Developing a Cybersecurity Workforce Through Gamification

In an enlightening episode of the BSM podcast, host Steven Bowcut dives deep with Cynthia Jenkins, CMO and Co-founder of Skillionaire Games by skillsgapp, into the innovative world of mobile gaming designed to bridge the gap between America's youth and the most in-demand career paths in fields like Advanced Manufacturing, Cyber/IT, Life Sciences, and Healthcare. This conversation unpacks the origin story of skillsgapp and Skillionaire Games, revealing a shared mission to engage and educate middle and high school students about critical and emerging industries through the medium of gaming. Jenkins highlights the strategic focus on industries like cybersecurity, underscoring the vital importance of raising awareness among younger generations about these lucrative and fulfilling career opportunities. The discussion around the games Cyber Watchdog and Hack Out Bl4ckout offers listeners a peek into how these games not only entertain but also impart essential skills and knowledge, aiming to inspire a new wave of professionals in the cybersecurity domain. The podcast delves into the balance of education and engagement in game development, providing insights into the creative and technical process from conception to launch. Jenkins shares compelling success stories and feedback from students and educators, painting a vivid picture of the impact skillsgapp is making on students' career trajectories, particularly in cybersecurity. Addressing the rapid technological advancements in cybersecurity, Jenkins explains how skillsgapp games remain at the forefront of industry trends to ensure relevancy and effectiveness. The conversation also tackles the critical issues of diversity and inclusion within tech, with Jenkins outlining skillsgapp's proactive measures to encourage participation from underrepresented groups in these burgeoning fields. Challenges in distinguishing educational games within a market dominated by entertainment-focused gaming are discussed, along with strategies to overcome these hurdles. Beyond cybersecurity, the podcast touches on skillsgapp's expansion into other critical industries and career paths, setting the stage for a broader impact on workforce development. For BSM listeners keen on supporting or getting involved with skillsgapp's mission, Jenkins provides actionable advice on how to contribute to this transformative educational endeavor. This episode not only sheds light on the powerful role of gamification in education and workforce development but also serves as a call to action for listeners to support initiatives that prepare the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Engaging, informative, and thought-provoking, this discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, education, and career development.

Join us on this illuminating episode of the BSM Podcast, where we dive deep into cybersecurity with Rosario Mastrogiacomo, Vice President of Strategy and Solution Engineering at SPHERE Technology Solutions, a pioneering company at the forefront of Identity Hygiene. In this comprehensive discussion, Rosario sheds light on the inception and mission of SPHERE, illustrating how their innovative approach to cybersecurity is reshaping the landscape of identity management and access control. Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the essence of Identity Hygiene—what it means, why it's critical for modern businesses, and how SPHERE's unique methodology and the SPHEREboard platform are revolutionizing how companies clean up permissions and ownership to secure their digital environments. Rosario delves into the complex challenges businesses face in managing identities and access, providing expert advice on how to navigate these hurdles with SPHERE's tailored solutions. Discover the success stories highlighting the transformative impact of SPHERE's services on their clients' security and compliance postures. Rosario also casts a forward-looking view on the future of Identity Hygiene, discussing the evolving threats in the cybersecurity domain and how SPHERE is innovating to stay ahead of the curve. Finally, businesses seeking to enhance their cybersecurity measures will find Rosario's advice invaluable for achieving a proactive security posture in the digital age. Whether you're a business leader, IT professional, or just keen on cybersecurity, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on the crucial role of Identity Hygiene in safeguarding your digital assets. Tune in to this episode of the BSM Podcast for a fascinating journey into the heart of cybersecurity innovation with SPHERE Technology Solutions and learn how to fortify your business against the ever-changing threats of the digital world.

