Welcome to CISO Tradecraft®, your guide to mastering the art of being a top-tier Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Our podcast empowers you to elevate your information security skills to an executive level. Join us on this journey through the domains of effective CISO leadership. © Copyright 2025, National Security Corporation. All Rights Reserved
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the emerging concept of Model Context Protocol (MCP) and its significance in AI and enterprise security. Launched by Anthropic in November 2024, MCP is designed to standardize how AI systems interact with external data sources and applications. Hardy explores how MCP differs from tra…
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#233 - Web 3.0 Explained (with Aaron Markell)
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45:03Web 3.0 Explained: Business Cases, Security, and Future Prospects | CISO Tradecraft In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy welcomes special guest Aaron Markell to discuss the intricacies of Web 3.0. They explore the evolution from Web 1.0 and Web 2.0 to the decentralized structure of Web 3.0, describing its application in various ind…
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#232 - Inside The 2025 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report
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26:25Join G Mark Hardy, host of CISO Tradecraft, as he breaks down the latest insights from the 2025 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR). In this episode, discover the top 10 takeaways for cybersecurity leaders including the surge in third-party breaches, the persistence of ransomware, and the human factors in security incidents. Learn acti…
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Join G Mark Hardy in this eye-opening episode of CISO Tradecraft as he shares a personal story about his dog Shelby's near-fatal experience and the costly lesson it taught him about technical debt. Discover how small overlooked issues in cybersecurity can compound and lead to significant risks and learn actionable steps to tackle technical debt bef…
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#230 - How To Make Your AI Less Chatty (with Sounil Yu)
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44:46In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy and guest Sounil Yu delve into the dual-edged sword of implementing Microsoft 365 Copilot in enterprises. While this productivity tool has transformative potential, it introduces significant oversharing risks that can be mitigated with the right strategies. Discover how Sounil and his team at Kn…
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#229 - Understanding the Critical Role of CVEs and CVSS
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20:06In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the crucial topic of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) and the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS). Learn about the history, structure, and significance of the CVE database, the recent funding crisis, and what it means for the future of cybersecurity. We also explore …
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Join host G Mark Hardy on CISO Tradecraft as he welcomes expert Scott Gicking to discuss the Center for Internet Security's (CIS) Controls Self-Assessment Tool (CSAT). Learn what CSAT is, how to effectively use it, and how it can enhance your career in cybersecurity. Stay tuned for insights on creating effective security frameworks, measuring matur…
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Ever wonder how the CISO role went from obscure techie to boardroom MVP? In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, G Mark Hardy takes you on a journey through the evolution of the Chief Information Security Officer — from Steve Katz's groundbreaking appointment at Citibank in 1995 to the high-stakes, high-impact role CISOs play today. Transcripts: https:…
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#226 - Vulnerability Management (with Chris Hughes)
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45:53In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, we host Chris Hughes, CEO of Aquia, cybersecurity consultant, and author. Chris shares insights on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, discussing software supply chain threats, vulnerability management, relationships between security and development, and the future impacts of AI. Tune in to gain expert advic…
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In this episode of CSO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy introduces 'The Full Irish,' a cybersecurity framework based on the '12 Steps to Cybersecurity' guidance from Ireland's National Cybersecurity Center. The episode covers comprehensive steps from governance and risk management to incident response and resilience, making it a valuable resource for…
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#224 - The Evolution of Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
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30:34In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy dives into the evolution, challenges, and solutions of Data Loss Prevention (DLP). From early methods like 'dirty word lists' in the military to advanced AI and machine learning models of today, discover how DLP technologies have developed to safeguard sensitive information. Learn about differe…
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, G. Mark Hardy dives deep into the world of Agentic AI and its impact on cybersecurity. The discussion covers the definition and characteristics of Agentic AI, as well as expert insights on its feasibility. Learn about its primary functions—perception, cognition, and action—and explore practical cybersecurity appl…
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#222 - 40 Years of Career Advice in 40 Minutes
