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  • The Role of Human Experts in Managed Detection and Response (MXDR)

    In cybersecurity, where the stakes are measured in minutes and the consequences of failure can be catastrophic, the balance between automation and human expertise is critical. Managed Detection and Response (MXDR)  services have emerged as a leading solution to help organizations navigate increasingly complex cyber threats. While advanced AI and machine learning play pivotal roles in MXDR, it’s the combination with human expertise that truly makes these systems effective. In this post, we explore why human-led cybersecurity is essential to Managed Detection and Response, how human experts add value to threat detection, and why businesses—particularly mid-market organizations—should prioritize MXDR solutions that integrate both AI and human intelligence. The Limits of Automated Threat Detection Automated tools are invaluable in processing vast amounts of data and identifying patterns that might signal a cyber threat. They excel at: Handling scale : Sifting through millions of logs in real-time. Speed : Detecting potential anomalies in seconds. Consistency : Applying predefined rules without fatigue. However, these systems are only as good as their programming and training data. Automation struggles with: Contextual understanding : Determining whether a flagged anomaly is truly malicious or part of normal activity. Novel threats : Identifying zero-day attacks or techniques that fall outside known patterns. Prioritization : Recognizing which threats demand immediate action versus those that can be deprioritized. These gaps can lead to missed threats or overwhelming volumes of false positives—both of which compromise an organization’s ability to respond effectively. Where Human Experts Excel in MXDR Human analysts bring critical skills to the table that complement the speed and efficiency of automated tools: 1. Contextual Decision-Making Human experts can analyze threats within the broader context of an organization’s environment. For example, an alert triggered by unusual login behavior might be dismissed by AI as non-critical, but a trained analyst may correlate it with other telemetry to identify the early stages of an attack. 2. Threat Hunting Automated systems work on predefined algorithms and datasets. Human-led threat hunting, however, is proactive and hypothesis-driven. Analysts dig into data to uncover indicators of compromise (IOCs) that machines might miss. 3. Adapting to Novel Threats Cybercriminals continuously evolve their tactics to bypass detection. Human expertise ensures that MXDR services adapt in real time, updating playbooks and responding dynamically to new threats. 4. Reducing False Positives False positives can overwhelm even the most advanced systems, wasting time and resources. Experienced cybersecurity professionals assess alerts, focusing attention only on credible threats, improving overall efficiency. Why Mid-Market Organizations Need Human-Driven MXDR Mid-market companies face unique challenges: they often lack the resources for in-house security operations centers (SOCs) but are still prime targets for attackers. For these businesses, the integration of human expertise into MXDR services delivers: Customized Protection : Analysts tailor detection and response efforts to the specific needs of each organization. Enhanced Response Times : Humans can orchestrate complex responses across multiple systems when seconds matter. Affordable Expertise : With managed services, mid-market organizations gain access to top-tier analysts without building expensive in-house teams. Combining the Best of Both Worlds The ideal MXDR solution integrates cutting-edge technology with human expertise, creating a holistic defense strategy. Key elements of such a solution include: AI-Powered Detection : Automating the identification of threats across networks, endpoints, cloud environments, and SaaS applications. Human-Led Analysis : Experts who validate alerts, conduct threat hunting, and lead incident response. Continuous Learning : Feedback loops between automated tools and human analysts to refine detection algorithms over time. Key Benefits of Human-Led Cybersecurity in MXDR Organizations leveraging MXDR services that emphasize human expertise gain: Increased Detection Rates : Identifying subtle threats that machines might overlook. Proactive Defense : Staying ahead of attackers with real-time threat intelligence. Fewer Disruptions : Reducing false positives ensures business continuity. See the Difference with Human-Led MXDR Your business deserves a cybersecurity solution that doesn’t rely on automation alone. At [Your Company Name], our MXDR services combine advanced AI technology with a dedicated team of analysts who stop attackers early—before damage is done. Ready to experience the power of human-led cybersecurity? Request a free Proof of Value (PoV) today and see how our experts can enhance your threat detection and response capabilities. Request Your PoV Now Looking Ahead Automation has revolutionized cybersecurity, but it’s not a standalone solution. Human experts remain indispensable in Managed Detection and Response services, bridging the gaps that machines cannot fill. For mid-market organizations navigating today’s threat landscape, choosing an MXDR provider that integrates human expertise isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Invest in a solution that works smarter, not just faster. Combine AI with human intelligence for a defense strategy that evolves as quickly as the threats you face.