In this insightful episode of the BSM Podcast, Ron Arden, the Executive Vice President, CTO, and COO of Fasoo, joins host Steven Bowcut to shed light on the often-overlooked realm of unstructured data security. Fasoo, a leader in unstructured data security and enterprise content platforms, brings innovative solutions to the table, ensuring secure and productive management of critical business information. Ron and Steven delve into the complex security challenges that unstructured data presents in today’s digital landscape. They explore the nuances of compliance and regulations, which are vital in safeguarding sensitive information. The discussion takes an exciting turn as Ron shares compelling case studies, demonstrating how Fasoo's strategies effectively mitigate risks and enhance data security. Furthermore, Ron offers a peek into the future trends in unstructured data security, equipping listeners with the knowledge to stay ahead in this dynamic field. His expert advice is a treasure trove for business owners seeking to fortify their data security frameworks. Don’t miss out on this episode! Dive into the conversation with Ron Arden and equip yourself with invaluable insights into managing and protecting your unstructured data. Click the link to listen now and embark on a journey towards mastering unstructured data security with the guidance of industry experts.

In Season 5, Episode 19 of the BSM podcast, host Steven Bowcut welcomes Jared Atkinson, the Chief Strategist at SpecterOps and the host of the "Detection Challenging Paradigms Podcast." The episode focuses on the dynamic and increasingly important topic of purple teaming within cybersecurity. Key Points Discussed - Evolution of Purple Teaming: Jared delves into the progression of purple teaming practices and their significance in the current threat landscape. He emphasizes how both defensive (blue team) and offensive (red team) strategies have melded to form a more comprehensive security approach. - Testing Landscape and Vendor Claims: The conversation touches on how the testing landscape has evolved, particularly considering vendor claims about the capabilities of their security solutions. Jared scrutinizes these claims and suggests a more measured approach to evaluating their efficacy. - Shortcomings in Purple Team Assessments: Jared enumerates the reasons why many purple team assessments don't reach their full potential. These shortcomings often stem from a lack of realistic testing scenarios or comprehensive coverage of possible attack vectors. - Role of New Frameworks: The introduction of new frameworks like Atomic Testing is highlighted as a game-changer in the field. Jared talks about how these frameworks can improve the precision and effectiveness of security assessments. - Building and Selecting Test Cases: The importance of building and selecting diverse and relevant test cases is discussed. Jared underlines the necessity for organizations to cover a wide range of attack techniques in their testing protocols. - Evolution of Attack Techniques: Examples of how attack techniques have evolved over time are provided, offering listeners insights into the adaptive nature of cyber threats. - Analyzing Malware Samples: Jared points to SpecterOps's 10-part blog series that offers a deep dive into the technical aspects of malware sample analysis, an essential skill for modern threat hunters. - Future of Purple Teaming: Finally, Jared presents his perspective on the direction purple teaming should take in the future. He stresses the need for continual adaptation and the adoption of forward-thinking strategies to stay ahead of threat actors. Conclusion The episode is informative for cybersecurity professionals looking to understand the current state and the progression of purple teaming. Jared Atkinson's expertise provides listeners with a detailed examination of the challenges and considerations essential to advancing the effectiveness of cybersecurity defenses through collaborative and realistic testing. The discussion not only sheds light on current practices but also charts a course for the future of purple teaming, making it a must-listen for those engaged in or interested in the strategic aspects of cybersecurity.

In an eye-opening episode of the BSM podcast (S5E18), Dr. Shaun McAlmont, CEO of NINJIO Cybersecurity Awareness Training, joins host Steven Bowcut to delve into the critical topic of cybersecurity. Dr. McAlmont shares NINJIO's innovative strategies for cybersecurity awareness training, designed to empower individuals and companies to protect themselves against ever-evolving digital threats. What you'll hear: Unique Cybersecurity Perspectives: Discover NINJIO's distinctive approach to making cybersecurity awareness engaging and impactful. Practical Strategies for Everyone: Learn practical tactics that consumers and families can immediately implement to safeguard their digital lives. Protocols for Protection: Gain insights into essential practices that businesses of any size can introduce to strengthen their cybersecurity armor. National Cybersecurity Month Initiatives: Find out how NINJIO celebrated with free access to cutting-edge training resources and what the future holds beyond the awareness month. Valuable Resources: Dr. McAlmont doesn't just leave you with advice; he points you to resources, communities, and support systems to keep your cybersecurity knowledge current. Whether you're an individual looking to protect your personal information or a company aiming to secure sensitive data, this episode is packed with wisdom that can be a game-changer for your online safety. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from a leading expert in the field. Click the link below to listen to the full Podcast and start building a culture of cybersecurity that can withstand the threats of tomorrow. Join us and take control of your digital security today!

