It was a crisp Tuesday morning at our regular spot, Dome Cafe in Waikiki, when the RBS Breakfast Club members gathered, not just for the camaraderie and the delicious breakfast, but to delve into topics that are shaping the modern business landscape, such as cybersecurity and AI.
A Seamless Start to the Day
The morning began with a noticeable change. Instead of the usual name tags dictating our breakfast orders, members picked cards corresponding to their dishes. This new system, a testament to the club’s adaptability, ensured our conversations weren’t interrupted by the usual hustle of breakfast deliveries. It was a simple yet effective testament to the club’s ethos: always be open to change, especially when it enhances the experience.
The Digital Frontier: Navigating Cybersecurity
Before the plates arrived, David from Rockingham Naked IT took the floor, delving deep into the realm of cybersecurity. He highlighted the most common threats that businesses and individuals face in today’s digital age:
- Phishing: These are deceptive emails, often masquerading as reputable organisations, such as banks or telecom providers, with the intent of harvesting your credentials.
- Malware: Malicious software designed to steal data or corrupt systems. It often originates from fake websites and deceptive emails.
- Ransomware: This malicious software hijacks your computer or devices by encrypting data, and holding it hostage until a ransom is paid to decrypt it.
- Social Engineering: A manipulative technique where individuals are tricked into revealing confidential corporate information, often through social media.
David emphasised that while these threats are ever-present, there are proactive measures one can take to safeguard against them. He recommended the following:
- Use strong, unique passwords: This is the first line of defence against unauthorised access.
- Keep software and systems up to date: Regular updates often patch known vulnerabilities.
- Enable Multi-factor Authentication: An added layer of security that requires multiple forms of verification.
- Regularly backup data: Ensure you have copies of your essential data in case of any breaches.
- Use a reputable antivirus program: This acts as a shield against malicious software.
- Learn to recognize and avoid suspect emails, links, & phone calls: Being vigilant and cautious can prevent many potential breaches.
David has very graciously shared his Cybersecurity Presentation slides for those who want to refer back.
The subsequent discussions revealed a shared sentiment: in the digital age, caution is not just advisable; it’s imperative. Sharyn from Sharyn McCaskey Social Media‘s cautionary note about the perils of oversharing on social media, especially birthdays, added another layer to this discourse. She highlighted the risks associated with sharing such personal details, emphasising that knowing one’s birthday and age can make it easier for malicious actors to deduce one’s full date of birth, a critical step towards identity theft.
AI: Not Just a Buzzword, But a Business Tool
The conversation then shifted to the realm of Artificial Intelligence. Drawing parallels from tools like ChatGPT to Dalle-2, the discussion was a deep dive into the transformative potential of AI in business. It’s not just about automation but understanding and harnessing AI’s capabilities to drive innovation. The analogy of AI tools was likened to a multitool versus specialised instruments like a hammer or screwdriver. While a multitool can handle a range of tasks decently, specialised tools excel in their specific functions.
In the midst of this discussion, I shared my perspective on AI, drawing from my experiences at Scott Aussie. I often think of AI as an intern. It’s capable of producing great work, but like any intern, it requires guidance, supervision, and clear instructions. The better the instructions you provide, the more refined the results you get in return. This perspective seemed to resonate with many, highlighting the importance of understanding the tools we use in our businesses.
The buzz in the room suggested that a dedicated workshop on AI might soon be on the horizon for the RBS Breakfast Club.
Celebrations and Looking Ahead
The session wasn’t just about learning. It was also a time to celebrate. Cheers rang out for Robyn from Celebrant in Style and Paul from Peel Manor House, both of whom are finalists in the Wedding Industry Awards. The political aspirations of Davina Reid and Adelle Hemmingway, both running in the City of Rockingham Local Government Elections, added another dimension to the group’s diverse achievements.
As the meeting drew to a close, the anticipation for the next session was palpable, especially with the addition of Amanda from Oceans of Love Photography to our ranks.
The latest RBS Breakfast Club meeting was more than just a gathering; it was a reflection of the dynamic business landscape of Rockingham. With each meeting, the group doesn’t just discuss business; they shape its very future.
Want to be part of the conversation that’s redefining business in Rockingham? Join us at our next RBS Breakfast Club meeting. Your seat at the table awaits.
