Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by two of MSTIC’s finest analysts. They discuss recent trends in financially motivated cyber threats observed by Microsoft, focusing particularly on two cases: the Grandoreiro banking Trojan and the Luna Tempest crimeware actor. The Grandoreiro Trojan, active since 2017, has expanded globally beyond its initial Latin American focus, now targeting countries like the U.S. and the UK. This Trojan typically starts with phishing emails to steal financial information. Despite efforts to disrupt this activity, new clusters have emerged. The discussion also covers Luna Tempest, a U.S.- and UK-based extortion group targeting startups and smaller companies, particularly in sectors like insurance, FinTech, and biotech, seeking high payouts by threatening to release sensitive data. In this episode you’ll learn: The resilience and adaptability of threat actors in response to global disruption efforts Why Luna Tempest focuses solely on extortion without deploying ransomware How the Grandoreiro Banking Trojan has expanded globally Some questions we ask: How do we distinguish between the various threat actor groups and their malware? What can businesses do to protect themselves from identity-based attacks? Have these cybercriminals perfected an extortion program? Resources: View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Andrew Morris, Founder & Chief Architect at GreyNoise and Lauren Proehl, Director of Global Cyber Defense at Marsh McLennan. Lauren Proehl is an experienced cybersecurity leader who has helped defend against threat actors in Fortune 500 networks and has managed multiple divisions focused in defensive security and specializes in innovative cyber defense. GreyNoise operates a huge sensor network across the internet that collects primary sourced data on which vulnerabilities attackers are exploiting, when they start, and from where. Sherrod, Lauren, and Andrew discuss the effectiveness of banning ransomware payments, the importance of focusing on backup and disaster recovery strategies, the necessity of investing in basic security measures like endpoint detection and response, multi-factor authentication, and log storage. In this episode you’ll learn: The potential for ransomware attacks on physical infrastructure Why most are hesitant to become a CISO and the expectations that come with the role Challenges when try to balance technical expertise with leadership skills Some questions we ask: Can government or law enforcement agencies evolve in combating ransomware? Where do you believe organizations can invest to improve their cybersecurity? How do you expect ransomware to change with tactics like double or triple extortion? Resources: View Lauren Proehl on LinkedIn View Andrew Morris on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Thomas Roccia and Andres Freund. Andres stumbled upon a security issue within SSH while investigating performance discrepancies. He discovered a sophisticated backdoor, skillfully concealed within the LZMA library, part of the XZ package. Sherrod, Thomas, and Andres discuss the importance of proactive security measures and code review in the open-source community. They emphasize the critical role of community collaboration in identifying and mitigating security threats effectively and signal the need for heightened vigilance. In this episode you’ll learn: The importance of proactive security and code review in the open-source community Why anomalies in software behavior should prompt curiosity and investigation Open-source community cooperation is vital for spotting and addressing security risks Some questions we ask: Could you explain the security issue you found in SSH and its significance? How serious is this threat, and what steps can organizations take to defend against it? What advice do you have for open-source contributors? Resources: View Andres Freund on LinkedIn View Thomas Roccia on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by former VP of Cybersecurity Solutions at Target Paul Melson. Sherrod and Paul reflect on his experiences in incident response, highlighting the adrenaline rush of detecting and evicting adversaries before they cause harm. Their discussion includes a run down the rabbit hole of open-source intelligence and the creation of the @scumbots twitter feed. They explore the culture at Target's cybersecurity team, emphasizing the importance of hiring for attitude and the potential for new threats like bribery and insider threats. Paul shares insights into his experiences in cybersecurity and his concerns about future threats, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and innovation in defense strategies. The episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and developments in cybersecurity, offering practical advice for both professionals and organizations navigating the ever-changing threat landscape. In this episode you’ll learn: The genesis of the project scumbots and its functionality Challenges when dealing with commercial threat intelligence companies The increasing sophistication of cybercrime and the potential for new tactics Some questions we ask: How has your time in incident response evolved over the years? What advice would you give to aspiring cybersecurity professionals Do you believe organizations can adapt and innovate their defense strategies? Resources: Scumbots on Twitter View Paul Melson on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is Live from Microsoft Secure in San Francisco and is joined by Brandon Dixon and Vasu Jakkal. As Group Product Manager for Security Copilot, Brandon is helping to shape how generative AI is used to empower professionals to focus on what matters most. Brandon reflects on how security