Keeping the Internet Safe: The Global Cyber Alliance Mission

Globalcyberalliance.org

About the Guest(s):

Komal Bazaz Smith is the Chief Business Officer at Global Cyber Alliance, a nonprofit organization with a focus on making the digital world safer and more secure for individuals and organizations globally. She has over 20 years of experience in business strategy, particularly in social impact, international development, and innovation. Komal has a unique background, not rooted in technology, but in strategy and development, which brings a fresh perspective to cyber safety advocacy.

Episode Summary:

Join host Chris Voss in a riveting conversation with Komal Bazaz Smith, an influential figure at the Global Cyber Alliance, as they delve into the intricacies of cyber safety and security in today's digital world. In this episode, Chris and Komal explore various challenges and solutions associated with making the internet a safer place, discussing the vital role cybersecurity plays in protecting not just personal information but also global infrastructures.

The episode dives deeply into how the Global Cyber Alliance endeavors to safeguard online spaces, advocating for internet safety as a fundamental right. Komal elaborates on initiatives such as the Cyber Flex toolkits and community collaborations that aim to reduce online risks. They touch upon pressing issues like AI-enhanced cyber threats and the evolving nature of online safety, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and the importance of a collaborative effort in mitigating digital vulnerabilities.

Key Takeaways:

Internet Safety as a Right: The Global Cyber Alliance views being safe online as a fundamental right and is working towards making this a reality through its various partnerships and initiatives.

Evolving Cyber Threats: As cyber threats become more sophisticated, driven by factors such as AI, it becomes increasingly crucial for individuals and organizations to stay informed and protected.

Community-Driven Solutions: The organization emphasizes collaboration with end users, infrastructure operators, and governments to collectively strengthen cybersecurity measures.

Importance of Awareness and Education: Educating the public about how to protect themselves online is essential, with a focus on practical tools like Cyber Flex for small businesses and individuals.

The Interconnected Nature of the Internet: Highlighted is the fact that internet disruptions can have global consequences, underlining the need for robust cybersecurity.

Notable Quotes:

"Being safe online is a fundamental right."

"The internet is not magic; it's actually held up by tons of folks in the shadows."

"One small mistake on the internet can make everything you do online go away."

"Cyber threats are evolving and becoming more sophisticated."

"The internet is our lives; it's not a separate thing."