The Evolution of Cybersecurity: Insights from Serial Cyber Entrepreneur Ed MacNair

Welcome to another exciting episode of Cybersecurity District. Today, we're diving into a hot topic—cryptocurrency and cybersecurity—with none other than Jean-Paul de Jong, a partner at BlockFo and a seasoned expert in cyber investigations and blockchain security. With over 30 years of experience, Jean-Paul has worked with multinational enterprises, law enforcement, and intelligence organizations such as the British government and Europol. In 2018, he transitioned into the world of blockchain, where he now plays a key role in fighting cryptocurrency-related crimes. In this episode, we discuss: The mission of BlockFo in combating crypto crimes Real-life cases, including how Hamas funding was tracked using blockchain The challenges in recovering stolen crypto funds The future of cryptocurrency in corporate finance Tips for protecting your crypto investments Jean-Paul also shares his journey from traditional IT roles to becoming a leader in blockchain, offering invaluable insights for both experienced professionals and newcomers to the field. Key takeaways include the importance of hardware wallets, multi-factor authentication, and the growing demand for cybersecurity expertise in the blockchain industry. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:26) Jean-Paul de Jong’s background and experience (01:20) The mission of BlockFo (02:52) Challenges in resolving crypto crimes (05:06) Real-life case study: Tracking Hamas funding (08:07) Blockchain’s role in tracing transactions (14:23) Jean-Paul’s transition to blockchain (24:52) Cybersecurity for startups (34:36) The future of BlockFo and corporate crypto transactions (39:45) Tips for safeguarding your crypto (51:52) Final message to CISOs Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity.    Connect with us:  Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurensjagt/ Jean-Paul De Jong LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanpauldejong/   Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/   Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

Welcome to another episode of Cyber Security District, the podcast where we interview the most inspiring minds in the cybersecurity industry. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Brenno de Winter, a renowned journalist, public speaker, author, and cybersecurity expert. Brenno shares his fascinating career journey, starting from his early days as an IT professional, to his pivotal decision to become a journalist after the events of September 11th, 2001. He delves into his investigative journalism career, highlighting significant moments such as the DigiNotar hack and the impact of Edward Snowden's revelations. Currently working at the Ministry of Health, Sports, and Welfare in the Netherlands, Brenno discusses his role in developing the CoronaCheck-app and his ongoing efforts in the field of data protection and cybersecurity. He also shares valuable insights and tips for young professionals looking to make a mark in the industry. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (00:15) Welcoming Brenno de Winter (00:48) Brenno's early career in IT (03:09) Transition to journalism post-9/11 (05:25) Impact of Edward Snowden's revelations (06:28) Changes in society post-9/11 (08:39) Becoming a successful journalist (11:26) Memorable moments in investigative journalism (14:18) Early challenges in cybersecurity journalism (15:29) Europe's approach to data protection (20:04) Transition back to cybersecurity (25:40) Role at the Ministry of Health and the CoronaCheck-app (29:09) Future plans and OpenKAT project (33:51) Tips for young professionals in cybersecurity (36:57) Final thoughts and message to CISOs   Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Brenno De Winter on LinkedIn: Brenno de Winter Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

Welcome to another insightful episode of Cybersecurity District! 🎙️ In this episode, host Laurens sits down with Roelof Kroon, the Corporate Information Security Officer (CISO) at Alfen. With over 25 years of experience in the cybersecurity industry, Roelof shares his journey from starting as an engineer to climbing the corporate ladder to become a CISO. 🔍 Key Topics Discussed: Transitioning from engineering to a leadership role The importance of adapting skill sets in cybersecurity Alfen's role in the electronics and energy sector The impact of regulations like NIS2 on the industry Balancing IT and OT security in a corporate environment The evolving threat landscape and the importance of being prepared The significance of soft skills and teamwork in crisis management Advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals Roelof also delves into the challenges and rewards of being a CISO and the importance of collaboration within the ecosystem.  Timestamps: (00:00) - Introduction (00:28) - Roelof Kroon's career journey (02:08) - Alfen's business and products (04:03) - The impact of regulations on cybersecurity (06:04) - Balancing IT and OT security (10:23) - Keeping the team motivated (13:11) - Tools and frameworks for threat analysis (15:05) - The implications of AI in cybersecurity (18:05) - Security risks in the growth of EV charging stations (22:24) - The most rewarding aspects of being a CISO (25:51) - Tips for aspiring cybersecurity professionals (29:50) - The importance of soft skills in crisis management (34:09) - Handling major security incidents (38:01) - Final thoughts and advice for young professionals Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity. Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Roelof Kroon on LinkedIn: Roelof Kroon Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

