Cyber Dagger: Making Cybersecurity Accessible for All
Photo courtesy of Cyber Dagger LLC.
This article is Sponsored Content by Tamara Jolee
In an era where cyber threats loom large over organizations of all sizes, John Rodriguez, the CEO and founder of Cyber Dagger, views cybersecurity not merely as a profession but as a personal mission. With a robust background in the Air Force and decades of industry experience, Rodriguez is dedicated to ensuring that businesses, especially those with limited resources, can protect themselves against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.
Rodriguez’s vision extends beyond just safeguarding businesses; he aims to democratize cybersecurity, making it accessible to organizations of every size. Recently, Cyber Dagger launched two significant initiatives targeting non-profits and veteran-owned businesses, reflecting Rodriguez’s commitment to community and service.
Making Cybersecurity Affordable for Non-Profits
Non-profit organizations play a crucial role in their communities, providing essential services such as food distribution, education, and support for those in need. However, their limited budgets often leave them vulnerable to cybercriminals. Recognizing this gap, Cyber Dagger has introduced the Cyber Dagger Non-Profit Program, which offers tailored cybersecurity solutions at discounted rates for registered 501(c)(3) organizations.
Rodriguez emphasizes that non-profits should not have to choose between funding their mission and securing their systems. “We’ve seen too many non-profits left vulnerable simply because cybersecurity felt out of reach. That stops now,” he asserts. By providing top-tier protection without the hefty price tag, Cyber Dagger aims to empower these organizations to focus on their vital work without the looming threat of cyber attacks.
Supporting Veteran-Owned Businesses
As a veteran himself, Rodriguez understands the unique challenges faced by those transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship. This understanding has led Cyber Dagger to focus on supporting Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) in navigating the complexities of cybersecurity.
“Veterans are some of the hardest-working, most resilient people I know. But cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re starting out,” Rodriguez explains. Through this initiative, veteran business owners will have access to discounted services such as penetration testing, security training, and ongoing support. Additionally, Cyber Dagger plans to mentor veterans, partnering with organizations to create pathways for success in the digital landscape.
Why Cyber Dagger Stands Out
Rodriguez’s approach to cybersecurity is refreshingly straightforward and client-focused. Frustrated by an industry that often prioritizes profit over people, he founded Cyber Dagger with a commitment to integrity and transparency. “I kept seeing businesses — especially small ones — paying for services they didn’t need,” he recalls.
At Cyber Dagger, the focus is on understanding clients’ real needs and crafting solutions that fit those requirements, regardless of budget. “If a $5,000 fix will do the job, I’m not going to push something more expensive. That’s not how trust works,” Rodriguez states. This philosophy is rooted in his personal experiences, including a pivotal moment when he helped a school recover from a ransomware attack, demonstrating his dedication to the mission.
About John Rodriguez: Life and Career
Rodriguez’s journey began in a small mountain town in Puerto Rico, where he was raised in a military family. His father’s career as a surveyor for the Army Corps of Engineers instilled in him values of discipline, integrity, and service. Frequent relocations exposed him to diverse cultures and challenges, shaping his resilient spirit.
After high school, Rodriguez enlisted in the Air Force, where he worked on F-16 fighter jets. His desire to expand his knowledge led him to cybersecurity, a field that combines technical precision with strategic thinking. Despite facing numerous setbacks in breaking into the industry, Rodriguez persevered, self-funding his education and certifications until a commander recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue cyber operations.
His career took off from there, leading him to significant roles in cybersecurity operations across Europe and Africa, where he honed his skills in vulnerability analysis and cyber warfare. After working with top cybersecurity firms, he founded Cyber Dagger in 2024, aiming to make a meaningful impact on organizations in need.
Looking Ahead
With the launch of initiatives aimed at non-profits and veteran-owned businesses, Cyber Dagger is not just discussing cybersecurity; they are actively changing lives. Rodriguez’s mission is clear: to make cybersecurity accessible, reliable, and honest for organizations that need it most.
“Whether it’s a non-profit trying to change the world or a veteran-owned business fighting to grow, we’re here to protect them,” he affirms. As Cyber Dagger continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a beacon of hope for those navigating the complex digital landscape, ensuring that everyone has the tools they need to thrive in a secure environment.
To learn more about Cyber Dagger and their initiatives, visit cyberdagger.com.