Telco CyberTalk

Join Vikram Singh, Senior Director of Cyber Marketing, as he hosts this Telco Cyber Talk episode with Angel Fernandez, VP of Cyber Security Products at Allot. In this insightful episode, we delve into the crucial topic of security convergence within the telecommunications sector. Discover why security convergence has resurfaced as a paramount concern for telcos, examining its significance and impact on providers and end-users. Our experts provide invaluable insights into the practical application of the concept of convergence in the CSP world, elucidating its importance in offering seamless services across diverse networks. Security can seamlessly integrate into this narrative, ensuring users are protected regardless of their access point, be it mobile or fixed networks. We cover the key requirements for converged solutions that CSPs need to consider, emphasizing the necessity for flexibility and openness in architectures to adapt to the evolving security landscape. Delve into the portfolio of convergence-ready solutions offered by Allot, designed to simplify management and enhance security for providers and end-users to pave the way for a more secure and efficient future. Discover the myriad benefits of security convergence, from streamlining end-user service management to reducing integration costs and increasing customer loyalty for CSPs. Gain insights into the strategic importance of evaluating security from a convergent standpoint, ensuring readiness for the dynamic future of telecommunications security.

In this episode of Telco Cyber Talk, we dive deep into the world of fixed mobile convergence, exploring its resurgence and the driving factors behind it. Vikram Singh, Senior Director for Cyber Marketing at Allot, is joined by the CEO of TAG Infosphere, Edward Amoroso, as our guest expert sheds light on the historical challenges of converging fixed and mobile infrastructures, emphasizing the recent shift enabled by software-defined networking. We dissect the multifaceted motivations behind convergence, from cost-saving initiatives by finance teams to the creation of innovative service bundles by product and service teams. Moreover, we explore the pivotal role of security in convergence, delving into the opportunities and challenges presented by the convergence of cybersecurity solutions. With the advent of 5G, we examine the interplay between this cutting-edge technology and fixed mobile convergence, uncovering how the shift towards software-defined networks prolongs infrastructure lifespan and enhances the feasibility of convergence initiatives. Lastly, we explore the future landscape of converged security solutions, outlining the potential applications and challenges telcos may face in deploying these solutions. Our conversation underscores the importance of platforms like the one offered by our sponsor, facilitating seamless integration and empowering telcos to navigate the complexities of converged security solutions effectively.

In this episode of Telco CyberTalk, Vikram Singh, Senior Director for Cyber Marketing at Allot, unravel the game-changing potential of network native security for telecommunications companies. Network native security integrates cybersecurity solutions directly into the network infrastructure, eliminating the need for end-users to install or manage applications. It's like having clean water flowing directly into your home without the hassle of installing a filter. Telcos stand to gain significant advantages from network native security. By seamlessly embedding security into their networks, telcos can differentiate their brand, drive revenue, and boost customer loyalty. This zero-touch approach ensures effortless adoption, reduces customer churn, and enhances overall satisfaction. For subscribers, network native security means simplified protection without the need for manual installations or updates. Users of all technical levels can enjoy seamless security solutions bundled into their plans, enhancing their digital defenses with minimal effort. Network native security isn't just a luxury - it's a necessity for telcos looking to thrive in today's digital landscape. Join us as we explore how telcos can leverage this innovative solution to fortify their networks, drive revenue, and deliver unparalleled value to their customers.

In this installment of Telco Cyber Talk, Vikram, Senior Director for Cyber Marketing at Allot, together with Angel, the VP of Product for Cybersecurity, delve into the paradigm of network native security. Our experts illuminate how this approach seamlessly integrates security measures into the connectivity infrastructure, simplifying user experiences and obviating the need for intricate configurations. We can draw comparisons with traditional endpoint security, underscoring the efficiency and compatibility advantages inherent in network native security. The dialogue extends to delineating the manifold benefits for CSPs and end-users, ranging from frictionless activation and heightened adoption rates to bolstered revenue streams. We prognosticate that network native security will become ubiquitous among CSPs worldwide, positioning security as an indispensable pillar alongside connectivity solutions. In advising CSP leadership, we advocate for a focus on reliability, strategic alignment, and holistic coverage when evaluating security solutions. Allot's is unwavering in its commitment to furnishing network native security solutions tailored to meet the evolving demands of both CSPs and end-users. This resounds with the transformative potential of network native security, poised to redefine the landscape of cybersecurity within the telecommunications sector.

