#266 – Nicole Perlroth: Cybersecurity and the Weapons of Cyberwar
Feb 20, 2022
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Nicole Perlroth, a cybersecurity journalist and author of 'This Is How They Tell Me The World Ends,' dives into the ominous world of cyber warfare. She discusses zero-day vulnerabilities and the evolving hacker culture, emphasizing the ethics behind selling exploits. The conversation highlights the rising significance of cyberattacks in global politics, particularly between the US and China. Perlroth also explores the moral complexities of surveillance and the dire need for transparency and stronger consumer protections in an increasingly digital world.
Zero-day vulnerabilities are undisclosed and unpatched flaws in software that hackers can exploit for remote access and compromise.
Cyber attacks can range from highly targeted hacks to larger-scale attacks, motivated by financial gain, political interests, and espionage.
Hackers were initially driven by curiosity, but with government involvement, lines between offensive hacking and state-sponsored activities have blurred.
Improving basic security measures like widespread adoption of two-factor authentication and better regulation of critical infrastructure are essential to combat cyber threats.
Deep dives
Zero-day vulnerabilities and exploits
In this podcast episode, cybersecurity journalist Nicole Perlroth explains the concept of zero-day vulnerabilities and exploits. Zero-day vulnerabilities are bugs or flaws in software that are unknown to the vendor and remain unpatched. These vulnerabilities are valuable because they can be exploited by hackers to carry out attacks. Zero-day exploits are programs or exploits developed to take advantage of these vulnerabilities. Exploiting a zero-day vulnerability can allow an attacker to remotely access and compromise devices, such as iPhones, without the user's knowledge. This capability is of great interest to spy agencies and governments for surveillance purposes. The market for zero-day exploits is lucrative, with governments and intermediaries paying large sums to hackers for these tools.
Targeted attacks and large-scale attacks
In the podcast episode, Perlroth discusses the varying nature of cyber attacks. Some zero-day exploits are highly targeted, involving specialized hacks to address specific needs, such as preventing potential terrorist attacks. However, there are also large-scale attacks that target a wide population or specific groups of individuals. Perlroth mentions a watering hole attack aimed at Uighurs, an ethnic group in China. This attack infected anyone who visited a specific website related to Uighur issues, showing the ability of attackers to target larger populations. While some hacktivists and hackers may have specific motivations, the motivation behind attacks can vary widely, including financial gain, political interests, and espionage.
Psychological motivations of hackers
Perlroth explores the motivations of hackers, ranging from curiosity and tinkering to monetary gain and power. In the early days, hackers were driven by curiosity and a desire to understand systems and exploit them for various purposes. However, due to the dismissive responses from tech companies, many hackers turned to sharing their knowledge within online communities. Governments and contractors eventually tapped into this market and began recruiting hackers to develop custom exploits, blurring the line between offensive hacking and state-sponsored activities. While some hackers have ethical concerns and wish to avoid causing harm, others prioritize profit and see software vulnerabilities as fair game, focusing the responsibility on technology companies to improve the security of their products.
Cybersecurity challenges and potential solutions
Perlroth discusses the challenges and potential solutions in the realm of cybersecurity. While cybersecurity threats are increasing, there is often a lack of basic security measures, such as two-factor authentication, which can significantly reduce the risk of attacks. She advocates for the widespread adoption of two-factor authentication as a simple and effective defense measure. Additionally, Perlroth highlights the need for improved regulation and standards for critical infrastructure, as many systems are owned and operated by the private sector without mandatory cybersecurity requirements. She emphasizes the importance of making it more difficult for attackers, prioritizing defense measures, and minimizing the impact of cyber attacks.
The Importance of Making Security Seamless
The speaker emphasizes the need for security to be painless and seamless to encourage widespread adoption and effectiveness. Apple's introduction of biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and Face ID, is recognized as a significant step forward, though not without flaws. This highlights the necessity for continuous advancements in security to eliminate the use of passwords and implement multi-factor authentication using diverse biometric data.
Applying Targeted Ad Technology to Cybersecurity
Abnormal Security, founded by individuals with ad tech experience, applies targeted ad technology to combat email attacks. By analyzing email patterns and detecting abnormalities, they block and investigate potential threats. This approach leverages technology for effective protection, similar to how personalized ads work, and aims to make cybersecurity more seamless and user-friendly.
The Potential Dangers of Social Engineering
Social engineering, particularly in the context of remote work, poses a significant threat to organizations. The ability to manipulate individuals and infiltrate companies is a chief concern for chief information security officers. The example of a scenario where an imposter takes on an employee's identity reinforces the need for vigilance and skepticism in this realm.
Hope for the Future of Cybersecurity
The speaker shares hope for the future, highlighting the potential of the younger generation to drive positive change. With the rise of younger leaders, a shift in societal values, and a focus on authenticity and innovation, there is optimism that meaningful progress can be made in areas like cybersecurity. The belief in the fundamental goodness of people and the importance of embracing one's own authenticity and creativity contribute to this hopeful outlook.
OUTLINE:
Here’s the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players you should be able to click the timestamp to jump to that time.
(00:00) – Introduction
(06:54) – Zero-day vulnerability
(12:55) – History of hackers
(27:47) – Interviewing hackers
(31:49) – Ransomware attack
(44:33) – Cyberwar
(57:41) – Cybersecurity
(1:06:48) – Social engineering
(1:23:41) – Snowden and whistleblowers
(1:33:11) – NSA
(1:42:58) – Fear for cyberattacks
(1:50:29) – Self-censorship
(1:54:50) – Advice for young people
(2:00:07) – Hope for the future
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