Utility Security Podcast

Utility Security Podcast – Resources to Help You Protect Your Customers from Scams – A Conversation with Utilities United Against Scams Executive Director Michelle Martinez

May 29, 2024

Many electric, water, and natural gas customers throughout the country are being targeted by impostor utility scams each day. Scammers typically use phone, in-person, and online tactics to target customers. Raising awareness and educating customers about scams is Utilities United Against Scams (UUAS) top priority. UUAS will continue to help spread awareness of the suspicious behaviors and the evolving tactics that scammers use to target customers. It is important that customers call their utilities directly to check on the status of their accounts if they are ever unsure about the authenticity of a caller or the identity of a service worker, or if they suspect any fraudulent activity.

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14 min. with Michelle Martinez

Utility Security Podcast – Drones – Why They are a Threat – Leo McCluskey from Echodyne

April 29, 2024

This podcast discusses drone detection for utilities.

The speaker, Leo McCluskey from Echodyne, discusses various ways drones can be a threat to utilities and how difficult it can be to detect them because they can be modified to avoid detection.

He recommends a layered approach to drone detection that includes radar, optical cameras, and acoustic sensors.

McCluskey says that currently utilities can only call law enforcement if they see a drone but there are efforts underway to change regulations to allow utilities to take more aggressive action.

In the future, McCluskey expects to see more good drones being used for things like security purposes and better data sharing to help identify bad drones.

Connect with Leo – https://www.linkedin.com/in/leomccloskey/

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24 min. with Leo McCluskey

Utility Security Podcast – Rajesh Krishnan – Live from The Utility Cyber Security Forum

March 22, 2024

Securing the Grid: An Interview with Rajesh on IoT & OT Security

With special guest Rajesh Krishnan – Head of Product Marketing at Asimily

This episode dives deep into the critical world of IoT and OT security for utility companies. Our guest, Rajesh, tackles head-on the complacency some utilities face and the potential consequences of neglecting these vital safeguards. We explore the unique challenges of securing OT environments, including the “invisibility” of certain devices, and how to overcome them. The conversation tackles the growing threat landscape and the prediction that OT attacks may rise alongside advancements in IT security. Rajesh offers valuable insights for utility security professionals, outlining key strategies to fortify their defenses. We wrap up with a glimpse into the future of IoT and OT security, exploring where the biggest changes and risks are likely to unfold in the coming years. Don’t miss this essential discussion for anyone invested in the resilience and safety of our nation’s power grid.

Connect with Rajesh – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfkrishnan/

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13 min. with Rajesh Krishnan

Utility Security Podcast – COL(R) Bill Edwards – Are You Ready for a Drone Attack on Your Infrastructure?

February 19, 2024

Welcome to this first episode of The Utility Security Podcast with Colonel Bill Edwards.

In this episode we dive in with drone security expert Bill Edwards. He discusses Why You Should be Establishing a Drone Emergency Response Plan Now!

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About COL(R) Bill Edwards:  COL(R) Bill Edwards is a thought leader and is currently President of Federal at Building Intelligence Inc. Most recently he worked for Thornton Tomasetti as a senior executive and offers over 35 years of combined experience and expertise in operational, technical, and electronic security consulting, counter-terrorism, counter-intelligence, surveillance, and counter-surveillance efforts. Most recently, he has built and led a successful security consulting business group that provides expert advice in any vertical market as it applies to threat, vulnerability, and risk assessment (TVRA), electronic security system design (ESD), and security operations center design (SOC). He also provides a myriad of additional services that include Cybersecurity TVRA, electronic security audits, and red teaming. Additionally, he served as the Director of Intelligence for Theater Special Operations Command-North, which required extensive collaboration and partnering across the U.S. whole of government security enterprise. He designed a cohesive and collaborative counter-terrorism network with Department of Defense, Law Enforcement, and Inter-Agency partners, while simultaneously bridging strong relationships with coalition partners to further extend his security reach in an effort to protect the homeland. Bill also brings extensive experience in operational/technical security from his combat deployments to Iraq, where he commanded two large bases and operationally operated in Al Anbar, Dhi Qar, and Basra Provinces focusing primarily on operations and security in these areas. During this time period, he oversaw the planning and execution of all base infrastructure including the implementation and operation of complex U.S. base security measures.

30 min. with Bill Edwards