by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Business
Manila, June 27, 2024 – VRITIMES, a leading media technology platform that empowers users to create, distribute, and analyze press releases, today announced a strategic partnership with Sports On Air, a popular sports news website. This collaboration aims to significantly widen press release distribution for VRITIMES’ clients in the sports industry.
VRITIMES offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies the entire press release process, from crafting compelling content to reaching a vast network of media partners. Sports On Air, known for its diverse audience – from casual fans to die-hard sports enthusiasts – delivers a wide range of sports content, including breaking news, in-depth analysis, and features on the hottest local and global sporting events.
“We are excited to partner with Sports On Air,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO at VRITIMES. “Their extensive reach and dedicated sports audience make them a perfect partner to help VRITIMES sports organizations amplify their message and connect with a wider fan base.”
Through this collaboration, VRITIMES clients in the sports sector will gain access to a targeted and engaged audience on Sports On Air. This will allow them to effectively share their news, announcements, and stories, ultimately achieving greater visibility and brand awareness.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Business
Victorias City, Negros Occidental – On June 27, 2024, the Victorias Coliseum buzzed with anticipation as business owners and entrepreneurs gathered for the “DigiCities Masterclass,” a key event under USAID’s SPEED (Strengthening Private Enterprises for the Digital Economy) initiative, coinciding with World MSME Day. This global observance, designated by the United Nations, celebrates the crucial role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in achieving sustainable development and promoting innovation.
The event began at 8:30 AM with registration and concluded in the afternoon with a closing message and a photo opportunity. Atty. Gino Jacinto, COO of UNAWA, captivated the audience with his presentation, “From Ink to Click: The Digital Signature Advantage for Small Businesses.” This session highlighted the innovative features of UNAWA’s SignSecure platform, which uniquely integrates facial recognition into its e-signature process, ensuring enhanced security and compliance. Atty. Jacinto emphasized the efficiency, faster processes, improved compliance, and cost savings that digital transitions offer, aligning with UNAWA’s mission to support SMEs in their digital transformation journey.
The event, powered by GCash for Business and delivered by StartUp Village, included various insightful sessions. The event flow began with a welcome message and an introduction to the USAID SPEED Activity, followed by sessions on adopting a growth mindset through digitization, leveraging eCommerce for business growth, the advantages of digital signatures, and improving logistics to bridge borders. Representatives from Prosperna, MyKartero, and DigiCities also shared valuable insights. The event concluded with acknowledging partners.
Benefits of SignSecure for MSMEs:
Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at Victorias Coliseum, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, June 27, 2024.
SignSecure helps MSMEs streamline their processes by reducing administrative time and speeding up document access and approvals. Digital documentation maintains accurate records, simplifies compliance, and uses automated systems for audit trails and deadline alerts. It reduces the need for storage, paper, printing, mailing, and labor, allowing cost savings to be reinvested in other business areas. Moreover, the facial recognition feature of SignSecure adds a layer of security, ensuring that only authorized individuals can sign documents.
What is a DigiCity?
A DigiCity is a city that leverages digital technologies to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its services, promote economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for its residents. DigiCities initiatives often involve integrating digital solutions across various sectors, including governance, business, and infrastructure, to create a more connected and intelligent urban environment.
Victorias City, one of 27 DigiCities in the Philippines, shares UNAWA’s vision for digital advancement. This masterclass marks a significant step towards empowering businesses through technology and fostering a more robust and inclusive digital economy.
For more information on UNAWA and their suite of digital solutions, visit UNAWA.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Work Tips
In the world of business, the line between sanity and insanity can get pretty blurry. As Jay Buenaflor, the former COO of Ellana Mineral Cosmetics and founder of Pont Consultancy, observes, the most successful entrepreneurs exhibit traits that may seem unconventional or even “crazy” to some. Yet, it’s this very craziness that sets them apart and propels them to the top.
Jay has spent 26 years mentoring entrepreneurs globally, acting more as a psychiatrist than a traditional mentor. He has identified key traits that contribute to their success and has distilled these observations into five valuable lessons.
