Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, shares his insights into the geopolitics of cybersecurity. He discusses the tension between Iran and Israel in the cyber realm and explores the complex narratives of recent cyber warfare. The conversation dives into the US-China tech rivalry and domestic vulnerabilities, highlighting how historical events shape contemporary threats. Shashank also examines the evolving role of technology and intelligence in counter-terrorism strategies and the challenges of effectively communicating cybersecurity risks.
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Iran-Israel Cyberattacks
Shashank Joshi found the Iran-Israel cyber skirmishes significant.
Thomas Rid's "Cyber War Will Not Take Place" challenges the prevailing narrative of imminent large-scale cyber warfare. Rid argues that the reality of cyber conflict is far more nuanced and less dramatic than often portrayed. He analyzes historical precedents and technological limitations to demonstrate that widespread cyberattacks causing catastrophic damage are unlikely. The book explores the political and strategic dimensions of cyber operations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the motivations and capabilities of different actors. Rid's analysis provides a more realistic and less sensationalized view of the cyber threat landscape, urging a more measured and strategic approach to cybersecurity.
Co-Intelligence
Living and Working with AI
Ethan Mollick
In *Co-Intelligence*, Ethan Mollick explores the profound impact of AI on business and education. He urges readers to engage with AI as co-workers, co-teachers, and coaches, using numerous real-time examples to illustrate its potential. Mollick argues that AI should augment human intelligence rather than replace it, and he provides practical advice on how to harness AI's power to create a better human future. The book addresses the transformative potential of AI, its ethical concerns, and the importance of mastering the skill of working with smart machines[1][2][4].
Dark Wire
The Incredible True Story of the Largest Sting Operation Ever
Joseph Cox
Dark Wire recounts the story of Anom, a secure communications app secretly run by the FBI, which allowed law enforcement to monitor tens of thousands of criminals worldwide, including members of drug cartels, the mafia, and other organized crime groups. The book reveals the intricate details of this global sting operation, highlighting the technological and ethical complexities involved. It follows the agents and criminals as they navigate this high-stakes game, ultimately leading to a massive international crackdown on criminal activities.
In this episode, Ciaran and James are joined by Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist, to discuss the geopolitics of cyber security. Shashank offers his expert analysis on critical cyber security events, strategies, and their global implications.
Highlights
[2:00] Entry into Cyber
[5:00] Iran-Israel Cyber Skirmishes
[8:00] The XZUtils Story
[11:00] Historical example highlighting the human side of technological advancement
[14:00] Cyber warfare and geopolitical tensions
[23:00] US-China cold tech war
[26:00] Domestic Cyber Vulnerabilities
[29:00] Counter-Terrorism Strategies
[32:00] Evolution of thought from the Intelligence Community
Cyber Leaders 
