CyberWire Daily Ryan Kovar: Everyday, assume compromise. [Strategy] [Career Notes]
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Jul 27, 2025 Ryan Kovar, a Distinguished Security Strategist at Splunk, shares his journey from the US Navy to leading the SURGe research team. He emphasizes the importance of diversity in thought and the constantly evolving nature of cybersecurity. His transition from military life to innovative strategies at DARPA highlights the value of collaboration and learning from failures. Kovar's mantra is to 'assume compromise' daily, reflecting a proactive mindset essential in today's security landscape.
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Navy Cybersecurity Foundations
- Ryan Kovar started in the Navy managing computer systems on the USS Kitty Hawk, gaining early leadership and cybersecurity experience.
- He led cyber defense during the 2003 Iraq invasion, managing multi-million dollar assets and a large team at age 22.
International Career and DARPA Role
- After leaving the Navy, Ryan worked as a contractor and then supported UK Home Office systems, eventually earning a UK master's without a bachelor's degree.
- He then returned to the US to run a DARPA nation state hunting team, emphasizing research and active adversary defense.
Founding Splunk's SURGe Team
- Ryan founded Splunk's SURGe team inspired by the SolarWinds attack to solve 'blue collar for blue team problems'.
- The team focuses on creating consumable research projects for everyday security practitioners.