  • Gradient Cyber and Total Mobility Solution Forge Partnership to Provide Comprehensive Mobile Device Lifecycle Management and Cybersecurity for Mid-Market Organizations

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Southlake, TX – Gradient Cyber, a leader in Managed Extended Detection and Response ( MXDR ) services, has announced an innovative partnership with Total Mobility Solution , a provider of end-to-end mobile device lifecycle management. This collaboration aims to deliver an integrated solution that combines seamless device management with advanced cybersecurity for mid-market organizations across industries including K-12 education, healthcare, maritime, manufacturing and more. Mobile devices and endpoints are essential for business operations, organizations face increasing risks from cyberattacks. This partnership bridges the gap between effective device management and the robust cybersecurity measures needed to safeguard sensitive data and systems. A Unified Solution for Today’s Endpoint Challenges Gradient Cyber's advanced MXDR services—encompassing network, endpoint, cloud, and SaaS detection and response—work in synergy with Total Mobility Solution’s expertise in managing mobile device procurement, deployment, maintenance, and decommissioning. Together, the two companies are addressing critical pain points for organizations that rely heavily on mobile devices and endpoints. “Mobile endpoints are a reality of every organization these days,” said Steve Chappell, COO of Gradient Cyber. “It's not always easy or practical to drop EDR agents across the board, so a better approach is MXDR - which uses endpoint, network, user and cloud telemetry to catch attacker activity early in the kill chain. Combining Total Mobility Solution device procurement and management with Gradient Cyber MXDR provides customers with improved IT operations and cutting-edge cybersecurity monitoring and response capabilities.” Key Benefits for Mid-Market Organizations Comprehensive Coverage From device procurement to advanced threat detection and response, organizations can now access a seamless lifecycle solution for their endpoints Enhanced Security Gradient Cyber’s MXDR services protect mobile devices and other endpoints with 24/7/365 monitoring and rapid response to potential threats Industry-Specific Expertise This partnership supports organizations across various sectors, tailoring solutions to meet unique compliance and operational needs Cost-Effective Solutions By combining mobile device management and MXDR services, businesses can reduce the complexity and cost of managing separate solutions while strengthening their security posture Protecting Against the Unknown Organizations often underestimate the vulnerabilities associated with mobile devices and endpoints. Cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and mid-market businesses, in particular, are prime targets. Gradient Cyber’s MXDR platform provides continuous monitoring and actionable insights to stop threats before they cause damage. “Our partnership with Gradient Cyber empowers our customers to focus on their core operations while knowing their devices and data are protected,” said Jeremy King, VP of Operations of Total Mobility Solution. “We’re excited to offer an all-in-one solution that brings immense value to organizations navigating the challenges of managing and securing their mobile endpoints.” Looking Ahead Organizations ready to take control of their mobile device security and endpoint management are invited to learn more about this partnership and explore how it can transform their approach to cybersecurity. Visit Gradient Cyber’s Website or Total Mobility Solution for more details on how this partnership is reshaping the future of mobile device management and cybersecurity. About Gradient Cyber Gradient Cyber is a leading provider of Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) services, specializing in delivering advanced threat detection, monitoring, and response to mid-market organizations. With a focus on simplifying cybersecurity, Gradient Cyber protects businesses from evolving threats across networks, endpoints, cloud environments, and SaaS platforms. About Total Mobility Solution Total Mobility Solution provides end-to-end lifecycle management for mobile devices, offering services from procurement and configuration to repair and decommissioning. Known for its commitment to streamlining operations and delivering exceptional customer support, Total Mobility Solution serves businesses across diverse industries. Media Contact Katie MacDonaldDirector of MarketingGradient Cybercmacdonald@gradientcyber.com

