CISOs, CEOs & Business Owners: What To Say (and NOT Say) When Ransomware Hits – Or You'll Lose Millions in Reputation

90% of companies survive the hack… but die from the crisis communications disaster that follows.

Kevin Dinino (Head of Communications at top cybersecurity PR firm KCD PR) reveals the exact playbook that saved Fortune 500 companies during real breaches — and the fatal mistakes that tanked others.

You'll learn:

✅ The 48-hour rule that saves reputations (and stock prices)

✅ 3 statements that instantly destroy trust & trigger lawsuits

✅ CEO media-training crash course you can run in one afternoon

✅ Why cyber insurers now reject claims without a comms plan

✅ How deepfakes + AI leaks are rewriting breach PR in 2025

✅ Step-by-step ransomware crisis comms playbook + templates

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro 00:04 – Ransomware Rewind

06:45 – The 48-hour reputation rule

12:30 – Real breach war stories

19:20 – Executive media training

27:40 – Deepfakes & AI crisis nightmare

34:15 – Your 2025 ransomware PR playbook

👤 Guest: Kevin Dinino – Head of Communications, KCD PR

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

Website: https://www.kcdpr.com

🎤 Hosts: Joe Erle – Cyber Insurance Practice Leader, C3 Insurance

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

X/Twitter: https://x.com/joe_erle

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Instagram: https://instagram.com/itscyberjoe

Need cyber insurance help? → [email protected]

Mike Dowdy – Voice AI Developer & Tech Entrepreneur

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

🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cyber-insiders/id1540640713

👉 Subscribe so you're ready BEFORE the ransom demand lands.

#Ransomware #CrisisCommunications #CyberBreach #ReputationManagement #CyberInsurance #CISOTips #DataBreach #PublicRelations #ExecutiveMediaTraining #Deepfakes #Cybersecurity2025

ransomware crisis communication, cyber breach PR, what to say during ransomware attack, CEO media training, cyber insurance requirements 2025, deepfake crisis, KCD PR, Kevin Dinino, Joe Erle, Ransomware Rewind

What happens when a brutal ransomware attack flips your entire career upside down—and launches you into the front lines of the biggest cyber war of our time?

In this explosive episode, cybersecurity advisor Nick Oles (Entoo Security) pulls back the curtain on his wild origin story: the day ransomware hit him personally, ignited an obsession, and ultimately birthed his must-read book, How to Catch a Phish.

Nick doesn't hold back. We dive deep into:

• How phishing has mutated into a terrifyingly sophisticated beast in 2025
• Why remote and hybrid work handed attackers the keys to the kingdom
• The AI arms race: how bad guys are weaponizing ChatGPT & Co. to craft undetectable attacks… and how the good guys are fighting back even harder
• Real-world war stories that will make you rethink every email you've ever opened
• Dead-simple, no-BS tactics you can implement TODAY to bulletproof yourself and your team

Whether you're a seasoned CISO or someone who just wants to stop being low-hanging fruit, this conversation is pure rocket fuel—packed with eye-opening insights, laugh-out-loud moments, and immediately actionable defenses.

Hit play now and turn your "it won't happen to me" into "try me."

🔗 Guest

Nick Oles Cybersecurity Advisor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-o-8b5b6349

Website: https://www.entoosecurity.com/

Support Nick by purchasing his book here on Amazon

🎙 Hosts

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X: /joe_erle

https://x.com/joe_erle

TikTok: /itscyberjoe

https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Instagram: /itscyberjoe

https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta: /joeerle

https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

LinkedIn: /joeerle

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

Questions about cyber insurance?

📩 Email: [email protected] or request a quote at www.c3insurance.com/cyber

Mike Dowdy, Voice AI Developer & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn:

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

cybersecurity, phishing, how to catch a phish, nick oles, entoo security, ransomware rewind, cyber insurance, cyber insurance podcast, cyber threats, cybersecurity podcast, cybersecurity training, phishing awareness, ciso, cybersecurity for small business, cyber risk, ransomware, cyber attacks, incident response,, remote work security, AI cybersecurity, joe erle, c3 insurance, mike dowdy, cyber podcast, cyber security expert interview

In this episode of Ransomware Rewind, Joe and Mike sit down with Andrew Klucsarits, Director and IT Security and Risk Manager at IT Solutions to talk Cybersecurity including modern ransomware trends and operational security for enterprise business.

