Panel Discusses Insights on Cryptocurrency, OT Security, and Data Sovereignty
In an engaging session at the RSAC Conference 2025 held in San Francisco, a panel consisting of four editors from Information Security Media Group (ISMG) delved into various pressing topics surrounding cybersecurity, including the complexities of supply chain security, the rising threat of AI-driven crime, advancements in cryptography, and the growing concerns regarding data sovereignty on a global scale.
The panel, which featured prominent editors Mathew Schwartz, Anna Delaney, Rahul Neel Mani, and Michael Novinson, offered a recap of the key discussions that unfolded on the conference’s second day. One of the most notable segments was the annual cryptographers’ panel, where Adi Shamir—renowned as one of the foremost cryptographers and a co-creator of the RSA cryptosystem—shared his critical views on blockchain technology. Shamir acknowledged that while blockchain presents possibilities as a decentralized ledger, the proliferation of cryptocurrency has coincided with an alarming increase in cybercriminal activity across various fronts.
During his address, Shamir remarked, "The world would be a better place if cryptocurrencies had never been invented." This striking claim, relayed by Mathew Schwartz, the executive editor for DataBreachToday and Europe, underscored the ongoing debate about the implications of cryptocurrency and its potential to fuel cybercrime—a sentiment resonating among other attendees and experts.
As cybersecurity increasingly gains prominence within corporate dialogue, its importance has reached the boardroom, particularly concerning Operational Technology (OT) security. Robert M. Lee, CEO and co-founder of Dragos, highlighted this trend in a conversation with ISMG’s vice president of community and editorial, Rahul Neel Mani. Lee emphasized how boards are beginning to prioritize discussions about OT security, which is now regarded as an area of significant concern due to the potential disruptions it may cause to business operations. "The boards are now talking more about OT security than the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)," Neel Mani noted, indicating a strategic shift toward understanding and mitigating risks associated with operational technologies.
Another crucial discussion centered around the impact of data sovereignty and geopolitics on cybersecurity purchasing practices. Michael Novinson, managing editor of ISMG, explained that organizations worldwide—spanning Europe, Asia, and the Middle East—are advocating for data localization. This push for keeping data in local jurisdictions may manifest in various formats, ranging from on-premises data centers to collaborations with hyperscalers for distributed points of presence.
Moreover, the panelists elaborated on several interconnected themes relevant to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. They touched upon the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s vision for enhancing the nation’s cybersecurity resilience, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the need for robust strategies in the face of escalating threats. Another significant point of discussion was the expanding focus on securing both public and private artificial intelligence (AI) models, recognizing the potential vulnerabilities associated with their widespread adoption.
The panel also highlighted the role of agentic AI in fostering security awareness training, an innovative approach aimed at better preparing organizations to combat cybersecurity threats. As AI continues to evolve, its adoption in security training represents a proactive approach to enhance organizational readiness against potential cyber incidents.
To further engage with the ongoing discussions from RSAC, interested individuals are encouraged to check out ISMG’s various platforms, which feature video interviews, articles, and highlights from noteworthy sessions at the conference. For those keen on staying informed about the latest developments and key sessions taking place at RSAC Conference 2025, ISMG has an extensive collection of resources available for further exploration.
This annual conference serves as a critical gathering for thought leaders and practitioners in the cybersecurity sector, continuously addressing the challenges and future directions of digital security in an increasingly interconnected world. The insights shared by the panelists at RSAC 2025 provide a glimpse into the complex and rapidly evolving dynamics that define modern cybersecurity practices, making it essential for stakeholders to remain vigilant and informed.