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Demand For Protection For OT Devices Grows: The Future Of Industries Seeks Efficient And Secure Solution

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Palo Alto Networks makes AI-Powered OT Security easy to adopt. New Zero Trust OT Security solution secures critical infrastructure without additional sensors

Operational technology (OT) plays a significant role in the digital evolution process of companies in the industrial and manufacturing sectors, they monitor and control physical processes, such as production control systems, process automation, temperature, pressure and motion sensors, and industrial robotics.

The usage and connectivity of operational technology (OT) are rapidly growing as are the number of cyberattacks on OT environments. These attacks can disrupt operations, causing damage that can reach far beyond revenue and reputation to the supply chain, human safety, and critical infrastructure. OT devices can be hard to secure because many lack built-in security and were not designed to be patched.

In addition, high uptime requirements limit the ability to do regular security maintenance. OT environments are also at risk as organizations adopt new technologies like 5G, which enable mass connectivity, and open up remote access.

Zero Trust technology and security

Zero Trust technology is a network security strategy where no user or device on or off an organization’s network is granted access to connect to systems unless explicitly required.

According to the global survey “What’s Next in Cyber” by Unit 42, the research arm of Palo Alto Networks, for 29% and 28% of the IT leaders interviewed, the main benefit of a Zero Trust structure is the best adjustments that guarantee initiatives digital transformation and higher levels of overall security. The survey also revealed that among the challenges respondents face with regard to the Zero Trust framework is the lack of qualified vendors with a complete, integrated solution and the scarcity of tools for enterprise-wide deployment.

Industries such as manufacturing, energy, construction, agriculture, and supply chain are always in need of new solutions to keep up with changes in the market, which is why Palo Alto Networks introduces Zero Trust OT Security to better protect operational technology systems and devices. The new solution protects environments and industrial devices connected to 5G.

“Most OT security solutions in the market fall short because they can’t identify all the assets and can only alert but don’t prevent threats. This leads to a patchwork of siloed security technologies, which can lead to security gaps,” said Anand Oswal, SVP, network security at Palo Alto Networks. Our OT Security solution is designed to help organizations stay secure through granular visibility and effective inline security while meeting their availability and uptime requirements.”

The new protection tool from Palo Alto Networks

Cybersecurity issues are often managed one issue at a time, resulting in security teams trying to protect companies with multiple security technologies siled, which can lead to security breaches.

A key component of the solution is the new cloud-delivered Industrial OT Security service, which can be easily enabled — without the need to install additional sensors — by any of the 61,000+ active customers of Palo Alto Networks network security products: hardware and software Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW) and Prisma SASE. Built on an AI-powered foundation with ease of deployment in mind, the new solution enables customers to secure their OT environments from the most sophisticated threats while simplifying their operations.

Using the industry’s first ML-powered OT visibility engine, the Industrial OT Security service recognizes hundreds of unique OT device profiles, over 1,000 OT/Industrial Control System (ICS) applications, and has hundreds of distinct OT threat signatures to help protect these hard-to-secure assets. A notable feature of the service is its ability to help security teams proactively understand risk and apply controls. It continuously observes, categorizes and visualizes asset behavior so anomalies can be discovered immediately and addressed with firewall policy.

The Zero Trust OT Security solution secures multiple OT use cases with consistent Zero Trust policies, all managed centrally:
– OT assets and networks using Palo Alto Networks NGFWs, along with the new Industrial OT Security service.
– Remote access using Prisma SASE.
– 5G-connected devices using NGFWs with Palo Alto Networks 5G-Native Security.

“As industrial OT systems and IT systems become more interconnected, so does the size of the attack surface available to the adversary. Defending against increasingly sophisticated threats requires expanded security strategies that can provide visibility, context, and Zero Trust capabilities across both OT and IT networks, devices, applications, and users,” said Dave Gruber, principal analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group. “The Palo Alto Networks solution embraces this unified security model, promising to help protect complex OT environments.”