In the latest thought-provoking episode of the BSM podcast, host Steven Bowcut welcomes a special guest, Luigi Lenguito, the co-founder and CEO of BforeAI, to delve into the transformative world of Predictive Security. Moving beyond the conventional frameworks of cybersecurity, which typically emphasize a reactive approach, Luigi brings to light an intriguing narrative centered around predictive cybersecurity. Throughout the discussion, Luigi highlights the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in orchestrating predictive security measures. He illuminates the conversation by pinpointing the significant benefits this forward-thinking approach offers, such as preemptively identifying potential threats, optimizing response times, and significantly mitigating risks before they materialize. However, the efficacy of predictive security is not without its prerequisites. Luigi underscores the critical nature of data—both in terms of quality and quantity—in making precise predictions. He provides insights into the rigorous processes involved in maintaining data integrity and the vast volumes required to train robust, reliable predictive systems. Listeners will be treated to real-world applications as Luigi walks through several compelling case studies that demonstrate the remarkable success and potential of predictive security in action. The conversation doesn't just stop at present achievements; it propels forward, with Luigi sharing his visionary perspectives on the future landscapes of cybersecurity. Moreover, in his quest to make this technology accessible and understandable, Luigi imparts some practical, actionable advice for both individuals and organizations. These insights emphasize not only the importance of embracing this innovative approach but also guidance on how to navigate the complexities it might present. This episode is a must-listen for cybersecurity professionals, tech enthusiasts, and anyone keen on understanding how technological advancements like AI are relentlessly reshaping the way we protect digital landscapes.

In the most recent episode of the BSM podcast, Steven Bowcut delves deep into the cybersecurity landscape of cryptocurrencies with Dr. Aleksandr Zhuk, the CISO of sFOX.  Summary Dr. Zhuk's insights shed light on the unique challenges and threats that digital currency platforms face, which are distinct from traditional digital technologies. One of the key topics discussed is the common belief in the infallibility of blockchain technology due to its decentralized nature and cryptographic backbone. Dr. Zhuk decodes this perception, highlighting where its strengths lie and pinpointing typical areas of vulnerability. For those in the DeFi community, this episode is especially enlightening, as Dr. Zhuk underscores emerging threats and potential attack vectors that often go unnoticed. The discussion culminates in his expert recommendations on precautions that DeFi platforms should adopt to enhance their security posture. Curious about the intricacies of cryptocurrency security? Dive into the full conversation and arm yourself with knowledge.  About our Guest Dr. Aleksandr Zhuk is the Chief Information Security Officer at sFOX. He is also a founding faculty member, Adjunct Professor of Yeshiva University's Cybersecurity Program, and a contributor to FINTECH.TV. Before joining sFOX, Dr. Zhuk was an Information Security Architect at Axoni. In addition to his Ph.D., he holds a Master's Degree in Engineering from George Washington University.

This week on BSM's podcast S5E15, we dive deep into the world of Attack Surface Management with Marc Gaffan, the visionary CEO of IONIX. The rapidly evolving digital landscape poses new challenges every day, and for businesses, it's not just about defense but smart prevention. What if there was a way to minimize the very space that attackers could target? Marc unravels the critical concept of 'attack surface reduction'. With a sea of tools and strategies available in the market, what sets IONIX's approach apart? Discover the revolutionary strides they have made in risk management, making them a standout in the world of cybersecurity. The conversation takes a sharp turn into dispelling myths. Is everything you've known about attack prevention true? Or are there misconceptions that might be hindering your business's security strategy? Being static in this dynamic threat environment is a risk in itself. The essence of being adaptive and forward-looking takes center stage, as Marc underscores its significance. But worry not; regardless of your business's size, there are actionable strategies to boost your defense game.  Marc ends the episode with a gaze into his metaphorical crystal ball. How will the threat environment shape up in the future? Get Marc's intriguing perspective. Don't miss this insightful episode that merges expertise with actionable insights. Gear up to redefine your security approach!

