The Weekly Run-Down 8/5–9
Welcome back to another week of insights, stories, and crucial updates from the cybersecurity world and beyond. As summer winds down and we all shake off that lingering vacation hangover, it’s time to dive back into the fast-paced world of tech, threats, and a bit of fun on the side. Whether you’re tuning in for expert advice on the latest vulnerabilities or just need a break with some pop culture banter, this week’s newsletter has something for everyone. So, grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s get started.
Vacation Hangover
Well, folks, the party — or in this case, vacation — is over. After spending almost a week in paradise, it was time to return to reality. For the first time in my adult life, I took a break from the hustle and bustle of work and family and just relaxed. What I learned is that hangovers aren’t just for the morning after indulging in adult beverages and games of Spades. No, a “vacation hangover” is that feeling of going from 0 to 100 the moment your work laptop boots up and Outlook starts updating. I think I’ve learned a valuable lesson worth sharing: take more frequent breaks and always take an extra day off after your time off. Just like stretching is crucial before a workout, a day or two of transition time before diving back into work is just as important for your mind and body.
Friday — The Weekly Run Down
On every episode of The Weekly Run Down, Ryan and the team take a break from the usual cybersecurity talk and dive into their favorite entertainment and personal experiences. Chris shares how his YouTube algorithm has led him down the rabbit hole of car reviews and yacht broker ads, while Daniel brings up some strong opinions on the latest Marvel movie, expressing disappointment in what he sees as the decline of the MCU post-Endgame. The episode also highlights their ongoing love for anime, with a special mention of the “Thousand-Year Blood War” arc in Bleach, and how gaming has provided a much-needed escape for the team. Ryan wraps things up by sharing stories from his recent trip to Sandals in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, emphasizing the importance of relaxation and recharging away from the hustle of daily life.
This episode is a refreshing change of pace, filled with laughs, candid takes on pop culture, and a glimpse into the team’s off-hours. Whether you’re a fan of anime, gaming, or just need a good vacation recommendation, this week’s episode has something for everyone.
Wednesday — Record-Breaking $75M Ransomware Heist
On Wednesday’s episode of the podcast, Ryan Williams Sr., Chris Abacon, and Daniel Acevedo explore the record-breaking $75 million ransom paid by a Fortune 50 company to the Dark Angels ransomware gang. Join us as we discuss the attack’s details, the gang’s sophisticated tactics, and how organizations can strengthen their cybersecurity defenses. Don’t miss this eye-opening episode!
Tuesday — The DigiCert Dilemma & Why Business Continuity Is So Important
On Tuesday’s episode of “The Other Side of the Firewall,” we discuss DigiCert’s mass certificate revocation and its implications for critical infrastructure. The discussion highlights the urgent need for robust business continuity plans and effective cross-departmental collaboration. As we navigate this complex landscape, it’s clear that proactive planning and strong leadership are essential. Tune in for an in-depth analysis and practical insights to ensure your organization is prepared for the next big disruption.
Monday — Critical VMware ESXi Hypervisor Vulnerability
On Monday’s podcast episode of The Other Side of the Firewall, we dissect the VMware ESXi hypervisor vulnerability that grants full administrative privileges to domain group members. Join us as we discuss how ransomware groups exploit this flaw and the steps you can take to protect your network. Tune in for expert insights and practical advice.
TGIF
As we wrap up this week’s newsletter, remember that balance is key — whether it’s between work and relaxation, staying informed and staying entertained, or guarding against threats while enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Here’s to taking those much-needed breaks, staying ahead of the curve, and always finding time for what you love.
Stay tuned for more episodes of The Other Side of the Firewall podcast on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Fridays, as well as, the Ask A CISSP podcast every Thursday. Please like, share, and, subscribe.
Stay safe, stay secure!
Next Guest on Ask A CISSP — Shauna Weatherly, President & Founder of FedSubK
Shauna Weatherly leverages her nearly 36-year Federal career, which spans administration, human resources, budget/manpower, training, project management, contracting, and acquisition policy, to enhance the experience of small businesses in the Federal contracting space. With over 30 years as a leader in the Federal Acquisition workforce, she specializes in acquisition policy guidance and research, subcontract development, proposal review, tailored acquisition training, and SAM.gov and SBA certification coaching. Shauna also performs agency 1102 skill gap analyses and provides agency-specific acquisition training. She places special emphasis on supporting prospective Federal contractors and new small business prime Federal contract awardees under SBA socioeconomic Federal contracting programs.
Don’t forget to preorder Elizabeth’s soon to be released book, ‘Building a Resilient Digital Future: A Comprehensive Guide to Cyber Risk Monitoring’!
“Cyber risk monitoring is not merely a reactive measure; it’s a proactive approach to safeguarding your most valuable assets. By identifying vulnerabilities early on, you can thwart potential threats before they wreak havoc.” A stitch in time saves nine, especially in cybersecurity. Learn how to proactively monitor and mitigate risks in ‘Building a Resilient Digital Future.’
Pre-order today: https://lnkd.in/eZfDwjB9
Ryan is a retired Air Force veteran who brings over 20 years of experience in network infrastructure, project management, and cybersecurity consulting to his current role at BuddoBot. Buddobot’s mission is to support national security by transforming, empowering, and educating organizations to shift from reactive, diluted, automated, and high-cost IT and security practices to proactive, effective solutions that fortify their security.
Shannon, also a retired Air Force veteran, has more than two decades of expertise in network security and vulnerability management. He now serves as an Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for the U.S. Space Force, where he continues to enhance national security protocols.
Chris, a Navy veteran with over ten years in IT, information assurance, and risk management, currently works at CompliancePoint. His roles include vCISO, RMF assessor, and consultant, focusing on enhancing data security and privacy for various organizations.
Daniel is an Air Force veteran with over 15 years of combined experience in IT, cybersecurity, information assurance, and government risk compliance. He has held various roles, including IT administrator, cybersecurity engineer, senior information system security manager, and currently serves as a senior security consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton. In this latest role, Daniel leverages his expertise to address unique and complex challenges in the cyber and IT domains, enhancing his customers’ capabilities.
