Navigating Cybersecurity Challenges in Financial Services with Geoff Moore

The Cyber Business Podcast

In this episode of The Cyber Business Podcast, Matthew Connor welcomes Geoff Moore, Chief Information Officer at Valmark Financial Group, to delve into the complex world of cybersecurity in financial services. Geoff shares his experiences managing the intricate balance between regulatory compliance and the operational freedom of independent financial advisors. He explains how Valmark navigates the delicate line between offering flexibility to advisors while ensuring strict adherence to data protection standards imposed by regulators like the SEC and FINRA.

Geoff introduces Valmark’s innovative "My Shield" platform, designed to consolidate critical cybersecurity information into an accessible report for advisors. He explains how the platform provides financial advisors with a clear, actionable overview of their cyber posture, simplifying the often-overwhelming task of cybersecurity management. By integrating these reports into their commission statements, Valmark ensures that advisors stay engaged with their cybersecurity health, boosting both visibility and accountability across the board.

The conversation also explores broader trends in cybersecurity, from the rising threats of sophisticated AI-driven cyberattacks to the importance of adopting cutting-edge technologies like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and device authentication. Geoff offers valuable insights into how financial firms can protect themselves in an increasingly complex digital landscape while highlighting the importance of collaboration within the C-suite to drive security initiatives forward.