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40:11In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, G. Mark Hardy shares 15 crucial characteristics to help you succeed in your cybersecurity career and become an effective CISO. From knowing yourself and developing leadership skills to enhancing communications and staying current with trends, Hardy distills decades of wisdom into practical advice. Learn how to na…
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#221 - Microsoft Majorana is Taking the Quantum Leap
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27:47In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses Microsoft's groundbreaking announcement of their new quantum chip, the Majorana. The chip harnesses properties of a topological superconductor, making quantum computing promises more tangible. The episode delves into the technical aspects of quantum bits (qubits), cryptography, and the…
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In this CISO Tradecraft episode, host G. Mark Hardy delves into the recent U.S. presidential executive orders impacting AI and their implications for cybersecurity professionals. Learn about the evolution of AI policies from various administrations and how they influence national security, innovation, and the strategic decisions of CISOs. Discover …
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#219 - The Professionalization of CISOs (with Steve Zalewski & Tyson Kopczynski)
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41:15This podcast episode discusses the formation of a professional association for CISOs, driven by increasing personal liability risks faced by these executives. The conversation centers on establishing a formal definition and accreditation process for the CISO role, moving beyond existing certifications to demonstrate operational and theoretical expe…
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#218 - How AI Changes Talent Management (with Colleen Lennox)
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23:49In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy and special guest Colleen Lennox dive into the transformative power of AI in HR. Discover how AI can revolutionize identifying, attracting, and retaining cybersecurity talent. They discuss the challenges of finding the right personnel in the cybersecurity field, the innovative AI-driven solutio…
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#217 - Includes No Dirt (with Bill Dougherty)
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44:59In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G. Mark Hardy sits down with Bill Dougherty, CISO of Omada Health, to discuss a groundbreaking threat model called 'Includes No Dirt'. This comprehensive model integrates security, privacy, and compliance considerations, aiming to streamline and enhance threat modeling processes. The conversation covers the …
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#216 - The TTPs of a Security Champions Program (with Dustin Lehr)
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45:32Join G. Mark Hardy in a riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he sits down with Dustin Lehr to uncover strategies for creating security champions among developers. Explore effective techniques to inspire culture change, leverage AI tools for security, and discover the difference between leadership and management. This insightful discussion include…
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the top 10 cybersecurity predictions for 2025. From the rise of AI influencers to new standards in encryption, Hardy discusses significant trends and changes expected in the cybersecurity landscape. The episode delves into topics such as branding, application security, browser-based sec…
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#214 - Deceive to Detect (with Yuriy Gatupov)
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45:47
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45:47🔥 Hackers Beware! Cyber Deception is Changing the Game 🔥 In this must-hear episode of CISO Tradecraft, we expose a mind-blowing cybersecurity strategy that flips the script on attackers. Instead of waiting to be breached, cyber deception technology tricks hackers into revealing themselves—before they can do real damage. 🚨🎭 Imagine laying digital tr…
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#213 - How to Build a Successful Cybersecurity Startup (with Ross Haleliuk)
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45:45In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy interviews Ross Haleliuk, author of 'Cyber for Builders: The Essential Guide to Building a Cybersecurity Startup.' Ross shares valuable insights on starting a cybersecurity company, and emphasizes the importance of understanding market needs, customer engagement, and trust in the industry. They …
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#212 - Repeatable, Attestable, and Defensible AI (with AWS's Former Deputy CISO Merritt Baer)
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45:35Join us on CISO Tradecraft as we explore the future of cybersecurity with Merritt Barrett, former Deputy CISO at AWS. Merritt, a Harvard Law graduate, shares her expert insights on the trends expected in the upcoming years, emphasizing the enduring aspects of cybersecurity, the implications of AI, and challenges in cloud security. Discover valuable…
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#211 - Allowlisting and Ringfencing (with Kieran Human)
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27:43In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses the history and evolution of endpoint protection with guest Kieran Human from ThreatLocker. Starting from the inception of antivirus software by John McAfee in the late 1980s, the episode delves into the advancements through Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and introduces the late…
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#210 - Salt Typhoon and Vulnerable Telecoms
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45:39