Consumer and small business subscribers want security solutions. What remains to be answered, however, is what type of solutions will satisfy the customers’ demands while offering sufficient benefit to the CSP? For years, CSPs have offered their consumer and small business customers client-based endpoint security solutions. The benefits of these solutions are limited to the small number of subscribers who successfully deploy them – usually less then 5% of the subscriber base. The low adoption rates for such solutions do not translate into significant benefit for the CSPs. Network-native security services, on the other hand, are easy to deploy, easy to provision and easy to use, leading to high service adoption rates. In this episode of Telco CyberTalk, Vikram Singh, Allot’s Cybersecurity Marketing Director, discusses an alternative to client-based endpoint security for consumer and small business customers – Network-native Security. With Network-native solutions deployed in the CSP’s network, the CSP can offer high-quality security services as part of the core offering along with connectivity. As a Network-native solution, security services can be zero-touch – no installation and no provisioning hassle for the customer. This has led to CSPs seeing adoption rates of up to 30% (and more in some cases) when they deploy Network-native security services. Along with other advantages for the customer and the CSP, Network-native security services are a mutually beneficial offering that take into account the reality of today’s security environment plus the needs of the CSP. Listen in and find out why Network-native security services are the new gold standard for CSPs.

In this compelling episode, join Allot’s SVP of Smart BU, Mark Shteiman, and special guest Eric Olson, CISO at Rakuten Mobile, as they delve into the dynamic cyber threat landscape in Japan. Rakuten Mobile, positioned as the fourth Mobile Network Operator (MNO) in Japan, operates a cutting-edge fully virtualized cloud-native network with a mission to deliver high-quality, secure mobile services at an affordable cost to their vast subscriber base of over 6 million. As we explore the challenges and opportunities in Japan, a country boasting the world's third-largest economy and a rich source of intellectual property, the discussion revolves around the heightened risks posed by financially motivated attackers, espionage, and those seeking notoriety. With the anticipation of substantial growth and momentum in the coming year, Rakuten Mobile is strategically aligning with customer demands to reduce bills while leveraging synergies within the Rakuten Group ecosystem. The podcast experts analyze the potential vulnerabilities stemming from the abundance of available bandwidth and the widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in Japan. The diverse range of possible attack vectors necessitates a robust protection system. Rakuten Mobile has chosen to fortify its defenses against both inbound and outbound Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, employing Host-Based Anomaly Detection (HBAD) and Network-Based Anomaly Detection (NBAD) features. This proactive approach enables Rakuten to automatically identify and block potential threats as they traverse the network, ensuring a comprehensive and adaptive security solution. Tune in to gain valuable insights into Rakuten Mobile's proactive threat mitigation strategies and their commitment to safeguarding the cyber landscape in one of the world's most economically significant nations.