“Manufacturing has come into the crosshairs of many recent cyberattacks. Palo Alto Networks Industrial OT Security is a must have to ensure security best practices are in place,” said Jared Mendenhall, director, Information Security, Impossible Foods. “We look forward to Palo Alto Networks’ dedicated OT Security solution to help us further secure our manufacturing plant, remote operations, and realize our broader Zero Trust vision.”

Availability
Palo Alto Networks Zero Trust OT Security solution and Industrial OT Security service will be available in March.

About Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks is the world’s cybersecurity leader. We innovate to outpace cyberthreats, so organizations can embrace technology with confidence. We provide next-gen cybersecurity to thousands of customers globally, across all sectors. Our best-in-class cybersecurity platforms and services are backed by industry-leading threat intelligence and strengthened by state-of-the-art automation. Whether deploying our products to enable the Zero Trust Enterprise, responding to a security incident, or partnering to deliver better security outcomes through a world-class partner ecosystem, we’re committed to helping ensure each day is safer than the one before. It’s what makes us the cybersecurity partner of choice.

At Palo Alto Networks, we’re committed to bringing together the very best people in service of our mission, so we’re also proud to be the cybersecurity workplace of choice, recognized among Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplaces (2021 and 2022), Comparably Best Companies for Diversity (2021), and HRC Best Places for LGBTQ Equality (2022). For more information, visit www.paloaltonetworks.com.

Palo Alto Networks, Prisma, and the Palo Alto Networks logo are registered trademarks of Palo Alto Networks, Inc. in the United States and in jurisdictions throughout the world. All other trademarks, trade names, or service marks used or mentioned herein belong to their respective owners. Any unreleased services or features (and any services or features not generally available to customers) referenced in this or other press releases or public statements are not currently available (or are not yet generally available to customers) and may not be delivered when expected or at all. Customers who purchase Palo Alto Networks applications should make their purchase decisions based on services and features currently generally available.

Methodology
The Palo Alto Networks Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1.300 executives (CIOs, CISOs, CTOs, CSOs, and COOs) at large companies (those with $250M+ in revenue) in the following countries: US, Canada, U.K, France, Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, Singapore, India, Australia, and New Zealand, between July 26th and August 16th, 2022, using an email invitation and an online survey.

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Artificial Intelligence

AMK Communications Pioneers AI-Generated Advertising Campaign for InterMetroONE

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In a landmark move set to redefine the advertising landscape, AMK Communications, through its subsidiary Click Digital Agency, is poised to launch Jamaica’s first AI-generated advertising campaign for the revolutionary InterMetroONE super app. This ground-breaking initiative not only marks a significant milestone for Jamaica but also positions AMK Communications as a leader in innovative marketing strategies within the Caribbean region.

A New Era of Advertising

The introduction of AI-generated advertising heralds a new era of creativity and efficiency in marketing. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence, AMK Communications can produce highly targeted, data-driven campaigns that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. This technology enables the creation of personalized content at scale, ensuring that every message is relevant and engaging.

Unparalleled Benefits for Clients

For clients, the benefits of AI-generated advertising are manifold:

Enhanced Creativity: AI tools can analyse vast amounts of data to generate unique, creative concepts that might not emerge through traditional brainstorming sessions. This opens up new avenues for storytelling and brand expression.

Data-Driven Insights: AI provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences, allowing for more precise targeting and message customization. This ensures that marketing efforts are not only creative but also strategically aligned with audience interests.

Efficiency and Scalability: AI can rapidly produce multiple variations of ads, testing and refining them in real-time to optimize performance. This reduces the time and cost associated with traditional ad creation and allows for quick adjustments based on market feedback.

Personalization at Scale: With AI, it’s possible to create highly personalized advertisements for large audiences, ensuring that each viewer receives a message that feels uniquely tailored to them. This enhances engagement and drives better results.

