CISO Tradecraft®

#205 - Wisdom from the 1st Cyber Colonel

Join G. Mark Hardy on this exciting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he interviews J.C. Vega, the first cyber colonel in the United States Army. Vega shares his invaluable insights on leadership, team building, and success strategies that can transform your cybersecurity career. Plus, learn about CruiseCon 2025, Wee Dram, and how you can take your leadership skills to the next level. Don't miss out on this episode packed with wisdom, actionable advice, and some fun anecdotes. Subscribe, comment, and share with your peers!
Big Thanks to our Sponsor CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
 
JC Vega - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcvega-cyber-colonel/ 
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ExuX-WVO4_qqLoIZDuT0QS2VAvN2resW
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
01:15 Meet J.C. Vega: The First Cyber Colonel
01:55 The Wee Dram Community
03:39 Building a Trusted Cybersecurity Community
09:12 Leadership Principles from Military to Civilian Life
12:31 Building and Leading Effective Teams
24:17 The Peter Principle and Career Progression
24:49 Creating a Shared Understanding in Cybersecurity
26:43 Commander's Intent: Defining Success
29:29 Empowering Teams and Accepting Prudent Risk
36:19 Rules to Live By: The Vega's Top Three
44:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell

#204 - Shadows and Zombies in the Data Center

In this special Halloween episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the lurking dangers of Shadow IT and Zombie IT within organizations. Learn about the origins, risks, and impacts of these hidden threats, and discover proactive measures that CISOs can implement to safeguard their IT ecosystems. Strategies discussed include rigorous asset management, automation, and comprehensive compliance reviews. Tune in for insights to foster a secure, compliant, and efficient IT environment, and don't miss out on an exclusive opportunity to join a cybersecurity conference aboard a luxury cruise.
 
Big Thanks to our Sponsor
CruiseCon - https://cruisecon.com/
CruiseCon Discount Code: CISOTRADECRAFT10
 
 
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lh-TQhaSOIA2rITaXgTaqugl7FRGevnn
 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Shadow IT and Zombie IT
02:14 Defining Shadow IT
04:58 Risks of Shadow IT
07:29 Introduction to Zombie IT
09:35 Risks of Zombie IT
11:25 Shadows vs Zombies
11:25 Comparing Shadow IT and Zombie IT
19:11 Lifecycle Management Strategies
19:56 Summarizing the Threats and Solutions
22:32 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

#203 - Be SOCcessful with the SOC-CMM

Unlocking SOC Excellence: Master the SOC Capability Maturity Model Join host G Mark Hardy in this compelling episode of CISO Tradecraft as he explores the revolutionary SOC Capability Maturity Model (SOC CMM) authored by Rob van Os. This episode is a must-watch for CISOs, aspiring CISOs, and cybersecurity professionals aiming to optimize their Security Operations Center (SOC). Learn how to measure, evaluate, and enhance your SOC's maturity across key domains including Business, People, Process, Technology, and Services. Gain insights into leveraging radar charts for visualizing SOC capabilities and hear case studies such as a mid-sized financial company’s remarkable improvements. Discover why understanding your SOC's strengths and weaknesses and conducting risk-based improvement planning are crucial. Don't miss out—elevate your cyber resilience today, subscribe, and share with your network to set your SOC on the path to excellence!
References:
SOC-CMM - https://www.soc-cmm.com/products/soc-cmm/
Robert van Os - https://www.linkedin.com/in/socadvisor/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Fk6_t9FMyYXDF-7EfgpX_ZjLc0iPAgfN
Chapters
00:12 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft and SOCs
01:20 Understanding SOC CMM: A Game-Changing Tool
02:29 Evaluating SOC Maturity and Capability
06:04 Benefits and Implementation of SOC CMM
07:56 Understanding SOC Assessments
08:55 Deep Dive into SOC CMM Domains
12:42 Benefits and Flexibility of SOC CMM
14:40 Real-World Application and Conclusion

#202 - Cybersecurity Crisis: Are We Failing the Next Generation?

