Latest news with #cyberdefense
Forbes
4 days ago
- Politics
- Forbes
Sean Plankey, Trump's CISA Pick, Takes Center Stage In Cyber Showdown
Sean Plankey will testify on June 5 as President Trump's nominee to lead the Cybersecurity and ... More Infrastructure Security Agency. His confirmation hearing comes amid heightened cyber threats and political scrutiny of the agency's future. A United States Senate committee will convene Thursday to determine the future of America's top cyber defense agency. Former Coast Guard officer Sean Plankey, President Trump's nominee to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, will testify before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. If confirmed, he won't just inherit a title, he'll inherit an agency in turmoil. From aggressive Chinese cyberattacks to sweeping internal layoffs and a political crossfire threatening its very existence, CISA is at a crossroads. The stakes are high. The threats are real. And the clock is ticking. Plankey is no political unknown. With two decades of military service and senior cyber roles at the Department of Energy and National Security Council, he's built a career at the intersection of infrastructure, intelligence and cybersecurity. He's respected in both public and private sectors, particularly for his expertise in operational technology in systems such as pipelines, power grids and ports. His resume checks all the right boxes. But stepping into the director's chair at CISA means more than credentials. It means navigating one of the most politically charged and strategically vital agencies in the U.S. government. CISA was born in 2018 out of necessity as a rising tide of cyberattacks on America's most vital systems demanded a central agency to defend federal networks and critical infrastructure. Its first director, Chris Krebs, gained national recognition for leading efforts to secure the 2020 election. But after publicly pushing back on claims of election fraud, he was dismissed by President Trump. Under President Biden, Jen Easterly was asked to take a broader approach. She expanded the agency's mission to include ransomware defense, supply chain resilience and public-private coordination. CISA's headcount grew to over 3,400 employees and its budget rose to $3.1 billion, making it a ripe target for political scrutiny and budget cuts. But it was Easterly's push to counter disinformation on social media, especially around elections, that drew the most controversy. Critics saw it as mission creep, arguing that the agency was drifting from its core infrastructure protection role into politically sensitive territory. Easterly defended the initiatives by pointing out that election infrastructure had been officially designated as critical infrastructure following past foreign interference attempts. Following President Trump's return to office in 2025, Easterly stepped down. The timing was notable just as the administration moved to cut CISA's funding and dismantle advisory panels. The administration also laid off hundreds of CISA employees and terminated contracts supporting red team operations and election security. According to reports in The Wall Street Journal and The Register, these moves have raised concerns about the agency's ability to meet its mission at a time when cyber threats from nation-state adversaries are escalating. Now, CISA stands leaderless and politically vulnerable right as America's enemies are stepping up their game. The numbers are telling. The Trump 2025 budget proposal cuts CISA funding by nearly $500 million. Employees have been laid off. Veteran leadership has exited in droves. Cybersecurity professionals both inside and outside the agency are sounding alarms. Meanwhile, China-linked adversaries operating under names like 'Salt Typhoon' and 'Volt Typhoon' have penetrated American telecom networks, exploiting long-ignored vulnerabilities. These are not theoretical threats. They're live intrusions into the infrastructure that powers everything from hospitals to air traffic control. And if that weren't enough, the agency's mandate is under political attack. Senator Rand Paul has floated plans to defund or dissolve CISA altogether, arguing that it has infringed on civil liberties. Department Of Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem echoed similar criticisms, accusing the agency of silencing conservative voices under the guise of cybersecurity. Despite the turbulence surrounding CISA, Sean Plankey's nomination has drawn an unusually wide and bipartisan base of support. Michael McLaughlin, co-author of Battlefield Cyber, praised Plankey's 'deep commitment to strengthening our national security' and noted his 'firsthand experience' securing critical infrastructure. Tatyana Bolton, along with the Operational Technology Cybersecurity Coalition, endorsed the nomination as well, citing Plankey's cross-sector experience and his ability to bridge public-private divides. A formal letter of support co-signed by the Association of U.S. Cyber Forces, Cyber Threat Alliance, McCrary Institute and others, urged the Senate to confirm him without delay. Mark Montgomery of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission called him 'a great hire' with the 'interagency savvy' required to navigate today's complex threat landscape. Even his predecessor, Easterly, lent her voice: 'Sean will bring great cyber expertise, private sector creds, a warrior spirit and steady leadership to Team CISA.' The loudest opposition comes from Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, who has placed a hold on the nomination, though his objection is not personal. Wyden is demanding the public release of an unclassified 2022 report that allegedly outlines years of cybersecurity negligence by major U.S. telecom companies. He accuses CISA of suppressing the report to avoid exposing systemic vulnerabilities. Wyden argues the document is essential to understanding how Chinese threat actors gained a foothold in U.S. infrastructure and insists that Plankey's confirmation should be delayed until the full facts are made public. While his move may not target Plankey directly, it could stall the confirmation process. Despite the hold, Plankey's chances remain strong. With Republican backing and industry support, a pathway to confirmation exists. But it may require compromise either through redactions or supplemental briefings to appease Wyden's demands. The June 5 hearing will be a pivotal moment. If Plankey performs well, momentum may shift toward a swift vote. If confirmed, Plankey must move quickly and decisively. His top priorities should include: Plankey didn't create the challenges facing CISA but if confirmed, he'll be tasked with stabilizing an agency under immense pressure. He brings the right combination of credentials, bipartisan support and mission clarity. But success will require more than technical know-how. It will take political finesse, steady leadership and a return to disciplined, quiet execution. In cybersecurity, the best leaders aren't the loudest. They're the ones who keep the lights on and the threats out without making headlines. June 5 will tell us whether Plankey gets that chance. America's cyber defense may hang in the balance. If and when he is confirmed, let's work together as an industry to make cybersecurity boring again.
