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What are the region-specific challenges when implementing new technologies in APAC ?
The diversity of business and culture across the APAC region can be a challenge , particularly when implementing new technologies . It is interesting to see how organisations address the same issues from their differing perspectives , yet end up with a positive outcome . and targeting the vulnerable in our community .
Specifically , with over 80 % of data breaches caused by stolen user credentials , safe and secure access to our data is a hot topic . We all want that security but in a simple uncomplicated way . The convenience and simplicity of going passwordless is certainly gaining momentum .
How do you deal with stress and unwind outside the office ?
I hop on my bike and go for a ride . Then sit back and have a laugh with friends over a glass of wine .
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IT IS REALLY DISTURBING TO SEE AN INCREASE IN CYBERATTACKS , EXPLOITING THE SITUATION AND TARGETING THE VULNERABLE IN OUR COMMUNITY .
What do you currently identify as the major areas of investment in your industry ?
In short , Digital Transformation . It has been talked about and hyped up for a while now but COVID-19 has accelerated changes to our ways of working . We have all adapted to working from home and using video conferencing effectively , to the point where many organisations can now see the benefits of Digital Transformation .
But with that comes the challenge of providing a secure work environment beyond the office . So we expect further investment in Digital Transformation and associated cybersecurity protections .
With this technology transformation will come a requirement to invest in new skills and new talent for a changing workforce .
In the current situation , it ’ s frustrating not being able to travel and meet customers across APAC in person to show them how powerful our YubiKey security keys are for the increased number of remote workers .
What changes to your job role have you seen in the last year and how do you see these developing in the next 12 months ?
The main changes have been the adoption of new ways of working . I have been working with virtual teams for many years now and this has really accelerated to almost universal remote working brought on by COVID .
With these changes has come an increasing understanding of not just the technical , but also the business impact of safe secure digital work practices .
Particularly I am pleased to see the elevation of cybersecurity beyond the IT department , where C-level executives and board directors are talking about the risks of cybersecurity practices . The next 12 months will be an interesting ride as we all adjust to a new post-COVID normal . •
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