MSPs and the vCISO Challenge: Defining Boundaries
From The MSP Zone by Charles Weaver
January 26, 2026 · 54 min · Season 7 · Episode 340
About this episode
This episode discusses the evolving role of MSPs in cybersecurity and the challenges they face in acting as virtual CISOs.
Most MSPs have been silently playing in the security space for decades—so why are clients now demanding they act as CISO? In this eye-opening episode, Neil Holm and Travis Springer unravel the evolving role of managed service providers entering the C-suite. They reveal how MSPs have long been high-level security players, often advising clients on strategic cybersecurity decisions without formal titles. But as regulatory pressures, cyber insurance, and boardroom demands accelerate, MSPs are caught at a crossroads: continue as trusted advisors or risk overstepping into roles that could create conflicts of interest.You’ll discover how MSPs can effectively influence executive-level security without crossing ethical boundaries. Neil and Travis share real-world insights on the limits of MSP involvement in policy, risk management, and assessments like pen testing—and why certain activities should always be referred out. They break down the subtle line between helpful advice and operational risk, revealing how to stay in the driver’s seat while avoiding the pitfalls of assuming responsibilities that aren’t yours to take. From the myths of “virtual CISO” to the regulatory and…
People in this episode
Host: Charles Weaver
Guests: Neil Holm, Travis Springer
Topics covered
- MSPs
- vCISO
- cybersecurity
- ethical boundaries
- strategic partnerships
- risk management
Keywords
- MSP
- vCISO
- cybersecurity
- ethical boundaries
- risk management
- strategic partnerships
- compliance
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: MSP, CISO, cyber insurance, boardroom
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