In this fascinating episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy welcomes Simo Kohonen, founder and CEO of Defused, to delve into the fascinating world of cyber deception technology. Simo shares insights into how deception techniques have evolved beyond honeypots to encompass innovative methods for misleading attackers, including emulated decoys and synthetic data. They discuss AI's potential in accelerating both defensive strategies and attacker methodologies, emphasizing early detection and the creative use of deception to neutralize threats. Tune in to explore the past, present, and future of deception in cybersecurity.

About Simo Kohonen

Simo Kohonen is the founder and CEO of Defused, a cutting-edge cyber deception company that empowers organizations to outsmart attackers. With a background in computer science, Simo has transitioned from warehouse work to becoming a leader in deception technology. He is a guest lecturer at Cranfield University’s Ministry of Defense Cyber Program and has been featured in media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and Yahoo. Simo’s expertise lies in deploying innovative deception strategies to enhance situational awareness and protect digital infrastructures.

https://defusedcyber.com/

https://x.com/simokohonen

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy Snyder speaks with Simon Wijckmans, CEO and founder of c/side, about the hidden complexities of client-side security in web environments. They discuss real-world examples like the Polyfill attack, emphasizing the risks in client-side scripting and vulnerabilities in traditional tools like secure web gateways. Simon explains how browser security, inline scripts, and DNS intricacies present ongoing security gaps, proposing a proactive approach to script monitoring and standardization to enhance web protection.

About Simon Wijckmans

Simon Wijckmans is the CEO and founder of c/side, a company focused on client-side web security. With extensive experience in web and browser security, Simon is a key advocate for proactive defenses against client-side exploits. His approach with c/side emphasizes real-time monitoring and innovative browser capabilities. Passionate about bridging the gap between developers and security teams, Simon’s expertise continues to drive forward-thinking solutions for modern web security.

https://cside.dev/

In this thought-provoking episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy talks with Cory O'Daniel, Co-Founder and CEO of Massdriver, about the evolving world of infrastructure-as-code (IaC) and platform automation. Cory, known for his candid views on cloud operations and DevOps, shares Massdriver's approach to IaC, emphasizing simplicity, security, and efficiency in platform automation. From navigating challenges like Terraform’s hard fork to embracing a streamlined and developer-friendly module approach, Cory offers practical insights on creating a cloud environment where developers aren’t bogged down by complexity. The discussion also dives into the DevOps philosophy, addressing its ongoing challenges, and the promises (and pitfalls) of AI in cloud security. This episode is a must-listen for cloud practitioners looking to stay ahead in an era where securing cloud infrastructures is both critical and increasingly complex.

About Cory O'Daniel

Cory O'Daniel is the Co-Founder and CEO of Massdriver, an innovative platform dedicated to simplifying cloud infrastructure through secure, scalable, and easy-to-deploy solutions. With a career spanning cloud security and DevOps, Cory has become a prominent voice on topics like infrastructure-as-code and platform automation. He's the author of the blog post "DevOps is Bullshit," a critique that has sparked ongoing industry debate. Known for his hands-on expertise and down-to-earth approach, Cory leads Massdriver in creating practical solutions that streamline cloud operations, making it accessible and effective for development teams of all sizes. Outside his professional pursuits, Cory is a taco enthusiast and an RC car hobbyist.

https://www.massdriver.cloud/

https://www.massdriver.cloud/blogs/devops-is-bullshit

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfj8P7MJcdlem2DJpvymtaQ

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy sits down with Wes Kussmaul, founder and CEO of the Authenticity Institute, to discuss the evolving landscape of digital identity and accountability. Wes explains his unique approach to creating "digital buildings" to provide accountability in online spaces, comparing the internet to an open, outdoor space that lacks the safety and structure of physical buildings. He argues for using Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) as the foundational "building material" for establishing digital accountability, offering a framework where individuals control their own data and identity. Jeremy and Wes explore how this model could address issues with data privacy, and reduce reliance on organizations exploiting personal data. Wes also shares insights from his early tech ventures, including his creation of the world's first online encyclopedia, which later evolved into the Delphi social network. This conversation provides a thought-provoking look at the intersections of technology, privacy, and accountability in a digitally-driven society.

About Wes Kussmaul

Wes Kussmaul is the founder and CEO of the Authenticity Institute, an organization that pioneers solutions in digital identity and PKI-driven accountability frameworks. With a background as a top-rated cybersecurity thought leader on Thinkers360’s list, Wes is also credited with creating the first online encyclopedia, which evolved into the Delphi social network. His career spans work with the International Telecommunication Union and the publication of his book Quiet Enjoyment, which addresses social media accountability. Known for his innovative perspective on digital spaces, Wes champions a more accountable and privacy-respecting internet built upon PKI technology.

https://www.authenticityinstitute.com/

https://weskussmaul.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/weskussmaul/

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy talks with Jeff Perry, a leadership and career expert specializing in helping engineering and technical professionals unlock their potential. They explore the importance of mindset in achieving organizational change, discussing how growth and outward mindsets can lead to better collaboration and success in cybersecurity. Jeff also shares insights on building high-performing teams, addressing burnout, and fostering engagement in high-stress environments. The conversation delves into career clarity and how individuals can create purpose-driven careers while helping organizations reduce churn and improve team dynamics.