Setting Trends in the Caribbean

AMK Communications’ initiative is part of a broader trend towards the adoption of AI in advertising. Globally, AI is being used to create more dynamic, interactive, and personalized ad experiences. From chatbots and virtual assistants to AI-driven video content, the possibilities are endless. This move by AMK places Jamaica and the Caribbean at the forefront of these international developments, showcasing the region’s ability to innovate and lead in the digital age.

Looking Ahead

The AI-generated campaign for InterMetroONE will serve as a benchmark for future marketing efforts, demonstrating the power and potential of artificial intelligence in advertising. As AI continues to evolve, it will unlock even more opportunities for creativity and efficiency, helping brands to connect with their audiences in deeper, more meaningful ways.

AMK Communications Limited and Click Digital Agency are not just launching a campaign; they are setting a new standard for the industry, proving that the future of advertising is here and it is powered by AI. Clients can look forward to a new realm of possibilities, where technology and creativity come together to deliver exceptional results.

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Businessuite Markets

Kevin Gordon Led Simply Secure Limited Acquires 49.1% Stake in tTech Limited

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Edward “Teddy” Alexander

The Directors of tTech Limited announced that two (2) major shareholders, Edward “Teddy” Alexander and G. Christopher Reckord, have sold 52,012,834 tTech shares, representing 49.1% of tTech Limited’s issued shares. The acquiring entity, Simply Secure Limited, is owned by Kevin Gordon and Rob Mayo-Smith. Messrs. Gordon and Mayo-Smith are also the owners of Simply Secure LLC, a Managed Security Services Provider based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

tTech Limited is a leading IT services provider offering a wide range of services to help businesses manage their IT infrastructure efficiently and securely. Our mission is to deliver exceptional IT services and solutions that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Simply Secure LLC is a Managed Security Services Provider based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The company specializes in providing comprehensive security solutions to protect businesses from cyber threats and ensure the safety and integrity of their IT environments.

In light of the fact that the acquisition is beyond the 20% threshold of the issued and outstanding ordinary shares of the company, tTech has duly notified the Jamaica Stock Exchange and the Financial Services Commission pursuant to the applicable JSE Junior Market Rules (Appendix 2) and the applicable Regulations promulgated under the Securities Act that relate to Takeovers and Mergers.

Simply Secure has indicated that upon the acquisition of 50% or more of tTech’s shares, it will extend an offer to all remaining tTech shareholders to purchase their shares. This intended offer to the remaining shareholders will be contingent on the completion of additional due diligence, finalization of the terms of the offer, review by the tTech board and approval by the regulators. Simply Secure and tTech have committed to adhering to the Securities TOM Regulations and the JSE Rules.

The Directors of tTech anticipate that the synergies between tTech and Simply Secure will enhance the services provided by tTech, particularly in the area of Cybersecurity.

There will be some changes at the director and management levels. However, Edward Alexander, who continues as the Board Chair, stated, “I am confident that Simply Secure’s involvement will bring new resources and expertise to tTech Limited. Their focus on Managed Security Services aligns perfectly with our strategic goals.”

 “Under this new arrangement, Simply Secure and tTech are committed to leveraging greater resources to meet the growing demand for Managed Security Services. The primary focus will remain the delivery of exceptional value to our customers and optimal growth opportunities for our employees.” Kevin Gordon, CEO of Simply Secure LLC

 

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Business Insights

Broadcast Radio Is Not Dead For Jamaican And Caribbean Radio Stations If……

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The headline in last weeks business gleaner read “The Bridge Radio Station Up For Sale”.

The opening paragraph of the article told the story, “After débuting on air with much fanfare nearly three years ago, radio station The Bridge 99 FM is facing an uncertain future and is now up for sale. Two investors in The Bridge, one of the newest FM radio stations in a crowded and dwindling market, have confirmed that they are seeking buyers for the station.”

