Episodes

  • A lot has changed in the Information security space in the past decade, with cyber security transforming from a niche career path into a highly sought-after field. In this episode of Dear Infosec, ISF's Mark Ward and Paul Watts, discuss the pivotal events and formative experiences that have shaped the life and career of Petri Koivisto, a seasoned security leader and current CISO at Finnish steel giant Outokumpu.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    From CISO to BISO and back again How history and language influence infosec What they don't teach in CISO school Subscribe to Dear Infosec wherever you listen to podcasts
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.
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  • In part two of our CERT on Jersey, Matt Palmer Director of the Jersey Cybersecurity Centre continues his conversation with ISF Distinguished Analyst Paul Watts, and ISF Senior Analyst and Dear Infosec host Mark Ward. Matt shares further insight into the set-up of a Computer Emergency Response Team and the issues associated with running the centre. He also shares his future plans for the centre now that it is fully operational.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    Exploring the British Library breach Cyber threats old and new Taking the lead in security
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.
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  • Matt Palmer, Director of the Jersey Cybersecurity Centre has been the driving force behind the creation of a Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) for Jersey – one of the Channel Islands. As the architect behind this initiative, Matt explains the circumstances that led to the realisation of its necessity, the efforts involved in bringing it to fruition, and the significant impact it has had since its creation. ISF Distinguished Analyst, Paul Watts and ISF Senior Analyst, and Dear Infosec podcast host, Mark Ward test his responses.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes...

    Exploring the British Library breach Cyber threats old and new Taking the lead in security
    Subscribe to Dear Infosec wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.
    Your listens

  • We're back with a new look and content even better than before!

    Over time, the Analyst Insight Podcast has evolved, and so has our content. What began as a review of research has transformed into a space for in-depth discussions addressing pressing Infosec issues. As our scope has grown, so has our community. In this first episode of the re-branded podcast, host Mark Ward, along with Paul Watts; ISF Members Iwona Muchin and Erhan Temurkan, delve into problems submitted by listeners. They debate how technical is too technical and explore effective ways to encourage people to take security seriously.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    Exploring the British Library breach From CISO to BISO and back again Taking the measure of governance

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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • Just what does a BISO do all day, and how much does it differ to that of a CISO? ISF Distinguished Analyst Paul Watts and ISF Analyst Mark Ward try to find out by talking to Adriano Pinheiro and Sneha Ahuja, who fulfil this role for their organisation. Adriano and Sneja explain in depth, what they do, how they do it, and how the job differs from organisation to organisation.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    BISO or CISO – which one should you hire? From CISO to BISO and back again Taking the lead in security
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.


  • Today marks the 50th episode of the Analyst Insights podcast! This milestone episode celebrates the positives of working in InfoSec. Drawing on testimonies from previous guests, Patric Versteeg and Mike Cartwright, as well as conversations among ISF regulars Paul Watts and Esther Schagen-van Luit, this episode brings to life all the ways InfoSec can reward and enhance the lives of those who work in the field.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes ...Threat Horizon 2024: Where did the trust go? Scenarios for an uncertain future When infosec gets personal
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • Research at the ISF is changing to align more closely with the evolving nature of information security and the demands of Members. In a follow-up episode to 'Research in 2024', Principal Research Analyst Richard Absalom joins Senior Analyst and podcast host Mark Ward to discuss in detail what’s changing with ISF Research. Richard and Mark outline what Members can expect from the new initiatives, and which crucial industry topics will be the first to emerge from the renewed approach.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes ...Threat Horizon 2024: Where did the trust go? Scenarios for an uncertain future When infosec gets personal Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • In this third installment of the 'Exploring Careers' series, which puts infosec careers under the microscope, experienced security auditors - Aarti Ajay, Einat Segal, and Deepak Uniyal - join ISF Analyst and podcast host Mark Ward, along with ISF Principal Consultant Bharat Thakrar, to discuss auditing. Together, they delve into the role, its responsibilities, misconceptions about auditors, potential future developments, and what individuals opting for this career path can anticipate in their day-to-day activities.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes ...Exploring careers: Security testing Exploring careers in information security Axa spreads the word on security careers
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • The emergence of the Business Information Security Officer (BISO) role shows how far security leadership has evolved. But how different is it really from the CISO role? Recruitment expert Ross Tanner debates the difference between the two, and when an organisation should go hunting for each one with ISF analysts Paul Watts and Mark Ward. ​

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes ...From CISO to BISO and back again Taking the lead in security What they don’t teach in CISO school Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • In the first of a new format for the Analyst Insight podcast, Alex Jordan, a first-time guest and Head of Tools & Methodologies at the ISF, joins ISF Principal Esther Schagen-van Luit, along with ISF analysts Paul Watts and Mark Ward. Together, they dive into a comprehensive discussion examining the report on the breach at the British Library in the UK. Listen as they aim to uncover what went wrong and share valuable insights that can be learned from the devastating incident.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes... Cyber threats old and new Threat Horizon: All threats, all the time Keeping the bad guys at bay Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • There is no getting away from Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the moment - It’s in our phones, on the web and shaping our world. Whether this is a good thing or a troubling development for information security and the wider business, is debated by technology and security expert Yngvar Ugland with ISF research analysts Lee Munson, Mark Ward and ISF Lead Cyber Security Consultant Luka Ivezic.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful episodes... All about AI What ChatGPT did next ISF research in 2024 Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.