practices have changed, mental health in the security industry and how AI can empower individuals in the tech and infosec fields. Vasu discusses her passion for cybersecurity and its impact on global safety. She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and optimism in tackling security challenges and shares her journey into cybersecurity, which was influenced by her love for technology instilled by watching Star Trek. Vasu also highlights the transformative potential of AI, particularly Microsoft Copilot for Security, in enhancing defense capabilities and catching new threats. In this episode you’ll learn: AI enhancing security practices and empowering individuals in the cybersecurity field The value of sharing ideas for critique, fostering inspiration, and driving innovation How AI has the power to unveil the wonders of the world while enhancing safety Some questions we ask: How will Co-Pilot for Security affect threat intelligence professionals and their work? What are you using AI for at work, both in terms of security and more generic AI? Can you share examples of how Copilot helps in your personal life? Resources: View Brandon Dixon on LinkedIn View Vasu Jakkal on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is Live from Times Square at Microsoft Secure and is joined by Chris Wysopal, Chip Calhoun, and Torrell Funderburk. Chris (aka Weld Pond) reflects on his experiences with L0pht, the evolution of bug bounty programs and their dominance in the cybersecurity space, highlighting both the benefits and drawbacks. Chip explains how Copilot for Security assists with threat hunting and script analysis, enhancing analysts' capabilities in identifying threats and malicious activities. He also touches on the prevalent threat actor profiles, highlighting the prevalence of e-crime and the potential impact of nation-state actors. Terrell expresses excitement about the advancements in their security program and the ability to detect and respond at scale. He also discusses his transition from software engineering to cybersecurity and encourages others to consider the move due to the foundational similarities between the fields. In this episode you’ll learn: Complications from vulnerabilities discovered in open-source software Practical applications of Copilot in incident response and threat intelligence The importance of curiosity and problem-solving skills when building a security team. Some questions we ask: How do you view the role of AI and machine learning in security, and bug bounties? What do you think is unique about securing critical infrastructure targets? Will AI influence security practices in organizations and industries going forward? Resources: View Chris Wysopal on LinkedIn View Chip Calhoun on LinkedIn View Torrell Funderburk on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Emily Yale and Anna Bertiger. The discussion delves into Emily and Anna's daily activities within the security domain. Emily highlights her role in supporting Microsoft's internal Security Operations Center by building detections for potential threats. Anna emphasizes the practical application of research in solving security problems and focuses on anomaly detection in post-breach security. Emily and Anna provide insights into Microsoft's work culture, the intersection of technology and security, the importance of mathematical and data science skills in tech roles, and the practical applications of AI tools in professional and personal contexts. In this episode you’ll learn: How data scientists support the internal SOC and enhance security The importance of anomaly detection in post-breach security Combining security with mathematical skills to create practical solutions Some questions we ask: What types of unusual patterns indicate malicious activity? Is there difficulty in securing AI models compared to traditional code? Should data science methods be used over complex models? Resources: View Emily Yale on LinkedIn View Anna Bertiger on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Stella Aghakian and Holly Burmaster. They explore the intrigue of watching threat actors and their techniques and walk through these techniques and how they are educational and critical in threat intelligence work. They also discuss their experiences at Microsoft Ignite, insights into the cyber threat actor Octo Tempest, and personal reflections on threat intelligence and favorite threat actors. Both Stella and Holly discuss how they thrive on the uncertainty and variety of their work despite the long hours and high pressure but appreciate the supportive team environment that helps them. In this episode you’ll learn: Challenges of incident response when dealing with destructive threat actors Difficulty in managing the emotional aspects of incident response The unpredictability and dynamic nature of incident response work Some questions we ask: How is the workflow structured in incident response teams? What traits are crucial for excelling in the high-pressure world of incident response? Do Dart and Mystic teams collaborate in incident responses? Resources: View Stella Aghakian on LinkedIn View Holly Burmaster on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Octo Tempest Threat Actor profile Protecting credentials against social engineering Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Bryan Prior and Nirit Hinkis from the Microsoft Threat Analysis Center. Sherrod, Bryan, and Nirit discuss Iranian influence operations, distinguishing between influence and information operations. The conversation covers examples of cyber-enabled influence operations, focusing on Iran's actions related to the 2020 U.S. presidential elections and the Israel-Hamas war. The discussion covers tactics Iranian actors