In an exclusive interview with the CyberWire Daily Podcast, Dave Bittner had the opportunity to sit down with Mike Marty, CEO of The Retired Investigators Guild, and Tom Brennan, executive director of CREST, to delve into the significant strides they are making in the realm of cybercrime investigation and cold case resolution.
As cybercrime continues to plague individuals and organizations worldwide, the need for effective investigation and resolution becomes paramount. With this in mind, The Retired Investigators Guild and CREST have joined forces to tackle this ever-growing problem head-on.
Marty begins the interview by highlighting the motivating factors that led to the creation of The Retired Investigators Guild. Founded by a group of retired law enforcement professionals, the organization aims to utilize their vast expertise and experience to assist in cybercrime investigations. Marty emphasizes the importance of not only addressing current cybercrimes but also resolving cold cases that have remained unsolved for years.
Tom Brennan, executive director of CREST, also sheds light on the organization’s mission. CREST, which stands for Cyber Incident Response and Digital Forensics, is a nonprofit organization focused on providing incident response and cyberforensic services to public and private-sector entities. Brennan emphasizes the significance of collaboration in the fight against cybercrime and emphasizes the need for organizations like CREST and The Retired Investigators Guild to work together.
Throughout the interview, Marty and Brennan discuss the specific initiatives and approaches they are undertaking to make a tangible impact. Marty mentions the Guild’s efforts to recruit retired investigators with a diverse range of expertise, including digital forensics and cybercrime investigation. By tapping into this vast pool of talent, The Retired Investigators Guild aims to bridge the skill gap and enhance traditional investigative practices with modern technological advancements.
Brennan echoes this sentiment and emphasizes the importance of developing and sharing best practices within the industry. CREST actively engages in research and education initiatives to foster innovation and drive progress in the field of cybercrime investigation. Brennan believes that by collaborating with organizations like The Retired Investigators Guild, they can multiply their impact and bring about tangible change.
Moreover, Marty and Brennan discuss the challenges associated with solving cold cases, particularly those that involve cybercrimes. The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of technology creates obstacles for investigators, as evidence can easily be concealed or destroyed. However, Marty stresses the importance of perseverance and adapting to new methods and tools to uncover the truth.
In terms of future endeavors, both Marty and Brennan express their commitment to expanding their organizations’ reach and impact. Marty envisions The Retired Investigators Guild becoming a global network of retired investigators, connecting professionals from various countries to collaborate on cybercrime investigations. Meanwhile, Brennan highlights the importance of continuous learning and staying ahead of cybercriminals’ tactics.
In conclusion, the interview with Mike Marty and Tom Brennan sheds light on the remarkable efforts being made by The Retired Investigators Guild and CREST in tackling cybercrime investigation and cold case resolution. Their dedication to bridging the skill gap, sharing best practices, and adapting to new technologies highlights the ever-evolving nature of cybercrime. Through collaboration and perseverance, these organizations strive to make a meaningful impact in combating cybercrime for the benefit of individuals and organizations worldwide.