  • How Cybercriminals Exploit Disasters: Scams Amid the California Wildfires

    When disaster strikes, cybercriminals exploit the chaos to target vulnerable individuals and organizations. The ongoing California wildfires have sparked not only flames but also a surge in cyber scams preying on people’s compassion and urgency. How These Scams Work Fraudsters use various tactics to mimic legitimate charities and government agencies, including: Phishing Emails Crafting urgent messages to prompt quick action without verification. Misleading Ads Creating fraudulent donation campaigns on social media platforms. AI-Enhanced Deception Using advanced tools to make fake sites and emails look authentic. Spotlight on Emerging Threats Our analysts have observed notable cyber activities linked to ongoing scams: Cyberhaven & Lumma Stealer Tools designed to harvest sensitive data. Apateweb Malvertising Campaign Leveraging malicious ads to redirect users to harmful sites. Steps to Stay Safe Verify Before You Donate: Use official websites or well-known platforms for donations. Double-check URLs for misspellings or strange domains. Strengthen Your Defenses: Regularly update your software and security systems. Implement phishing detection measures and train your team. Be Skeptical of Urgency: Scrutinize any email or message demanding immediate action. Report suspicious links to your IT or cybersecurity team. The Bigger Picture This spike in scams is a reminder that cybersecurity vigilance must extend to all corners of our digital lives. From endpoints to networks, proactive measures are crucial in safeguarding against evolving threats. At Gradient Cyber, we help mid-market companies monitor, detect, and respond to cyber threats—including the deceptive tactics emerging in crises.

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  • The Cyber Narrative | Katie MacDonald's Marketing Portfolio | Cybersecurity Blog

    I craft and execute impactful marketing strategies and engaging brand stories that leave lasting impressions and drive measurable results. Hi, I'm Katie. As I seek my next opportunity in marketing leadership, this living collection of blogs, videos, designs, and marketing collateral showcases my expertise in cybersecurity and beyond. Explore the evolving story of my work and my blog The Cybersecurity Narrative. about me approach Focus Areas Marketing & Brand Strategy I develop and execute marketing and brand strategies that captivate audiences through compelling storytelling, creating lasting connections and engagement. Product Marketing & GTM I specialize in creating and executing product marketing and go-to-market strategies, from defining your product messaging to effectively reaching your target audience. End-To-End Operations I optimize operational efficiency by implementing and managing technology, ensuring seamless integration and maximizing performance across functions. Cybersecurity Awareness I leverage multiple marketing channels to raise awareness about emerging trends, to educate and empower organizations to enhance their cybersecurity posture. Recommended by Industry Leaders clients Nathan Sportsman | Founder & CEO, Praetorian I had the pleasure of working with Katie during her time as a fractional CMO for Praetorian, and I can confidently say she made an immediate and lasting impact on our business. Even in a short period, Katie demonstrated an exceptional ability to develop and execute a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligned perfectly with our goals. If you're looking for someone who can drive results in product marketing and marketing operations, especially in complex, fast-paced environments like SaaS or cybersecurity, I can't recommend Katie highly enough. She has the skills, the experience, and the drive to take your marketing efforts to the next level. contact us

  • My Work | Katie MacDonald | The Cyber Narrative

    My Portfolio Welcome to my portfolio. Here you’ll find a selection of my work. Explore my projects to learn more about what I do.

