Cyberwarfare / Nation-State Attacks , Fraud Management & Cybercrime , Video

Is the Private Sector Prepared for Cyberwarfare?

The Ukraine war underscores the threats posed by cyberwarfare. India faces its own threats, which means public and private sectors need to work together to defend against nation-state attacks, according to retired Lt. Cdr. Antony KM, vice president of internal audit and cybersecurity at NAB India.

See Also: Gartner Guide for Digital Forensics and Incident Response

Antony will share his perspectives as a speaker at the 16th annual C0c0n 2023 conference, where Information Security Media Group will serve as a media partner. He pointed out that most businesses only prepare for attacks by cybercriminals but they don't consider multiple adversaries targeting India. Nation-state groups typically focus on command-and-control capabilities, major electronic systems, psychological campaigns and cyber operations.

"Most simulation exercises are a boardroom exercise," he said. "The focus is on smaller attacks or a large-scale DDoS attacks ... The focus is not so much on larger cyberwarfare. If a nation-state actor wants to create a greater impact, he won't focus only on cyber operations. It could be electronic warfare by compromising electronic systems. Then, there are disinformation campaigns. But not many organizations are prepared to handle all of these."

In this video interview with Information Security Media Group conducted prior to C0c0n 2023, Antony discussed:

• The roles and responsibilities involved in preparing for cyberwarfare;
• How most cyberattacks are different from cyberwarfare;
• The need for better coordination between the government and the private sector.

Antony is a senior auditor at NAB India responsible for cybersecurity and payments technology audits. He has over 15 years of experience in corporate and military information security and cyberwarfare defense, specializes in vertical cybersecurity domains, and has hands-on experience in offensive cyber operations.