Risky Business #776 -- Trump will flex American cyber muscles
Jan 22, 2025
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Craig Rowland, founder of Sandfly Security, brings his expertise in Linux EDR solutions to the conversation. He discusses the pressing challenges in Linux security monitoring, emphasizing the lack of standardized detection and response methods. The podcast also examines political influences on cybersecurity during the Trump administration and the implications of recent U.S. policies. Key topics include the complexities of securing Linux systems compared to Windows and addressing vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. Tune in for insights into how organizations can fortify their defenses!
The firing of CSRB advisors raises concerns about the integrity and thoroughness of future cyber incident assessments amid significant political changes.
The sophisticated cyber breach of the U.S. Treasury highlights the vulnerabilities of critical government systems and potential impacts on international relations.
Biden's executive order adds new cybersecurity obligations for federal agencies, though its future is uncertain under the incoming Trump administration's policies.
Deep dives
Changes at the Cyber Safety Review Board
The Department of Homeland Security underwent significant changes, resulting in the firing of all external advisors to the Cyber Safety Review Board (CSRB). This shake-up raises concerns about the ongoing review into significant cyber intrusions, particularly regarding vital infrastructures like telecommunications. With the expertise of renowned cybersecurity professionals no longer involved, the depth and credibility of the forthcoming CSRB report may be compromised. There is speculation about whether the CSRB can recover from this disruption and what implications it might have for future cyber incident assessments.
Chinese Cyber Operations Targeting the U.S. Treasury
Recent revelations indicate that the U.S. Treasury was a victim of a sophisticated cyber operation attributed to Chinese actors that exploited vulnerabilities in a remote management tool. This breach allowed unauthorized access to sensitive information and potentially gave adversaries insights into U.S. sanctions policies. The scale and success of this operation highlight the risks that critical government institutions face in the realm of cybersecurity. With reports of extensive intelligence gathering, the implications of this intrusion could resonate within international economic relations.
Executive Orders and Future Cybersecurity Initiatives
In a recent executive order signed by Joe Biden, significant new obligations were imposed on federal agencies concerning cybersecurity measures. These include mandating the use of phishing-resistant authentication controls, which indicates a shift toward more robust security protocols at a governmental level. However, with recent political changes, there are concerns about the potential for these measures to be rescinded or altered, which could derail advancements in cybersecurity initiatives. The order also discusses plans for a Cyber Trust Mark for IoT devices, reflecting the growing emphasis on security in the Internet of Things.
The Evolving Landscape of Cybersecurity in the U.S.
As the political landscape shifts with Donald Trump's return, expectations are building for a more aggressive U.S. approach to cybersecurity, particularly against adversaries like China. Insights suggest that new appointees may foster a more combative cybersecurity posture, potentially altering established norms in international cybersecurity conduct. While some argue this could serve as a legitimate response to ongoing threats, the risks of escalated cyber conflicts and collateral damage to civilian infrastructure remain significant. This reorientation of U.S. cyber policy could provoke reactions that might alter the global cybersecurity landscape.
The State of Linux Security in Enterprises
Linux security has emerged as a critical, yet somewhat neglected issue in enterprise environments, often trailing behind Windows in terms of resource allocation and attention. Many organizations deploy customized security tools but lack consistent monitoring across diverse Linux systems, leading to increased vulnerabilities. Advanced threats are exploiting this gap, with Linux systems often being targeted using tailored attacks that are less likely to be detected. Discussions with industry professionals highlight the importance of establishing uniform security measures for Linux systems to mitigate these threats effectively.
Risky Business returns for its 19th year! Patrick Gray and Adam Boileau discuss the week’s cybersecurity news and there is a whole bunch of it. They discuss:
The incoming Trump administration guts the CSRB
Biden’s last cyber Executive Order has sensible things in it
China’s breach of the US Treasury gets our reluctant admiration
Ross Ulbricht - the Dread Pirate Roberts of Silk Road fame - gets his Trump pardon
New year, same shameful comedy Forti- and Ivanti- bugs
US soldier behind the Snowflake hacks faces charges after a solid Krebs-ing
And much, much (much! after a month off) more.
This week’s episode is sponsored by Sandfly Security, who make a Linux EDR solution. Founder Craig Rowland joins to talk about how the Linux ecosystem struggles with its lack of standardised approaches to detection and response. If you’ve got a telco full of unix, and people are asking how much Salt Typhoon you’ve got in there… Sandfly’s tools are probably what you’re looking for.
If you like your Business like us… - Risky - then we’re hiring! We’re looking for someone to help with audio and video production for our work, manage our socials, and if you’re also into the Cybers… even better. Position is remote, with a preference for timezones amenable to Australia/NZ. Drop us a line: editorial at risky.biz.