CISO Tradecraft®

Delve into the seven critical challenges plaguing cybersecurity today. Explore the absence of a unified licensing system and the inefficiency of current auditors. Learn why prioritizing all controls high can lead to mismanaged resources. The obsession with new tools and misplaced accountability are also scrutinized. Rethink traditional degree requirements in favor of practical experience, and uncover the complexities of federal data privacy laws. Engage with calls for a standardized approach to cybersecurity that could revolutionize the industry.

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosts G Mark Hardy and guests Jeff Majka and Andrew Dutton discuss the vital role of competitive threat intelligence in cybersecurity. They explore how Security Bulldog's AI-powered platform helps enterprise cybersecurity teams efficiently remediate vulnerabilities by processing vast quantities of data, thereby saving time and enhancing productivity. The conversation covers the importance of diverse threat intelligence sources, including open-source intelligence and insider threat awareness, and the strategic value of AI in analyzing and prioritizing data to manage cybersecurity risks effectively. The discussion also touches on the challenges and potentials of AI in cybersecurity, including the risks of data poisoning and the ongoing battle between offensive and defensive cyber operations. The Security Bulldog: https://securitybulldog.com/contact/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D6yVMAxv16XWtRXalI5g-ZdepEMYmQCe Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Introducing the Experts: Insights from the Field 02:43 Unpacking Cybersecurity Intelligence: Definitions and Importance 04:02 Exploring Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI): Applications and Strategies 13:11 The Role of AI in Enhancing Cybersecurity Efforts 16:43 Navigating the Complex Landscape of Cyber Threats and Defenses 19:07 The Future of AI in Cybersecurity: A Balancing Act 22:33 Exploring AI's Role in Cybersecurity 22:50 The Practical Application of AI in Cybersecurity 25:08 Challenges and Trust Issues with AI in Cybersecurity 26:52 Managing AI's Risks and Ensuring Reliability 31:00 The Evolution and Impact of AI Tools in Cyber Threat Intelligence 34:45 Choosing the Right AI Solution for Cybersecurity Needs 37:27 The Business Case for AI in Cybersecurity 41:22 Final Thoughts and the Future of AI in Cybersecurity  

Cybersecurity expert, Rafeeq Rehman, discusses the CISO Mind Map, Gen AI, tool consolidation, cyber resilience, and business value of security controls. Insights on adapting to technological advancements, advocating for cybersecurity as a business-enabling function, and lifelong learning in information security.

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy welcomes Alex Dorr to discuss Reality-Based Leadership and its impact on reducing workplace drama and enhancing productivity. Alex shares his journey from professional basketball to becoming an evangelist of reality-based leadership, revealing how this approach helped him personally and professionally. They delve into the concepts of SBAR (Situation, Background, Analysis, Recommendation) for effective communication, toggling between low self and high self to manage personal reactions, and practical tools like 'thinking inside the box' to confront and solve workplace issues within given constraints. The conversation underscores the importance of focusing on actionable strategies over arguing with the drama and reality of workplace dynamics, aiming to foster a drama-free, engaged, and productive work environment. Alex Dorr's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmdorr/ Reality-Based Leadership Website: https://realitybasedleadership.com/  Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wge0pFLxE4MkS6neVp68bdz8h9mHrwje    Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:57 Alex Dorr's Journey from Basketball to Leadership Expert 03:54 The Core Principles of Reality-Based Leadership 06:20 Understanding the Human Condition in the Workplace 09:19 Tackling Workplace Drama with Reality-Based Leadership 11:58 The Power of Positive Energy Management 17:42 Navigating Unpreferred Realities and Finding Impact 19:44 Reality-Based Leadership in Action: Techniques and Outcomes 23:12 The Importance of Skill Development Over Perfecting Reality 24:32 The Challenge of Employee Engagement 25:49 Secrets to Embracing Reality and Taking Action 25:58 Leadership vs. Management: Navigating Workplace Dynamics 28:28 Empowering Employees with the SBAR Framework 34:04 Addressing Venting and Negative Behaviors 36:17 Developing People: The Core of Leadership 37:50 Choosing Happiness Over Being Right 40:15 Integrating New Leadership Models and Making Them Stick 46:24 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

This episode of CISO Tradecraft dives deep into the New York Department of Financial Services Cybersecurity Regulation, known as Part 500. Hosted by G Mark Hardy, the podcast outlines the significance of this regulation for financial services companies and beyond. Hardy emphasizes that Part 500 serves as a high-level framework applicable not just in New York or the financial sector but across various industries globally due to its comprehensive cybersecurity requirements. The discussion includes an overview of the regulation's history, amendments to enhance governance and incident response, and a detailed analysis of key sections such as multi-factor authentication, audit trails, access privilege management, and incident response. Additionally, the need for written policies, designating a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and ensuring adequate resources for implementing a cybersecurity program are highlighted. The podcast also offers guidance on how to approach certain regulatory mandates, emphasizing the importance of teamwork between CISOs, legal teams, and executive management to comply with and benefit from the regulation's requirements. AuditScripts: https://www.auditscripts.com/free-resources/critical-security-controls/ NYDFS: https://www.dfs.ny.gov/industry_guidance/cybersecurity  Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CWrhNjHXG1rePtOQT-iHyhed2jfBaZud Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Why Part 500 Matters Beyond New York 01:48 The Evolution of Financial Cybersecurity Regulations 03:20 Understanding Part 500: Definitions and Amendments 08:44 The Importance of Multi-Factor Authentication 14:33 Navigating the Complexities of Cybersecurity Regulations 20:23 The Critical Role of Asset Management and Access Privileges 25:37 The Essentials of Application Security and Risk Assessment 31:11 Incident Response and Business Continuity Management 32:36 Concluding Thoughts on NYDFS Cybersecurity Regulation

