Secureworks, a U.S. based cybersecurity firm known for its extended detection and response (XDR) technology and services, has recently launched a new offering called “ManagedXDR Plus” aimed at mid-market customers. The CEO, Wendy Thomas, visited Australia in July 2024 and spoke to TechRepublic about the appeal of XDR for Australian mid-market customers concerned about cyber attacks following recent breaches in the region.
Thomas highlighted the potential for more offensive cyber operations in Australia and APAC, involving government and private-sector collaboration to combat threat actors. She also emphasized the importance of resilience in the wake of the recent CrowdStrike outage.
During her visit, Thomas discussed Secureworks’ business growth in Australia, driven by the demand for simple, predictable, and outcome-focused security solutions. She noted that both large multinational corporations and mid-market businesses are interested in cybersecurity offerings to protect their assets and reputation.
When asked about cybersecurity product-buying behavior, Thomas described two camps: those seeking outcomes and those wanting to build their own security stack. She emphasized Secureworks’ platform approach, providing a shield over existing tools without requiring replacements.
Regarding the cybersecurity environment in Australia, Thomas praised the government’s long-term strategy and proactive enforcement efforts. She highlighted the role of AI in cyber threats, including phishing attacks and deepfake videos, urging awareness and protection against evolving tactics.
In response to the recent CrowdStrike outage, Thomas emphasized the importance of trust in service providers and preparedness for disruptions in the interconnected digital world. She advised organizations to consider backup plans and resilience strategies in the face of potential outages.
Overall, Thomas encouraged cyber professionals in Australia to focus on basic security measures like complex passwords and multi-factor authentication to protect against a majority of cyber attacks. By implementing simple yet effective security practices, businesses can mitigate risks and enhance their cybersecurity posture.