Danon Vaughn is an artist by nature, but he is also a warrior whose company, Ransom Shield, protects businesses from hackers. A native of Atlanta, he started working with computer security and IT systems for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies. However, his passion for entrepreneurship was always at the forefront of his mind, and in the early 2000s, he created his first of several start-up companies.

Danon says his biggest mistake in his early start-up days was that he did not have a plan or purpose. He always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur in technology, and yet he didn't have focus. However, after reading a book by Napoleon Hill, "Think and Grow Rich," everything came together. The book helped give him direction in figuring out precisely what he wanted to do and gave him the spark to move forward with his vision. 

With his company's vision solidified and with his increased skills, knowledge, and the advancement of technology, Danon's business plan evolved. In 2018, with the help of his partner, Ransom Shield was founded. Its purpose is to work with companies so that they understand potential IT security threats to their organization. Wanting companies to be secure, his organization provides free educational seminars and material so companies know where they might be at risk. Ransom Shield can evaluate a company's network security and will source software solutions and shield a company against attack.

As a start-up or small business, Danon says that IT systems and security may not be at the forefront of your mind, but it should. Many companies start with "free" or "low-cost" systems to minimize cost. Many of these products are inefficient and are unable to protect a company's information from hackers or companies quickly outgrow these products. Staying unprotected and unprepared can not only be costly but potentially destructive to companies. 

Danon says the first step in prevention is understanding. Cybersecurity is a billion-dollar business, and cyberattacks are on the rise. It can start with something as simple as an email and uninformed employee. Before you know it, someone has opened an email and unintentionally let a virus into the company system. "Security starts with you, and you don't have to do it alone," Danon says. 

Being a business owner appeals to Danon’s artistic side. He believes his creativity assists with his company’s success and helps make Ransom Shield dynamic. It gives him the ability to engage with customers and visualize innovative solutions. Many times, it's these skills that allow him to see what other people can't. He says the sky is the limit, and he can do what he wants with the resources he has. 

What keeps Danon up at night? Making a mistake, wondering how he can do his job better, and potential security risks for his clients. He also thinks about supporting his family and paying the bills. What keeps him going is knowing he is helping others, protecting his clients, investing in relationships, building trust, and partnerships.  

His advice to other entrepreneurs is to define your plan, get people involved, and be open to advice and constructive criticism. Also, be prepared to settle in for the long game. Success rarely happens overnight. Most importantly, you just have to go for it. 

If you are interested in having peace of mind in your company's IT security or learning more about Ransom Shield, visit http://ransomshield.tech. You can also reach Danon directly at Dvaughn@ransomshield.tech.