In the latest installment of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, the host Sherrod DeGrippo welcomes guests Stella Aghakian and Holly Burmaster to delve into the fascinating world of threat actors and their techniques. The trio explores the nuances of observing threat actors in action, shedding light on the educational and crucial nature of understanding these techniques in the realm of threat intelligence.
One of the key highlights of the discussion is the experiences shared by Stella and Holly from their recent attendance at the Microsoft Ignite event. They provide insights into the workings of the cyber threat actor known as Octo Tempest, offering personal reflections on their encounters with various threat actors. Despite the challenges inherent in their work, both Stella and Holly express a deep appreciation for the team environment that sustains them through the long hours and high-pressure situations they often face.
The conversation in this episode of the podcast revolves around the challenges of incident response when dealing with destructive threat actors. Stella and Holly elaborate on the difficulty of managing the emotional aspects of incident response work, highlighting the unpredictability and dynamic nature of their roles in the field of threat intelligence.
Some of the questions posed during the podcast include inquiries about the structured workflow within incident response teams, the essential traits required to excel in the high-pressure domain of incident response, and the collaborative efforts between teams such as Dart and Mystic during incident responses.
In addition to the insightful discussion, the episode provides valuable resources for further exploration, including links to the LinkedIn profiles of the guests, Stella Aghakian and Holly Burmaster, as well as a detailed profile of the Octo Tempest Threat Actor and tips on protecting credentials against social engineering cyber attacks.
Listeners are also encouraged to discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts on the official website, microsoft.com/podcasts. The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of the N2K media network, offering a comprehensive look into the world of cyber threat intelligence.
Overall, this episode offers a rich and informative glimpse into the world of threat intelligence, with insights from industry experts who navigate the complex landscape of cyber threats with skill and dedication. The dedication of professionals like Stella Aghakian and Holly Burmaster serves as a testament to the importance of ongoing vigilance and expertise in the fight against cyber threats in today’s digital age.