They analyze high-impact supply-chain attacks (including discussion of the Dragon Force incident and vendor risks tied to tools like ConnectWise).

In addition, they outline how adversaries exploit human and vendor weaknesses through social engineering exploits.

Lastly, they provide pragmatic guidance for building resilient defenses using data-driven security programs and third-party risk assessments.

Disaster recovery planning and AI risk mitigation is also covered in this info-packed episode.

Guest: Andrew Klucsarits

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

Hosts: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / /joe_erle

Tiktok / / itscyberjoe

Insta / / itscyberjoe

Meta / / joeerle

LinkedIn / / joeerle

Questions about cyber insurance?

Email [email protected]

Mike Dowdy, Voice AI Developer & Entrepreneur

LinkedIn / / mikedowdy

Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe.

ransomware, supply chain attack, Dragon Force, ConnectWise, third party risk, third party vendor security, disaster recovery, backup strategy, AI security, social engineering, incident response, cybersecurity podcast, data driven security, vendor risk assessment, ransomware recovery, cyber resilience

Kevin O'Neill, founder and CEO of CYVA Research Corporation dives deep into the current challenges surrounding data privacy and control, advocating for a paradigm shift towards self-protecting and self-governing data systems. He shares his vision for a more secure digital future where individuals have control over their personal information, irrespective of the device or platform.

00:00 Introduction to Data Control

01:33 The Evolution of Data Protection

02:03 Ralph Nader and Data Safety

02:58 Welcome to the Podcast

05:15 Privacy and Data Ownership

07:32 The Role of Public Cloud

14:09 Concerns Over Data Consolidation

23:01 Whistleblowing and Corporate Ethics

24:51 Confronting the Colonel

26:14 The Birth of a New Data Control Concept

27:09 Introducing the Personal Information Agent

28:22 Business Applications and Trustworthiness

30:49 The Data Broker Industry and Privacy Concerns

32:35 Challenges in Implementing Privacy Solutions

33:52 Quantum Computing and Security

35:19 The Need for Better Data Management Tools

42:25 Frustrations with Venture Capital and Big Tech

42:53 The Role of Hospitals and Privacy

44:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Guest: Kevin O'Neil

Website / http://www.cyva.com/

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-o-neil-cissp-b121849/

Hosts:

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance? Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant

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

Thanks again for listening to the show - Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

In this episode of the Ransomware Rewind podcast, we interviewed David Ritter, CEO and co-founder of Penta Privacy Lock. David elaborates on the complexities of privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA amidst recent significant data breaches. He discusses the importance of privacy compliance in addition to robust cybersecurity measures and introduces Privacy Lock as a tool for mitigating the fallout from privacy breaches.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:49 Recent Ransomware and Privacy Breaches

01:36 Regulations and Privacy Laws Overview

03:37 Challenges in Privacy Compliance

05:20 Blockchain and Privacy Compliance

07:05 Privacy Lock and Mitigating Breach Fallout

11:04 Costs and Fines for Privacy Breaches

16:29 Healthcare Data Privacy

28:33 Consumer Privacy Rights and Future Trends

32:46 Conclusion and Contact Information

Guest: David Ritter

Website / https://www.myprivacylock.io

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidritter1984boulder

Host:

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance? Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Co-Host:

Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions & AI Consultant

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

Thanks again for listening to the show - Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Hood, a seasoned customer experience expert, to discuss the critical steps management should take in the event of a cybersecurity breach. Chris offers valuable insights into building and maintaining customer trust, effective communication during crises, and leveraging AI to enhance cybersecurity.

Perfect for business leaders, technology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of cybersecurity and customer experience. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and real-world examples.

