CyberWire Daily

“The hackers made me do it,” or did they?

Jan 27, 2026
Cynthia Kaiser, SVP at Halcyon who leads ransomware research and studies AI and quantum risks. She discusses AI lowering barriers for attackers and speeding ransomware operations. She covers quantum-era risks to long-term secrets and how national strategy and defenses must adapt. Short, sharp takes on attack velocity, automated defenses, and securing AI models.
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INSIGHT

AI Threats Are Manageable With Understanding

  • AI integration by adversaries is a solvable problem, not a runaway train.
  • Cynthia Kaiser urges measured understanding to counter AI threats effectively.
INSIGHT

U.S. Holds A Short-Term AI Lead

  • The U.S. leads AI by months, not years, over many competitors.
  • Cynthia Kaiser says maintaining market leadership lets the U.S. shape AI ethics and safety.
INSIGHT

AI Lowers Ransomware Barriers

  • AI hasn't changed ransomware tactics yet but has lowered barriers and sped tasks.
  • Expect AI to automate discrete workflows and accelerate attackers' operations.
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