07-12, 18:00–18:50 (US/Eastern), Marillac Auditorium
This talk will provide insights into the shifting terrains of ransomware threats, focusing particularly on the rise of kinetic ransomware compared to conventional variants. Through research and analysis, the speakers will sound the alarm about an ominous and escalating trend: ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure and public utilities. They will explore the historical and present-day events, motivations, and ideologies driving these attacks, which include financial motivation and geopolitical agendas. The presentation will differentiate between nation-state-sponsored ransomware, conventional cyber-extortion, and hacktivism, acknowledging that while the first two may adopt hacktivist ideologies, it's not always a universal trait. Ultimately, this conversation underscores the vital importance of increased awareness, proactive defense strategies, and domestic collaboration necessary to protect against the growing threats endangering the way of life in the free world.
Ashley Rose serves as a dedicated threat intelligence analyst at AFTRDRK. Ashley is responsible for monitoring, gathering, and dissecting intelligence derived from both ongoing and historical ransomware attacks, as well as from underground forums and communication channels. She leverages analytical tools and methodologies to assist in tracking ransomware campaigns and help identify emerging trends.
Guillermo Christensen is a partner in national security practice at K&L Gates. He counsels clients on cybersecurity and data protection, including working on incident response matters. Guillermo served as a CIA intelligence officer, was the CIA Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, and was detailed to the FBI to help build the intelligence program for the Bureau. In his national security work, Guillermo is active on several levels - as a founding member of the Association of U.S. Cyber Forces and the National Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Information Sharing Organization, and is an instructor at the FBI's CISO Academy.
James Taliento (JT) is the founder and CEO of AFTRDRK, a leading intelligence services company specializing in ransomware and digital extortion. With over a decade of experience in cybersecurity, JT has honed his expertise in red teaming and threat intelligence, specifically in the realms of OSINT and HUMINT.
Matthew Leidlein is president at Digital Asset Redemption (DAR), a compliance-focused service provider to companies involved in cybersecurity incident response. Matt works with stakeholders to navigate the complexities of data theft, cyber extortion, and ransomware. His path to cyber incident response began with a willingness to answer hard questions. From brokerage and trading execution desks in Chicago and Switzerland, he brings a comprehensive portfolio risk management background to every case DAR handles. Matt is a licensed FINRA broker.
