The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Archive: How the FBI is Combating Cyberattacks, with Brett Leatherman
Sep 7, 2025
In this discussion, Brett Leatherman, Deputy Assistant Director for Cyber Operations at the FBI, sheds light on the evolving cyber threat landscape. He covers the alarming rise of ransomware and its impact on sectors like healthcare, emphasizing the need for robust security measures. The conversation also delves into the FBI's collaborative strategies with the private sector to bolster national cybersecurity, particularly in the face of state-sponsored cyberattacks. Leatherman shares insights on the FBI's proactive initiatives to thwart cybercrime and support victims of attacks.
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A Personal Path Into Cyber Operations
- Brett Leatherman described joining the FBI after 9/11 following a personal loss and a desire to serve differently.
- He entered duty in 2003 and described two decades of varied investigative work across FBI disciplines.
Dual Criminal and National Security Role
- The FBI's cyber branch handles both criminal investigations and national-security cyber operations under one roof.
- That dual role lets the FBI both prosecute criminals and work with the intelligence community on state-sponsored threats.
FBI Is The Lead US Cyber Threat Responder
- Presidential Policy Directive 41 designates the FBI as lead threat response agency for US cyber attacks.
- The FBI defends forward across field offices and embassies to pressure adversaries before they strike domestically.