Tackling the Digital Frontier: A Lesson in Cybersecurity from the NFL to Las Vegas Small Businesses

Imagine the energy of a Super Bowl game fused with the world of cybersecurity—this is what Las Vegas small businesses experienced firsthand. Dive into how the NFL, alongside top cybersecurity experts, turned the playfield into a masterclass on digital defense, equipping local entrepreneurs to outmaneuver cyber threats. Welcome to the ultimate play-by-play on turning defense into offense in the cyber world.

In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, known for its bustling events and unparalleled entertainment, small businesses recently had the unique opportunity to elevate their cybersecurity game, thanks to an initiative led by the National Football League (NFL) and the Las Vegas Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. The event underscored the critical importance of cybersecurity, particularly for small businesses that form the backbone of our economy but often find themselves vulnerable in the digital landscape.

Jennifer Burbank, owner of the Las Vegas-based event planning company From Worldwide, found the session particularly enlightening. As someone who has experienced the repercussions of identity theft firsthand, Burbank was keen on acquiring strategies to safeguard her personal data and that of her clients. The workshop, led by CISA Region 9 Supervisory Cybersecurity Advisor May Acosta, offered invaluable insights into achieving cyber resilience. Burbank, like many attendees, was introduced to the pivotal services of CISA for the first time and is now considering a cyber vulnerability scan for her business, a testament to the workshop's impact.

The cybersecurity workshop was part of the broader Super Bowl Business Connect program, aimed at connecting diverse local suppliers with significant contracting opportunities related to the Super Bowl and beyond. This initiative is not just about business networking; it's about fortifying these businesses against digital threats, a crucial step as they prepare to engage with large-scale events like the NFL.

Jackie Stevenson, who runs the Sharp BBQ food truck, described the session as "eye-opening." Learning about the frequency and financial toll of cyberattacks has propelled him to adopt stronger security measures, such as multi-factor authentication and regular password changes. These are simple yet effective steps that can significantly deter potential cyber threats.

The event also featured presentations from other cybersecurity stalwarts like UNLV, Cisco, and AWS, culminating in a networking session with representatives from 30 local corporations. This convergence of knowledge and resources highlights a collective effort towards a more secure digital environment for small businesses.

CISA's involvement in the Super Bowl Business Connect program is a clear indication of the growing recognition of cybersecurity's importance, not just in safeguarding individual businesses but in protecting the broader community and economy. As small businesses continue to navigate the digital domain, initiatives like these are invaluable in equipping them with the tools and knowledge to thrive securely.

At Lockwell, we understand the challenges small businesses face in achieving robust cybersecurity. Our mission aligns with the goals of the Business Connect program - to make cybersecurity accessible and manageable for small businesses. With our innovative solutions, like the Automated Security Operations Center (A-SOC) and Universal Security Playbooks (USPs), we aim to demystify cybersecurity and empower businesses to protect themselves against digital threats.

The NFL's initiative in Las Vegas serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role cybersecurity plays in today's business landscape. As we move forward, it's imperative for small businesses to prioritize their digital defenses. With the right tools and awareness, we can collectively forge a safer digital future.

For small business owners looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture, Lockwell offers a range of solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges of the digital age. Learn more about how we can help safeguard your business at www.Lockwell.co.