Welcome to another exciting episode of Cybersecurity District, the podcast where we interview the most inspiring minds in the cybersecurity industry. In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned cyber entrepreneur, Ed MacNair. He has has been in the industry for over 25 years and has successfully sold two companies. Currently, he's building his third venture, CensorNet, which aims to revolutionize cybersecurity for SMBs. This episode dives deep into Ed's journey, his insights on the evolution of cybersecurity, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the field. Key Takeaways: The evolution of cybersecurity from antivirus to complex threats like ransomware and nation-state attacks. The importance of having a strong team and mentors in your entrepreneurial journey. How to identify the right moment to sell your company and ensure it's beneficial for employees, shareholders, and yourself. The challenges and opportunities in serving the SMB sector with effective cybersecurity solutions. The future of cybersecurity, including the role of AI and the growing importance of privacy. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 01:02 - Evolution of Cybersecurity Threats 02:31 - Pivotal Moments in Cybersecurity 04:06 - Entrepreneurial Journey with Marshal 07:43 - Advice for Aspiring Cyber Entrepreneurs 10:54 - Turning Around Marshall 13:15 - Valuation and the Stress of Selling a Business 15:01 - The Genesis of Censornet 20:27 - Building a Winning Team 22:45 - Winning Team and Future Ventures Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity. Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Ed MacNair on LinkedIn: Ed MacNair Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

In this episode of Cyber Security District, Laurens Jagt interviews Carlo Schreurs, the visionary CISO at Friesland Campina, a global dairy company. With over 25 years of experience in technology leadership, Carlo shares insights into his journey as a CISO and the cybersecurity transformation he leads across 33 countries. Throughout the conversation, Carlo discusses his background in aeronautical engineering, his transition into cybersecurity, and the challenges faced in protecting a company with over 23,000 employees. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in the cybersecurity industry and shares his approach to setting priorities and managing incidents. Key Topics Discussed: Carlo shares his career journey from aeronautical engineering to cybersecurity leadership. The importance of collaboration and sharing information in the cybersecurity industry. Insights into the cybersecurity challenges faced by a global dairy company like Friesland Campina. Carlo's approach to setting priorities and managing incidents in a large organization. The role of a CISO in driving digital transformation and cybersecurity resilience. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction to Carlo Schreurs 01:09 - Carlo Schreurs' Background and Career Journey 08:18 - Transition to CISO Role at Friesland Campina 09:02 - First Year as CISO at Friesland Campina 09:55 - Cybersecurity Collaboration and Events 11:05 - Challenges in Cybersecurity for Dairy Industry 14:43 - Setting Priorities and Dealing with Incidents 33:42 - Importance of Resilience in Cybersecurity 43:31 - Advice for Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals 45:02 - Role of CISOs in Educating Boards on Cybersecurity Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity. Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Carlo Schreurs on LinkedIn: Charlo Schreurs Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

Welcome to another episode of Cybersecurity District, the podcast where we interview the most inspiring minds in the cybersecurity industry. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Irfaan Santoe, the ex-CISO at Aegon, one of the largest insurance companies in the Netherlands with over 15,000 employees worldwide. Irfaan brings over 15 years of experience in the cybersecurity field, having held various leadership positions at ABN Amro Bank, Wolters Kluwer, and VGZ. He is also a public speaker and the chapter leader for OWASP Netherlands. In this insightful conversation, Irfaan shares his journey from studying artificial intelligence to becoming a CISO, his personal transformation journey, and his unique approach to balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. Key Topics Discussed: Irfaan's career path and leadership roles in cybersecurity The concept of "Inner Engineer" and personal fulfillment The evolution and application of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity The importance of mentorship and how to find the right mentors Strategies for effective decision-making and prioritization as a CISO The role of mindfulness and energy management in professional life Episode Highlights: (00:00) - Introduction to Cybersecurity District Podcast (00:00) - Guest Introduction: Irfaan Santoe (00:47) - Irfaan's Career Journey (02:30) - Irfaan's Role as Inner Engineer (06:04) - Conscious Decision Making (10:50) - Studying Artificial Intelligence (15:23) - Mentorship and Career Focus (33:29) - Advice for Young Professionals   Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity. Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Irfaan Santoe on LinkedIn: Irfaan Santoe Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict

