Cyber Consulting Room

Episode 12: How Secure Is Your Digital Life? The Alarming Reality of Tech Trust Issues

Can we ever truly trust the technology that runs our lives? Think about it: every time we use a phone, share a photo, or shop online, we’re putting a lot of trust in these digital systems. But how safe are they?

In this episode of the Cyber Consulting Room podcast, host Gordon Draper continues his conversation with Helen Patton, a distinguished cybersecurity executive advisor and former CSO of Cisco.

In part one, Helen shared her belief that superior business outcomes hinge on empowering people within an organization. She discussed her strategies for fostering a security culture and leveraging industry connections for business success. Now, in part two, Helen delves deeper into influencing public policy for positive change in cybersecurity and building trust in an increasingly technological world.

They explore the challenges of ensuring trustworthy technology, the impact of AI on cybersecurity, and the importance of transparency and ethics in tech development. Helen emphasizes managing complexity, promoting transparency, and integrating ethical practices to build trust in technology. The discussion also covers how AI can enhance security measures and its potential impact on the cybersecurity workforce.

Tune in to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity!


In This Episode:

  • (02:33) Complexity in technology
  • (02:57) User interface and trust
  • (06:11) Ethics in technology development
  • (07:12) Trust in cybersecurity consultants
  • (08:11) AI security challenges
  • (09:22) Trustworthy AI testing
  • (11:01) Data bias in AI
  • (12:01) Evaluating AI security
  • (12:15) Return on investment in AI
  • (12:59) AI in healthcare
  • (14:01) AI's impact on cybersecurity
  • (27:25) Learning resources for cybersecurity
  • (31:30) Advice for new cybersecurity graduates
  • (35:45) Future of cybersecurity
  • (40:21) Three recommended cybersecurity books


Notable Quotes

  • [01:24] “For me, trustworthy means it's going to behave the way I expect and be available when I need it.”-Helen 
  • [38:24] “Within a university setting. I think cyber security should be its own college.”-Helen 


Our Guest
Helen Patton is an accomplished CISO and business leader with extensive experience in transforming security teams and cultures across various industries. She has held pivotal roles, including CISO at Cisco and The Ohio State University, where she earned the 2018 ISE North American Academic/Public Sector Executive of the Year award. Helen advocates for industry collaboration, improved diversity, and mentorship in security. She holds a master’s in public policy and serves on multiple cybersecurity advisory boards, teaching security leadership and risk management.


Resources and Links

Cyber Consulting Room

Gordon Draper

  • https://cybermarket.com/
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordondraper/

Helen Patton

Mentioned Books

People on this episode