Cloud Security Podcast by Google
EP215 Threat Modeling at Google: From Basics to AI-powered Magic
Mar 17, 2025
Meador Inge, a security engineer at Google, dives into the intricacies of threat modeling, detailing its essential steps and applications in complex systems. He explains how Google continuously updates its threat models and operationalizes the information to enhance security. The conversation explores the challenges faced in scaling threat modeling practices and how AI, particularly large language models like Gemini, is reshaping the landscape. With a humorous twist, Inge shares insights into unexpected threats and effective strategies for organizations starting their threat modeling journey.
26:03
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Quick takeaways
- Google's threat modeling process involves defining scope, identifying components, and collaborating with product teams for effective risk assessment.
- Emphasizing iterative analysis, threat modeling enables manageable insights into complex systems, enhancing security posture while avoiding overwhelming details.
Deep dives
Understanding Threat Modeling
Threat modeling is discussed as a structured process crucial for identifying potential risks associated with a product or system. It begins by clearly defining the scope and identifying key components, data flows, and subject matter experts to garner accurate architectural insights. By utilizing this foundational understanding, teams can systematically enumerate potential threats and evaluate areas where security compromises may arise. This structured approach not only enhances the security posture but also empowers teams to anticipate challenges and implement effective mitigations.