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45:39In this crucial episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the urgent topic of the 'Salt Typhoon' threat, with insights from experts Adam Isles and Andreas Kurland from the Chertoff Group. The episode covers the implications for corporate security using SMS text messages when Chinese actors are breaking into major telecommunication e…
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#209 - AI Singularity (with Richard Thieme)
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48:32In this riveting episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy welcomes back Richard Thieme, a thought leader in cybersecurity and technology, almost three years after his last appearance. Richard delves into the necessity of thinking like a hacker, provides insights into the AI singularity, and discusses the ethical and societal implications of em…
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#208 - Insider Threat (with Shawnee Delaney)
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45:25This podcast episode of CISO Tradecraft features Shawnee Delaney, an insider threat expert, discussing insider threats in cybersecurity. Delaney, whose background includes espionage, explains how understanding human motivation and vulnerabilities is crucial for identifying and mitigating insider threats. The conversation highlights the importance o…
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of CISO Tradecraft! In this episode, host G. Mark Hardy dives deep into the critical topic of CISO burnout with special guest Raghav Singh, a PhD candidate from the University of Buffalo. This is an eye-opening session for anyone in the cybersecurity field, especially those in or aspiring to the CISO role. Ra…
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Setting Sail with Cybersecurity: Exclusive Insights from Ira Winkler on CruiseCon 2025 🛳️ Join us for an exciting episode of CISO Tradecraft as G Mark Hardy sits down with renowned cybersecurity expert Ira Winkler! Discover the groundbreaking CruiseCon 2025, the first at-sea cybersecurity conference, featuring top-tier speakers and unrivaled networ…
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#205 - Wisdom from the 1st Cyber Colonel (JC Vega)
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46:28Join G. Mark Hardy on this exciting episode of CISO Tradecraft as he interviews J.C. Vega, the first cyber colonel in the United States Army. Vega shares his invaluable insights on leadership, team building, and success strategies that can transform your cybersecurity career. Plus, learn about CruiseCon 2025, Wee Dram, and how you can take your lea…
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#204 - Shadows and Zombies in the Data Center
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23:53
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23:53In this special Halloween episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the lurking dangers of Shadow IT and Zombie IT within organizations. Learn about the origins, risks, and impacts of these hidden threats, and discover proactive measures that CISOs can implement to safeguard their IT ecosystems. Strategies discussed include rigorous…
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Unlocking SOC Excellence: Master the SOC Capability Maturity Model Join host G Mark Hardy in this compelling episode of CISO Tradecraft as he explores the revolutionary SOC Capability Maturity Model (SOC CMM) authored by Rob van Os. This episode is a must-watch for CISOs, aspiring CISOs, and cybersecurity professionals aiming to optimize their Secu…
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#202 - Cybersecurity Crisis: Are We Failing the Next Generation?
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45:09
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45:09In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy explores the challenges and misconceptions facing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The discussion covers the myth of a talent shortage, the shortcomings of current educational and certification programs, and the significance of aligning curricula with real-world needs. Hardy e…
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosted by G Mark Hardy, you'll learn about four crucial tools in cloud security: CNAPP, CASB, CSPM, and CWPP. These tools serve various functions like protecting cloud-native applications, managing access security, maintaining cloud posture, and securing cloud workloads. The discussion covers their roles, benefit…
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, hosts G Mark Hardy and Mark Rasch discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and the law. Recorded at the COSAC computer conference in Dublin, this episode covers the legal implications of AI, copyright issues, AI-generated content, privacy concerns, and ethical considerations. They explore the nuances b…
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Join G. Mark Hardy in Torremolinos, Spain, for a deep dive into the security of Generative AI. This episode of CISO Tradecraft explores the basics of generative AI, including large language models like ChatGPT, and discusses the key risks and mitigation strategies for securing AI tools in the workplace. G. Mark provides real-world examples, insight…
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G Mark Hardy dives deep into effective strategies for securing your business. Learn why it's essential for cybersecurity leaders to communicate the real business impact of vulnerabilities and discover the importance of identifying and prioritizing critical business processes. Gain insights from historical references and practical frameworks like th…
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#197 - Fedshark's Blueprint for Cost Effective Risk Reduction