  • Privacy Policy | The Cyber Narrative

    ONLINE PRIVACY POLICY AGREEMENT August 28, 2024 CGI Client Solutions (The Cyber Narrative) values its users' privacy. This Privacy Policy("Policy") will help you understand how we collect and use personal information from thosewho visit our website or make use of our online facilities and services, and what we will andwill not do with the information we collect. Our Policy has been designed and created toensure those affiliated with CGI Client Solutions of our commitment and realization of ourobligation not only to meet, but to exceed, most existing privacy standards.We reserve the right to make changes to this Policy at any given time. If you want to makesure that you are up to date with the latest changes, we advise you to frequently visit this page.If at any point in time CGI Client Solutions decides to make use of any personally identifiableinformation on file, in a manner vastly different from that which was stated when thisinformation was initially collected, the user or users shall be promptly notified by email. Usersat that time shall have the option as to whether to permit the use of their information in thisseparate manner.This Policy applies to CGI Client Solutions, and it governs any and all data collection andusage by us. Through the use of thecybernarrative.com, you are therefore consenting to thedata collection procedures expressed in this Policy.Please note that this Policy does not govern the collection and use of information bycompanies that CGI Client Solutions does not control, nor by individuals not employed ormanaged by us. If you visit a website that we mention or link to, be sure to review its privacypolicy before providing the site with information. It is highly recommended and suggested thatyou review the privacy policies and statements of any website you choose to use or frequent tobetter understand the way in which websites garner, make use of and share the informationcollected.Specifically, this Policy will inform you of the following1. What personally identifiable information is collected from you through our website;2. Why we collect personally identifiable information and the legal basis for such collection;3. How we use the collected information and with whom it may be shared;4. What choices are available to you regarding the use of your data; and5. The security procedures in place to protect the misuse of your information.Arial17Information We CollectIt is always up to you whether to disclose personally identifiable information to us, although ifyou elect not to do so, we reserve the right not to register you as a user or provide you withany products or services. This website collects various types of information, such as:· Voluntarily provided information which may include your name, address, emailaddress, billing and/or credit card information etc. which may be used when youpurchase products and/or services and to deliver the services you have requested. · Information automatically collected when visiting our website, which may includecookies, third party tracking technologies and server logs.In addition, CGI Client Solutions may have the occasion to collect non-personal anonymousdemographic information, such as age, gender, household income, political affiliation, raceand religion, as well as the type of browser you are using, IP address, or type of operatingsystem, which will assist us in providing and maintaining superior quality service.CGI Client Solutions may also deem it necessary, from time to time, to follow websites thatour users may frequent to gleam what types of services and products may be the most popularto customers or the general public.Please rest assured that this site will only collect personal information that you knowingly andwillingly provide to us by way of surveys, completed membership forms, and emails. It is theintent of this site to use personal information only for the purpose for which it was requested,and any additional uses specifically provided for on this Policy. Why We Collect Information and For How LongWe are collecting your data for several reasons:· To better understand your needs and provide you with the services you have requested;· To fulfill our legitimate interest in improving our services and products;· To send you promotional emails containing information we think you may like whenwe have your consent to do so;· To contact you to fill out surveys or participate in other types of market research, whenwe have your consent to do so;· To customize our website according to your online behavior and personal preferences.The data we collect from you will be stored for no longer than necessary. The length of timewe retain said information will be determined based upon the following criteria: the length oftime your personal information remains relevant; the length of time it is reasonable to keeprecords to demonstrate that we have fulfilled our duties and obligations; any limitation periodswithin which claims might be made; any retention periods prescribed by law or recommendedby regulators, professional bodies or associations; the type of contract we have with you, theexistence of your consent, and our legitimate interest in keeping such information as stated inthis Policy.Use of Information CollectedCGI Client Solutions does not now, nor will it in the future, sell, rent or lease any of itscustomer lists and/or names to any third parties.CGI Client Solutions may collect and may make use of personal information to assist in theoperation of our website and to ensure delivery of the services you need and request. At times,we may find it necessary to use personally identifiable information as a means to keep youinformed of other possible products and/or services that may be available to you fromthecybernarrative.comCGI Client Solutions