Target Market

The Bridge, the brainchild of New York-based Jamaican Robert ‘Bobby’ Clarke who heads the Irie Jam Media Group, which operated Irie Jam Radio in the Tri-State area for more than two decades, came on air in August 2021 aiming, as its name suggested, to connect Jamaicans abroad, mainly in the United States, and those at home, through a unified platform.

On-air Talent

The upstart station was able to attract a slate of well-known names to its airwaves, including disk jocks Richard ‘Ritchie B’ Burgess, Kurt Riley and Nikki Z, veteran recording artiste Tony Rebel, retired politicians Ronald Thwaites and Pearnel Charles Sr, and controversial talk show host Dr Kingsley ‘Ragashanti’ Stewart.

But The Bridge failed to attract a significant audience, with more persons turning away from traditional media sources like radio to social media for information and entertainment.

The Question that we have to ask is very clear. Is Broadcast Radio Dead!

In the article Zachary Harding, founding partner of Delta Capital Partners Jamaica, and an investor in The Bridge was asked about the future of FM radio: “There can be money in FM radio, as it is still a popular means of entertainment and getting information. Radio is not dead. However, advertisers now have more options in terms of marketing spend and there has definitely been a tremendous shift towards social media and away from traditional media. This trend will always impact smaller players in the market negatively. However, with the right strategy, you can integrate social media into your strategy to command more loyal listener base and differentiate the station, while providing greater points of distribution. This is exactly what we are doing at CaribStar Media”.

Broadcast radio is not dead, but it does face significant challenges in the current media landscape.

Here’s a comprehensive look at trends and potential directions for making broadcast radio viable in Jamaica and the Caribbean:

Convergence with Digital Platforms: One major trend is the integration of broadcasting with digital and social media platforms. Radio stations are increasingly using live streaming services like YouTube, Facebook Live, and Twitch to reach audiences seeking real-time and interactive content​​.

Local Focus and Community Engagement: Despite the shift towards digital, local advertising remains a strong point for radio. Industries such as retail, real estate, automotive, financial services, and healthcare continue to invest in local radio ads due to its strong community presence and trust factor​. Radio can leverage this by focusing on hyper-local content and community engagement, which digital platforms may not provide as effectively.

Political Advertising: Political campaigns are a significant revenue source, especially in local markets. With political spending on the rise, particularly in swing states, radio stations can capitalize on this by offering targeted advertising solutions​.

Shorter, More Engaging Ads: Long ad breaks can drive listeners away, especially when compared to the ad-skipping options available on streaming services. To combat this, radio can focus on shorter, more engaging ads, including authentic endorsements from popular hosts, which tend to resonate more with listeners​​.

Technological Advancements: The deployment of 5G networks will revolutionize content delivery, allowing for seamless streaming and improved connectivity. This can enable more interactive and immersive experiences for radio listeners, potentially attracting a larger audience​.

Diverse Revenue Streams: Beyond traditional ads, radio stations can explore additional revenue streams such as sponsored content, events, and partnerships with local businesses. This diversification can help mitigate the risks associated with declining ad revenues​.

Content Personalization and On-Demand Options: Emulating successful aspects of streaming services, radio stations can offer personalized content and on-demand listening options through podcasts and digital archives. This approach caters to the growing demand for content that fits individual schedules and preferences​​.

For Jamaican and Caribbean radio stations, adopting these strategies could help create a more sustainable business model in a rapidly evolving media environment. Emphasizing local content, leveraging digital convergence, and exploring new revenue streams are key steps towards maintaining relevance and profitability.

