KBKAST

In this episode, we are joined by Mark Anderson (National Security Officer – Microsoft ANZ) as we discuss insights from the Microsoft Digital Defense Report, shedding light on the rise of cybercrime, the surge in sophisticated attacks, and the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity capabilities across all business sizes.

From open source vulnerabilities to the significance of software bill of materials (SBOMs), this episode offers practical examples and advice on building robust cyber defenses. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of cybersecurity, uncovering how technology intersects with societal and business issues, and exploring the compelling data shaping the future of cybersecurity.

Mark has over 28 years’ experience in the IT industry with 18 of those at Microsoft in various roles across the globe. As the National Security Officer for Microsoft Australia & New Zealand, Mark is responsible for working with customers, partners, governments, and industry regulators to ensure that the Microsoft platforms are not only understood by policymakers but also adhere to their security, compliance and risk management requirements. In addition, Mark is accountable for the PROTECTED level assessment of Azure,

Take a look at the MDDR Report here.

In this episode, we are joined by Chris Cochran (Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer – Hacker Valley Media), as we delve into the world of content creation in cybersecurity. We explore the power of authentic storytelling and creativity in content, and its potential to shape the cybersecurity industry.

Chris shares personal anecdotes, underlining the importance of diversity and inclusivity in this field, and advocates for a shift towards a more positive mindset.

Chris Cochran is Hacker Valley Media’s co-founder/ Chief Creative Officer and the Advisory Chief Information Security Officer/ Chief Evangelist for Huntress Labs. Chris also serves on the Board of Governors for the Podcast Academy. He is a cybersecurity leader turned award-winning content creator and speaker, earning two Anthem Awards and one Webby nomination. Chris started his career in technology during his active duty service in the US Marine Corps as an intelligence analyst at the National Security Agency.

In this episode, we are joined by Corien Vermaak  (Head of Cybersecurity – Cisco ANZ) shares insights on the evolving role of AI in cybersecurity. From early threat detection to ethical considerations, we explore the potential and challenges of AI in safeguarding digital environments. Corien discusses how AI can proactively identify anomalies and augment human skills, enhancing security measures and response times. Join us as we delve into the integration of AI in cybersecurity and the impact on job roles, and a thought-provoking discussion on the ethical implications of AI decision-making.

Corien Vermaak started her career as a technology law specialist within the telecommunication space and soon fell in love with data privacy and the legal structures governing cybercrime. In her career,  Corien specialised in cybercrime legislation and data privacy while representing large multinationals on these matters.

She holds a master’s degree in law specialising in cybercrime and data privacy. She has been involved in the writing of legislation in this regard as well as consulting to Africa Union and Interpol on issues relating to cybercrimes and privacy.

Corien is a Qualified Digital Forensic Auditor, Lead ISO 27001 auditor and C|CISO. Corien has been a CISO Advisor for the Cisco Security Centre of Excellence in the Asia Pacific, Japan and China region where she has led market.

KB has previously interviewed Corien, but asked for a more in-depth interview. This is likely to be followed with an in-depth interview with Jeetu Patel, Global Exec for Cybersecurity at Cisco.

In this episode, we are joined by with Alex Trafton (Managing Director of National Security, Trade, & Technology – Ankura) to unravel the complex dynamics of cybersecurity, government regulations, and the landscape of defense and technology at a global scale. We explore the challenges and opportunities for small companies, the impact of strategic cooperation between democratic nations, and the crucial role of integrity and innovation in the industry. Join us for a candid conversation that sheds light on the future of cybersecurity and the call for collaboration between nations.

Alex Trafton is a Managing Director in the National Security, Trade, & Technology practice at Ankura Consulting Group, based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. He has over 15 years of experience in finance, risk management, and cybersecurity. Alex leads the NSTT cybersecurity function and serves as a subject matter expert in cybersecurity program design, implementation, and assessment with a focus in foreign investment control and oversight (CFIUS), Defense Industrial Base (DIB) cybersecurity requirements, and international trade control compliance program support (ITAR/EAR). Alex is focused on working with multi-national defense contractors to help them meet cybersecurity and export control requirements before, during, and after mergers and acquisitions.

In this episode, we are joined by David Batch (Executive Director, Privacy Advisory – CyberCX) as we delve into the principles of Privacy by Design and the need for organizations to prioritise privacy as a pillar of trust. From data retention challenges to the impact of data erasure on regulated industries, we navigate through the complexities of privacy management. Join us as we explore the potential catalysts for change, the role of regulatory frameworks, and the innovative solutions for empowering individuals to take control of their privacy.

David leads the Privacy Advisory Practice at CyberCX and brings to the role over 25 years of government and industry experience.  Prior to entering the consulting sector, David was responsible for privacy risk management at State Street Corporation across APAC, built and led the CBA’s first dedicated privacy team, led the privacy function at NEHTA (now the ADHA) and was the online safety, security and privacy lead for https://MySpace.com in Australia/NZ. Prior to his privacy focused roles, David was a Federal Agent with the Australian Federal Police and held a number of investigative, legal policy and training roles during his 9 year tenure with the agency.​

In addition to these roles, David was the creator of the annual consumer and organisation privacy research, the Deloitte Australian Privacy Index and its principal author for four editions. David also launched the annual Australian Privacy by Design Research and Awards in 2022, for which he and the team were awarded by the Australian Information Security Association as ‘Cybersecurity Researcher of the Year’ in 2022.

