The Human Element in Cybersecurity with Nick Mullen

In this conversation, Nick Mullen, the founder and CEO of Sanguine Security Solutions, discusses his journey into the cybersecurity field and the importance of the human element in security. He shares an analogy of protecting a pot of gold to explain the concept of zero trust. The conversation also highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy that makes secure choices easy choices and addresses the human attack surface. It emphasizes the importance of relevant and targeted training to combat social engineering attacks. The discussion concludes with the suggestion of implementing technologies like push authentication to enhance security. The conversation covers topics such as the lack of a framework for mapping the human attack surface, the role of governance in cybersecurity, and the challenges of communicating the value of security. Takeaways • The human element plays a significant role in cybersecurity, with a large percentage of breaches involving social engineering. • Zero trust is a strategy that requires a comprehensive approach, making secure choices the easy choices and addressing the human attack surface. • Training should be relevant and targeted to individual roles and responsibilities, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. • Implementing technologies like push authentication can enhance security and protect against social engineering attacks. There is a lack of a framework for mapping the human attack surface and implementing tools and technologies to protect against it. • Governance plays a crucial role in ensuring that organizations are doing what they are supposed to be doing and doing it well. • Good governance should support an organization's enterprise goals and strategies, whether they are focused on growth and innovation or cost leadership and stability. • The role of security professionals is often misunderstood, and there is a need to communicate the positive impact of security measures to the wider audience. • Personal preferences for pineapple on pizza vary, but it can be seen as a divisive topic. • Ranch dressing is a popular staple in Midwest cuisine. • Ireland is a highly recommended travel destination known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly people. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms. link.chtbl.com/XIW5zsAn What is the Zero Trust Forum about?  It’s about empowering zero trust security professionals with strategies, architecture, and real world journeys to secure the digital future, the right way! Follow the Zero Trust Forum on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/zero-trust-forum/. Follow Jaye Tillson on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jaye-tillson/ Follow John Spiegel on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/john-spiegel-2011543/