From Russia with Code: A Malware Analyst's Journey

Security Unfiltered

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27d ago 47:27

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Sergey Novikov shares his fascinating journey from early days at Kaspersky Lab through his evolution as a malware analyst and cybersecurity expert, offering unique insights into the changing threat landscape and ethical considerations of security research.
• Started at Kaspersky in 2002 when it was a small startup with fewer than 100 employees
• Applied mathematics background led to research correlating human epidemic models with computer virus propagation
• Worked as a "woodpecker" malware analyst detecting threats 24/7
• Became part of Kaspersky's elite Global Research and Analysis Team (GREAT)
• Team took pride in identifying APTs regardless of national origin to protect customers worldwide
• Described security researchers as "paleontologists" uncovering complex digital threats
• Participated in analysis of sophisticated threats like Stuxnet requiring specialized knowledge
• Left Kaspersky in 2022 after Russia-Ukraine conflict began
• Transitioned to pharmaceutical industry cybersecurity before joining CyberProof
• Observes modern threats have blurred lines between nation-state actors, cybercriminals and hacktivists
• Believes cybersecurity professionals must maintain perpetual learning mindset
• Recommends self-learning and hands-on experience for aspiring security researchers
• Notes AI is enabling more agile, automated attacks rather than quantum computing threats
Connect with Sergey on LinkedIn or visit cyberproof.com to learn more about their security services and research blog.
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Chapters

1. From Russia with Code: A Malware Analyst's Journey (00:00:00)

2. Introduction to Sergey's Background (00:01:46)

3. Early Career in Cybersecurity (00:02:53)

4. Life at Kaspersky's Research Team (00:06:23)

5. Identifying APTs and Research Philosophy (00:08:23)

6. Leaving Russia and Career Evolution (00:15:23)

7. Malware Analysis and Stuxnet (00:18:03)

8. Ethics of Detecting State-Sponsored Operations (00:28:38)

9. Modern Threat Landscape and AI (00:34:53)

10. Career Reflections and PhD Research (00:39:53)

11. Closing Thoughts and Contact Information (00:46:38)

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