Redefining CyberSecurity

Guest: Dr. Kathleen Fisher, Information Innovation Office (I2O) Director, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) [@DARPA]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-fisher-4000964/At Black Hat | https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/summit-sessions/schedule/speakers.html#dr-kathleen-fisher-48776____________________________Hosts: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinMarco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli____________________________Episode NotesIn this On Location with Sean and Marco episode, hosts Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli engage in an insightful conversation with Dr. Kathleen Fisher from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The discussion centers around the upcoming Black Hat and DEF CON events, where Dr. Fisher is scheduled to deliver a keynote on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, with a particular focus on DARPA's ongoing initiatives and competitions.Dr. Fisher begins by providing an overview of her background and DARPA's mission to prevent technological surprises that could undermine U.S. national security. She recounts the success of the High-Assurance Cyber Military Systems (HACMS) program, which utilized formal methods to create highly secure software for military vehicles. This program demonstrated the potential of formal methods to revolutionize cybersecurity, proving that robust software could be developed to withstand hacking attempts, even from world-class red teams.The conversation then shifts to the AI Cyber Challenge (AICC) program, a major highlight of her upcoming keynote. AICC aims to leverage the power of AI combined with cyber reasoning systems to automatically find and fix vulnerabilities in real open-source software—an ambitious extension of DARPA's previous Cyber Grand Challenge. This competition involves collaboration with major tech companies like Google, Anthropic, OpenAI, and Microsoft, offering competitors access to state-of-the-art models to tackle real-world vulnerabilities.Dr. Fisher emphasizes the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing cybersecurity technologies. DARPA's charter allows it to work with a diverse range of organizations, from startups to national labs, in pursuit of strategic technological advances. The episode also touches on the potential impact of cyber vulnerabilities on critical infrastructure, underscoring the need for scalable and automatic solutions to address these threats.Listeners can anticipate Dr. Fisher highlighting these themes in her keynote, aimed at business leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and risk managers. She will outline how the audience can engage with DARPA's initiatives and contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance national security through innovative technology solutions.The episode promises to provide a nuanced understanding of DARPA's role in pioneering AI-driven cybersecurity advancements and offers a preview of the exciting developments to be showcased at Black Hat and DEF CON.Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!____________________________This Episode’s SponsorsLevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cCoro: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deSquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6AppDome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuv____________________________Follow our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasOn YouTube: 📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllRo9DcHmre_45ha-ru7cZMQBe sure to share and subscribe!____________________________ResourcesKeynote: Enhancing National Security with AI-Driven Cybersecurity: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/summit-sessions/schedule/index.html#keynote--enhancing-national-security-with-ai-driven-cybersecurity-41250AI Cyber Challenge: https://aicyberchallenge.com/DARPA's Information Innovation Office: https://www.darpa.mil/about-us/offices/i2o?ppl=collapseHigh-Assurance Cyber Military Systems (HACMS): https://www.darpa.mil/program/high-assurance-cyber-military-systemsDARPAConnect Website: https://pathfinder.theari.us/darpaconnect/homeLearn more about Black Hat USA  2024: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/____________________________Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverageTo see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastTo see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-society-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring our event coverage with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplcWant to tell your Brand Story as part of our event coverage?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/evtcovbrf

