How can leadership in cybersecurity shape the future of national security and public awareness?

In this episode of the Chief Influencer Podcast, guest host Liesl Riddle, Dean of George Washington University's College of Professional Studies, sits down with Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist, to discuss his philanthropic efforts. Craig, often compared to Paul Revere, has been at the forefront of raising awareness and driving action on cybersecurity issues critical to protecting American infrastructure. He shares his strategies for influencing key stakeholders and the importance of safeguarding both personal and national assets. Highlighting the need for mass mobilization, Craig emphasizes training veterans and fostering partnerships with universities and government agencies. The conversation also touches on his leadership approach, grounded in the Golden Rule, and his unwavering dedication to supporting military families and veterans.

Takeaways:

• Mobilize the Whole Country on Cybersecurity: A national mobilization effort is needed to protect individuals, families, homes, jobs, and infrastructure from cyber threats. This involves raising awareness and actively encouraging everyone to participate in cybersecurity efforts.
• Segment and Focus on Key Areas: Cybersecurity efforts should be segmented by targeting specific sectors, such as workforce development and training for veterans and their spouses, to address particular needs effectively.
• Implement Cybersecurity Basics in Business: Businesses, especially utilities, should adopt basic cybersecurity hygiene, ensuring that employees and devices are secure both at work and at home. Employees should be educated on maintaining cybersecurity protocols in various environments.
• Invest in Tools to Cut Through Confusion: It’s important to acquire advanced tools that simplify and clarify cybersecurity efforts, such as technologies that detect and manage anomalies or potential threats efficiently.
• Be Ready for Adversity: Preparing for negative actions from adversaries, such as dirty tricks and cyberattacks, is crucial. Being ready means having robust defenses and contingency plans in place.

Quote of the Show:

• “Prepare to be as agile as you can because everything is way more unpredictable than it ever was.”

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craignewmark/
• Website: https://craignewmarkphilanthropies.org/