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the challenges and misconceptions facing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The discussion covers the myth of a talent shortage, the shortcomings of current educational and certification programs, and the significance of aligning curricula with real-world needs. Hardy emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, developing soft skills, and fostering continuous learning. The episode also highlights strategies for retaining talent, promoting internal training, and creating leadership opportunities to cultivate a skilled and satisfied cybersecurity workforce.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12fI2efHXuHR4dS3cu7P0UIBCtjBdgREI
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Cybersecurity Talent Crisis
00:40 Debunking the Talent Shortage Myth
02:23 The Real Talent Gap: Mid-Career Professionals
03:04 Outsourcing and Its Impact on Entry-Level Jobs
08:29 Challenges in Cybersecurity Education
16:13 The Importance of Practical Skills Over Theory
23:52 The Importance of Writing Skills
25:10 Continuous Learning and Self-Investment
26:07 Performance and Career Progression
28:40 Mentorship and Onboarding
29:51 Training and Development Challenges
32:32 Retention Strategies
33:44 Engaging Junior Employees
39:07 Technology and Innovation
40:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#201 - Avoiding Hurricanes in the Cloud

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosted by G Mark Hardy, you'll learn about four crucial tools in cloud security: CNAPP, CASB, CSPM, and CWPP. These tools serve various functions like protecting cloud-native applications, managing access security, maintaining cloud posture, and securing cloud workloads. The discussion covers their roles, benefits, key success metrics, and best practices for CISOs. As the cloud security landscape evolves, understanding and integrating these tools is vital for keeping your organization safe against cyber threats.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Mx9qr30RuWrDUw1TLNkUDQ8xo4xvQdP_
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Cloud Security Tools
02:24 Understanding CNAPP: The Comprehensive Cyber Defense
08:13 Exploring CASB: The Cloud Access Gatekeeper
11:12 Diving into CSPM: Ensuring Cloud Compliance
13:40 CWPP: Protecting Cloud Workloads
15:08 Best Practices for Cloud Security
15:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#200 - Copywriting AI (with Mark Rasch)

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosts G Mark Hardy and Mark Rasch discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and the law. Recorded at the COSAC computer conference in Dublin, this episode covers the legal implications of AI, copyright issues, AI-generated content, privacy concerns, and ethical considerations. They explore the nuances between directed and undirected AI, the importance of training data, and the potential risks and liabilities associated with AI-driven systems. Tune in for a deep dive into how AI is reshaping cybersecurity and legal landscapes.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s_eDwz-FPuyxYZRJaOknWi2Ozjqmodrl
Chapters
00:00 Introductions
01:13 Diving into Artificial Intelligence
04:04 Directed vs. Undirected AI
11:02 Legal and Ethical Issues of AI
23:47 AI and Copyright: Who Owns the Creation?
26:59 The Role of AI in Information Security
32:51 Ethical Dilemmas in AI Decision-Making
39:18 Future Challenges and Recommendations for AI

#199 - How to Secure Generative AI

Join G. Mark Hardy in Torremolinos, Spain, for a deep dive into the security of Generative AI. This episode of CISO Tradecraft explores the basics of generative AI, including large language models like ChatGPT, and discusses the key risks and mitigation strategies for securing AI tools in the workplace. G. Mark provides real-world examples, insights into the industry's major players, and practical steps for CISOs to balance innovation with security. Discover how to protect sensitive data, manage AI-driven hallucinations, and ensure compliance through effective governance and ethical guidelines. Plus, get a glimpse into the future of AI vulnerabilities and solutions in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
References
OWASP Top 10 LLM Risks https://genai.owasp.org/
Gartner CARE Standard - https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/3980890
Make sure your controls work consistently over time (Consistency)
Make sure your controls meet the business needs (Adequacy)
Make sure your controls are appropriate and fair (Reasonableness)
Make sure your controls produce the desire outcome (Effectiveness)
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1V2ar7JBO503MN0RZcH7Q7VBkQUW9MYk6
Chapters
00:00 Introduction from Spain
00:42 Understanding Generative AI
03:25 Major Players in Generative AI
05:02 Risks of Generative AI
15:14 Mitigating Generative AI Risks
18:23 Implementing Solutions
24:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