Guest: Kris Rides, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Tiro Security [@tirosecurity]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisrides/____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesIn this episode of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin speaks with Kris Rides, founder of Tiro Security. They discuss the fascinating and somewhat unsettling topic of fake LinkedIn profiles, an issue that has become increasingly prevalent. Kris Rides, with years of experience in cybersecurity staffing and professional services, shares insights from a recent LinkedIn post that garnered significant engagement.The discussion kicks off with Sean Martin recounting how Kris's post about a suspicious LinkedIn account with 28,000 followers caught his attention. Despite having a large number of followers, the account consistently posted irrelevant comments and lacked meaningful engagement. This anomaly prompted Kris to investigate further, leading to a broader conversation about the implications and dangers of fake profiles on professional networking sites.One key takeaway from their conversation is the motivational factors behind creating fake profiles. Kris highlights a range of activities from promoting scams and fake job offers to phishing attempts and even cyber reconnaissance. Fake accounts might seek to gather personal information through seemingly legitimate contact requests or endorsements, which could then be used for nefarious purposes. Kris explains that fake profiles often masquerade as legitimate individuals or companies, which makes them hard to identify at a glance. He recounts instances where Endorsements were used as a tool by these profiles to build credibility. In one case, a fake profile had numerous endorsements from a marketing tool, unbeknownst to the people doing the endorsing. This exploitation of LinkedIn's features underscores the complexity of detecting inauthentic activities. The episode also touches on the sophisticated techniques used to enhance the legitimacy of fake profiles.Kris shares how these profiles sometimes share resumes and job offers to build trust within the LinkedIn community. Sean and Kris debate the ultimate end-goals of these activities, including using amassed information for large-scale phishing or vishing campaigns, perpetrating job offer scams, and scraping data for fraudulent purposes.For professionals and companies, the conversation provides crucial advice: maintaining vigilance and conducting regular checks on connections and endorsements can help mitigate risks. Both speakers emphasize the importance of trust but verify, suggesting that users report suspicious activities to LinkedIn and engage cautiously with unsolicited requests.In summary, the episode explores how fake LinkedIn profiles represent a growing concern, affecting both individuals and organizations. Through their shared experiences and insights, Sean Martin and Kris Rides bring valuable awareness to this issue, encouraging proactive measures to safeguard personal and professional information in the digital age.___________________________SponsorsImperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYqITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazineBe sure to share and subscribe!___________________________ResourcesInspiring Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/krisrides_ive-reported-this-so-im-unsure-how-long-activity-7211061069274914817-aN43/___________________________To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Guests: L Jean Camp, Professor, Luddy School of Computing, Informatics, and Engineering, Indiana University [@IUBloomington]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/ljean/At BlackHat | https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/speakers.html#l-jean-camp-37968Dalya Manatova, Associate Instructor/Ph.D. Student, Luddy School of Computing, Informatics, and Engineering, Indiana University [@IUBloomington]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalyapraz/At BlackHat | https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/speakers.html#dalya-manatova-48133____________________________Hosts: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinMarco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli____________________________Episode NotesIn this Chats on the Road episode of the On Location with Sean and Marco podcast series, hosts Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli engage in an insightful conversation about the intricacies of modern cybercrime, specifically focusing on ransomware gangs. The discussion revolves around the research conducted by their guests, L Jean Camp, a scholar specializing in the economics of security and privacy, and Dalya Manatova, a PhD student studying security informatics and the organizational social dynamics of e-crime.The episode explores how ransomware gangs, such as the notorious Conti group, operate much like legitimate businesses. These criminal organizations exhibit structured hierarchies, recruit testers who may not even realize they are part of an illegal operation, and employ professional negotiation tactics with their victims. The guests emphasize that the threat posed by these gangs is often misunderstood; rather than facing advanced government operations, most individuals and organizations are dealing with commoditized cyber-attacks that follow business-like procedures.Jean and Dalya share intriguing details about their methodology, including the linguistic and discourse analyses used to map out the relationships and organizational structures within these criminal groups. These analyses reveal the complexities and resilience of the organizations, shedding light on how they maintain operational efficiency and manage internal communications. For instance, the researchers discuss the use of jargon like “cat” to refer to crypto wallets, a nuance that highlights the challenges of interpreting cybercriminal chatter.Additionally, the conversation touches on the implications of these findings for cybersecurity practices and the broader business landscape. Jean notes the importance of information sharing and understanding the flow of chatter within and between criminal organizations. This awareness can empower defenders by providing them with better tools and methods to anticipate and counteract these threats.Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the sophisticated nature of ransomware gangs and the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding and combating cybercrime. The session mentioned in the episode, "Relationships Matter: Reconstructing the Organizational and Social Structure of a Ransomware Gang," is slated for Wednesday, August 7th at Black Hat, promising to offer more extensive insights into this critical issue.Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!____________________________This Episode’s SponsorsLevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cCoro: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deSquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6AppDome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuv____________________________Follow our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasOn YouTube: 📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllRo9DcHmre_45ha-ru7cZMQBe sure to share and subscribe!____________________________ResourcesRelationships Matter: Reconstructing the Organizational and Social Structure of a Ransomware Gang: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/#relationships-matter-reconstructing-the-organizational-and-social-structure-of-a-ransomware-gang-39725An Argument for Linguistic Expertise in Cyberthreat Analysis: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372244795_An_Argument_for_Linguistic_Expertise_in_Cyberthreat_Analysis_LOLSec_in_Russian_Language_eCrime_LandscapeBuilding and Testing a Network of Social Trust in an Underground Forum: Robust Connections and Overlapping Criminal Domains: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371353386_Building_and_Testing_a_Network_of_Social_Trust_in_an_Underground_Forum_Robust_Connections_and_Overlapping_Criminal_DomainsUsable Security Lab: https://usablesecurity.net/Learn more about Black Hat USA  2024: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/____________________________Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverageTo see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastTo see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-society-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring our event coverage with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplcWant to tell your Brand Story as part of our event coverage?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/evtcovbrf

Guests: Vas Mavroudis, Principal Research Scientist, The Alan Turing InstituteWebsite | https://mavroud.is/At BlackHat | https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/speakers.html#vasilios-mavroudis-34757Jamie Gawith, Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of BathOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-gawith-63560b60/At BlackHat | https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/speakers.html#jamie-gawith-48261____________________________Hosts: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinMarco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli____________________________Episode NotesAs Black Hat Conference 2024 approaches, Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli are gearing up for a conversation about the complexities of deep reinforcement learning and the potential cybersecurity threats posed by backdoors in these systems. They will be joined by Vas Mavroudis from the Alan Turing Institute and Jamie Gawith from the University of Bath, who will be presenting their cutting-edge research at the event.Setting the Stage: The discussion begins with Sean and Marco sharing their excitement about the upcoming conference. They set a professional and engaging tone, seamlessly leading into the introduction of their guests, Jamie and Vas.The Core Discussion: Sean introduces the main focus of their upcoming session, titled "Backdoors in Deep Reinforcement Learning Agents." Expressing curiosity and anticipation, he invites Jamie and Vas to share more about their backgrounds and the significance of their work in this area.Expert Introductions: Jamie Gawith explains his journey from working in power electronics and nuclear fusion to focusing on cybersecurity. His collaboration with Vas arose from a shared interest in using reinforcement learning agents for controlling nuclear fusion reactors. He describes the crucial role these agents play and the potential risks associated with their deployment in critical environments.Vas Mavroudis introduces himself as a principal research scientist at the Alan Turing Institute, leading a team focused on autonomous cyber defense. His work involves developing and securing autonomous agents tasked with defending networks and systems from cyber threats. The conversation highlights the vulnerabilities of these agents to backdoors and the need for robust security measures.Deep Dive into Reinforcement Learning: Vas offers an overview of reinforcement learning, highlighting its differences from supervised and unsupervised learning. He emphasizes the importance of real-world experiences in training these agents to make optimal decisions through trial and error. The conversation also touches on the use of deep neural networks, which enhance the capabilities of reinforcement learning models but also introduce complexities that can be exploited.Security Concerns: The discussion then shifts to the security challenges associated with reinforcement learning models. Vas explains the concept of backdoors in machine learning and the unique challenges they present. Unlike traditional software backdoors, these are hidden within the neural