Bytes and Borders: Insights from My CTA Internship

About the author: Euysun Hwang ’24 is an FSI Global Policy Intern with the Cyber Threat Alliance. Euysun is a Ford Dorsey Master’s in International Policy candidate at Stanford University.

As a Master of International Policy candidate at Stanford University specializing in Cyber Policy and Security, I had the opportunity to intern at the Cyber Threat Alliance (CTA). This experience allowed me to bridge my background in diplomacy with my passion for cybersecurity, providing invaluable insights into the collaborative nature of global digital security efforts.

My decision to work with CTA was driven by its prominent role in enhancing global cybersecurity through shared threat intelligence. My diplomatic background has instilled in me a deep appreciation for collaboration in security matters, particularly in the cyber domain. In our increasingly interconnected world, addressing digital threats demands a collective, strategic approach. CTA’s model of sharing intelligence among various private sector members is particularly compelling, as it recognizes the influence of both public and private sectors in the digital realm. Furthermore, CTA’s sharing platform offers tangible and practical data that exemplifies real-world cybersecurity enhancement. I was particularly excited to contribute to CTA’s mission of disrupting malicious cyber activities and elevating cybersecurity levels across the digital ecosystem.

As a General Operations intern, my initial task involved a comprehensive exploration and update of information on cybersecurity-related organizations. This project encompassed a wide range of entities, including non-profits, Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs), Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), and academic institutions. The sheer scope of this undertaking was both challenging and enlightening. Cataloging over 160 organizations and an astounding 700 CERTs provided me with a panoramic view of the cybersecurity landscape, revealing its complexity and diversity.

This extensive mapping exercise was more than just a data collection task; it was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the vast ecosystem of cybersecurity efforts worldwide. The sheer number of organizations involved in this field was staggering, and it taught me a crucial lesson about the importance of collaboration in cybersecurity.

As I delved deeper into the roles and focuses of these numerous entities, I began to recognize significant overlaps in their missions and activities. This realization led me to a profound understanding: the abundance of organizations in this field isn’t just a sign of its importance, but also an opportunity for enhanced collaboration. By identifying and leveraging these overlapping areas, we have the potential to create stronger, more effective partnerships in the fight against cyber threats.

This insight is particularly crucial in the field of cybersecurity, where information sharing is not just beneficial but often critical in deterring the spread of malware and other digital threats. The rapid and often unpredictable nature of cyber attacks means that timely information exchange can make the difference between a contained incident and a widespread crisis. By “gluing together” these overlapping parts of different organizations, we can create a more robust, responsive, and interconnected cybersecurity community.

Throughout my internship, CTA provided numerous learning opportunities. One standout experience was attending a webinar on NGO Cyber Defense. This session, titled “Guardians of Good: Fortifying NGO Cyber Defenses,” offered a comprehensive overview of the cyber threat landscape for NGOs, common vulnerabilities, and effective risk mitigation strategies. It also extended CTA’s Joint Analytic Report on Cyber Threats to NGOs, exploring next steps such as improved data collection and advocacy for better cybersecurity policies.

As I begin my internship with the Cyber Threat Alliance, I’m filled with excitement and anticipation. This opportunity represents a perfect blend of my academic background, diplomatic experience, and passion for cybersecurity. I’m eager to immerse myself in CTA’s collaborative environment, learning more about their mission and vision while contributing to their important work.

I look forward to developing my skills in threat analysis, expanding my understanding of the cybersecurity landscape, and learning from industry experts. The chance to observe and participate in CTA’s unique collaborative model is particularly exciting, as I believe it’s crucial for addressing today’s complex digital security challenges.

I’m thrilled to be part of CTA’s mission and can’t wait to see how this journey will enhance my ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to a more secure digital world.