Taylor Hersom is the Founder and CEO of Eden Data, a cybersecurity firm focusing on the next generation of businesses primed to build security and privacy into their DNA. A self-described cybersecurity compliance nerd, he’s passionate about building world-class cybersecurity programs for startups and beyond. Taylor began his career advising Fortune 500 companies on compliance and security at Deloitte before moving on to Renaissance Systems Inc. at RSI, where he was one of the youngest CISOs in the industry. There, he developed an entire security program from the ground up. He’s also a sought-after thought leader who speaks at multiple global organizations, writes blog content on cybersecurity, and serves as a CompTIA Cybersecurity Advisory Council board member.

In this episode…

Data protection is essential for all companies, including protecting intellectual property and customer data. Once a data breach has occurred, criminals use information like credit card numbers, patents, and trade secrets to engage in multitudes of cyber crimes. What should companies be aware of to protect their data?

Due to limited resources and budgets, small businesses and startups are more susceptible to data breaches. This is why many small companies rely on AI technologies to support automated business processes, data analysis insights, and customer engagement. Cybersecurity expert Taylor Hersom explains that AI reliance exposes them to dangers like phishing attacks, deep fake accounts, and AI-powered ransomware. SIM swapping and nation-state cyberattacks, particularly those sponsored by Russia and China, are other threats that put companies at risk of ransomware. Taylor proposes that startups can make a significant impact on security — reducing their breach risk — by allying with legal and security teams.

In this episode of the She Said Privacy/He Said Security Podcast, Jodi and Justin Daniels welcome Taylor Hersom, Founder and CEO of Eden Data, to the show. Taylor discusses the common mistakes companies make concerning data protection, various cyber threats, and why companies should be weary of GRC platforms.