Cyber warfare is no longer something that happens behind closed doors or in some far-off digital corner. It's happening now—and reshaping the rules of conflict in real time. Drone strikes controlled by apps, ransomware attacks on hospitals—today's battleground is just as likely to be online as on the ground. That science fiction scenario is now a critical, constant threat-the kind that affects us all globally.

I'm really excited to introduce you to Dr. Chase Cunningham. He's a retired Navy chief cryptologist with a wealth of experience in cyber operations for the NSA, CIA, FBI—and more. He's the one who pioneered zero-trust security strategies and advises top decision-makers in government and private industry. That gives him a front-row seat to how digital warfare is evolving—and what that means for all of us. He's also the author of Cyber Warfare and the gAbriel Series, where his real-world expertise comes to life in stories that are chillingly plausible.

We talk about how cyber conflict is already playing out in Ukraine, how different threat actors operate—and why critical infrastructure is such a tempting target. Chase shares practical advice on what individuals and small businesses can do to better protect themselves. We also look at what governments are doing to defend against these growing threats. That conversation is eye-opening-and urgent. You won't want to miss it.

Show Notes:

• [01:21] Chase is a retired Navy Chief and a cryptologist. He also worked at the NSA. He also put Zero Trust in the formal practice at Forrester research.
• [03:24] We learn how Chase got involved with computer work and cryptology.
• [05:29] We're seeing cyber war play out in real time with Russia and Ukraine.
• [07:13] We talk about the future of war and drones.
• [08:31] Cyber warfare is just the natural evolution of conflict in the digital space. It's the bridge between espionage and kinetic activity.
• [09:40] Chase talks about the different actors in the cyber warfare space and their primary targets.
• [12:05] Critical infrastructure includes oil and gas, piping, water systems, healthcare, and even schools.
• [14:12] Some of the unique issues with dealing with the attacks from cyber criminals.
• [19:20] How the CCP plays 3D chess.
• [22:26] Reducing risk and protecting ourselves includes following best practices. 
• [25:10] What the government is doing to try to mitigate cyber risk.
• [27:23] Chasing money and finding cyber crime.
• [32:04] A lot of valuable assets are being developed in the context of war.
• [35:06] Chase talks about some of the things he covers in his book. 

Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave a nice review. 

Links and Resources:

• Podcast Web Page
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• Easy Prey on Instagram
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• Chase Cunningham - Dr. Zero Trust
• Dr. Chase Cunningham - LinkedIn
• Cyber Warfare – Truth, Tactics, and Strategies
• gAbrIel: A Novel in the gAbrIel Series
• Unrestricted Warfare: China's Master Plan to Destroy America