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46:27Join host G Mark Hardy as he dives deep into the complexities of compliance and reporting, featuring special guests Brian Bradley and Josh Williams from FedShark. Discover a unique and streamlined approach to compliance using FedShark's innovative tools and AI-assisted systems. Learn about their exclusive offers for CISO Tradecraft listeners, inclu…
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#196 - Cyber Thrills and Author Quills (with Deb Radcliff)
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47:13G Mark Hardy and guest Deb Radcliff talk about experiences and takeaways from Black Hat, and delve into the dynamic world of cybersecurity. Deb shares her perspectives on the intersection of AI, DevSecOps, and cyber warfare, while highlighting insights from her 'Breaking Backbones' trilogy. Transcripts: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XN9HjdljJ…
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#195 - Pentesting for Readiness not Compliance (with Snehal Antani)
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47:48
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47:48In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy is joined by special guest Snehal Antani, co-founder of Horizon3.AI, to discuss the crucial interplay between offensive and defensive cybersecurity tactics. They explore the technical aspects of how observing attacker behavior can enhance defensive strategies, why traditional point-in-time pen t…
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In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the intricate world of Identity and Access Management (IAM). Learn the essentials and best practices of IAM, including user registration, identity proofing, directory services, identity federation, credential issuance, and much more. Stay informed about the latest trends like proximi…
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#193 - Security Team Operating System (with Christian Hyatt)
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43:06In this comprehensive episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with Christian Hyatt, author of 'The Security Team Operating System'. Together, they delve into the five essential components needed to transform your cyber security team from reactive to unstoppable. From defining purpose and values to establishing clear roles, rhythms, …
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#192 - From Cyber Burnout to VCISO Bliss (with Olivia Rose)
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45:24Join host G Mark Hardy in this episode of CISO Tradecraft as he welcomes Olivia Rose, an experienced CISO and founder of the Rose CISO Group. Olivia discusses her journey in cybersecurity from her start in marketing to becoming a VCISO. They delve into key topics including the transition from CISO to VCISO, strategies for managing time and stress, …
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#191 - From Breach to Bench (with Thomas Ritter)
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44:43In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy continues an in-depth discussion with cybersecurity attorney Thomas Ritter on the legal considerations for cybersecurity leaders. The episode touches on essential topics such as immediate legal steps after a data breach, the importance of using correct terminology, understanding attorney-client …
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#190 - Lawyers, Breaches, and CISOs: Oh My (with Thomas Ritter)
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45:10In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy interviews cybersecurity lawyer Thomas Ritter. They discuss key legal topics for CISOs, including regulatory compliance, managing third-party risk, responding to data breaches, and recent legislative impacts. Thomas shares his journey into cybersecurity law and provides practical advice and real…
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Emotional Intelligence for Cybersecurity Leaders | CISO Tradecraft In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the essential topic of emotional intelligence (EI) for cybersecurity leaders. He explores the difference between IQ and EI, the origins and significance of emotional intelligence, and its impact on leadership effectiv…
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Securing Small Businesses: Essential Cybersecurity Tools and Strategies In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy discusses cybersecurity challenges specific to small businesses. He provides insights into key tools and strategies needed for effective cybersecurity management in small enterprises, including endpoint management, patch man…
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Welcome to another episode of CISO Tradecraft with your host, G. Mark Hardy! In this episode, we dive into how CISOs can drive the profitable growth of their company's products and services. Breaking the traditional view of security as a cost center, Mark illustrates ways CISOs can support business objectives like customer outreach, service enablem…
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Exploring AI in Cybersecurity: Insights from an Expert - CISO Tradecraft with Tom Bendien In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy sits down with AI expert Tom Bendien to delve into the impact of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity. They discuss the basics of AI, large language models, and the differences between public and privat…
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#185 - Ethics and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
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46:38In this episode of CISO Tradecraft, host G Mark Hardy delves into the complex intersection of ethics and artificial intelligence. The discussion covers the seven stages of AI, from rule-based systems to the potential future of artificial superintelligence. G Mark explores ethical frameworks, such as rights-based ethics, justice and fairness, utilit…
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