Risky Bulletin Srsly Risky Biz: Special guests Rob Joyce and Andy Boyd on offensive cyber
May 15, 2025
Rob Joyce, former NSA Cybersecurity Director, and Andy Boyd, ex-CIA Center for Cyber Intelligence director, dive into the evolving world of offensive cyber strategies. They discuss the implications of political shifts on intelligence staffing and morale. The conversation highlights the challenges of talent exodus in agencies and the urgent need for adaptive cybersecurity tactics in the face of threats from adversaries like China and Russia. They also touch on the role of innovative partnerships in enhancing national security.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Government Cyber Staffing Cuts
- Significant visible government cuts are occurring, especially in agencies like CISA, causing concern among talented staff.
- These changes prompt many personnel to consider leaving, hurting core capabilities.
Streamlined Offensive Cyber Under Trump
- The Trump administration favored offensive cyber operations and streamlined approvals to empower military cyber actions.
- NSPM-13 policy reduced bureaucratic vetoes, enabling Cyber Command to conduct faster, mission-grounded campaigns.
U.S. Cyber Ethics and Limits
- U.S. cyber operations avoid tactics like stealing cryptocurrency to profit or hacking political parties, unlike adversaries.
- Offensive cyber tools will be used responsibly under military commanders without State Department veto.