FBI Cybersecurity Strategy: Ransomware, Incident Response, & Emerging Threats with Brett Leatherman

Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights

In this bonus episode of The Business of Tech podcast, Brett Leatherman, a senior executive with the FBI, provides insights into the current cybersecurity landscape from a law enforcement perspective. Leatherman highlights the ongoing threat of ransomware targeting businesses, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare and energy. He emphasizes the importance of imposing costs on cybercriminals while also offering substantial assistance to victims of cybercrime.

The FBI's success in pushing back against cybercriminals is attributed to their strategic approach of imposing costs on malicious actors while providing assistance to victims. Leatherman discusses a recent operation against the LockBit ransomware group, showcasing the FBI's efforts to disrupt cybercriminal infrastructure and assist affected businesses in decrypting data. By collaborating with international partners and conducting technical operations, the FBI aims to deter cyber adversaries and bring them to justice.

Leatherman delves into the process of engaging with the FBI during a cybersecurity incident, emphasizing the importance of establishing a relationship with the local field office before a breach occurs. He outlines the steps MSPs can take before, during, and after a breach, including contacting the FBI, preserving evidence, and collaborating with law enforcement. By sharing insights on contentious information, legal considerations, and post-incident procedures, Leatherman provides valuable guidance for organizations navigating cybersecurity incidents.

As cyber threats evolve, Leatherman highlights emerging technologies like artificial intelligence being leveraged by state actors for disinformation campaigns. He underscores the significance of maintaining strong cyber hygiene practices, such as implementing multi-factor authentication, patch management, and software inventory management. By focusing on the basics of cybersecurity and engaging with law enforcement proactively, organizations can enhance their defenses and mitigate the risk of cyberattacks. Leatherman concludes by emphasizing the FBI's role in assisting businesses and encouraging listeners to establish a partnership with their local FBI field office for cybersecurity support.

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