use, such as impersonation, recruiting locals, and leveraging email and text messages for amplification. The podcast brings context to the intricacies of Iranian cyber activities, their collaborative efforts, propaganda consumption, creative tactics, and challenges in attribution for influence operations. In this episode you’ll learn: The collaboration among Iranian groups in cyber-enabled influence operations Wiper attacks in situations involving both cyber and kinetic operations Unique aspects of Iran's influence operations Some questions we ask: What's the reason behind a spike in Iranian propaganda consumption in Canada? Where does Iran fall compared to other countries like Russia and North Korea? What might be coming up regarding Iranian cyber attacks and influence operations? Resources: View Bryan Prior on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Iran Report Iran Accelerates Cyber Ops Against Israel Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Christine Fossaceca, Laurie Kirk, and Apurva Kumar. Today's discussion concerns a recent release from the Chaos Computer Congress, where researchers discovered and analyzed a zero-click attack on iPhones. The attack involves four zero-day vulnerabilities in iOS, requiring a malicious iMessage, a hardware bug, and a Safari exploit. The spyware discovered was specifically targeting security researchers. Sherrod, Christine, Laurie, and Apurva explore the significance of this attack, its implications for mobile security, the concept of zero-click attacks becoming more prevalent on mobile devices, and the importance of researchers being vigilant about their security. In this episode you’ll learn: Why you should consider the threat landscape when traveling internationally The technical and strategic aspects of mobile threat intelligence Prevalence of spyware on both Android and iOS platforms Some questions we ask: How can attackers disguise Trojans to harvest personal details? What are the communication vehicles that you're seeing phishing come from? How do I know if I have malware on my phone? Resources: Follow Christine on Twitter @x71n3 & @herhaxpodcast View Laurie Kirk on LinkedIn View Apurva Kumar on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn DEV-0196: QuaDream’s “KingsPawn” malware targets Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia | Microsoft Security Blog 37C3 - Operation Triangulation: What You Get When Attack iPhones of Researchers Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Greg Schloemer and Matthew Kennedy. Sherrod, Greg, and Matthew discuss North Korean cyber operations, highlighting the unique aspects that set North Korea apart, emphasizing North Korea's persistence, adaptability, and the blending of APT and cybercrime elements, mainly focusing on revenue generation through activities like cryptocurrency theft. The discussion touches on the notorious Lazarus group, known for the Sony Pictures attack and WannaCry, and how their actions captured global attention. Sherrod, Greg, and Matthew also share personal insight into why they're drawn to this particular area of cybersecurity, offering listeners a unique perspective on the motivations and passions driving those at the forefront of defending our digital world. In this episode you’ll learn: The evolution of North Korean cyber operations How cryptocurrency theft is used as a means to support the state North Korea's unique approach to cyber operations and strategic evolution over time Some questions we ask: How much work have you put into becoming a blockchain and cryptocurrency expert? What challenges arise in defending against these specific software supply chain attacks? Why are you interested in working on North Korea-related cybersecurity? Resources: View Greg Schloemer on LinkedIn View Matthew Kennedy on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Diamond Sleet supply chain compromise distributes a modified CyberLink installer Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Jeremy Dallman, Kimberly Ortiz, and Steve Ginty. Sherrod emphasizes the importance of understanding vulnerabilities before they're exploited in the wild and discusses the process of responding to security vulnerabilities, including identifying threat actors and the urgency of patch deployment, especially for vulnerabilities targeted by ransomware groups. The conversation also focuses on Security Copilot, a tool built on Microsoft's extensive threat intelligence, designed to make SOC analysts' work more accessible by providing immediate, relevant information on threats. This episode offers an insider's view on how these professionals track internal incident responses, share crucial intelligence with customers, and continuously evolve their processes to ensure swift, accurate delivery of threat intelligence. In this episode you’ll learn: -How collaborating with multiple MS teams enhances intel delivery -Interaction between Microsoft Defender Threat Intelligence and Security Copilot -Publishing actor profiles based on internal observations of techniques and procedures Some questions we ask: -How will the world of AI affect the role of threat intelligence? -What are you most excited about when it comes to AI in cybersecurity? -When do we share intel with customers, and has that process changed over the years? Resources: View Kimberly Ortiz on LinkedIn View Steve Ginty on LinkedIn View Jeremy Dallman on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn MDTI: Now Anyone Can Tap Into Game-Changing Threat Intelligence The Future of Security with AI A Year in Intel: Highlights from Microsoft's Global Stand Against APTs The risk of trust: Social engineering threats and cyber defense Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Judy Ng, Mark Parsons, and