1. The Power of Focus!
Successful entrepreneurs display an almost frightening level of focus. When they lock onto a goal, everything else fades into the background. They can tune out distractions and zero in on what truly matters, often leading to groundbreaking innovations and business growth. This level of dedication can be intimidating to witness, but it’s also a clear indicator of their potential for success.
2. Use Past Experiences as Fuel.
Many accomplished entrepreneurs are driven by something deeply personal. For some, it’s overcoming poverty; for others, it’s proving doubters wrong. This chip on their shoulder pushes them to prove themselves and to achieve what others deemed impossible. This internal drive often translates into a relentless pursuit of excellence and a refusal to settle for mediocrity.
3. Stay Humble and Inquisitive.
Despite their intense drive and focus, great entrepreneurs maintain a sense of humility. They recognize that they don’t know everything and are always eager to learn. This humility manifests in their willingness to ask questions, seek advice, and continually improve. It’s not uncommon for these entrepreneurs to reach out for guidance, and they often value mentorship relationships.
4. You Need Others!
No entrepreneur can succeed entirely on their own. The most successful ones understand the importance of building and leveraging a strong network. As Theresa Buenaflor, founder of Ellana Mineral Cosmetics, wisely advises, “You can’t do it alone.” Whether it’s through partnerships, collaborations, or simply seeking support from friends and family, exceptional entrepreneurs know how to surround themselves with the right people.
5. Cultivate Unyielding Positivity.
High-achieving entrepreneurs possess an immense belief in their ability to figure things out, even when the odds are against them. This near-delusional optimism creates a reality distortion field where they see opportunities where others see obstacles. Their positive outlook allows them to persevere through challenges and maintain the energy needed to drive their ventures forward.
Delve into these principles deeply and gain practical insights for your business at Jay’s upcoming seminar, “Ellana Cosmetics Untold: 0 to 9-Figure Journey,” set on July 27-28, 2024, at Renaissance Tower in Ortigas, Pasig.
For entrepreneurs based in Davao and Cebu, similar seminars will be held in August and September 2024, promising invaluable growth opportunities.
For more details and to secure your spot, visit https://jaybuenaflor.com/
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Business
Pasig City, Philippines – June 27, 2024 – Jay Buenaflor, former COO and C3PO of Ellana Cosmetics and now Chief Consultant & Owner at Pont Consultancy, is set to host his inaugural seminar, “Ellana Cosmetics Untold: 0 to 9-Figure Journey,” on July 27-28, 2024, at Renaissance Center, Ortigas Pasig.
With over 26 years of experience spanning Asia, Europe, and the USA, Jay has been instrumental in transforming businesses and mentoring entrepreneurs. His seminars are renowned for their high-energy delivery and actionable insights aimed at fostering a joyful and successful entrepreneurial journey.
Event Highlights:
- Exclusive Insights: Dive deep into the untold story of Ellana Cosmetics – from its humble beginnings to a nine-figure empire. Discover the highs, the lows, and the pivotal moments that shaped Ellana’s extraordinary success.
- High-Energy Sessions: Immerse yourself in engaging and inspiring workshops and walk away with actionable strategies and practical takeaways that celebrate the essence of true entrepreneurial spirit.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and media professionals in an engaging and dynamic environment.
“I’m thrilled to share the untold story of Ellana Cosmetics with fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. This seminar is not just about business growth; it’s about enjoying the journey and finding success in every step. I’m committed to making business fun and helping many more entrepreneurs scale their companies,” said Jay Buenaflor.
For those in Davao and Cebu, Jay will also be hosting seminars in your cities this August and September. Don’t miss these exclusive opportunities to learn and grow with one of the industry’s best.
Limited spots are filling up fast! Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to be inspired, educated, and energized alongside fellow entrepreneurs. Secure your place now and get ready for an experience that will transform your approach to business. To reserve your spot and learn more, click https://www.jaybuenaflor.com/
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 27, 2024 | Business
From the moment I met Jay, he displayed an unwavering commitment to my growth and development. Through his mentorship, my problem-solving, conflict management, and strategic planning skills have flourished, enabling me to lead with confidence and effectiveness. – Marielle R.
