Afni CISO Brent Deterding Discusses AI, Leadership’s Role in Defense, and SEC Report
Michael Novinson (Michael Novinson) •
July 5, 2024
Practical measures are often more effective at significantly strengthening cybersecurity. Instead of relying solely on AI to combat AI threats, Brent Deterding, CISO at global contact center company Afni, recommends implementing solutions like YubiKeys and security keys that allow organizations to avoid adversarial activity and focus on using AI to enable their business.
reference: Identity Security Clinic
Deterding said leadership plays a key role in cybersecurity, and success depends more on executive buy-in and good communication than on technology or funding. Simple, actionable security measures, such as requiring a physical key or specific machines for access, can effectively neutralize threats, Deterding said.
“In 2022 we went up against Scattered Spider. They specialize in social engineering. They blew my competitors away, but we did well. One of the reasons we did well was because they needed not only the YubiKey but also my domain or company machine to log on or do anything. If you need a physical key and a specific physical machine, the bad guy can’t log on. There’s a nuance there,” Deterding said.
In this video interview with Information Security Media Group at ISMG’s North American Midwest Summit, Deterding also shared:
- Why it’s important to address the lack of self-awareness among security personnel.
- How executive commitment can help overcome the cybersecurity poverty line.
- The CISO’s role in industry-wide improvement and SEC reporting compliance.
Mr. Deterding is responsible for helping Afni through cost avoidance, improving efficiency, driving sales and ensuring compliance. He has over 25 years of leadership experience in the IT and Cybersecurity sector. Mr. Deterding is a member of the CyberEdBoard.
