CISO Tradecraft®

This episode of CISO Tradecraft features a conversation between host G. Mark Hardy and Chris Rothe, co-founder of Red Canary, focusing on cloud security, managed detection and response (MDR) services, and the evolution of cybersecurity practices. They discuss the genesis of Red Canary, the significance of their company name, and the distinctions between Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and MDRs. The conversation also covers the importance of cloud security, the challenges of securing serverless and containerized environments, and leveraging open-source projects like Atomic Red Team for cybersecurity. They conclude with insights on the cybersecurity labor market, the value of threat detection reports, and the future of cloud security. Red Canary: https://redcanary.com/ Chris Rothe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crothe/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XN4Bp7Sa2geGCVaHuqMRmJckms4q7_L6  

This episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosted by G Mark Hardy, features special guest Debbie Gordon. The discussion focuses on the critical role of Security Operations Centers (SOCs) in an organization's cybersecurity efforts, emphasizing the importance of personnel, skill development, and maintaining a high-performing team. It covers the essential aspects of building and managing a successful SOC, from hiring and retaining skilled incident responders to measuring their performance and productivity. The conversation also explores the benefits of simulation-based training with CloudRange Cyber, highlighting how such training can improve job satisfaction, reduce incident response times, and help organizations meet regulatory requirements. Through this in-depth discussion, listeners gain insights into best practices for enhancing their organization's cybersecurity posture and developing key skill sets to defend against evolving cyber threats. Cloud Range Cyber: https://www.cloudrangecyber.com/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18ILhpOgHIFokMrkDAYaIEHK-f9hoy63u  Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:04 The Indispensable Role of Security Operations Centers (SOCs) 02:07 Building an Effective SOC: Starting with People 03:04 Measuring Productivity and Performance in Your SOC 05:36 The Importance of Continuous Training and Simulation in Cybersecurity 09:00 Debbie Gordon on the Evolution of Cyber Training 11:54 Developing Cybersecurity Talent: The Importance of Simulation Training 14:46 The Critical Role of People in Cybersecurity 21:57 The Impact of Regulations on Cybersecurity Practices 24:36 The Importance of Proactive Cybersecurity Training 26:26 Redefining Cybersecurity Roles and Training Approaches 30:08 Leveraging Cyber Ranges for Real-World Cybersecurity Training 36:03 Evaluating and Enhancing Cybersecurity Skills and Team Dynamics 37:49 Maximizing Cybersecurity Training ROI and Employee Engagement 41:40 Exploring CloudRange Cyber's Training Solutions 43:28 Conclusion: The Future of Cybersecurity Training

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses the findings of the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR), covering over 10,000 breaches. Beginning with a brief history of the DBIR's inception in 2008, Hardy highlights the evolution of cyber threats, such as the significance of patching vulnerabilities and the predominance of hacking and malware. The report identifies the top methods bad actors use for exploiting companies, including attacking VPNs, desktop sharing software, web applications, conducting phishing, and stealing credentials, emphasizing the growing sophistication of attacks facilitated by technology like ChatGPT for phishing and deepfake tech for social engineering. The episode touches on various cybersecurity measures, the omnipresence of multi-factor authentication (MFA) as a necessity rather than a best practice, and the surge in denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Hardy also discusses generative AI's role in enhancing social engineering attacks and the potential impact of deepfake content on elections and corporate reputations. Listeners are encouraged to download the DBIR for a deeper dive into its findings. Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HYHukTHr6uL6khGncR_YUJVOhikedjSE  Chapters 00:00 Welcome to CISO Tradecraft 00:35 Celebrating Milestones and Offering Services 01:39 Diving into the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report 04:22 Top Attack Methods: VPNs and Desktop Sharing Software Vulnerabilities 09:24 The Rise of Phishing and Credential Theft 19:43 Advanced Threats: Deepfakes and Generative AI 23:23 Closing Thoughts and Recommendations