About Jeff Perry

Jeff Perry is a leadership and career expert who helps engineers and technical professionals unlock their potential. He is the author of The Intentional Engineer, a guide to building purpose-driven careers. Jeff's work focuses on mindset, leadership, and organizational culture, helping both individuals and teams thrive in their environments.

https://jeff-perry.com/

https://arbinger.com/

https://www.theintentionalengineer.com

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy speaks with Jonathan Steele, a family law attorney and cybersecurity expert, about the intersection of digital privacy, personal security, and legal disputes. Jonathan shares insights from his work at Steele Fortress, focusing on how common digital privacy concerns like shared passwords, iCloud accounts, and tracking devices can complicate family law cases, especially during divorces. They discuss emerging threats like stalkerware and misuse of AirTags, and the importance of compartmentalizing digital lives to avoid unintended access to personal data. Jonathan also offers practical advice for improving personal cybersecurity practices during legal disputes and emphasizes the importance of secure communication methods.

About Jonathan Steele

Jonathan Steele is a distinguished family law attorney and the founder of Steele Fortress, a leading privacy and cybersecurity consulting firm. As a partner at Beermann LLP in Chicago, Jonathan has a reputation for handling complex family law cases with innovative legal strategies. His dual expertise in law and cybersecurity uniquely positions him to provide invaluable insights into the intersection of these fields.

Website: https://steelefortress.com/

In this episode of Modern Cyber recorded earlier in 2024, Jeremy sits down with Sounil Yu, co-founder of Knostic.ai, to discuss the growing implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity. Sounil shares his insights on the parallels between AI adoption and previous technological shifts, emphasizing the need for new frameworks to handle knowledge security and privacy. The conversation also explores how AI can be leveraged by both attackers and defenders, as well as the potential for regulatory frameworks to shape the future of AI technology.

About Sounil Yu

Sounil Yu is the co-founder of Knostic.ai and a prominent figure in cybersecurity known for creating the Cyber Defense Matrix and the DIE Triad, which have become key frameworks in the industry. Previously, he served as the CISO and Head of Research at JupiterOne and as the Chief Security Scientist at Bank of America. Sounil holds an MS in Electrical Engineering from Virginia Tech and dual degrees in Economics and Electrical Engineering from Duke University. He is an advisory board member at FireTail and frequently speaks on the intersection of technology, security, and risk management.

Website: https://www.knostic.ai/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sounil/

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy chats with Jeff Lyon, CEO and founder of The CyberWild, about the unique challenges of securing the healthcare industry. Jeff shares his journey from IT management to becoming a cybersecurity consultant and discusses his firsthand experience dealing with ransomware attacks in healthcare settings. He explains why legacy systems and a lack of resources make healthcare an attractive target for attackers, and how organizations can mitigate these risks. The episode dives into best practices for managing vulnerabilities on medical devices, developing incident response plans, and building a more resilient security posture.

About Jeff Lyon

Jeff Lyon is the CEO and founder of The Cyberwild, a cybersecurity firm specializing in helping small and mid-sized organizations protect their digital assets. With decades of experience in cybersecurity, including roles in healthcare and as a consultant for Fortune 50 companies, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He is a certified CISM, CISSP, and CCSP, and holds degrees in management information systems and computer engineering. Jeff is passionate about making advanced security solutions accessible to all organizations, regardless of size or industry.

The Cyberwild Website: https://thecyberwild.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyber-jeff/

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy sits down with Trent Gander, a defense and security consultant, to explore the intersection of physical security and cybersecurity. Trent draws on his experience working in law enforcement and the military to highlight how cyber and physical threats are increasingly intertwined. They discuss the challenges that arise when organizations separate these domains and the potential vulnerabilities that emerge as a result. The conversation also touches on real-world examples, such as drone usage in modern warfare and the risks of improperly discarded hardware. Trent provides a compelling look at how the convergence of these fields will shape future security strategies.

About Trent Gander:

Trent Gander is a defense and security consultant with over eight years of experience working in the firearms, law enforcement, and military sectors. He specializes in making complex security issues more accessible and has contributed to multiple projects related to modern warfare. Trent is available for consulting work in the law enforcement and military space and can be found on LinkedIn and Upwork.

Contact:

https://x.com/Gentdeirreveren

https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-gander-944541aa/

[email protected]

In this episode of Modern Cyber, Jeremy chats with Ani Chaudhuri, CEO of Dasera, discussing the growing importance of data security in today’s digital landscape. Ani shares his journey in founding Dasera and highlights the company’s mission to build a safer, data-driven world. They discuss key challenges such as visibility into data, insider threats, and the critical need for strong data governance practices. Ani also delves into the concept of cyber hygiene, emphasizing how good hygiene can reduce attack surfaces and improve security postures across organizations.

About Ani Chaudhuri

Ani Chaudhuri is the CEO of Dasera, a company dedicated to automating data security and governance for structured and unstructured data across cloud and on-prem environments. With a background in building successful tech companies such as eCircle, Opelin, and Whodini, Ani has a deep understanding of data protection and privacy. His experience spans roles at McKinsey, HP, and Tata Steel, and he’s passionate about creating solutions that foster trust between consumers and businesses.

https://www.dasera.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anionline/

https://www.dasera.com/blog/author/ani-chaudhuri

https://www.darkreading.com/author/ani-chaudhuri