Secure Communications in Embedded Systems with Ismael Valenzuela and John Wall
Feb 6, 2025
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Join John Wall, SVP at BlackBerry QNX, and Ismael Valenzuela, VP of Threat Research and Intelligence, as they dive into the evolution of secure communications. They discuss BlackBerry's shift from smartphones to a cybersecurity leader, highlighting advancements in embedded systems, especially in automobiles. The duo emphasizes the role of AI in enhancing security measures and the necessity of blending human intelligence with tech solutions. They also tackle the challenges of military-grade encryption in a cloud-based world and the culture of security in software engineering.
BlackBerry has successfully shifted its focus from smartphones to becoming a leader in cybersecurity solutions, particularly in embedded systems.
The integration of AI and machine learning enhances BlackBerry's cybersecurity capabilities, enabling proactive threat detection and fostering a culture of security awareness.
Deep dives
BlackBerry's Transformation to Cybersecurity
BlackBerry transitioned from its former role in the smartphone market to a strong emphasis on cybersecurity solutions. The company developed the QNX operating system, which initially focused on embedded systems in industries like automotive, medical, and industrial automation. With the rise of autonomous vehicles, QNX's importance grew, offering a reliable foundation for mission-critical applications. Today, BlackBerry's offerings span secure communications and embedded systems, reflecting its adaptation to the evolving technology landscape.
The Role and Evolution of QNX in Automotive
QNX became a dominant player in the automotive infotainment sector, notably serving major manufacturers from the mid-2000s onward. As vehicles became more connected, QNX adapted by developing high-performance operating systems essential for autonomous driving and safety-critical systems. For instance, several advanced driver assistance systems, including those from Mercedes and BMW, are built on QNX software. The platform's microkernel architecture enhances reliability and safety, allowing for updates and recovery without system-wide failure.
Integrating AI and Threat Intelligence in Cybersecurity
BlackBerry actively integrates AI and machine learning technologies into its cybersecurity offerings to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. The company’s acquisition of Silence marked a significant move towards leveraging AI for detecting and responding to security incidents in real-time. Ongoing research and proactive threat analysis enable teams to stay ahead of attacking methods, ensuring organizations are prepared for threats before they occur. The synergy of human expertise and AI tools forms the backbone of BlackBerry's approach to defending against evolving cybersecurity challenges.
Future Directions in Cybersecurity and Embedded Systems
As the demand for software-defined devices increases, BlackBerry anticipates further growth in its embedded systems and cybersecurity markets. The focus on secure design is also paramount; as critical infrastructure becomes more software-reliant, robust security measures are essential to prevent breaches and ensure safety. Emerging threats require that organizations adapt continually, implementing proactive measures and secure communication strategies. Both BlackBerry leaders emphasize the importance of fostering a culture of security awareness among developers to navigate the increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.
BlackBerry is a Canadian company known for its pivotal role in the smartphone market during the 2000s. Today, BlackBerry has adopted a major focus on cybersecurity.
John Wall is the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Products, Engineering and Services at QNX, which is a division of BlackBerry. Ismael Valenzuela is the former Vice President of Threat Research and Intelligence at BlackBerry, where he led threat research, intelligence, and defensive innovation. John and Ismael join the podcast to talk about cybersecurity at Blackberry, including secure communications in embedded systems.
Gregor Vand is a security-focused technologist, and is the founder and CTO of Mailpass. Previously, Gregor was a CTO across cybersecurity, cyber insurance and general software engineering companies. He has been based in Asia Pacific for almost a decade and can be found via his profile at vand.hk.