The entrepreneurial adventure is a tough, winding path filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. Many business leaders believe they must handle everything independently, but this mindset can hinder their progress and potential. The reality is that no one has all the answers. Seeking help, guidance, and support from others is crucial for achieving lasting success.
Jay Buenaflor’s career is a powerful testament to the principle that success is a collective journey. Reflecting on his experiences, Jay emphasizes that he owes his accomplishments to the invaluable support and guidance of those around him. From family and friends to colleagues, mentors, and influencers across the globe, every interaction has shaped him into the leader he is today.
With over 26 years of experience across Asia, Europe, and the USA, Jay has been instrumental in transforming businesses and nurturing leaders. Known as the “Biz Doc,” he has built a reputation for his dynamic leadership and innovative approach to business growth. He understands that true leadership is about finding the right people, delegating effectively, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
One of Jay’s core philosophies is the art and love of finding the right people. He genuinely cares for the well-being of those he works with, fostering a purpose-driven approach that ensures that both the individual and the organization benefit. This creates a win-win situation where everyone succeeds together.
Jay believes that building a successful team hinges on recognizing and cultivating each individual’s unique talents and potential. This often involves “learning to unlearn,” as Barry Diller puts it, and overcoming deeply held habits and beliefs that may stall progress.
As an entrepreneur or business leader, it’s crucial to recognize that you can’t do it alone. The myth of the lone genius is just that—a myth. Successful business leaders know that building a robust network and fostering collaboration are essential components of sustainable growth.
When you collaborate with others, you tap into a wealth of diverse perspectives. Learning from the experiences and mistakes of others can save you from costly errors. Also, engaging with mentors and peers allows you to gain insights that might take years to discover on your own. Jay’s seminars are renowned for creating environments where such valuable exchanges thrive.
To help entrepreneurs and business leaders harness the power of collaboration, Jay is hosting a seminar, “Ellana Cosmetics Untold: 0 to 9-Figure Journey,” on July 27-28, 2024 at Renaissance Tower, Ortigas Pasig. This event is designed to provide you with the tools, strategies, and network necessary to scale your business successfully.
Additionally, for those based in Davao and Cebu, Jay will be hosting seminars in August and September 2024, respectively. These seminars will offer the same invaluable insights and opportunities for growth.
Spaces for this exclusive seminar are limited. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to dive deep into the untold story of Ellana—from its humble beginnings to a nine-figure empire —and transform your own business journey. For more information and to register, visit www.jaybuenaflor.com.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 26, 2024 | Business
Quezon City, June 28, 2023 – Kwento Co, a dynamic and innovative media and information literacy, is thrilled to announce its official launch as a creative solution for small businesses looking to enhance their digital presence, market their products and services, and drive sales growth. With a team of diverse individuals specializing in Web3, content creation, and business management, Kwento Co aims to revolutionize the way modern businesses connect with their target audience.
In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive digital landscape, small businesses face numerous challenges in reaching and engaging potential customers. Kwento Co recognizes this need and is committed to providing unique and engaging marketing opportunities that enable businesses to thrive in the online world.
Harnessing the power of Web3 technologies, Kwento Co completely understands the importance of acknowledging the latest advancements in the digital world. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and platforms, the company offers a variety of tailored marketing strategies that drive organic traffic, foster brand awareness, and boost sales conversions.
At Kwento Co, we believe that every business, regardless of size, deserves a chance to shine in the digital realm. We are dedicated to providing small businesses with the creative marketing solutions they need to establish a strong online presence and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of experts is passionate about helping brands tell their unique stories and connect with their target audience in meaningful and impactful ways.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 26, 2024 | Business
Peris.ai, a group of practitioners with professional experience in cybersecurity, revealed in more detail about the Cipher Brain ransomware that has attacked the Temporary National Data Center since last June 20. 