Ned Moran. Together, they delve into the riveting world of Cyberwarcon, exploring the activities of threat actors such as Volt Typhoon from China and Iranian-based adversaries. Sherrod sheds light on Volt Typhoon's strategic targeting of critical infrastructure while the team elaborates on the Iranian actors' reactive and opportunistic approach to current cyber attacks. The episode unfolds with insightful discussions of sophisticated techniques like "living off the land" and the intricacies of information operations while providing a deep dive into the evolving landscape of cyber threats and intelligence. In this episode you’ll learn: The use of AI in the current world of cybersecurity Why North Korean cyber activity is often referred to as Lazarus Unique challenges and motivations for tracking APT groups Some questions we ask: What are some challenges when following chaotic and unpredictable threat actors? How do you balance secondary projects like incident response and ransomware? What motivates someone to pursue a career in APT tracking and analysis? Resources: View Mark Parsons on LinkedIn View Ned Moran on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Microsoft Threat Research and Intelligence Leader Wes Drone. Wes has spent five years investigating criminal and national security computer intrusions for the FBI Cyber Division. After the FBI, he helped a Fortune 25 healthcare organization mature its security operations while gaining first-hand experience in risk management. Sherrod and Wes discuss his current role at Microsoft, where he focuses on messaging and web research. They also touch on the evolving landscape of phishing attacks and the impact of ChatGPT on code writing and security. In this episode you’ll learn: How ChatGPT has improved code and empowered security to create better code Why phishing attacks have evolved with new techniques and capabilities The preferences of threat actors and their willingness to adapt Some questions we ask: How have ransomware attacks shifted to a broader issue for entire businesses? Why should defenders be constantly adapting to new tactics from threat actors? What challenges and strategies have you noticed from the existing threat landscape? Resources: View Wes Drone on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Jack Mott to discuss the movie "Heat" and its relevance to social engineering and threat actor psychology. They also chat about the challenges of identifying real threats in the world of information security, highlighting the need for vigilance in detecting both evident and subtle threats. The conversation revolves around the complexities of distinguishing between genuine and malicious activity and the importance of a nuanced approach to cybersecurity. In this episode you’ll learn: Why experimentation and new approaches in the security industry are so necessary Microsoft's approach to handling and investigating blocked threats The importance of an adaptive system to stay updated on evolving threats and behaviors Some questions we ask: Why is curiosity a crucial quality for success in the information security field? How do you deal with making mistakes and taking risks in your work? Why do you foster relationships and share information with other professionals? Resources: View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Microsoft Ignite Panel, The risk of trust: Social engineering threats and cyber defense Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Microsoft threat research experts to talk about the activities of a threat actor known as Octo Tempest (which overlaps with research associated with 0ktapus, Scattered Spider, and UNC3944) and the blog released by Microsoft threat intelligence and Microsoft incident response groups. The discussion covers various tactics, techniques, and procedures Octo Tempest employs, such as SIM swapping, SMS phishing, and living off the land rather than using traditional malware. Octo Tempest is portrayed as a highly bespoke and hands-on threat actor, often engaged in "keyboard-to-keyboard combat" and showing extreme persistence even after being detected. In this episode you’ll learn: Techniques used to modify email rules and evade defensive tools The contrast between tailored attacks and automated targeted threat actors Why organizations should separate high-privileged accounts from normal user accounts Some questions we ask: Is there an end game for OctoTempest, and is it always ransomware? What is the importance of assuming the first-factor password is already compromised? How can organizations test controls and alerting for their security posture? Resources: View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn https://aka.ms/octo-tempest Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Microsoft Senior Security Researcher Graham Dietz. Graham provides intelligence-led recommendations to improve cybersecurity posture in the future. They are creating customer-ready reports and presentations incorporating threat actor attribution, threat detection and hunting guidance, and remediation recommendations. Sherrod and Graham discuss China's extensive history in cyber operations, targeting domestic and international entities, including diplomatic organizations and industrial espionage. In this episode you’ll learn: How patriotic hackers are thriving inside the Chinese cybercrime underground The complexity and diversity of Chinese cyber activities China's economic strategies and how they relate to cyber operations Some questions we ask: What should someone do when handed an unknown USB device by a stranger? Why does China target organizations without staying completely hidden? What sets China apart as an advanced persistent threat? Resources: View Graham Dietz