00:00 Introduction to the Ransomware Rewind Podcast

00:03 Meet Chris Hood: Customer Experience Expert

00:57 Understanding the Human Side of Cybersecurity

04:06 The Importance of Customer Trust During a Breach

05:36 Challenges in Rebuilding Trust Post-Incident

08:09 Examples of Good and Bad Customer Experiences

13:24 The Role of Call Centers in Customer Experience

18:07 Leveraging AI in Cybersecurity

20:07 The Concept of Zero-Factor Authentication

23:13 Password Security and Best Practices

26:08 Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity

26:46 Cybersecurity Summer Camp Experience

27:34 Proud Parent Moments and Financial Challenges

27:57 Where to Buy the Books

28:22 Target Audience for the Books

29:47 Favorite Stories from the Books

32:40 Advice for Leaders After a Breach

34:25 Importance of Backups in Cybersecurity

39:57 Good Customer Experience Examples

44:53 The Cost of Customer Churn

45:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Hosts:

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance?

Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant

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

Chris Hood

Website / https://chrishood.com

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/chrishood.ig/?hl=en

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

Dr Chase Cunningham AKA Dr. Zero Trust goes after the "Big Cyber" and the US government telling truths about BS and mishandling sensitive and top secret data.

Join us on this episode of the Ransomware Rewind podcast as we dive deep into the world of Zero Trust and current cyber events with Dr. Chase Cunningham, also known as Dr. Zero Trust.

From his extensive background working with the government and armed forces Dr. Cunningham provides expert analysis on the complex landscape of digital security.

We also discuss the implications of AI, the future of warfare, and the critical role of encrypted messaging apps like Signal in today's environment. Additionally, he shares his thoughts on cyber insurance, the importance of operational security at all levels, and provides a sneak peek into his latest books, 'Variable' and 'Buy the Breach.'

Whether you're a cybersecurity professional or a curious listener, this episode is packed with crucial information and engaging discussion.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share!

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Zero Trust

00:33 Weekend Plans and Government Work

01:41 Signal Gate Scandal

03:40 Security Clearances and Hypocrisy

06:35 Classified Information and Signal

09:24 Social Engineering Risks

13:28 Government Backdoors in Messaging Apps

16:24 Dr. Zero Trust's Books

21:17 Discussing Favorite Actresses

21:34 Making Money from Breaches

22:57 Case Studies on Breaches

23:33 The Value of Cyber Insurance

24:56 Suspicious Investments and Breaches

25:58 Consulting and Pro Bono Work

26:54 Incident Response Stories

28:44 Future of AI and Robotics

31:24 Challenges in Quantum Computing

34:01 Final Thoughts and Sign Off

Host: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance? Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Cohost: Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant

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

Guest: Dr. Chase Cunningham Chief Strategy Officer, Author

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chase-cunningham/

Email / [email protected]

Website / www.drzerotrust.com

Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@drzerotrust

Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drzerotrust/id1570251081

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5YrSai2Q9UGATh8GXgzA5K

Pre-order his lates book on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/hDRcQpV

Thx for joining us. Life, Subscribe, and share to help up make an impact in protecting businesses and individuals from hackers.

In this episode of Ransomware Rewind, I interview Alexandre Blanc, a strategic cybersecurity advisor at Alexandre Blanc Consulting, to discuss critical issues in data protection and cybersecurity. He shares practical advice for consumers and businesses to manage their digital footprints, employ multi-factor authentication, and use encrypted passkeys.

We also discuss the implications of digital identities, data leaks, AI in cybersecurity, and the importance of maintaining control over personal data. Moreover, the conversation covers the future of AI, the need for public awareness, and tips to enhance personal and organizational cybersecurity postures.

00:00 Guest Introduction

00:46 Massive Credential Breach Discussion

01:07 Data Protection and Cloud Security

04:09 Risk Management for Individuals

05:11 Password Management and Security Best Practices

07:50 Digital Footprint and Dark Web Investigations

10:57 Identity Theft and Real-World Examples

13:06 Public Cloud Risks and Data Privacy

14:47 AI and Data Collection Threats

22:18 Digital Transformation and Human Impact

25:26 The Disappearance of a LinkedIn Contact

25:57 The Role of Technology in Human Control

26:19 The Debate on Connected Cars

26:54 Data Ownership and Privacy Concerns

27:33 Psychological Profiling and Media Influence

31:19 The Impact of AI on Cybersecurity

32:33 The Future of AI: Star Trek or Skynet?