may also be in contact with you with regards to completing surveys and/or research questionnaires related to your opinion of current or potential future services thatmay be offered.CGI Client Solutions uses various third-party social media features including but not limitedto LinkedIn and other interactive programs. These may collect your IP address and requirecookies to work properly. These services are governed by the privacy policies of the providersand are not within CGI Client Solutions's control.Disclosure of InformationCGI Client Solutions may not use or disclose the information provided by you except underthe following circumstances:· as necessary to provide services or products you have ordered;· in other ways described in this Policy or to which you have otherwise consented;· in the aggregate with other information in such a way so that your identity cannotreasonably be determined;· as required by law, or in response to a subpoena or search warrant;· to outside auditors who have agreed to keep the information confidential;· as necessary to enforce the Terms of Service;· as necessary to maintain, safeguard and preserve all the rights and property of CGIClient Solutions.Non-Marketing PurposesCGI Client Solutions greatly respects your privacy. We do maintain and reserve the right tocontact you if needed for non-marketing purposes (such as bug alerts, security breaches,account issues, and/or changes in CGI Client Solutions products and services). In certaincircumstances, we may use our website, newspapers, or other public means to post a notice.Children under the age of 13CGI Client Solutions's website is not directed to, and does not knowingly collect personalidentifiable information from, children under the age of thirteen (13). If it is determined thatsuch information has been inadvertently collected on anyone under the age of thirteen (13), weshall immediately take the necessary steps to ensure that such information is deleted from oursystem's database, or in the alternative, that verifiable parental consent is obtained for the useand storage of such information. Anyone under the age of thirteen (13) must seek and obtainparent or guardian permission to use this website.Unsubscribe or Opt-OutAll users and visitors to our website have the option to discontinue receiving communicationsfrom us by way of email or newsletters. To discontinue or unsubscribe from our website pleasesend an email that you wish to unsubscribe to katiegraemacd@gmail.com . If you wish tounsubscribe or opt-out from any third-party websites, you must go to that specific website tounsubscribe or opt-out. CGI Client Solutions will continue to adhere to this Policy withrespect to any personal information previously collected.Links to Other WebsitesOur website does contain links to affiliate and other websites. CGI Client Solutions does notclaim nor accept responsibility for any privacy policies, practices and/or procedures of othersuch websites. Therefore, we encourage all users and visitors to be aware when they leave ourwebsite and to read the privacy statements of every website that collects personallyidentifiable information. This Privacy Policy Agreement applies only and solely to theinformation collected by our website.Notice to European Union UsersCGI Client Solutions's operations are located primarily in the United States. If you provideinformation to us, the information will be transferred out of the European Union (EU) and sentto the United States. (The adequacy decision on the EU-US Privacy became operational onAugust 1, 2016. This framework protects the fundamental rights of anyone in the EU whosepersonal data is transferred to the United States for commercial purposes. It allows the freetransfer of data to companies that are certified in the US under the Privacy Shield.) Byproviding personal information to us, you are consenting to its storage and use as described inthis Policy.Your Rights as a Data SubjectUnder the regulations of the General Data Protection Regulation ("GDPR") of the EU youhave certain rights as a Data Subject. These rights are as follows:· The right to be informed: this means we must inform you of how we intend to useyour personal data and we do this through the terms of this Policy.· The right of access: this means you have the right to request access to the data wehold about you and we must respond to those requests within one month. You can dothis by sending an email to katiegraemacd@gmail.com .· The right to rectification: this means that if you believe some of the date, we hold isincorrect, you have the right to have it corrected. You can do this by logging into youraccount with us, or by sending us an email with your request.· The right to erasure: this means you can request that the information we hold bedeleted, and we will comply unless we have a compelling reason not to, in which caseyou will be informed of same. You can do this by sending an email tokatiegraemacd@gmail.com .· The right to restrict processing: this means you can change your communicationpreferences or opt-out of certain communications. You can do this by sending an emailto katiegraemacd@gmail.com .· The right of data portability: this means you can obtain and use the data we hold foryour own purposes without explanation. If you wish to request a copy of yourinformation, contact us at katiegraemacd@gmail.com .