In this episode, we are joined by Prof. Dali Kaafar (Executive Director –  Macquarie University Cyber Security Hub, CEO and Founder of APATE.AI) as he discusses the innovative use of conversational AI in combating phone scams. From the manipulation and trust-building tactics employed by scammers to the pressing need for proactive defense measures, Dali sheds light on disrupting scammers’ profits and protecting potential victims. This captivating conversation explores the intersection of technology, psychology, and security, offering valuable perspectives on safeguarding against phone scams in today’s digital landscape.

Dali Kaafar is a Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering and serves as the Executive Director of [The Macquarie University Cyber Security Hub]. In addition to his role as the director of the Data Security and Privacy R&D Program, he oversees the Cyber Range Training Centre (CRTC) and Cyber Security Curriculum at the Institute of Applied Technology-Digital.

Leading a team of collaborators, Professor Kaafar is actively engaged in extensive Research and Development activities within the field of Cyber Security in Emerging Technologies, with a vision to enable Explicit Trust in the Digital Economy. His primary research interests revolve around Data Security and Privacy, specifically focusing on Privacy-Preserving (or Enhancing) technologies, Information Security for Web and Mobile applications, (Provably) private data sharing, and Trustworthy Secure and Private Machine learning techniques.

Before joining Macquarie University, Professor Kaafar served as the group leader and founder of the Information Security and Privacy group at CSIRO Data61. He was previously a principal researcher at National ICT Australia (NICTA) and held a permanent researcher position at the Privatics team at INRIA in France.

In this episode, we are joined by Mark McClain (CEO and Founder of SailPoint), as we dive deep into the pivotal role of identity as a fundamental control point and lens for understanding security in organizations. Mark emphasises that while traditional security measures such as firewalls and network security remain vital, identity security is equally critical for protecting data and driving business momentum. Moreover, the conversation delves into the challenges of balancing convenience and security, particularly with the rise of AI and machine learning in security measures. Mark highlights the limitations of current security tools in being “identity blind,” stressing the need for better tooling and processes to identify and respond to security threats more efficiently.

In his role as CEO and Founder of SailPoint, Mark brings almost 35 years of experience in technology, with over 20 years as a founder and leader of innovative identity management companies. Under Mark’s direction, the company has grown into a publicly recognized leader in its market. Mark directs and drives the overall vision and strategy for SailPoint, which is underpinned by his commitment and passion for building top-performing teams, creating a collaborative and innovative work environment, and focusing continuously on the needs of customers.

Teaming is a concept that Mark promotes throughout the company: teaming with forward-thinking customers to understand their needs, with partners to ensure customer success, and ultimately within SailPoint to develop innovative, market-leading solutions. Mark is passionate about maintaining the spirit of teamwork, even as SailPoint grows its employee base and its global presence to offices around the world.

Prior to SailPoint, he co-founded Waveset Technologies, which was ultimately acquired by Sun Microsystems. Mark’s career also includes diverse experience in international sales and marketing with Hewlett-Packard and IBM/Tivoli Systems.

In this episode, we are joined by Dean Houari from Akamai, as we dive deep into the continuously evolving landscape of API security. The discussion delves into the growing concern of API attacks and the increasing recognition of the need for “security by design” at the board level. Dean shares insights on the shifting nature of application architecture, the vulnerabilities of APIs, and the impact of cloud-native and modern applications on security measures. The conversation emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to securing API attack surfaces and preparing for potential breaches. Tune in as Dean provides practical advice and expert perspectives on navigating the complexities of API security.

Dean Houari is the Director of Security Technology and Strategy for Akamai’s Asia-Pacific and Japan region. He is a patent awarded technologist with over two decades of experiences in various engineering and architecture leadership roles.

 At Akamai, Dean is responsible for product and go-to-market strategy for Akamai’s security portfolio, which includes both established and emerging areas in security. His work focuses on encouraging customers to a strategic view of their security programs, and articulating key security design principles that position customers for long-term success in their security strategy.

Prior to Akamai, Dean led the architecture and development of DevSecOps, cloud and cyber security initiatives and innovations. He holds an inventor patent with Cisco Systems, as well as certifications from CCIE, Terraform, and AWS. He is also an avid powerlifter who has lifted a personal best of 650kg.

Dean attended Carnegie Mellon University and is currently based in Tokyo, Japan. 

In this episode, we are joined by Nick Schneider, as we explore the challenges organizations face in managing cybersecurity with multiple point solutions. Nick discusses the complexity of handling 30-50 different tools, and the necessity of integrating and aggregating telemetry and alerts onto a centralized platform. The episode delves into the evolution of cybersecurity, the use of AI, addressing talent shortages, and combating alert fatigue. Join us as we unravel the complexities of cybersecurity and the strategic approach needed to mitigate risks in a rapidly changing landscape.

As President and CEO of Arctic Wolf, Nick Schneider brings more than 15 years of experience in building global, high-growth technology companies spanning both emerging and established markets. As a veteran in the security industry, Nick has developed expertise in creating best-of-breed technology platforms and world-class sales organizations, which have been the driving force behind Arctic Wolf’s explosive growth and leadership position in the security operations market.

Before being named CEO, Nick served as Arctic Wolf’s President and Chief Revenue Officer, where he helped lead the company to eight consecutive years of 100% sales growth, spearheaded the company’s international expansion, and oversaw Arctic Wolf’s transition to a 100% channel go-to-market model.

Prior to Arctic Wolf, Nick served as the Vice President of North American Sales for Code42, an industry-leading endpoint data protection company. Before Code42, Nick led high-performing sales teams at Compellent Technologies, where he helped the company grow to a successful IPO and eventual acquisition by Dell. Nick holds a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree from Duke University in public policy and economics.