WithSecure, established by Petri Allas and Risto Siilasmaa in 1988 under the name Data Fellows, is a Finnish corporate security company. WithSecure demerged from the widely recognized brand F-Secure in 2022, with the purpose to carry out the separation of WithSecure’s consumer security business.
The history of cybersecurity services traces back to the rapid expansion of computers and the internet in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the digital revolution introduced unprecedented connectivity — and risks.
Early on, computer viruses like the notorious 1992 Michelangelo virus, which threatened to overwrite hard drives on a specific date, highlighted the vulnerabilities of the emerging computerized world. This threat, among others, catalyzed the growth of antivirus software and cybersecurity firms such as Data Fellows, as organizations and individuals recognized the need to protect their systems from malicious attacks.
The period marked the birth of a new industry focused on safeguarding data and digital infrastructures, laying the foundation for modern cybersecurity as we know it today. The company became a household name in Finland during the early decades of widespread internet.
Inderes has had the honor of serving WithSecure for several years, providing equity research services, investor event productions, IR pages, AGM services, IR consulting, and the Inderes event platform, Videosync.
What is secure for a corporate security company?
Operating in the cybersecurity industry, WithSecure understandably holds itself to the highest security standards when evaluating new tools and partners. According to Marketing Manager Marjo Hellman, “All the solutions we use must pass a strict security evaluation before they are even taken into test use.”
Additionally, every partner is required to sign an NDA before any collaboration begins, ensuring data security and trust. This rigorous process reflects WithSecure’s commitment to protecting its global operations and maintaining the trust of its clients and partners.
During the past months, WithSecure has integrated Videosync into various facets of its operations. The platform plays a key role in customer communications, partner collaborations, investor relations, and internal events. For customer webinars, WithSecure hosts global sessions discussing cybersecurity trends alongside technical, product-focused presentations tailored by regional marketing teams. Partner communication involves virtual events covering product updates and upcoming developments, while investor communications are produced in collaboration with Inderes and its event production company Flik. Internally, Videosync is used to stream some of the company’s large events, ensuring consistent alignment across its global teams.
Hellman highlighted the platform’s versatility, noting its ability to create highly customized registration pages and provide visibility into webinars created by other administrators — capabilities that weren’t available with their previous solution.
What makes a good virtual event?
Virtual events have become integral to WithSecure’s overall strategy. Often tied to larger campaigns, these events serve as essential components of broader marketing initiatives. Webinars dedicated to product launches and updates keep customers informed, while internal streams ensure teams remain aligned on strategic goals.
The success of WithSecure’s webinars and events is measured through a combination of metrics that can be accessed and analyzed within the Videosync platform. For customer-facing events, key indicators include the number of registrants and how long attendees remain engaged. Internal streams benefit from real-time reactions, while Q&A activity during external broadcasts provides valuable insights into audience engagement. Post-event viewership is another critical metric, as many participants opt to watch recordings later at their convenience.
What’s next in stakeholder events?
“Virtual events have become increasingly important since COVID, even though face-to-face interaction remains important.” — Marjo Hellman, Marketing Manager, WithSecure
Although physical events have regained popularity post-pandemic, hybrid event models — combining live and virtual elements — are gaining traction. WithSecure is already planning hybrid events that allow a small group to attend in person while others join virtually or watch recordings later. This approach guarantees maximum accessibility and engagement for stakeholders worldwide.
The shift to virtual events has brought multiple benefits to WithSecure and its stakeholders:
- Scalability and accessibility for a global audience
- Flexibility for participants to engage at their convenience
- Cost efficiency compared to traditional in-person events
These advantages underscore the value of integrating virtual platforms like Videosync into a company’s communication strategy.
What’s it like working with Inderes?
WithSecure’s collaboration with Inderes has been a resounding success. Hellman praised the seamless partnership:
“What makes the partnership work well is that we can trust the expertise and competence of Inderes.”
Requests for platform improvements are actively considered, leading to continuous enhancements. The onboarding process for Videosync also stood out, with comprehensive training ensuring a smooth transition to the new platform. Compared to their previous global SaaS solution, Videosync offers a more tailored and responsive experience.
By prioritizing security, leveraging advanced tools, and fostering strong partnerships, WithSecure continues to set a high standard in both cybersecurity and corporate communications.