Gen Z's Cybersecurity Failures, AI Ransomware Emerges, and Intel's Unusual Government Deal

Intel's recent agreement with the U.S. government includes a controversial clause that allows the federal government to acquire an additional 5% stake in the company if it loses control of its foundry business. This unusual provision has raised concerns among stakeholders, including investors and employees, as it signifies a level of government intervention in corporate governance that is not typically seen in the U.S. The deal is still being finalized, and the implications for Intel's operations and the broader tech industry remain to be seen.

A recent report highlights that Gen Z, despite being digital natives, exhibits poorer cybersecurity practices compared to baby boomers. Only 30% of Gen Z regularly change their passwords, and a mere 36% use antivirus software. This generation's trust in technology is evident, with 18% comfortable allowing AI to act on their behalf. However, the report also notes that 91% of Gen Z believes data security training should be a workplace priority, indicating a desire for improvement in their cybersecurity habits.

The threat landscape is evolving, with the emergence of AI-powered ransomware, specifically a strain named PromptLock, which is currently under development. This ransomware utilizes AI to generate scripts for data exfiltration and encryption in real time, posing significant challenges for cybersecurity defenses. Additionally, the ransomware gang Storm-0501 has shifted its focus to cloud data, exploiting accounts without multi-factor authentication to exfiltrate sensitive information and demand ransoms through platforms like Microsoft Teams.

The podcast also discusses the cooling hype surrounding AI technologies, particularly following the underwhelming launch of GPT-5. Only 5% of companies have successfully converted AI into revenue, leading to a market correction in the tech sector. As managed service providers increasingly adopt AI tools, questions arise about the long-term implications for workforce development and the potential risks associated with over-investing in emerging technologies. The conversation emphasizes the need for MSPs to focus on governance, compliance, and responsible use of AI while navigating the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and technology.

Four things to know today

00:00 Gen Z Lags Boomers in Basic Cybersecurity Habits, GWI Report Finds

05:07 Auvik Introduces Smart Alert Suppression to Cut False Alarms in IT Management

06:26 White House Confirms Intel Agreement Still in Flux as Commerce Finalizes Terms

07:44 AI’s Growing Pains—Revenue Gaps, Job Impacts, and MSP Opportunities Collide

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