  • Business Information Security Officers (BISOs) are a newish addition to the roster of jobs available to InfoSec practitioners, but how do you become one, and how do they relate to being a CISO? Security leader Erhan Temurkan joins ISF analysts Paul Watts and Mark Ward to dissect his journey from BISO to CISO and unpack what he saw along the way.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Other useful podcasts...Taking the Lead in SecurityWhat They Don't Teach in CISO SchoolThe Great CISO Debate
    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • Recruiting individuals to fill roles in information security is tough, compounded by the increasing complexity of managing, mentoring, and training once they're on board. Keith Price, a seasoned CISO at National Highways, and cyber security veteran, delves into the many ways to hire and oversee InfoSec professionals alongside Distinguished Analyst Paul Watts and Senior Analyst, Mark Ward from the ISF.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    Axa spreads the word on security careers
    Exploring careers: security testing
    How Copenhagen is tackling the cyber skills shortage


    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.




  • In celebration of International Women’s Day, some of the leading ladies in cyber at the ISF: Esther Schagen-van Luit, Principal of Services; Hui Shan, Senior Analyst; Shreya Tiwari, Zero Trust Product Lead; and Francesca Williamson, Analyst, share why they choose to stay in cyber. Listen to their reflections on each of their careers so far, their trusted recommendations on various resources that have supported them on their journey, and the industry advancements they are most looking forward to seeing play out in the future.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Analyst at the ISF.

    In need of more resources for your career development? Visit our Women in Cyber Hub here: https://www.securityforum.org/women-in-cyber/


    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • Ransomware emerged in 1989 and continues to afflict organisations today, alongside various other scams, whether cyber-related or not. It's the same threat on a different day. Listen as InfoSec veteran Paul Ducklin, security podcaster Alice Violet and ISF analysts Lee Munson and Mark Ward debate if anything has changed or we are stuck in the same cycle of risks and how to break out of it.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    All threats, all the time
    Keeping the bad guys at bay
    AI futures: assessing the dangers

    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • For those recently appointed as security leaders or CISOs, the initial period can be challenging, as the consequences of missteps carry tangible risks. In this podcast, esteemed security lead Lisa Burns-Peake and experienced former CISO Paul Watts, engage in a discussion on strategies for establishing a favorable early reputation and fostering constructive relationships rather than risking alienation. Mark Ward serves as the interviewer guiding the conversation.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    The great CISO debate
    What they don't teach at CISO school
    How governance can guide the CISO

    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • The world feels increasingly heated and volatile. Is this a temporary trend or a sign of things to come? Dire forecasts of trouble ahead and what can be done to cope are debated by Paul Watts, Richard Absalom and Mark Ward in this threat-themed podcast. Paul shares his formative experiences from the last big crisis he weathered – the 2008 financial crash which hit during his time in retail finance.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    Threat Horizon: Exploring the futures
    Threat Horizon: Putting the social in media
    AI Futures: Assessing the danger


    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.


  • Delving into their innovative recruitment project, Florence Bertaut from Axa's French arm details the project's scope and school outreach initiatives to young students - many of whom may not be studying computer science. Providing his first-hand perspective is Benoît de Lavignère, one of the program's first successful recruits. The conversation culminates with insightful questions from Richard Absalom and Mark Ward of the ISF.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

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    How Copenhagen Is Tackling the Cyber Skills Shortage
    Exploring Careers: Security testing
    Exploring Careers in Information Security


    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • Welcome to Season 2 of the Analyst Insight Podcast!

    Looking ahead to 2024, the ISF research team sit down to reveal what themes they will be looking into over the next 12 months. Listen as Mark Ward, Richard Absalom, Max Brook, Lee Munson and Paul Watts explain how the topics where chosen, and a few changes to the way ISF research effort is organised. This includes moving towards the production of shorter, more frequent reports in line with topical shifts in the industry.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Episodes you might be interested in:Threat Horizon: Exploring the futures Threat Horizon: Putting the social in media Threat Horizon: All about AI Threat Horizon: Future gazing
    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
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    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.

  • What's on your Christmas reading list?

    Books that deal with hackers, culture, surveillance capitalism and the first principles of Infosec are debated in this special holiday season episode. Alongside cyber specialist Alice Violet, ISF analysts Mark Chaplin, Paul Watts and Mark Ward talk about their favourite books on cyber security principles, data privacy and cross-cultural management.

    If you would like to find out more about the topics covered in this episode, get in touch with Mark Ward, Senior Research Analyst at the ISF.

    Subscribe to the ISF Analyst Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts
    Connect with us on LinkedIn

    From the Information Security Forum, the leading authority on cyber, information security, and risk management.