Ransomware: Executive Talking Points

Ask any security practitioner and they’ll tell you that ransomware is on the rise. Recent high-profile events like Petya, WannaCry, and others have captured media attention both the trade and mainstream press and, by extension, have captured executive attention at the highest levels of organizations. High profile events like these create havoc in the short term, but in the long term may actually help to foster security improvements provided that security teams are prepared to leverage them when they occur. Specifically, by preparing in advance “talking points” for situations like these, and by channeling executive interest and visibility when they occur, security practitioners can help make progress in areas that are normally challenging. For example, by securing budget to address known problem areas, prioritizing and gaining visibility for known risks, or by securing additional personnel to address skill shortages. The key to doing this is in the planning. This session will focus on the talking points; both specific talking points arising from these events that practitioners can tailor for their situation as well as how they can prepare talking points for future situations should they arise.