32:51 Balancing Technology and Human Freedom

33:51 Generational Differences in Tech Perception

38:38 The Responsibility of Content Creators

44:44 Practical Advice for Digital Privacy

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance? Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Mike Dowdy

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

Special Guest: Alexandre Blanc Cyber Advisor - Consultant - President and Owner

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandre-blanc-cyber-security

Don't forget to like and subscribe!

In this episode of the Ransomware Rewind podcast, Mike and Joe interview renowned cybersecurity expert Eric Cole, also known as the Cyber Czar.

The discussion delves into Eric's fascinating journey from being a CIA hacker in the 1980s to creating successful cybersecurity firms and becoming a thought leader in the industry. Read down to the bottom to get the link for Dr. Eric Cole's book for free!

00:00 Welcome to Ransomware Rewind

01:06 Eric's Journey to the CIA

05:42 Early Cybersecurity Challenges

10:31 Adventures with John McAfee

15:44 The Butterfly Effect Philosophy

24:52 The Importance of Business Acumen for CISOs

28:53 The Power of Effective Communication

29:14 The Butterfly Effect in Cybersecurity Training

29:34 Sharing Knowledge for Greater Impact

30:01 Challenges in Communicating Security Needs

30:28 Humorous Take on ROI in Personal Life

30:57 Avoiding Unwinnable Fights

31:08 Debating the Role of Chinese Nationals in Tech

32:24 Inconsistencies in Tech Regulations

34:40 The Cold War of Cybersecurity

37:21 The Backbone of the Internet

39:23 The Future: Star Trek or Skynet?

40:31 Ethical Dilemmas in Predictive Policing

42:51 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance?

Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here:

https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Mike Dowdy

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

Special Guest:

Dr. Eric Cole, Cybersecurity Expert

Consulting Company / https://secure-anchor.com/about/

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericcole1/

Youtube / https://www.youtube.com/c/DrEricCole

Bulletproof Cyber Podcast / https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY8Ef086jcWMvx0wkArY-xA

Instagram / https://www.instagram.com/drericcole/?hl=en

X / https://x.com/drericcole

Buy Eric's Book, Cyber Crisis on Amazon: https://a.co/d/bxH94tF

Get Eric's newest book for free here: https://safe.secure-anchor.com/online-danger-free

Thx for watching - Don't forget to like and subscribe.

Dennis Underwood, a cybersecurity expert and CEO of Cyber Crucible, joins the show to discuss a variety of topics ranging from his experiences in Pittsburgh to the intricacies of cybersecurity. He delves deep into the technical aspects and importance of cybersecurity. He explains how Cyber Crucible's autonomous software works to prevent data breaches in real-time, even preventing hackers from executing malware.

Our conversation also touches on the evolution of hacking tactics, the importance of multifactor authentication, the value of cyber insurance, and practical security tips for businesses.

We discussed the increasingly professional structure of hacking organizations, compared various cybersecurity solutions, and explored some notable cyberattacks, including ransomware incidents. The episode wraps up with a focus on the human element in cybersecurity and the critical role of preparation and proper planning in preventing cyber threats.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe. Thank you for listening!

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Cyber Crucible Product Overview

02:33 Explaining Cyber Crucible

04:49 Comparing Cybersecurity Products

06:26 Hacker Techniques and Evolution

19:37 Influencers and Cybersecurity

26:32 Exploring Insurance for Online Marketplaces

27:13 Underwriting and Due Diligence in Insurance

29:10 Cybersecurity Threats: NotPetya and Ransomware

31:31 Ransomware Negotiations and Hacker Motivations

35:01 Suspicious Ransom Payments and Company Involvement

40:26 Targeted Hacks and Executive Protection

46:31 Practical Security Tips for Businesses

52:17 Connecting with Dennis Underwood and Crowdfunding

Social Media: Connect to Joe, Mike, and David on social media platforms like LinkedIn, TikTok, and Instagram:

Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance

X / https://x.com/joe_erle

Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe

Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/

Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/

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

Questions about cyber insurance? Email [email protected]

Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/

Co-Host: Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant at RapidScale

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

Questions about cloud security? Email [email protected]

www.rapidscale.net

Special Guest: Dennis Underwood, CEO of Cyber Crucible

LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-underwood/

Cyber Crucible / https://www.cybercrucible.com/

See you next time. #cybersecurity #ransomware #ransomwarerewind