network layers, making detection difficult.Real-World Implications: Jamie discusses the practical implications of these security issues, particularly in high-stakes scenarios like nuclear fusion reactors. He outlines the potential catastrophic consequences of a backdoor-triggered failure, underscoring the importance of securing these models to prevent malicious exploitation.Looking Ahead: Sean and Marco express their anticipation for the upcoming session, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Vas, Jamie, and their teams in tackling these critical issues. They emphasize the significance of this research and its implications for the future of autonomous systems.Conclusion: This pre-event conversation sets the stage for a compelling session at Black Hat Conference 2024. It offers attendees a preview of the insights and discussions they can expect about the intersection of deep reinforcement learning and cybersecurity. The session promises to provide valuable knowledge on protecting advanced technologies from emerging threats.Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!____________________________This Episode’s SponsorsLevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cCoro: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deSquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6AppDome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuv____________________________Follow our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasOn YouTube: 📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllRo9DcHmre_45ha-ru7cZMQBe sure to share and subscribe!____________________________ResourcesDeep Backdoors in Deep Reinforcement Learning Agents: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/index.html#deep-backdoors-in-deep-reinforcement-learning-agents-39550Learn more about Black Hat USA  2024: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/____________________________Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverageTo see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastTo see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-society-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring our event coverage with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplcWant to tell your Brand Story as part of our event coverage?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/evtcovbrf

Guest: Dr. Kostas Papapanagiotou, Advisory Services Director, Census S.A.On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/kpapapan/____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesCybersecurity practices for medical devices are crucial, touching on compliance, patient safety, and the rigorous demands of various sectors such as automotive and financial services. In an insightful conversation between Sean Martin, host of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and Kostas Papapanagiotou, leader of the advisory service division at Census, several key takeaways emerge. Kostas, who has over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity and application security, underscores the complexity of medical devices.No longer confined to standalone units, modern medical devices may encompass hardware components, software, connectivity to hospital networks or cloud services, and more. Thus, they require a comprehensive security approach.Kostas notes that the FDA views these devices holistically, requiring all components to be evaluated for security risks. One of the most significant points highlighted is the concept of shared responsibility. According to Kostas, it is essential for medical device manufacturers to consider how their products integrate with existing hospital networks and what security measures are necessary to protect patient information. This extends to issuing guidelines and documentation for secure network integration, an effort that underscores the necessity of thorough and clear documentation in maintaining cybersecurity standards.Furthermore, Kostas points out that regulations like the FDA’s post-market plan necessitate that manufacturers prepare for the entire lifecycle of a device, including potential vulnerabilities that may arise years after deployment. He shares real-world examples, such as the challenge of outdated Android versions in medical devices, which can no longer receive security updates and thus present vulnerabilities. In addition to compliance, the podcast discusses the shift left security paradigm, which emphasizes integrating security measures early in the software development lifecycle to prevent costly and challenging fixes later.Kostas advocates for proactive threat modeling as a tool to foresee potential risks and implement security controls right from the design phase. This approach aligns with the FDA's emphasis on mitigating patient harm as the ultimate priority.The conversation also touches on how these rigorous requirements from the medical device sector can inform cybersecurity practices in other critical areas like automotive manufacturing. Kostas remarks that the automotive industry is yet to reach the maturity seen in medical device regulations, often grappling with interoperability and supply chain complexities.This podcast episode offers vital insights and actionable advice for cybersecurity professionals and organizations involved with critical, life-impacting technologies. Engaging discussions such as these underline the importance of regulatory compliance, thorough documentation, and proactive security measures in safeguarding both technology and human lives.