Recently, a shocking incident occurred that resulted in the disruption of immigration services and various other public services. The disruption stemmed from a cyberattack carried out by Brain Cipher Ransomware.
The Pusat Data Nasional (PDN) was the main target of this attack since June 20. The cyberattack has crippled essential services like immigration services, leading to another impact on 210 instantiations. Although some services have been restored, the impact is still felt.
The Badan Siber dan Sandi Negara (BSSN) and related institutions immediately responded to this incident. Emergency measures were taken by sending an assistance team to the data center in Surabaya. The PDNS was built as an alternative because the main Pusat Data Nasional (PDN) is not yet completed.
The responsible party for this attack demanded a ransom of USD 8 million (approximately Rp 131 billion) to restore access to the system.
For context, PDN is managed by Telkom Group through Telkom Sigma. Telkom Indonesia’s Network & IT Solution Director, Herlan Wijanarko, confirmed the ransom demand. However, the compensation process is still under evaluation.
Brain Cipher Ransomware: An Overview
In parallel with the recent events, the Brain Cipher Ransomware is an emerging threat actor currently focusing on organizational targets. The following analysis details the methods, indicators of compromise (IOCs), and tactics used by this ransomware group.
Method of Delivery: Phishing
Brain Cipher Ransomware is delivered primarily through phishing campaigns. These campaigns often use deceptive emails to trick recipients into downloading and executing malicious files.
Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)
- MD5: 448f1796fe8de02194b21c0715e0a5f6
SHA1: 935c0b39837319fda571aa800b67d997b79c3198
- SHA256: eb82946fa0de261e92f8f60aa878c9fef9ebb34fdababa66995403b110118b12
- SSDEEP: 3072/5qUpfDT6zT73Ew8Ym9wV9JyknP7SAy
IP Addresses: 199.232.214.172 (US), 224.0.0.252
Web: http://mybmtbgd7aprdnw2ekxht5qap5daam2wch25coqerrq2zdioanob34ad.onion
Email: br***********@*******ar.com
VirusTotal:VirusTotal Link
MITRE ATT&CK
Execution
Privilege Escalation
- T1548.002: Bypass User Account Control
Defense Evasion
- T1548.002: Bypass User Account Control
Credential Access
Discovery
Impact
- T1486: Data Encryption for Impact
Detailed Analysis
The Brain Cipher Ransomware employs sophisticated techniques to infiltrate, propagate, and encrypt data within targeted networks. Its primary delivery method is through phishing emails, which often contain malicious attachments or links leading to malware downloads.
Once inside a network, the ransomware utilizes various tactics to escalate privileges, evade defenses, and gain access to sensitive information. For instance, it uses Windows Command Shell for execution and bypasses user account control for privilege escalation.
The ransomware’s discovery tactics include querying the registry, discovering system information, and software discovery. These actions allow the ransomware to map out the infected environment and identify high-value targets for encryption.
Credential access is a significant aspect of Brain Cipher’s methodology. It steals web session cookies, credentials from web browsers, and credentials stored in files, providing the attackers with the necessary information to further infiltrate the network or exfiltrate data.
Finally, the ransomware’s impact tactic is data encryption, which renders the victim’s data inaccessible until a ransom is paid. This tactic is effective in causing significant disruption to organizational operations, as seen in the recent attack on Indonesia’s National Data Center.
Mitigation and Response
To mitigate the threat posed by Brain Cipher Ransomware and similar attacks, organizations should adopt a multi-layered security approach. This includes:
- Email Security: Implementing robust email security solutions to detect and block phishing attempts.
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User Training: Regularly training employees to recognize and report phishing emails.
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Endpoint Security: Deploying advanced endpoint protection to detect and prevent malware execution.
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Network Segmentation: Segregating critical systems and data to limit the spread of ransomware.
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Backup Solutions: Maintaining regular backups of critical data and ensuring that backups are stored securely and offline.
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Incident Response Planning: Developing and regularly updating incident response plans to ensure a swift and effective response to ransomware attacks.