In this joint episode of the Security Break podcast and CISO Tradecraft podcast, hosts from both platforms come together to discuss a variety of current cybersecurity topics. They delve into the challenge of filtering relevant information in the cybersecurity sphere, elaborate on different interpretations of the same news based on the reader's background, and share a detailed analysis on specific cybersecurity news stories. The discussion covers topics such as the implications of data sharing without user consent by major wireless providers and the fines imposed by the FCC, the significance of increasing bug bounty payouts by tech companies like Google, and a comprehensive look at how edge devices are exploited by hackers to create botnets for various cyberattacks. The conversation addresses the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape, including how different actors with varied objectives can simultaneously compromise the same devices, making it difficult to attribute attacks and protect networks effectively. Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GtFIWtDf_DSIIgs_7CizcnAHGnFTTrs5 Chapters 00:00 Welcome to a Special Joint Episode: Security Break & CISO Tradecraft 01:27 The Challenge of Filtering Cybersecurity Information 04:23 Exploring the FCC's Fine on Wireless Providers for Privacy Breaches 06:41 The Complex Landscape of Data Privacy Regulations 16:00 The Economics of Data Breaches and Regulatory Fines 24:23 Bug Bounties and the Value of Security Research 33:21 Exploring the Economics of Cybersecurity 33:50 The Lucrative World of Bug Bounties 34:38 The Impact of Security Vulnerabilities on Businesses 35:50 Navigating the Complex Landscape of Cybersecurity 36:22 The Ethical Dilemma of Selling Exploit Information 37:32 Understanding the Market Dynamics of Cybersecurity 38:00 Focusing on Android Application Security 38:34 The Importance of Targeting in Cybersecurity Efforts 42:33 Exploring the Threat Landscape of Edge Devices 46:37 The Challenge of Securing Outdated Technology 49:28 The Role of Cybersecurity in Modern Warfare 53:15 Strategies for Enhancing Cybersecurity Defenses 01:05:25 Concluding Thoughts on Cybersecurity Challenges

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy discusses seven critical issues facing the cybersecurity industry, offering a detailed analysis of each problem along with counterarguments. The concerns range from the lack of a unified cybersecurity license, the inefficiency and resource waste caused by auditors, to the need for a federal data privacy law. Hardy emphasizes the importance of evaluating policies, prioritizing effective controls, and examining current industry practices. He challenges the audience to think about solutions and encourages sharing opinions and additional concerns, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and improvement within the field of cybersecurity. Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1H_kTbCG8n5f_d1ZHNr1QxsXf82xb08cG Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:28 Introducing the Seven Broken Things in Cybersecurity 02:00 1. The Lack of a Unified Cybersecurity License 06:53 2. The Problem with Cybersecurity Auditors 10:09 3. The Issue with Treating All Controls as High Priority 14:12 4. The Obsession with New Cybersecurity Tools 19:23 5. Misplaced Accountability in Cybersecurity 22:38 6. Rethinking Degree Requirements for Cybersecurity Jobs 26:49 7. The Need for Federal Data Privacy Laws 30:53 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

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  

This episode of CISO Tradecraft features a comprehensive discussion between host G Mark Hardy and guest Rafeeq Rehman, centered around the evolving role of CISOs, the impact of Generative AI, and strategies for effective cybersecurity leadership. Rafeeq shares insights on the CISO Mind Map, a tool for understanding the breadth of responsibilities in cybersecurity leadership, and discusses various focal areas for CISOs in 2024-2025, including the cautious adoption of Gen AI, tool consolidation, cyber resilience, branding for security teams, and maximizing the business value of security controls. The episode also addresses the importance of understanding and adapting to technological advancements, advocating for cybersecurity as a business-enabling function, and the significance of lifelong learning in information security. Cybersecurity Learning Saturday: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cybersecurity-learning-saturday/ 2024 CISO Mindmap: https://rafeeqrehman.com/2024/03/31/ciso-mindmap-2024-what-do-infosec-professionals-really-do/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1axXQJoAdJI26ySKVfROI9rflvSe9Yz50 Chapters  00:00 Introduction 00:57 Rafeeq Rehman: Beyond the CISO MindMap 04:17 The Evolution of the CISO MindMap 08:30 AI and the Future of Cybersecurity Leadership 11:47 Embracing Change: The Role of AI in Cybersecurity 14:16 Generative AI: Hype, Reality, and Strategic Advice for CISOs 22:32 Navigating the Future Job Market with AI 22:53 Framing AI for Specific Roles 24:12 Harnessing Creativity with Generative AI 25:14 Consolidating Security Tools for Efficiency 28:31 Evaluating Security Tools: A Deep Dive 32:21 Cyber Resilience: Beyond Incident Response 35:51 Building a Business-Focused Security Strategy 39:39 Maximizing Business Value Through Security 43:15 Looking Ahead: Focus Areas for the Future 43:53 Concluding Thoughts and Future Predictions

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