___________________________SponsorsImperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988LevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/attcybersecurity-3jdk3___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYqITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazineBe sure to share and subscribe!___________________________ResourcesTraceability in cyber security: lessons learned from the medical sector (Session): https://owaspglobalappseclisbon2024.sched.com/event/1VTbW/traceability-in-cyber-security-lessons-learned-from-the-medical-sector___________________________To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Join the On Location Podcast co-hosts, Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli, as they kick off an engaging conversation with Dror Liwer, Co-Founder of Coro, discussing SMB cybersecurity and preparations for Black Hat 2024.Dror emphasizes Coro’s excitement about participating in Black Hat for the second year, where they will be showcasing their offerings at booth 4734. He contrasts Black Hat with other conferences, noting its unique focus on cybersecurity practitioners and those who carry the weight of their organizations' security.Throughout the discussion, Dror tackles the buzzwords and trends in the cybersecurity industry. This year, the buzzword is "platform," and Dror provides insight into what truly constitutes a cybersecurity platform. He distinguishes between various types of platforms, such as those built from multiple vendors, internally developed ones like Cisco and Palo Alto, and Coro's own from-the-ground-up modular platform. He also discusses the advantages of a unified and seamless approach to cybersecurity.The conversation covers the practical benefits of Coro’s platform for service providers and end customers. Dror mentions how Coro simplifies cybersecurity by allowing easy onboarding and flexible licensing. He highlights Coro’s data governance capabilities and modular design, which enable users to scale their security needs up or down efficiently.Dror also teases his upcoming talk at Black Hat, titled “Platformization, Consolidation, and Other Buzzwords Debunked,” promising a comprehensive framework to help organizations evaluate and select the right cybersecurity platforms for their needs.The episode closes with Sean and Marco expressing their enthusiasm for continuing the conversation at Black Hat and encouraging listeners to connect with Coro’s energetic team. They also invite the audience to stay tuned for more updates and insights from the event.Learn more about CORO: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deNote: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Dror Liwer, Co-Founder at Coro [@coro_cyber]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/drorliwer/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from CORO: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/coroView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

In this discussion, Allyn Stott, a Senior Staff Engineer at meoward.co and an expert in both red and blue team cybersecurity, shares insights on the importance of redefining security metrics. He critiques traditional measurement practices and emphasizes aligning metrics with organizational goals for effective decision-making. Stott introduces the SAVR framework, focusing on optimizing detection and response strategies. Listeners learn about integrating threat intelligence and the necessity for tailored metrics to enhance cybersecurity effectiveness.

Guest: Theodore Heiman, CEO, CISO GuruOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedheimanOn Twitter | https://x.com/tedrheiman____________________________Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinView This Show's Sponsors___________________________Episode NotesIn this episode of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin engages with Ted Heiman, CEO of the cybersecurity practice CISO Guru, in an insightful conversation about the complexities and evolving landscape of password management and multi-factor authentication (MFA). Sean Martin introduces the session by highlighting the challenges practitioners and leaders face in building security programs that enable organizations to achieve their objectives securely.The discussion quickly steers towards the main topic - the evolution of passwords, the role of password managers, and the critical implementation of MFA. Ted Heiman shares his extensive experience from over 25 years in the cybersecurity industry, observing that passwords are a relic from a time when networks were isolated and less complex. As organizations have grown and interconnected, the weaknesses of static passwords have become more apparent. Heiman notes a striking statistic: 75 to 80 percent of breaches occur due to compromised static passwords.The conversation examines the history of passwords, starting as simple, memorable phrases and evolving into complex strings with mandatory special characters, numbers, and capitalization. This complexity, while intended to increase security, often leads users to write down passwords or repeat them across multiple platforms, introducing significant security risks. Solutions like password managers arose to mitigate these issues, but as Heiman highlights, they tend to centralize risk, making a single point of failure an attractive target for attackers.The discussion shifts to MFA, which Heiman regards as a substantial improvement over static passwords. He illustrates the concept by comparing it to ATM use, which combines something you have (a bank card) and something you know (a PIN). Applying this to