Evolving Cyber Threats: Insights from Former CISA Executive Brandon Wales

Cyber Focus

In this episode of Cyber Focus, Frank Cilluffo interviews Brandon Wales, the former Executive Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), who served for over 19 years in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They discuss the evolution of the cyber threat landscape, lessons from significant incidents like SolarWinds, and the role of public-private partnerships in building cybersecurity resilience. Wales also shares insights on geopolitical concerns, including Chinese and Russian cyber capabilities, and the importance of preparedness across critical infrastructure.

Main Topics Covered:

• Brandon Wales' Career at DHS and CISA
• Evolution of Cybersecurity Threats
• SolarWinds Cyber Incident
• Public-Private Partnerships
• Geopolitical Cyber Threats
• Future Cybersecurity Challenges

Key Quotes:

“I can't think of anyone who's probably had more impact on CIS than yourself.” – Frank Cilluffo

“The first shot fired in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, was cyber, was the disruption of Western critical infrastructure, ViaSat satellite constellation by Russian intelligence services to disrupt command and control in Ukraine.” – Brandon Wales

“Our strength really is the vibrancy of our industry, the innovation that comes from it, the expertise that's resident in it. And for us to win, we need to harness all those capabilities and bring them together.” – Brandon Wales

“[US Election Systems] are arguably more secure and resilient than ever, and people should have confidence that when they go to vote, their vote will be counted and counted correctly” – Brandon Wales

“Industry is not only on the front line, it is the front line in cybersecurity.” – Brandon Wales

Related Links:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/blog/

https://CISA.gov

Guest Bio:

Brandon Wales is the former Executive Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), where he served for over 19 years within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's cybersecurity posture and responding to high-profile incidents like the SolarWinds attack. Currently, he is the Vice President for Cybersecurity Strategy at SentinelOne, where he continues to focus on strengthening cybersecurity for critical infrastructure and private industry.