Be Fearless Podcast by SquareX

In this International Women's Day special episode, Evelyn Lam, CISO of Trust Wallet, shares her journey from traditional banking at Morgan Stanley to the cutting edge of Web3 security. She breaks down the fundamental differences between Web2 and Web3, explaining why security is even more critical in a decentralized environment where users control their own assets without centralized oversight. Evelyn discusses the Bybit hack, the transformative role of AI in blockchain security, and offers practical advice for staying safe in the crypto world. She also shares insights on how the unique meritocracy of Web3 can create opportunities for women in cybersecurity.0:00 An overview of Web3 and Eve’s transition to crypto security7:12 Trust Wallet’s approach to security9:42 Industry lessons from the Bybit hack14:14 How AI is being leveraged for Web3 security16:49 Critical security threats in Web321:24 Balancing security with user experience23:51 How users can protect themselves25:56 How Eve’s IAM experience from traditional banking applies to Web328:44 Eve’s mentorship work in cybersecurity33:00 Closing thoughts and using AI the right way🔔 Follow Eve and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

Ever wondered what it really takes to lead security at a crypto company? In this episode, we sit down with Pasi Koistinen, CISO at Coinhako, who's spent more than two decades in the cybersecurity trenches. Pasi gets real about why being technically brilliant isn't enough anymore - you've got to speak the language of business to succeed as a CISO.He also shares insights on browser security blind spots, why crypto companies face unique threats, and what he looks for when hiring security talent. If you're struggling to communicate security risks to executives or trying to figure out your next career move in security, Pasi's practical advice might be exactly what you need.0:00 Introduction and being a business-minded security leader7:22 Prioritizing as a CISO10:05 The story behind Pasi’s book — "Smiling Security"15:47 Learning from security incidents in crypto20:31 Web3 security and protecting your funds26:42 Browser security and emerging out-of-band attacks38:31 Bybit hack and other supply chain attacks41:12 Closing: Advice for aspiring professionals and CISOs🔔 Follow Pasi and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pasikoistinen/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

This special International Women's Day episode features Elcin Biren, security leader, Founder and CEO of SwissCyberSmart. With nearly two decades of cybersecurity experience spanning roles from ethical hacker to CISO, Elcin shares her journey and mission to protect families online.Elcin discusses her groundbreaking work with the world's first cybersecurity parents’ bootcamp, her perspective on browser-based attacks, and how she's applying her knowledge of neuroscience to combat social engineering. She also addresses the challenges women face in cybersecurity and offers practical advice for creating a more diverse and effective industry.0:00 Introduction to Elcin and her cybersecurity journey6:31 Founding Swiss CyberSmart: CSO services and cybersecurity e-learning9:52 Creating the world's first cybersecurity parents bootcamp14:19 Being recognized as a 40 under 40 leader and challenges for women in the industry16:56 What needs to change in cybersecurity21:32 Evolution of browser-based attacks23:42 Neuroscience and the psychology of social engineering attacks27:24 Best practices for securing AI systems and mitigating risks30:05 Managing cybersecurity crisis situations and the importance of cyber resilience33:02 Elcin’s advice to her younger self34:32 Closing thoughts: three essential leadership traits for cybersecurity leaders🔔 Follow Elcin and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elcinbirenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

Ever wondered what it takes to reach the top tier of cybersecurity leadership? In this candid conversation, Darren Argyle shares his remarkable path from being a bar manager in the UK to becoming a recognized global CISO and cybersecurity educator. You’ll learn Darren’s 5 principles for reaching a $1M cybersecurity salary, why browser security has become a critical concern for enterprises, and why taking bold risks—like Darren's move from the UK to Australia—can transform both your life.0:00 Darren's unique career journey from bar owner to cybersecurity8:18 Five principles to reach a $1M cybersecurity salary14:55 Authenticity and community in building a personal brand21:11 Why mentorship is critical for career growth in cybersecurity25:59 On navigating regulatory demands29:39 Browser security challenges in financial services36:39 The AI paradox in cybersecurity40:50 Darren’s defining career moment: making the risky move to Australia🔔 Follow Darren and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenargyle/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

