Cybersecurity is no longer a battle fought solely by tech experts—every business and individual is a potential target. Phishing schemes, one of the most commonly reported cybercrimes, cause significant data breaches and financial losses for small businesses globally. ShieldForce CEO and Founder Obi Ibeto is tackling this issue head-on, combining cutting-edge technology with a vision to uplift communities.
ShieldForce was launched in May 2023, just one year after Obi came to the U.S. from Nigeria where he had honed his cybertech expertise. The startup currently represents healthcare providers, construction companies, clean energy companies, automobile dealers, and manufacturers – industries that cyber criminals highly target. Using AI-powered advanced security, ShieldForce’s cloud-based subscription software classifies every email to detect scams and back up emails for Microsoft and Google Workspace, enabling businesses to retrieve data and mitigate damages.
In 2023 U.S. companies suffered $2.9 billion in losses due to Business Email Compromise (BEC), and each year the complaints and losses grow exponentially, as documented in the FBI’s annual Internet Crime Report. Obi noted that presenters at a recent cybersecurity conference he attended in Boston estimated the losses at upwards of $14 billion, with many victims remaining silent.
Phishing scams, where hackers exploit human emotions to compromise email accounts, were a particular focus. “Scammers replicate familiar web pages to trick users into clicking malicious links,” Obi said.” Once inside, they monitor email activity, alter invoices, and redirect payments. It’s a simple trick, but the consequences are devastating.”
ShieldForce entered the market after Obi was admitted to the New York cohort of the Founders Institute, the world’s largest pre-seed startup accelerator. Obi is a member of the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts, the National Small Business Association, and the International Association of Microsoft Certified Partners. He is also a fellow of the Institute of Personal Development & Customer Relationship Management. As a startup founder, Obi said he utilizes these organizations to improve the viability of the ShieldForce team as well as to build client relationships.
Obi noted that the startup generated over 100 leads at its first exhibition, and within its first year expanded globally with teams in the UK, Nigeria, and Australia. Boston was chosen as ShieldForce’s headquarters due to its rich talent pool and supportive ecosystem for innovation.
Running a B2B venture that handles sensitive information requires building trust and nurturing relationships. “People do business with those they trust,” Obi noted. “We build relationships through face-to-face conversations and by educating potential clients.”
While helping small business owners sleep at night is at the core of ShieldForce’s mission, Obi has a personal goal to address the financial gaps in low-income communities and among people of color. This includes his ambitious plan to train 15,000 young people in cybersecurity over the next five years. “We’re launching a 12-week comprehensive program in underserved communities, teaching basic cybersecurity skills and connecting graduates to jobs,” he said. “This will uplift individuals and rebuild entire communities.”
Obi credits his success to faith and perseverance. In 2021, he earned an O-1A visa – a classification for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, education, business, or athletics. He qualified through technology certifications and national representation for Nigeria in the UK.
Part of those qualifications stemmed from the growth of Obi’s first company – EPINEC – a technology consulting company founded in Ejigbo, Lagos, Nigeria. EPINEC NIGERIA LIMITED was originally started by Obi’s father in 1994 as a pharmaceutical distribution business and was later transformed into a technology company in 2013.
Today, Obi sees his journey as a testament to what’s possible. “If I can do it, others can too,” he said. “Everything I’ve achieved is by the grace of God. This country has given me so much, and I’m driven to give back.”
While ShieldForce is just getting started, Obi’s focus on customer success – combined with innovative technology and a heart for community – positions the company as a rising leader in cybersecurity.
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