In this episode, Allot's Corporate Communications Director, Seth Greenberg, is joined by Boris Lifshitz, VP Technologies, AllotSmart BU @ Allot, to delve into the current landscape and evolving nature of cyber attacks on communication networks. From hackers seeking ransom to government agencies exerting pressure, the motives behind these attacks are diverse. Modern cyber threats often manifest as multivector DDoS attacks, serving as a primary weapon and a smokescreen for surgical intrusions. Notably, more than 95% of malicious traffic comprises various types of volumetric DDoS, making protection systems crucial. The discussion covers the impact of 5G networks on the attack surface. While 5G networks boast advanced encryption mechanisms, higher data rates, and a dense device population offer new opportunities for cybercriminals. The distributed network topology and reliance on cloud architecture introduce vulnerabilities that may lead to novel cyber attack methods. Addressing the question of security ingredients, our experts emphasize the need for a multiservice countermeasures system with high performance, scalability, and self-learning capabilities. Protection against volumetric attacks, interconnect security, and proactive measures against botnets are highlighted as essential components. Additionally, controlling access to network resources and analyzing protocols are crucial for a comprehensive security strategy. Allot's solution offers a multiservice and multilayer platform. It automatically mitigates volumetric attacks, protects against multivector threats, detects and isolates botnets, visualizes malicious traffic impact, and safeguards critical services and applications. The uniqueness of Allot's SMART protection solution lies in its fully automated threat detection and removal process, self-learning capabilities, two-way protection against high-volume threats, proactive bot detection through behavioral analysis, and granular application detection. This solution protects the Telecom Service Provider's reputation by efficiently addressing and neutralizing threats, ensuring the integrity and performance of their networks.

In this episode, Allot's Product Marketing Director, Michael Schachter, is joined by Stephen Saw, Director @ Coleman Parkes Research agency - to discuss the latest cyber security survey conducted recently focusing on owners and managers of 450 global SMEs or SMBs from a range of different sectors around the globe. What makes this survey unique is the focus on companies that have up to 50 employees who require online cyber protection. The survey brought up interesting notes regarding the rise of cyber threats targeting small to medium businesses and their rising complexity. The data shows that companies with up to 50 employees are at the exact sweet spot for these kinds of new cyber attacks to take advantage of. Moreover, they discuss the increase of outdated technology, threats from remote devices, vulnerabilities from personal devices, and access to inappropriate content - since the beginning of 2022. CSPs can and should monetize this need and become a one-stop shop, offering comprehensive security protection across all access technologies. A User-friendly interface for cybersecurity solutions would cater to the demand for hassle-free security, as well as a single platform solution and affordable pricing models (flexible and cost-effective pricing model that can cater to the budget constraints of the SMB).

In this episode, Allot's Product Marketing Director, Michael Schachter, is joined by Eduardo Holgado, Director of Product Management @ Allot - to discuss Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and its implementation to 5G networks. FWA technology allows operators to deliver high-speed internet access using radio signals for consumers and businesses. FWA has been with us for a few decades now, but it's getting increased traction due to the improved speeds and low latency delivered by the latest wireless technologies that include 4G but, more specifically, 5G. As 5G networks keep growing exponentially while 4G is decreasing, we expect that by 2025, 5G deployment of FWA will surpass 4G FWA.  Our experts discuss how SMBs using FWA ensure their businesses are cyber-safe and content is appropriate. On that note, they go into the latest business developments as Verizon also saw the potential of Allot's network secure solution and decided to integrate it into their wireless network, leveraging the Allot Network Secure threat protection. As they highlighted on the website, the solution's value is that the protection begins once you are connected - and this is a compelling statement.

In this episode, Allot's Product Marketing Director, Michael Schachter, is joined by Antje Rozinger, Director of Product Management @ Allot - to discuss the main challenges of small to medium businesses when it comes to cyber security. First, we put a spotlight on what, or who exactly are the SMBs. The definition changes from one country to another when it comes to number of employees in different industries. However, certain criteria remain the same across the board. Then our specialists detail the unique requirement of SMBs for cyber security solutions due to them being a relatively easy target for cyber-criminals, mostly due to the lack of manpower, budget and at times required skills to put up proper cyber defenses for their businesses. We go down the rabbit hole to inquire of what exactly are the default security settings which SMBs turn to - but no surprise there, that these means of security are lacking in scope and capabilities. We sum it up with the route in which telecommunication providers can, and at times are asked to supply a complete security solution for their business clientele. Moreover, we go over Allot's two main solutions for CSPs to supply this demand.