#198 - Securing the Business Processes

G Mark Hardy dives deep into effective strategies for securing your business. Learn why it's essential for cybersecurity leaders to communicate the real business impact of vulnerabilities and discover the importance of identifying and prioritizing critical business processes.  Gain insights from historical references and practical frameworks like the CIA triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability) to bolster your organization's cybersecurity posture. Tune in as G Mark, broadcasting from Glasgow, Scotland, shares valuable lessons on proactive security measures, risk-based decision-making, and crisis recovery strategies.
7 critical business processes common to most organizations.
Book 
Order 
Bill 
Pay
Ship 
Close
Communicate 
Transcripts
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ra3c0J5Wo6s2BSqhNoNyqm9D65ogT07h
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Securing the Business
00:12 Begin Podcast
01:08 Understanding Critical Business Processes
02:23 Identifying and Prioritizing Business Functions
03:00 Real-World Example: Restaurant Booking System
04:57 Decision Making in Crisis Situations
10:38 Mapping Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
19:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#197 - Fedshark's Blueprint for Cost Effective Risk Reduction

Join host G Mark Hardy as he dives deep into the complexities of compliance and reporting, featuring special guests Brian Bradley and Josh Williams from FedShark. Discover a unique and streamlined approach to compliance using FedShark's innovative tools and AI-assisted systems. Learn about their exclusive offers for CISO Tradecraft listeners, including free downloads and discounted pre-assessment tools. Topics covered include CMMC, HIPAA, PCI, and more. Whether you're part of the Defense Industrial Base or dealing with multiple compliance frameworks, this episode is packed with practical advice to make your compliance journey smoother and more effective.
Thanks to our podcast sponsor, Fedshark
CISO Traderaft Promo & Link to CMMC White Papers: https://fedshark.com/ciso
RapidAssess: https://fedshark.com/rapid-assess
Company website: https://fedshark.com
FedShark Blog: https://fedshark.com/blog
Schedule a Demo: https://fedshark.com/contact-us
LinkedIn Matt Beaghley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbeaghley/
LinkedIn Brian Bradley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bradley-97a82668/
 
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction and Special Offer
03:18 Meet the Experts: Brian and Josh
06:49 Challenges in Compliance
16:23 Understanding CMMC
29:02 Understanding Scope in Compliance
30:22 Introducing the AI-Enhanced Compliance Solution
31:24 Streamlining Interviews and Documentation
42:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

#196 - Cyber Thrills and Author Quills (with Deb Radcliff)

G Mark Hardy and guest Deb Radcliff talk about experiences and takeaways from Black Hat, and delve into the dynamic world of cybersecurity. Deb shares her perspectives on the intersection of AI, DevSecOps, and cyber warfare, while highlighting insights from her 'Breaking Backbones' trilogy. 
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XN9HjdljJYKlUITrxZ10HTq9e91R8FNT
Book 1: Breaking Backbones: Information Is Power        https://amzn.to/4dLSBxQBook 2: Breaking Backbones: Information Should Be Free        https://amzn.to/4e3BRlBBook 3: Breaking Backbones: From Chaos to Order        https://amzn.to/3X8e4u2
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
01:18 Black Hat and Security Leaders Dinner
04:39 The Evolution of Cybersecurity Conferences
10:59 AI and Cybersecurity Trends
22:01 The Chip Dilemma: Parenting in a Monitored Society
23:09 Crafting Characters: Inspirations and Transformations
25:58 Writing Process: From Drafts to Details
31:38 Future of Cybersecurity: Autonomous Systems and Legal Challenges

#195 - Pentesting for Readiness not Compliance (with Snehal Antani)