Enhancing Your Cybersecurity with Peris.ai
As cyber threats continue to evolve, it becomes increasingly important for organizations to stay ahead of potential attacks. Peris.ai offers advanced cybersecurity solutions designed to anticipate and defend against such threats. One such measure is Peris.ai’s Phisland, a sophisticated phishing simulator designed to safeguard your digital frontier.
What is Ganesha – Phisland?
Phisland is a comprehensive phishing simulator that provides your organization with the tools to stay ahead of cyber threats. By simulating phishing attacks via email, websites, and WhatsApp, Phisland helps enhance your team’s security awareness and overall cybersecurity posture.
How does it work?
Realistic Simulations: Phisland offers a suite of realistic phishing simulations that mimic real-world attacks. By tracking user interactions with these simulations, Phisland enables organizations to identify vulnerabilities and opportunities for improvement in real-time.
Enhance Security Awareness: Phisland stands out with its ability to analyze and interpret user responses intelligently. Through advanced algorithms and customizable analytics, Phisland distills vast amounts of data into actionable intelligence, helping organizations create targeted and effective strategies to enhance their security awareness and resilience against cyber threats.
Embrace Phisland to proactively strengthen your cybersecurity measures and protect your organization from potential phishing attacks.
Conclusion
The recent ransomware attack on Indonesia’s National Data Center underscores the escalating threat of ransomware and the profound impact such incidents can have on public services. The emergence of threats like Brain Cipher Ransomware further emphasizes the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures to guard against evolving cyber threats.
Organizations must remain vigilant, continually updating their security practices and staying informed about the latest threat intelligence to effectively combat ransomware attacks.
For comprehensive solutions to enhance your cybersecurity posture and protect against these threats, visitPeris.ai Cybersecurity. Explore our wide range of products and services designed to keep your organization secure in an ever-changing digital landscape. Don’t wait—safeguard your digital assets with Peris.ai today!
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 26, 2024 | Business
• ASEAN is the most targeted region for expansion; nearly half expect “increased revenue and profit” in overseas business over the next three years
• Results of the “corporate survey on overseas business by Japanese companies” released
Tanabe Consulting Co., Ltd., a leading management consulting firm in Japan (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, and Yodogawa-ku, Osaka; President: Takahiko Wakamatsu, hereafter Tanabe Consulting), announces the results of the “Corporate Survey on Overseas Businesses.” This survey was conducted among corporate managers, executives, senior management, and those in charge of corporate planning departments throughout Japan. The survey results are as follows.
High Interest in Overseas Expansion: Approximately 80% of Japanese companies responded positively that they are either currently developing overseas business or would like to do so in the future. This indicates a strong interest in ongoing or future overseas business development.
Popular Regions for Expansion: ASEAN accounted for the largest number of countries and regions where Japanese companies are considering or expanding their overseas operations, making up approximately half of the total. About 40% of respondents cited “market growth potential and future prospects” as the reason for selecting a particular country or region for expansion.
Positive Business Outlook: About half of the Japanese companies expect their overseas businesses to see “increased sales and profits” over the next three years. Specifically, 49.4% of companies anticipate increased sales and profits, while only 3.1% foresee a decrease. This suggests that overseas business is currently the mainstay of growth for Japanese companies.
Importance of Market Potential: More than 40% of the respondents place importance on “market growth potential and future prospects” when entering or expanding their overseas business. The most common reason for selecting countries and regions for expansion was “market growth potential/future prospects” at 41.8%, highlighting the importance of promising markets in decision-making.
These findings highlight the growing focus and optimism of Japanese companies regarding international markets, particularly in the ASEAN region, and their expectations of positive business outcomes in the near future.
Insights from Tanabe Consulting’s expert consultants
About half of the companies engaged in overseas business anticipate “revenue and profit growth” over the next three years and have prioritized the development of new markets. However, securing and training global and specialized human resources, essential for business promotion, remains a significant challenge regardless of industry or company size.