Japan Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Japan Times
Government to formulate new cybersecurity strategy amid rising threats
The government will deliberate on a new cybersecurity strategy within the year to tackle rising online threats against both the public and private sectors. The new strategy will involve plans for the government to transition its internal communications from the current public-key cryptography to post-quantum cryptography, the latter of which provides better security against cyberattacks from quantum computers. The strategy will replace the current one that went into effect in September 2021. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, who chaired a meeting of the government's cybersecurity strategy panel on Thursday, instructed relevant authorities to make preparations toward formulating the new strategy. The meeting — convened for the first time after a new active cyberdefense law was enacted by parliament — outlined four areas of action that urgently need to be addressed: reshuffling the cybersecurity center under the Cabinet into a command center for cyber-related policies; strengthening public-private cooperation in cyberdefense; boosting personnel training and technological infrastructure; and deepening international cooperation. Under the new law passed earlier this month, the government will actively gather and analyze communications from and to other countries in order to neutralize threats once signs of a cyberattack emerges. The new law also requires private companies to lodge reports to the government if they fall victim to cyberattacks. Currently, businesses need to report to multiple ministries and agencies using different formats. Thursday's panel presented a two-step plan to streamline the procedures for filing such reports. The government will start issuing unified report formats based on different types of attacks starting October, and establish a one-step online system to submit reports when such reports became obligatory as the law takes effect in 2027.
Zawya
25-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Group-IB establishes stronger presence in Egypt to support regional cyber defense
Cairo – Group-IB, a leading creator of cybersecurity technologies to investigate, prevent, and fight digital crime, has announced its expansion into Egypt, a strategic move aimed to meet the country's rising demand for cutting-edge cyber defense solutions and support the growing needs of the broader Middle East and Africa region. Operating in collaboration with its trusted local distributor, Group-IB will work closely with enterprises, government bodies, and critical infrastructure providers in Egypt, delivering tailored cybersecurity services, investigations, and digital risk protection. This step reflects the company's commitment to supporting local cybersecurity resilience and playing an active role in the region's cyber defense. 'With the increasing demand for reliable cybersecurity services in Egypt and Africa, our growing local team in Cairo allows us to be on the ground where it matters most,' said Ahmed Thawat, Regional Director - Africa, Levant, and Qatar at Group-IB. 'This isn't just about expanding operations—it's about being present, responsive, and aligned with the needs of the Egyptian market. We're here to deliver real results, build trust, and help shape a more secure digital future.' Group-IB's expansion into the Egyptian market is also part of its broader glocal strategy—a decentralized approach designed to embed the company's global expertise within local markets, providing local insights, and tailored solutions. 'Our decentralized model is built on the belief that cybersecurity must be local to be effective,' said Ashraf Koheil, Vice President of Sales, META and ANZ at Group-IB. 'Egypt is a key part of that vision. We're investing in local talent, responding in real-time to regional threats, and tailoring our solutions to match the unique challenges faced by our partners on the ground. That's the future of cyber defense—global intelligence with local execution.' With over two decades of experience across 60+ countries, Group-IB has built a solid global reputation, working with law enforcement agencies, national authorities, and leading companies. The company provides end-to-end services ranging from threat detection and incident response to digital forensics, data recovery, and breach containment. Its local team in Cairo—is already active on the ground, supporting key sectors in Egypt with real-time threat mitigation and investigation efforts. ' This demonstrates Group-IB's practical, hands-on approach and deep understanding of regional challenges,' added Ahmed Tharwat, Regional Director - Africa, Levant, and Qatar at Group-IB. Group-IB also aims to nurture local cybersecurity talent through professional training and upskilling programs, reinforcing its long-term vision of empowering self-reliant cyber capabilities across Egypt and neighboring countries. As part of its regional engagement, Group-IB will be participating in CAISEC 2025, Egypt's flagship cybersecurity event, to showcase its latest technologies, threat intelligence capabilities, and local initiatives. Visitors are invited to connect with Group-IB experts to explore how the company is helping protect Egypt's digital infrastructure and building a safer cyber environment across the region. ABOUT GROUP-IB Established in 2003, Group-IB is a leading creator of cybersecurity technologies to investigate, prevent, and fight digital crime globally. Headquartered in Singapore, and with Digital Crime Resistance Centers in the Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Central Asia, and the Asia-Pacific, Group-IB analyses and neutralizes regional and country-specific cyber threats via its Unified Risk Platform, offering unparalleled defense through its industry-leading Threat Intelligence, Fraud Protection, Digital Risk Protection, Managed Extended Detection and Response (XDR), Business Email Protection, and External Attack Surface Management solutions, catering to government, retail, healthcare, gaming, financial sectors, and beyond. Group-IB collaborates with international law enforcement agencies like INTERPOL, EUROPOL, and AFRIPOL to fortify cybersecurity worldwide, and has been awarded by advisory agencies including Aite-Novarica, Gartner, Forrester, Frost & Sullivan, and KuppingerCole. For more information, visit us at or connect with us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram.