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy is joined by special guest Snehal Antani, co-founder of Horizon3.AI, to discuss the crucial interplay between offensive and defensive cybersecurity tactics. They explore the technical aspects of how observing attacker behavior can enhance defensive strategies, why traditional point-in-time pen testing may be insufficient, and how autonomous pen testing can offer continuous, scalable solutions. The conversation delves into Snehal’s extensive experience, the importance of readiness over compliance, and the future of cybersecurity tools designed with humans out of the loop. Tune in to learn how to elevate your cybersecurity posture in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
Horizon3 - https://www.horizon3.ai
Snehal Antani - https://www.linkedin.com/in/snehalantani/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IFSQ8Uoca3I7TLqNHMkvm2X-RHk8SWpo
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:43 Background and Experience of Snehal Antani
03:09 Challenges and Limitations of Traditional Pen Testing
14:47 The Future of Pen Testing: Autonomous Systems
23:10 Leveraging Data for Cybersecurity Insights
24:02 Expanding the Attack Surface: Cloud and Supply Chain
24:46 Third-Party Risk Management Evolution
44:37 Future of Cyber Warfare: Algorithms vs. Humans

#194 - The IAM Masterclass

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the intricate world of Identity and Access Management (IAM). Learn the essentials and best practices of IAM, including user registration, identity proofing, directory services, identity federation, credential issuance, and much more. Stay informed about the latest trends like proximity-based MFA and behavioral biometrics. Understand the importance of effective IAM implementation for safeguarding sensitive data, compliance, and operational efficiency. Plus, hear real-world examples and practical advice on improving your IAM strategy for a secure digital landscape.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15zUupqhCQz9llwy21GW5cam8qXgK80JB
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
01:24 Understanding Identity and Access Management (IAM)
01:54 Gartner's Magic Quadrant and IAM Vendors
03:29 The Importance of IAM in Enterprises
04:28 User Registration and Verification
06:48 Password Policies and Best Practices
09:53 Identity Proofing Techniques
14:53 Directory Services and Role Management
18:27 Identity Federation and Credential Issuance
22:22 Profile and Role Management
26:17 Identity Lifecycle Management
29:23 Access Management Essentials
35:05 Review and Conclusion

#193 - Security Team Operating System (with Christian Hyatt)

In this comprehensive episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with Christian Hyatt, author of 'The Security Team Operating System'. Together, they delve into the five essential components needed to transform your cyber security team from reactive to unstoppable. From defining purpose and values to establishing clear roles, rhythms, and goals, this podcast offers practical insights and tools that can improve the efficacy and culture of your security team. If you're looking for strategic frameworks to align your team with business objectives and create a resilient security culture, you won't want to miss this episode!
Christian Hyatt's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianhyatt/
Link to the Book: https://a.co/d/aHpXXfr
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ogBdtJolBJTOVtqyFLO5onuLxBsfqqQP
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:31 Overview of the Security Team Operating System
03:31 Deep Dive into the Five Elements
07:53 Aligning Security with Business Objectives
21:59 Defining Core Values for Security Teams
25:03 Aligning Organizational and Team Values
26:05 Establishing Clear Roles and Responsibilities
30:58 Implementing Effective Rhythms and Goals

#192 - From Cyber Burnout to VCISO Bliss (with Olivia Rose)

Join host G Mark Hardy in this episode of CISO Tradecraft as he welcomes Olivia Rose, an experienced CISO and founder of the Rose CISO Group. Olivia discusses her journey in cybersecurity from her start in marketing to becoming a VCISO. They delve into key topics including the transition from CISO to VCISO, strategies for managing time and stress, the importance of understanding board dynamics, and practical advice on mentoring new entrants in the cybersecurity field. Olivia also shares her insights on maintaining business alignment, handling insurance as a contractor, and building a personal brand in the cybersecurity community.
Olivia Rose: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviarosecybersecurity/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1S42BepIh1QQHVWsdhhgx6x99U188q5eL
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:14 Olivia Rose's Career Journey
06:42 Challenges in Cybersecurity Careers
15:47 Communicating with the Board
22:57 Navigating Compliance and Legal Challenges
24:10 Building Strategic Relationships
25:46 Aligning Security with Business Goals
35:05 The Importance of Reputation and Branding

#191 - From Breach to Bench (with Thomas Ritter)