on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Christine Fossaceca. Christine is a senior mobile security researcher at Microsoft, specializing in iOS and mobile exploit development. Christine and Sherrod discuss mobile device security and privacy concerns, mainly focusing on Apple AirTags and similar tracking devices, concentrating on the potential for misuse of these devices for shady purposes, the challenges of tracking and detecting them, and steps individuals can take to protect themselves if they suspect they are being tracked. They also examine the evolving landscape of mobile security and offer practical advice for safeguarding personal information and privacy in increasingly interconnected devices. In this episode you’ll learn: How attackers gain access to banking apps and iCloud accounts The privacy implications of Bluetooth trackers Why the landscape of mobile security is constantly evolving Some questions we ask: What's a mobile zero day? How can I and people listening protect themselves on their iPhones? What common technique do fishers use to make URLs appear legitimate? Resources: Follow Christine on Twitter @x71n3 & @herhaxpodcast View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Matthew Zorich, a Principal Consultant with Microsoft Incident Response. Sherrod and Matt discuss his motivation for creating accessible and open-source forensics tools and resources for entry-level forensics, aiming to guide those without extensive resources. They also examine the importance of helping smaller businesses and individuals understand and practice incident response and forensics, considering the potentially devastating impact of cyberattacks on them. Matt also emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and practical experimentation in incident response and identity forensics to help individuals and organizations better defend against cyber threats. In this episode you’ll learn: The challenges of identity-based forensics Tactics threat actors use to compromise accounts without raising suspicion The importance of distinguishing personal and work identities when assessing threats Some questions we ask: Why is it important to distinguish personal and work email from a threat perspective? How do you protect essential accounts in a large organization? Would you consider text messages as a reliable method to enhance security? Resources: View Matthew Zorich on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

On this week's episode of The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, Sherrod DeGrippo is joined by Threat Intelligence Analyst Simeon Kakpovi, Intelligence Analyst Lauren Podber, and Senior Hunt Analyst Emiel Haeghebaert. In this episode, Sherrod and guests explore the evolving nature of the Iranian APT group known as "Peach Sandstorm." They discuss how they mature over time while providing valuable insights into APT actors and their evolving strategies. They discuss techniques such as password spraying and the next steps attackers take to establish persistence within the victim's environment. Sherrod also highlights Iran's unique approach to cyber operations, where they exhibit creativity and perseverance in achieving their objectives, even when they may only sometimes be the most technically sophisticated group among nation-state actors. In this episode you’ll learn: The contrast between APT actors and cybercriminals How organizations can protect themselves against password spray attacks The importance for defenders to understand the motivations and tactics of APT actors Some questions we ask: What is the difference between a brute force attack and a password spray attack? How does Iran's cyber capabilities compare to those of other countries? What are some key differences between Iran and APT actors like Russia and China? Resources: How Microsoft Names Threat Actors Peach Sandstorm View Simeon Kakpovi on LinkedIn View Lauren Podber on LinkedIn View Emiel Haeghebaert on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Peach Sandstorm Ingredients: - 1 ripe peach, peeled and pitted - 1 1/2 oz Arak (a traditional Middle Eastern aniseed-flavored spirit) - 1 oz fresh lemon juice - 1 oz rose water - 1/2 oz simple syrup - A pinch of saffron strands (soaked in 1 tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes) - Crushed ice - Fresh mint leaves for garnish - Edible rose petals for garnish Instructions: 1. In a blender, combine the peach, Arak, lemon juice, rose water, simple syrup, saffron water, and a good amount of crushed ice. 2. Blend until smooth and frosty. 3. Pour into a chilled glass. 4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and edible rose petals. Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Security Unlocked Security Unlocked: CISO Series with Bret Arsenault Secure the Job: Breaking into Security Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.

Join us to hear stories from the Microsoft Threat Intelligence community as they navigate the ever-evolving threat landscape - uncovering APTs, cybercrime gangs, malware, vulnerabilities, and other weird and cool tools and tactics in the world of cyber threats. Featuring tales of innovation, teamwork, and cyber espionage, tune in to hear in-depth analyses of Microsoft's influence on the threat landscape and behind-the-scenes stories from the tireless researchers and analysts that take part. This enthralling and insightful podcast is delivered in a casual, conversational style that transports you to the frontlines of cyber defense. Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Security Unlocked Security Unlocked: CISO Series with Bret Arsenault Secure the Job: Breaking into Security Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of The CyberWire Network.