“You don't have to wait for permission. You don't have to wait for someone to see you, recognize you or whatever. I firmly believe that the world is your oyster.”Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation with Jane Frankland MBE, a globally recognized cybersecurity leader and author of "INSecurity." In this episode of the Be Fearless Podcast, you’ll hear about Jane’s journey from textile design to cybersecurity, and learn about the importance of diversity in strengthening enterprise security. Jane also shares invaluable insights on current threats, including browser-based attacks, identity security, and the evolving landscape of enterprise cybersecurity.0:00 Jane’s unconventional journey from textile design to cybersecurity5:42 Why cybersecurity isn't boring7:04 On Jane’s work as a cybersecurity influencer14:42 INSecurity: Jane’s book on why companies need to attract and retain women18:17 “Men are the problem, and the answer as well”22:31 Career advice for women entering the field30:02 Predictions for 2025: Insider threats and shadow AI35:47 Browser security and modern attack vectors43:20 Closing thoughts and Jane's greatest achievement🔔 Follow Jane and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/janefrankland/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

As the founder of Software Analyst Cyber Research (SACR), Francis Odum has built a name for himself in cybersecurity research, cutting through the noise with in-depth analyses that resonate across the industry. In this episode with Aleksandra, he breaks down what makes security research impactful, why browser security is becoming an urgent priority for enterprises, and how AI is reshaping security policies and challenges CISOs are facing. 0:00 How Francis got started in cybersecurity and founding SACR5:13 Francis on his research going viral10:25 How AI can help (and harm enterprises)12:46 Mitigating threats with browser-native security13:54 How heads of security can protect their data19:15 How browser-native security can complement SASE/SSE solutions21:52 CISO’s pain points and problems that security vendors can solve27:16 Closing thoughts: the importance of being curious and loving what you do🔔 Follow Francis and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-odum-0a8673100/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0

In this engaging discussion, John Carse, a seasoned CISO and cybersecurity expert, shares his journey from the U.S. Navy to leading security initiatives across industries. He highlights the rising threats in the browser landscape and the risks posed by shadow IT in today's workplaces. John delves into the necessity of aligning security practices with business goals, as well as the importance of educating users on online safety. His insights reflect the evolving nature of cyber threats and the crucial role of innovative security measures.

Join Jeremiah Grossman, founder of WhiteHat Security and venture capitalist, as he shares his thrilling journey from hacker to cybersecurity entrepreneur. He recounts breaking into Yahoo Mail, and discusses founding WhiteHat Security, highlighting the importance of a common AppSec language. Jeremiah examines how cybersecurity has evolved into a professional industry, offers advice for budding entrepreneurs on problem-solving, and tackles browser security's challenges in the advertising landscape. He also shares insights on transitioning to venture capital, making it a must-listen for future innovators.

Anand Thangaraju, Field CISO at ePlus Inc., offers insightful perspectives from his journey in cybersecurity. He explores the multifaceted role of a CISO, emphasizing the balance between business acumen and technical expertise. Anand discusses the rising threat landscape, focusing on browser-based vulnerabilities and AI's role in defense. He shares advice on securing board approval for cybersecurity investments and stresses the importance of mentorship for aspiring leaders. His closing thoughts encourage a continuous quest for knowledge and growth in the ever-evolving field.

In this episode, Andre Shori, CISO at Schneider Electric, shares his thoughts about building security culture, incidence response, as well as the evolving role of technology, including AI, in defending against sophisticated cyber threats. Hosted by Aleksandra from the SquareX founder’s office, this episode offers a glimpse into the thought process behind a CISO whose duty is to safeguard the enterprise and stakeholders. 0:00 Introduction and Andre’s route to being a cybersecurity leader6:40 Cultivating security culture with a risk-informed approach (as opposed to compliance for its own sake)18:23 How to stay ahead of attackers24:05 Communicating a breach to stakeholders and the benefits of sharing intelligence34:30 Andre’s thoughts on securing the browser and the implications of AI41:00 Approaching data leakage from a data management perspective44:55 On insider threats: trust + technological backstop47:44 Andre’s thoughts on malicious extensions, “free services” and how mistakes improve security culture52:50 Making security culture part of the company DNA55:53 Three pieces of advice for aspiring CISOs, closing thoughts🔔 Follow Andre and Aleksandra on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreshori/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-melnikova-1012/🔥 Powered by SquareXDeployed as a lightweight extension, SquareX turns any browser, on any device, into a secure enterprise browser. Find out more about SquareX at https://hubs.la/Q03rPcbf0