cybersecurity, MFA typically involves an additional step, such as an SMS code or biometric verification, significantly reducing the possibility of unauthorized access.Looking forward, both Heiman and Martin consider the promise of passwordless systems and continuous authentication. These technologies utilize a combination of biometrics and behavioral analysis to constantly verify user identity without the need for repetitive password entries. This approach aligns with the principles of zero-trust architecture, which assumes that no entity, inside or outside the organization, can be inherently trusted. Heiman stresses that transitioning to these advanced authentication methods should be a priority for organizations seeking to enhance their security posture. However, he acknowledges the challenges, especially concerning legacy systems and human behaviors, emphasizing the importance of a phased and managed risk approach.For listeners involved in cybersecurity, Heiman’s insights provide valuable guidance on navigating the intricate dynamics of password management and embracing more secure, advanced authentication mechanisms.___________________________Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube ChannelRedefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYqITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazineBe sure to share and subscribe!___________________________Resources___________________________To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Welcome to another edition of Brand Stories, part of our On Location coverage of Black Hat Conference 2024 in Las Vegas. In this episode, Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli chat with Jeswin Mathai, Chief Architect at SquareX, one of our esteemed sponsors for this year’s coverage. Jeswin brings his in-depth knowledge and experience in cybersecurity to discuss the innovative solutions SquareX is bringing to the table and what to expect at this year’s event.Getting Ready for Black Hat 2024The conversation kicks off with Marco and Sean sharing their excitement about the upcoming Black Hat USA 2024 in Las Vegas. They fondly recall their past experiences and the anticipation that comes with one of the most significant cybersecurity events of the year. Both hosts highlight the significance of the event for ITSP Magazine, marking ten years since its inception at Black Hat.Introducing Jeswin Mathai and SquareXJeswin Mathai introduces himself as the Chief Architect at SquareX. He oversees managing the backend infrastructure and ensuring the product’s efficiency and security, particularly as a browser extension designed to be non-intrusive and highly effective. With six years of experience in the security industry, Jeswin has made significant contributions through his work published at various conferences and the development of open-source tools like AWS Goat and Azure Goat.The Birth of SquareXSean and Marco delve deeper into the origins of SquareX. Jeswin shares the story of how SquareX was founded by Vivek Ramachandran, who previously founded Pentester Academy, a cybersecurity education company. Seeing the persistent issues in consumer security and the inefficacy of existing antivirus solutions, Vivek decided to shift focus to consumer security, particularly the visibility gap in browser-level security.Addressing Security GapsJeswin explains how traditional security solutions, like endpoint security and secure web gateways, often lack visibility at the browser level. Attacks originating from browsers go unnoticed, creating significant vulnerabilities. SquareX aims to fill this gap by providing comprehensive browser security, detecting and mitigating threats in real time without hampering user productivity.Innovative Security SolutionsSquareX started as a consumer-based product and later expanded to enterprise solutions. The core principles are privacy, productivity, and scalability. Jeswin elaborates on how SquareX leverages advanced web technologies like WebAssembly to perform extensive computations directly on the browser, ensuring minimal dependency on cloud resources and optimizing user experience.A Scalable and Privacy-Safe SolutionMarco raises the question of data privacy regulations like GDPR in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Jeswin reassures that SquareX is designed to be highly configurable, allowing administrators to adjust data privacy settings based on regional regulations. This flexibility ensures that user data remains secure and compliant with local laws.Real-World Use CasesTo illustrate SquareX’s capabilities, Jeswin discusses common use cases like phishing attacks and how SquareX protects users. Attackers often exploit legitimate platforms like SharePoint and GitHub to bypass traditional security measures. With SquareX, administrators can enforce policies to block unauthorized credential entry, perform live analysis, and categorize content to prevent phishing scams and other threats.Looking Ahead to Black Hat and DEF CONThe discussion wraps up with a look at what attendees can expect from SquareX at Black Hat and DEF CON. SquareX will have a booth at both events, and Jeswin previews some of the talks on breaking secure web gateways and the dangers of malicious browser extensions. He encourages everyone to visit their booths and attend the talks to gain deeper insights into today’s cybersecurity challenges and solutions.ConclusionIn conclusion, the conversation with Jeswin Mathai offers a comprehensive look at how SquareX is revolutionizing browser security. Their innovative solutions address critical gaps in traditional security measures, ensuring both consumer and enterprise users are protected against sophisticated threats. Join us at Black Hat Conference 2024 to learn more and engage with the experts at SquareX.Learn more about SquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.Guest: Jeswin Mathai, Chief Architect, SquareX [@getsquarex]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeswinmathai/ResourcesLearn more and catch more stories from SquareX: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/squarexView all of our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasAre you interested in telling your story?https://www.itspmagazine.com/telling-your-story

