Does DoD Level Security Work in the Real World?

After spending nearly 13 years working for the Department of Defense, I ventured out into the private sector to consult and advise on matters of information security. On many occasions, after explaining some basic security concept to a customer and outlining what they need to do to be secure, I often heard the retort, “yeah, but we don’t need DoD level security.”

Well, after twenty years in the private sector, and especially over the past 2-3 years with the proliferation of data breaches against major companies, I find myself wanting to reply, “yeah, you really DO need DoD level security!”

What does this mean? Probably not what you are thinking. This talk will start with an overview of the foundation nature of data security, highlight the major tenets or goals of data security, introduce the risk equation, discuss how and why so many companies so often fail at implementing the basics of data security, and explore some ways that a DoD-centric approach to data security might be implemented in the private sector. Brainstorming, discussion, dissension all welcome.

Click to see presentation - Zoom Meeting Recording

Bio:

Respected Information Security advocate, advisor, evangelist, international speaker, keynoter, host of Security and Compliance Weekly, co-host on Paul's Security Weekly, Tribe of Hackers, TOH Red Team, and currently serving in a Consulting/Advisory role for Online Business Systems. Nearly 40 years of experience working in all aspects of computer, network, and information security, including cryptography, risk management, vulnerability analysis, compliance assessment, forensic analysis and penetration testing. Certified NSA Cryptanalyst. Previously held security research, management and product development roles with the National Security Agency, the DoD and private-sector enterprises and was part of the first penetration testing & "red team" at NSA. For the past twenty years, has been a pen tester, security architect, consultant, QSA, and PCI SME, providing consulting and advisory services to many of the nation's best known companies.