Welcome to a brand new episode of the BSM Podcast that you definitely don't want to miss! We're thrilled to have had the privilege of hosting Bryan Grenon, Director of Critical Infrastructure for ADT Commercial's Enterprise Security Risk Group, and Chris Fowler, Director of Emerging Technologies at ADT Commerical, on our show. This week, they delve into the fascinating and increasingly essential world of physical security standards, workplace safety policies, innovative security technologies, and the revolutionary role of AI and IoT in the security sphere.  Summary This episode presents a riveting discussion on how the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is integral to setting physical security standards for the nation's critical infrastructure. Bryan Grenon and Chris Fowler provide insight into the common missteps employers often make while creating workplace safety policies and how these can be rectified to foster a safer work environment. But that's not all; our guests give us an exclusive peek into the exciting, innovative technologies that ADT Commercial is currently exploring. Their work aims to set new industry standards in security, ensuring our homes, workplaces, and public spaces are safer and more secure than ever before. And as if that isn't intriguing enough, the conversation shifts towards the future – the impact of emerging technologies like AI and IoT on security applications in the workplace. Fowler and Grenon illustrate how these technologies are not just the next frontier in security but are actively revolutionizing the industry right now. This episode is packed with expert insights, thought-provoking discussions, and a vision of the future that will leave you eager to hit the play button. Listen in to stay ahead of the curve and understand why and how these advancements are crucial for the present and future of security. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the leaders of one of the world's most innovative security companies, ADT Commercial.  So, gear up for a riveting ride into the world of cutting-edge security technology!

Welcome to the thrilling Episode S5E13 of the Brilliance Security Magazine Podcast, where we take a deep dive into the world of technological innovation in security. In this episode, our host Steven Bowcut sits down with a true pioneer in the field—Dr. Maria Bell, the visionary Founder and CEO of Digital Twin Imaging. This episode titled "Technical Innovations Designed to Reduce Active Shooter Response Times" explores the cutting-edge solutions that DTI provides to expedite emergency responses. Dr. Bell unveils some of the primary strategies and advanced technologies that are revolutionizing the sector, particularly in the context of high-risk active shooter scenarios. Get ready to discover how the fusion of real-time data and artificial intelligence is set to redefine the future of emergency response. Summary In this informative episode, Dr. Bell elucidates the game-changing strategies and technologies that are making significant strides in shortening response times for active shooter incidents. She dives into how Digital Twin Imaging—her trailblazing company, leverages the power of real-time data and artificial intelligence to create, maintain, and integrate 3D models that help first responders navigate emergencies swiftly and effectively. Dr. Bell also highlights real-time data and AI's pivotal role in DTI's technology. She emphasizes how these digital tools not only streamline the process but also enhance accuracy and efficiency, effectively rewriting the narrative of traditional emergency response mechanisms. Furthermore, she underscores the profound benefits of integrating technology into emergency response procedures. She provides an enlightening perspective on how these advancements specifically come into play during active shooter scenarios, potentially saving countless lives by reducing critical response times. Whether you're a professional in the security field or simply someone passionate about the future of technology and its potential societal impacts, this episode is an essential listen. Be prepared to delve into the futuristic world of emergency response and explore the potential of technology to protect and preserve life. About our Guest Maria Bell, MD, MPH, MBA, is a dynamic and award-winning physician with a proven record of medical innovation and strategic leadership. She is the Founder and CEO of Digital Twin Imaging.