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy continues an in-depth discussion with cybersecurity attorney Thomas Ritter on the legal considerations for cybersecurity leaders. The episode touches on essential topics such as immediate legal steps after a data breach, the importance of using correct terminology, understanding attorney-client privilege and discovery, GDPR's impact, data localization, and proactive measures CISOs should take. The conversation also explores the implications of evolving cybersecurity laws and regulations like the Digital Operations Resilience Act and the potential criminal liabilities for CISOs.
Thomas Ritter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-ritter-2b91014a/
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15xQINUOdziGdcEFfh5SN8lS7svtK0JCT
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part 1
01:43 Starting the Discussion: Data Breaches
02:22 Legal Steps After a Data Breach
07:19 Understanding Attorney-Client Privilege
08:21 Discovery in Legal Cases
13:31 Staying Updated on Cybersecurity Laws
19:38 Impact of GDPR on Cybersecurity
32:00 Data Localization Challenges
34:55 Proactive Legal Preparedness
37:23 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

#190 - Lawyers, Breaches, and CISOs: Oh My (with Thomas Ritter)

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy interviews cybersecurity lawyer Thomas Ritter. They discuss key legal topics for CISOs, including regulatory compliance, managing third-party risk, responding to data breaches, and recent legislative impacts. Thomas shares his journey into cybersecurity law and provides practical advice and real-world examples. Key points include the challenges of keeping up with evolving regulations, the intricacies of vendor management, and the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings. They also touch on major breaches like SolarWinds and Colonial Pipeline, exploring lessons learned and the importance of implementing essential security controls.
Thomas Ritter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-ritter-2b91014a/ Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EvZ_dOpFOLCSSv5ffqxCoMnLZDOnUv_K
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
00:48 Meet Thomas Ritter: Cybersecurity Lawyer
03:48 Legal Challenges for CISOs
04:54 Managing Third-Party Risks
13:01 Understanding Legal and Statutory Obligations
15:57 Supreme Court Rulings and Cybersecurity
32:57 Lessons from High-Profile Cyber Attacks
38:32 Ransomware Epidemic and Law Enforcement
43:30 Conclusion and Contact Information

#189 - Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence for Cybersecurity Leaders | CISO Tradecraft In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the essential topic of emotional intelligence (EI) for cybersecurity leaders. He explores the difference between IQ and EI, the origins and significance of emotional intelligence, and its impact on leadership effectiveness. The episode covers various models of EI, including the Ability Model, the Trait Model, and the Mixed Model, and emphasizes practical actions to enhance EI, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. Tune in to understand how developing emotional intelligence can significantly benefit your career, leadership performance, and personal life. 
 
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15pyhXu3XVHJ_VE1OwKjSqM73Rybjbsm0
 
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
00:53 Understanding IQ: The Basics
04:08 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence
07:38 Models of Emotional Intelligence
13:06 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
25:12 Practical Steps to Improve Emotional Intelligence
32:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#188 - Securing Small Businesses

Securing Small Businesses: Essential Cybersecurity Tools and Strategies In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses cybersecurity challenges specific to small businesses. He provides insights into key tools and strategies needed for effective cybersecurity management in small enterprises, including endpoint management, patch management, EDR tools, secure web gateways, IAM solutions, email security gateways, MDR services, and password managers. Hardy also evaluates these tools against the CIS Critical Security Controls to highlight their significance in safeguarding small business operations.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Hon3h950myI7A3jzGmj7YIwRXow5W1V5
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
00:40 Challenges of Cybersecurity in Small Businesses
01:15 Defining Small Business and Security Baselines
01:53 Top Cybersecurity Tools for Small Businesses
02:05 Hardware and Software Essentials
04:35 Patch Management Solutions
05:19 Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Tools
06:06 Secure Web Gateways and Website Security
11:21 Identity and Access Management (IAM)
12:57 Email Security Gateways
14:15 Managed Detection and Response (MDR) Solutions
14:54 Recap of Essential Cybersecurity Tools
15:41 Bonus Tool: Password Managers
18:33 Aligning with CIS Controls
24:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

