SpyTalk
Can Anyone Stop Cyber Terrorism?
Sep 22, 2023
Former CIA director of Technical Services Office and current Chief Information Security Officer at Rubrik, Michael Mestrovich, discusses the rise of cyber intrusions, recent attacks, Chinese infiltration of OMB files, weight loss solutions, foreign influence campaigns on social media, and the importance of cybersecurity education.
32:47
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Quick takeaways
- Ransomware attacks are on the rise due to the ease of monetization through cryptocurrencies and the exploitation of IT system vulnerabilities.
- Foreign intelligence services utilize social media to spread disinformation, erode trust in institutions, and manipulate individuals into providing sensitive information.
Deep dives
The Rise of Cyber Attacks and Ransomware
The podcast discusses the increase in cyber attacks, particularly ransomware attacks, targeting major government agencies, corporations, and even school systems. The rise of cryptocurrencies has made it easier for cyber criminals to monetize their activities and demand ransom payments. Cyber criminals exploit vulnerabilities in IT systems, including human carelessness or mistakes, such as clicking on phishing emails. The financial incentive behind cybercrime continues to drive these attacks, and raising the cost for cyber criminals is crucial to reducing their prevalence.