Join host Laurens Jagt on the Cyber Security District Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Hans Ijkel, the General Manager of Cyber Defense at Shell. With over two decades of experience in IT audit, risk management, and cybersecurity, Hans shares invaluable insights into the transformation of cyber defense, the pivotal role of creativity, and the impact of geopolitics on cybersecurity strategies. In this episode, we explore Hans Ijkel's career journey, his perspectives on the challenges in the cybersecurity field, and his forward-looking views on the role of AI in cyber defense. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional or just keen to learn more about this critical field, this discussion will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction to Hans Ijkel's Career 05:30 - Hans Ijkel's Interest in Cybersecurity 11:37 - Hans Ijkel's Mistake During a Pen Test 13:22 - Challenges of Setting Up Threat Management and Cyber Defense 22:00 - Challenges of Managing a Global Team 25:48 - Discussion on Threat Actors and Vulnerabilities in the Supply Chain 32:35 - Importance of Curiosity and Technical Expertise in Team Building 37:40 - Balancing Geopolitics and Cybersecurity 43:25 - Handling Cybersecurity Threats in Geopolitical Conflicts 46:36 - Achievements and Future Goals in Cyber Defense 47:58 - Future of Cybersecurity and AI Integration Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation. Tune in to learn from one of the leading minds in cybersecurity. Connect with us: Laurens Jagt on LinkedIn: Laurens Jagt Hans Ijkel on LinkedIn: Hans Ijkel Visit our website: https://www.cybersecuritydistrict.com/ Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us here: https://beacons.ai/cybersecuritydistrict  

In today's episode, we talk with Paul Moreno, who currently works as CISO at Catawiki. Before Catawiki Paul, worked for the biggest tech giants in the world such as Pinterest, Uber, or Adyen and witnessed the rise of Silicon Valley in San Francisco firsthand.  In this episode we talked about the integration of AI in security orchestration and response, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive cybersecurity education for all and the pivotal role of government and privacy laws in ensuring digital safety. To end on a lighter note, Paul wishes everyone to work on things that make them happy and shares valuable insights for everyone getting starting with their #cybercareers.  Get in contact with Paul:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/unic0rn/ Timecodes:  (00:00) - AI for Security Orchestration and Response (12:07) - Rise of Silicon Valley  (18:10) - Pinterest, Uber, Adyen (25:11) - CISO at Catawiki  (32:34) - Personal and Professional Happiness    

In this insightful episode of Cyber Security Talks, Laurens Jagt sits down with cybersecurity veteran Richard de Vries, an author, blogger, and public speaker with three decades of experience. We explore Richard's unique view on cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, communication, and the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. Richard de Vries shares his journey from hacking games to becoming a cybersecurity expert, emphasizing on resilience and continuous learning. He discusses his pandemic-era blogging and experiences as an author.  Additionally, Richard explores the transformative role of AI and GPT in cybersecurity, advocating for organizational cultural changes and the importance of embracing technology for effective threat management and a more secure digital future.   Timestamps:  (00:20) Richard de Vries narrates his evolution from an accountant to a cybersecurity expert, emphasizing the role of curiosity in his career. (08:41) He discusses his contributions to cybersecurity knowledge through book writing and blogging, highlighting the impact of AI and GPT technologies. (17:45) Richard explores AI's role in cybersecurity, focusing on strategies for preparation, prevention, detection, and response. (25:15) He advises on understanding personal influence in cybersecurity and the importance of trusting technology to lessen workload. (33:15) The episode concludes with insights into creating adaptable network infrastructures and the necessity of continuous learning for digital safety.