According to the Bank of Japan’s “Short-Term Economic Survey of Enterprises in Japan” released in December 2023, approximately 70% of all Japanese companies reported a “not so good” outlook. In contrast, about half of the companies in our survey view their overseas business prospects as favorable over the next three years, with only 3.1% expecting a decline in sales and profits. This indicates that overseas business can be a catalyst for further growth in Japanese companies.
Report Author
Director, Tanabe Consulting Co., Ltd
Strategy & Domain Consulting Division and Global Consulting Koichi Murakami
Tanabe Consulting Co., Ltd
Global Consulting Chief Yuma Kawana
Tanabe Consulting Co., Ltd
Strategy Research Institute Segment & Region Marketing Chief Tang Tang Huang (Creation Support)
Methodology
The survey received 203 responses from corporate managers, executives, senior management, and individuals responsible for corporate planning departments across Japan. Conducted between January 15, 2024, and February 2, 2024, the study encompassed participants from all over Japan, including those based in overseas offices.
Services offered by Tanabe Consulting
With a population of approximately 130 million people, Japan is a safe, cutting-edge Asian country that offers a very attractive business environment. On the other hand, for foreign companies looking to enter the Japanese market, Japan is an unknown market, with unique business customs and business practices. In order to smoothly launch a business in Japan and penetrate the Japanese market, it is important to build an entry and market expansion strategy based on a clear understanding of the market size and future potential of your product, the competitive landscape and differentiation from competitors, and your supply chain model.
Tanabe Consulting is a pioneer in management consulting in Japan, with over 65 years of history and experience. Tanabe Consulting, with its thorough knowledge of the Japanese business environment, provides total support for expansion and development in the Japanese market.
（１） Japan Market Analysis
Tanabe Consulting, which operates in 10 regions throughout Japan, can provide highly accurate market research and information through consultants who are familiar with the relevant areas.
（２） Entry strategy planning
After market analysis, we will prioritize your expansion into the Japanese market based on your goals and your company’s strengths and core competencies. We determine the direction of entry, create a roadmap, and provide support for the materialization of your strategy.
（３） Marketing Implementation Support
Based on market analysis and entry strategies, we support your business in Japan by identifying potential partners and implementing effective website development and marketing initiatives in Japan, drawing on over 65 years of nationwide management consulting experience and network.
（４） Cross-border M&A
Based on our contacts and networks with companies throughout Japan, cultivated through more than 65 years of management consulting, we support capital alliances with companies that are suitable for gaining a position in the Japanese market.
About Tanabe Consulting Group (TCG)
Founded in 1957, TCG is a leading management consulting firm in Japan with over 65 years of history and achievements. Based on the management philosophy of “we love companies walk together with companies and work for company prosperity,” aiming to create values for the future society.
TCG primarily serves top management (executives and leaders) of large and medium-sized companies, as well as government and public organizations, having supported more than 17,000 companies since its founding. In the area of management consulting, TCG has developed a comprehensive consulting model that provides support for corporate management from strategy formulation (upstream) to the implementation and execution of management operations, such as DX in the field (midstream to downstream), with close ties to local communities throughout Japan.
Adhering to a client-centered philosophy of “All for Client Success,” TCG offers “team consulting,” where multiple professional consultants are selected to form a team tailored to address the specific management challenges of each company.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 25, 2024 | Business
The grand finale of Malaysia’s first and largest official padel tournament recently concluded at ASCARO Padel & Social Club. The Volvo Padel Open represented a significant milestone in the rapid growth of this exhilarating sport in the country.
by Ferry Bayu | Jun 25, 2024 | Business
First Life is delighted to reaffirm its commitment to fostering a positive and supportive work environment for all employees. Recognizing that our success is built on the foundation of a motivated and engaged workforce, we continue to invest in initiatives that promote employee well-being, professional development, and inclusive culture.
At First Life, we believe that our employees are our greatest asset. We are devoted to creating a workplace where every team member feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential. A perfect example of a valued employee whom First Life has supported and empowered for the last 16 years is Melanie “Lanie” O. Malagkit, HR Supervisor.
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