#187 - Ensuring Profitable Growth

Welcome to another episode of CISO Tradecraft with your host, G. Mark Hardy! In this episode, we dive into how CISOs can drive the profitable growth of their company's products and services. Breaking the traditional view of security as a cost center, Mark illustrates ways CISOs can support business objectives like customer outreach, service enablement, operational resilience, and cost reduction. Tune in for insightful strategies to improve your impact as a cybersecurity leader and a sneak peek at our upcoming CISO training class! If you would like to learn more about our class, drop us a comment: https://www.cisotradecraft.com/comment
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19SDBdQSTLc58sP5ynwzhuedNHzk7QPKj
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Profitable Growth for CISOs
01:16 Understanding Profit and Business Objectives
03:24 Enhancing Customer Experience through Cybersecurity
08:51 Service Enablement and Upselling Strategies
11:39 Ensuring Operational Resilience
13:36 Cost Reduction and Efficiency Improvements
18:31 Recap and Final Thoughts
19:10 Exciting Announcement: CISO Training Course

#186 - AI Coaching (with Tom Bendien)

Exploring AI in Cybersecurity: Insights from an Expert - CISO Tradecraft with Tom Bendien In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with AI expert Tom Bendien to delve into the impact of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity. They discuss the basics of AI, large language models, and the differences between public and private AI models. Tom shares his journey from New Zealand to the U.S. and how he became involved in AI consulting. They also cover the importance of education in AI, from executive coaching to training programs for young people. Tune in to learn about AI governance, responsible use, and how to prepare for the future of AI in cybersecurity.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x0UTLiQY7hWWUdfPE6sIx7l7B0ip7CZo
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:59 Tom Bendien's Background and Journey
02:30 Diving into AI and ChatGPT
04:29 Understanding AI Models and Neural Networks
07:11 The Role of Agents in AI
10:10 Challenges and Ethical Considerations in AI
13:47 Open Source AI and Security Concerns
18:32 Apple's AI Integration and Compliance Issues
24:01 Navigating AI in Cybersecurity
25:09 Ethical Dilemmas in AI Usage
27:59 AI Coaching and Its Importance
32:20 AI in Education and Youth Engagement
35:55 Career Coaching in the Age of AI
39:20 The Future of AI and Its Saturation Point
42:07 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

#185 - Ethics and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the complex intersection of ethics and artificial intelligence. The discussion covers the seven stages of AI, from rule-based systems to the potential future of artificial superintelligence. G Mark explores ethical frameworks, such as rights-based ethics, justice and fairness, utilitarianism, common good, and virtue ethics, and applies them to AI development and usage. The episode also highlights ethical dilemmas, including privacy concerns, bias, transparency, accountability, and the impacts of AI on societal norms and employment. Learn about the potential dangers of AI and how to implement and control AI systems ethically in your organization. 
 
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10AhefqdhkT0PrEbh8qBZVn9wWS6wABO6
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to CISO Tradecraft
01:01 Stages of Artificial Intelligence
03:33 Ethical Implications of AI
05:24 Business Models and Data Security
13:52 Ethical Frameworks Explained
23:18 AI and Human Behavior
25:44 The TikTok Feedback Loop and Digital Addiction
26:54 AI's Unpredictable Capabilities
28:25 The Ethical Dilemmas of AI
30:57 Generative AI and Its Implications
42:10 The Role of Government and Society in AI Regulation
45:49 Conclusion and Ethical Considerations

#184 - Complexity is Killing Us

In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the challenges complexity introduces to cybersecurity, debunking the myth that more complex systems are inherently more secure. Through examples ranging from IT support issues to the intricacies of developing a web application with Kubernetes, the discussion highlights how complexity can obscure vulnerabilities, increase maintenance costs, and expand the attack surface. The episode also offers strategies to tackle complexity, including standardization, minimization, automation, and feedback-driven improvements, aiming to guide cybersecurity leaders toward more effective and less complex security practices.
Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J0rPr0HxULpeVJMIwXKXqHuCfnXn4gDu
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction
01:03 The Misconception of Complexity in Cybersecurity
02:41 Real-World Complexities and Their Impact on IT
10:06 Simplifying Cybersecurity: Strategies and Solutions
14:48 Conclusion: Embracing Simplicity in Cybersecurity

#183 - Navigating the Cloud Security Landscape (with Chris Rothe)

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
 

#182 - Shaping the SOC of Tomorrow (with Debbie Gordon)

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

#181 - Inside the 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report

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