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy delves into the crucial topic of the OWASP Top 10 Web Application Security Risks, offering insights on how attackers exploit vulnerabilities and practical advice on securing web applications. He introduces OWASP and its significant contributions to software security, then progresses to explain each of the OWASP Top 10 risks in detail, such as broken access control, injection flaws, and security misconfigurations. Through examples and recommendations, listeners are equipped with the knowledge to better protect their web applications and ultimately improve their cybersecurity posture. OWASP Cheat Sheets: https://cheatsheetseries.owasp.org/ OWASP Top 10: https://owasp.org/www-project-top-ten/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17Tzyd6i6qRqNfMJ8OOEOOGpGGW0S8w32 Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:11 Introducing OWASP: A Pillar in Cybersecurity 02:28 The Evolution of Web Vulnerabilities 05:01 Exploring Web Application Security Risks 07:46 Diving Deep into OWASP Top 10 Risks 09:28 1) Broken Access Control 14:09 2) Cryptographic Failures 18:40 3) Injection Attacks 23:57 4) Insecure Design 25:15 5) Security Misconfiguration 29:27 6) Vulnerable and Outdated Software Components 32:31 7) Identification and Authentication Failures 36:49 8) Software and Data Integrity Failures 38:46 9) Security Logging and Monitoring Practices 40:32 10) Server Side Request Forgery (SSRF) 42:15 Recap and Conclusion: Mastering Web Application Security

In this episode, the host discusses the critical topic of vulnerability management for cybersecurity leaders, emphasizing the importance of a strategic program to prevent exploits. He covers tools like ExploitDB and Metasploit, advises on scanning tools, prioritization, and timely patching. The discussion also includes optimizing the patching process, accurate metrics, gamification, and executive buy-in to enhance security culture.

Explore the significance of tabletop exercises in bolstering cybersecurity preparedness. These informal training sessions simulate real-world scenarios, allowing teams to refine their incident response plans through collaborative discussions. Discover the cost-effective benefits and compliance aspects, particularly related to SOC 2. Learn how to effectively prepare and execute these exercises by setting clear objectives, choosing the right participants, and conducting valuable follow-ups. Ultimately, it’s all about enhancing your organization’s readiness for potential cyber incidents.

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy converses with Cassie Crossley, author of the book on software supply chain security. Hardy explores the importance of cybersecurity, the structure of software supply chains, and the potential risks they pose. Crossley shares her expert insights on different software source codes and the intricacies of secure development life cycle. She highlights the significance of Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) and the challenges in maintaining the integrity of software products. The discussion also covers the concept of counterfeits in the software world, stressing the need for continuous monitoring and a holistic approach towards cybersecurity. Link to the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Software-Supply-Chain-Security-End/dp/1098133706?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=-0-0-20&linkCode=ur2 Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SJS2VzyMS-xLF0vlGIgrnn5cOP8feCV9 Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:44 Discussion on Software Supply Chain Security 02:33 Insights into Secure Development Life Cycle 03:20 Understanding the Importance of Supplier Landscape 05:09 The Role of Security in Software Supply Chain 07:29 The Impact of Vulnerabilities in Software Supply Chain 09:06 The Importance of Secure Software Development Life Cycle 14:13 The Role of Frameworks and Standards in Software Supply Chain Security 17:39 Understanding the Importance of Business Continuity Plan 20:53 The Importance of Security in Agile Development 24:01 Understanding OWASP and Secure Coding 24:20 The Importance of API Security 24:50 The Concept of Shift Left in Software Development 25:20 The Role of Culture in Software Development 25:52 Exploring Different Source Code Types 26:19 The Rise of Low Code, No Code Platforms 28:53 The Potential Risks of Generative AI Source Code 34:24 Understanding Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) 41:07 The Challenge of Spotting Counterfeit Software 41:36 The Importance of Integrity Checks in Software Development 45:45 Closing Thoughts and the Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, the host, G Mark Hardy, delves into the concepts of responsibility, accountability, and authority. These are considered critical domains in any leadership position but are also specifically applicable in the field of cybersecurity. The host emphasizes the need for a perfect balance between these areas to avoid putting one in a scapegoat position, which is often common for CISOs. Drawing on his military and cybersecurity experiences, he provides insights into how responsibility, accountability, and authority can be perfectly aligned for the efficient execution of duties. He also addresses how these concepts intertwine with various forms of power - positional, coercive, expert, informational, reward, referent, and connection. The host further empathizes with CISOs often put in tricky situations where they are held accountable but lack the authority or resources to execute their roles effectively and provides suggestions for culture change within organizations to overcome these challenges. Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S8JIRztM6iaZonGv0qhtWY4vDyBfGhs-/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:22 Understanding Responsibility, Accountability, and Authority 01:20 The Role of Leadership in Cybersecurity 02:47 Exploring the Concepts of Responsibility, Authority, and Accountability 03:08 Applying Responsibility, Authority, and Accountability to the CISO Role 04:20 The Interplay of Responsibility, Authority, and Accountability 11:57 Understanding Power and Its Forms 12:43 The Impact of Power on Leadership and Influence 24:04 The Role of Connection Power in Today's Digital Age 24:40 Understanding Different Sources of Power 25:13 The Power of Networking and Connections 26:49 The Challenges of Being a CISO 29:19 Understanding the Value of Your Role 33:56 The Importance of Expert Power 37:46 The Consequences of Ignoring Maintenance 43:40 Aligning Responsibility, Accountability, and Authority 44:39 The Importance of Legal Protections for CISOs 45:30 Wrapping Up: Balancing Responsibility, Authority, and Accountability