SBS Australia
24-05-2025
- SBS Australia
SBS News in Filipino, Saturday 24 May 2025
Elderly man found dead in burned vehicle; visits by Albanese and Minns to Taree area canceled due to NSW flooding. Australians use fewer swear words online, study finds. Philippines and Australia vow to strengthen cyberdefense cooperation. SBS Filipino 24/05/2025 06:17 📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
Zawya
19-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
VLC Holdings and Cyber Falcon Cyber Security Services sign MoU to launch cybersecurity training facilities in the UAE
Tokyo, Japan - VLC Holdings Ltd (VLCHD), a leading Japanese technology company listed on the Nagoya Stock Exchange, and Cyber Falcon Cyber Security Services, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi-based Inovartic Investment, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish cybersecurity training facilities across the UAE. The MOU was signed during the Abu Dhabi–Tokyo Business Connect forum, recently organised by the Abu Dhabi Chamber in Tokyo, Japan. Under the MOU, VLCHD will provide its Cyber Arena platform, an advanced simulation system for cyber defence training, for Cyber Falcon to supply and deploy at select customer sites across the UAE. The project aims to support vital sectors in the country, such as government agencies, banks, and the power generation sector, by providing practical training in cybersecurity to enhance their readiness and ability to counter cyber threats. This project aims to support vital sectors such as government, banking, and power generation by providing immersive, hands-on training to strengthen their ability to counter cyber threats. The two parties have committed to completing the deployment and commercial launch of the first cybersecurity training ground by December 31, 2025, marking a major milestone in enhancing cybersecurity capabilities in the region. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Second Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. His Excellency said: 'We congratulate both companies on this cooperation, which will add value in achieving our shared goals and fulfilling the aspirations of the Abu Dhabi Chamber to expand local business activities at the regional and global levels. It also supports its innovative partnerships that enhance the business environment in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, particularly in smart and vital sectors.' His Excellency Al Dhaheri added: 'The partnership between VLC Holding and Cyber Falcon represents an important step towards strengthening the UAE's cybersecurity infrastructure. By employing advanced technologies, such as the Cyber Arena platform, we are contributing to building a safer and more resilient digital environment to protect vital sectors in the country. This unique initiative represents a pivotal milestone in supporting national security and is in line with the Chamber's vision of establishing the UAE as a global benchmark for excellence in cybersecurity.' Norihiko Ishihara, CEO and President of VLC Holdings Ltd, said: 'This partnership represents a new chapter in regional cybersecurity readiness. By introducing the Cyber Arena to the UAE with Cyber Falcon, we are equipping institutions with innovative tools to strengthen their defences against evolving cyber threats.' Saif Aldarmaki, Chairman and Co-Founder of Cyber Falcon, said: 'We are proud to partner with VLC Holdings to launch this transformative initiative. This collaboration underscores the UAE's position as an emerging hub for cybersecurity excellence, and aligns with our mission to develop cybersecurity expertise, protect critical infrastructure, and advance national cybersecurity strategies.' Anwar Hussein, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Cyber Falcon, added:"By integrating globally recognised technologies like the Cyber Arena platform with local talent and infrastructure, we are building a more robust digital defence ecosystem and empowering the next generation of skilled cybersecurity professionals" The MOU reflects the shared commitment of both parties to knowledge transfer, capacity building, and skills development within the UAE's cybersecurity sector. The two sides will work together to finalise operational plans and ensure the successful deployment and commercialisation of the Cyber Arena platform by the end of 2025.
