto Networks. Please click below to download and read on.

Thanks for reading, remember to follow the Murdoch Webster LinkedIn page to stay informed on industry developments.

#PaloAltoNetworks #CYBERFORCE #NGFW #DataProtection #MurdochWebster

Our growing team here at Murdoch Webster hail from all corners of the world with amazing stories and great life experiences – so it’s time we shared them with you! We’re excited to kick off our new series ‘Brilliant Bios’, a friendly exposé into the wonderfully talented people that make up the team here at Murdoch Webster.

Today we’re excited to share a little more about our fantastic Senior Networking Engineer, Alex Rocha De Miranda. Let’s dive in with a friendly Q&A style interview. 👍