Source: https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/business/20240710/bridge-radio-station-sale

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Business Insights

RedPlate Group Limited: Corporate Profile

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About RedPlate Group

RedPlate Group Limited is a distinguished Caribbean-based investment holding company, specializing in equity investments across various sectors. Our diversified portfolio includes stakes in both established businesses and promising start-ups, with a focus on:

  • Business-to-Business (B2B)
  • Technology
  • Data-Driven Solutions
  • Integrated Fulfillment Logistics
  • Transportation Solutions
  • E-commerce
  • Mobile Payments

Our Companies

RedPlate Group encompasses a range of dynamic companies, each contributing to our overarching mission:

  • InterMetro Transit Jamaica
  • RedPlate Logistics and Fulfilment Group
  • RedPlate MarketPlace
  • RedPlate Technologies Jamaica Limited
  • RedPlate Financial Group

Innovative Business Model

RedPlate Group’s pioneering business model is poised to revolutionize the transportation and logistics sectors in Jamaica and the broader Caribbean. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we address current inefficiencies, enhancing productivity and profitability across the value chain. Our holistic, horizontal integration of business units fosters seamless collaboration, creating a robust, technology-driven ecosystem.

Market Opportunity

Jamaica’s transportation and logistics landscape is currently fragmented and inefficient, posing significant challenges for businesses and commuters alike. RedPlate Group aims to resolve these issues by developing a cohesive and interconnected platform. This platform optimizes operations, maximizes resource utilization, and delivers an unparalleled experience for both corporate clients and end consumers.

Strategic Vision

RedPlate Group’s strategic vision is centered around building synergistic relationships and fostering a collaborative environment. Our approach not only fortifies the value chain but also enhances productivity and increases income for all stakeholders. By addressing the fundamental challenges within Jamaica’s transportation and logistics sector, we are paving the way for a more efficient and profitable future.

Conclusion

RedPlate Group Limited invites high net worth investors to join us in transforming the Caribbean’s transportation and logistics industry. Our innovative, technology-driven approach and commitment to excellence position us as a leader in the sector, offering substantial growth and investment opportunities. Together, we can achieve remarkable advancements and drive significant value for our stakeholders.

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Artificial Intelligence

InterMetroONE Superapp – Revolutionizing Jamaica’s Transportation Landscape

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InterMetro Transit Jamaica, a distinguished member of the RedPlate Group, is proud to announce the upcoming launch of the InterMetroONE SuperApp—a ground breaking initiative set to redefine the transportation and service delivery experience in Jamaica.

At the core of our mission is a steadfast commitment to providing every Jamaican with access to a modern, tech-driven public transportation service that is safe, comfortable, cost-effective, efficient, and reliable. The InterMetro SuperApp embodies this commitment by bringing together all our current apps and features into one comprehensive gateway—InterMetro.

 

Unveiling the InterMetro SuperApp: A Gateway to Convenience

The InterMetro SuperApp serves as a one-stop destination for a myriad of transportation and service-related needs, consolidating various offerings under a single platform. From InterMetro Bus Services to RedPlate Taxi rides, airport transfers, and non food and grocery business and personal courier services—the SuperApp seamlessly integrates these services for enhanced accessibility and convenience.

Moreover, InterMetro SuperApp introduces RedPlate +, an exclusive membership program offering members the privileged InterMetro and RedPlate experience across all our rides and delivery services. Members can enjoy a host of benefits, including exclusive offers, discounts, and personalized service enhancements.

Expanding Horizons: Future Enhancements

As we continue to evolve, the InterMetro SuperApp will expand its offerings to encompass a broader spectrum of services aimed at further enriching the lives of Jamaicans. Future additions to the SuperApp will include bill payments, remittances, money transfer services, phone credit topping, and same-day loan services—empowering users with unparalleled convenience and accessibility.

Empowering Jamaicans with Technology

The launch of the InterMetro SuperApp underscores our unwavering commitment to leveraging technology to empower Jamaicans and enhance their everyday lives. By consolidating diverse services into a single, user-friendly platform, we aim to revolutionize the transportation and service delivery landscape, making essential services more accessible, efficient, and convenient for all.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey, driven by our conviction that every Jamaican deserves access to a modern, tech-driven public transportation service that prioritizes safety, comfort, affordability, efficiency, and reliability. With the InterMetro SuperApp, the future of transportation and service delivery in Jamaica is within reach.

www.inter-metro.com

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