· The right to object: this means you can file a formal objection with us regarding ouruse of your information with regard to third parties, or its processing where our legalbasis is our legitimate interest in it. To do this, please send an email tokatiegraemacd@gmail.com.In addition to the rights above, please rest assured that we will always aim to encrypt andanonymize your personal information whenever possible. We also have protocols in place inthe unlikely event that we suffer a data breach and we will contact you if your personalinformation is ever at risk. For more details regarding our security protections see the sectionbelow or visit our website at thecybernarrative.com.Security CGI Client Solutions takes precautions to protect your information. When you submitsensitive information via the website, your information is protected both online and offline.Wherever we collect sensitive information (e.g. credit card information), that information isencrypted and transmitted to us in a secure way. You can verify this by looking for a lock iconin the address bar and looking for "https" at the beginning of the address of the webpage. While we use encryption to protect sensitive information transmitted online, we also protectyour information offline. Only employees who need the information to perform a specific job(for example, billing or customer service) are granted access to personally identifiableinformation. The computers and servers in which we store personally identifiable informationare kept in a secure environment. This is all done to prevent any loss, misuse, unauthorizedaccess, disclosure or modification of the user's personal information under our control.The company also uses Secure Socket Layer (SSL) for authentication and privatecommunications to build users' trust and confidence in the internet and website use byproviding simple and secure access and communication of credit card and personalinformation. In addition, CGI Client Solutions is a licensee of TRUSTe. The website is alsosecured by VeriSign. Acceptance of TermsBy using this website, you are hereby accepting the terms and conditions stipulated within thePrivacy Policy Agreement. If you are not in agreement with our terms and conditions, thenyou should refrain from further use of our sites. In addition, your continued use of our websitefollowing the posting of any updates or changes to our terms and conditions shall mean thatyou agree and acceptance of such changes.How to Contact UsIf you have any questions or concerns regarding the Privacy Policy Agreement related to ourwebsite, please feel free to contact us at the following email, telephone number or mailingaddress.Email: katiegraemacd@gmail.comTelephone Number: 9106913166Mailing Address:CGI Client Solutions1047 Montrose RdRaeford, North Carolina28376The data controller responsible for your personal information for the purposes of GDPRcompliance is:Katie MacDonaldkatiegraemacd@gmail.com 91069131661047 Montrose RdGDPR Disclosure:If you answered "yes" to the question Does your website comply with the General Data Protection Regulation("GDPR")? then the Privacy Policy above includes language that is meant to account for such compliance.Nevertheless, in order to be fully compliant with GDPR regulations your company must fulfill other requirementssuch as: (i) doing an assessment of data processing activities to improve security; (ii) have a data processingagreement with any third party vendors; (iii) appoint a data protection officer for the company to monitor GDPRcompliance; (iv) designate a representative based in the EU under certain circumstances; and (v) have a protocolin place to handle a potential data breach. For more details on how to make sure your company is fully compliantwith GDPR, please visit the official website at https://gdpr.eu . FormSwift and its subsidiaries are in no wayresponsible for determining whether or not your company is in fact compliant with GDPR and takes noresponsibility for the use you make of this Privacy Policy or for any potential liability your company may face inrelation to any GDPR compliance issues.COPPA Compliance Disclosure:This Privacy Policy presumes that your website is not directed at children under the age of 13 and does notknowingly collect personal identifiable information from them or allow others to do the same through your site.If this is not true for your website or online service and you do collect such information (or allow others to do so),please be aware that you must be compliant with all COPPA regulations and guidelines in order to avoidviolations which could lead to law enforcement actions, including civil penalties. In order to be fully compliant with COPPA your website or online service must fulfill other requirements such as:(i) posting a privacy policy which describes not only your practices, but also the practices of any others collectingpersonal information on your site or service — for example, plug-ins or ad networks; (ii) include a prominent linkto your privacy policy anywhere you collect personal information from children; (iii) include a description ofparental rights (e.g. that you won't require a child to disclose more information than is reasonably necessary, thatthey can review their child's personal information, direct you to delete it, and refuse to allow any furthercollection or use of the child's information, and the procedures to exercise their rights); (iv) give parents "directnotice" of your information practices before collecting information from their children; and (v) obtain the parents'"verifiable consent" before collecting, using or disclosing personal information from a child. For moreinformation on the definition of these terms and how to make sure your website or online service is fullycompliant with COPPA please visit https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/childrens-online-privacy-protection-rule-six-step-compliance. FormSwift and its subsidiaries are in no way responsible fordetermining whether or not your company is in fact compliant with COPPA and takes no responsibility for theuse you make of this Privacy Policy or for any potential liability your company may face in relation to anyCOPPA complianc e issues.

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