Guest: Jason Healey, Senior Research Scholar, Cyber Conflict Studies, SIPA at Columbia University [@Columbia]On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhealey/At BlackHat: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/speakers.html#jason-healey-31682____________________________Hosts: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinMarco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli____________________________Episode NotesOpening Remarks:Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli set the stage with their signature banter, creating an inviting atmosphere for a deep dive into cybersecurity. Marco introduces a philosophical question about measuring success and improvement in the field, leading seamlessly into their conversation with Jason Healey.Meet the Expert:Sean introduces Jason Healey, a senior research scholar at Columbia University and a former military cybersecurity leader with extensive experience, including roles at the Pentagon and the White House. Jason shares his excitement for Black Hat 2024 and the anniversary celebrations of ITSPmagazine, expressing anticipation for the discussions ahead.The Role of Defense in Cybersecurity:Jason previews his journey from military service to academia, posing the critical question, “Is defense winning?” He provides a historical perspective, noting that cybersecurity challenges have been present for decades. Despite significant investments and efforts, attackers often seem to maintain an edge. This preview sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how to measure success in defense, which he plans to address in detail at the conference.Shifting the Balance:Jason highlights the need for a comprehensive framework to evaluate the effectiveness of defense mechanisms. He introduces the concept of metrics like “mean time to detect,” suggesting that these can help gauge progress over time. Jason plans to discuss the importance of understanding system-wide dynamics at Black Hat, emphasizing that cybersecurity is about continual improvement rather than quick fixes.Economic Costs and Broader Impacts:Sean shifts the discussion to the economic aspects of cybersecurity, a topic Jason is set to explore further at the event. Jason notes that while financial implications are substantial, other indicators, such as the frequency of states declaring emergencies due to cyber incidents, provide a broader view of the impact. He underscores the need to address disparities in cybersecurity protection, pointing out that not everyone has access to the same level of defense capabilities.Community and Collaboration:Marco and Jason discuss the importance of community involvement in improving cybersecurity. Jason stresses the value of shared metrics and continuous data analysis, calling for collective efforts to build a robust defense against evolving threats. This theme of collaboration will be a key focus in his upcoming session.Looking Forward:As they wrap up, Sean and Marco express their anticipation for Jason’s session at Black Hat 2024. They encourage the audience to join in, engage with the topics discussed, and contribute to the ongoing conversation on cybersecurity.Conclusion:Sean concludes by thanking Jason for his insights and highlighting the importance of the upcoming Black Hat sessions. He invites listeners to follow ITSPmagazine's coverage for more expert discussions and insights into the field of cybersecurity.For more insightful sessions and expert talks on cybersecurity, make sure to follow ITSPmagazine's Black Hat coverage. Stay safe and stay informed!Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!____________________________This Episode’s SponsorsLevelBlue: https://itspm.ag/levelblue266f6cCoro: https://itspm.ag/coronet-30deSquareX: https://itspm.ag/sqrx-l91Britive: https://itspm.ag/britive-3fa6AppDome: https://itspm.ag/appdome-neuv____________________________Follow our Black Hat USA  2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/black-hat-usa-2024-hacker-summer-camp-2024-event-coverage-in-las-vegasOn YouTube: 📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllRo9DcHmre_45ha-ru7cZMQBe sure to share and subscribe!____________________________ResourcesIs Defense Winning? (Session): https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/briefings/schedule/index.html#is-defense-winning-40663Learn more about Black Hat USA  2024: https://www.blackhat.com/us-24/____________________________Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverageTo see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcastTo see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-society-podcastAre you interested in sponsoring our event coverage with an ad placement in the podcast?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplcWant to tell your Brand Story as part of our event coverage?Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/evtcovbrf