In 2000 the internet was expanding at an astronomical rate. Consumers were logging in via dial-up modems by the hundreds of millions and businesses were racing to maximize their footprint in the digital world. A hacker named Onel de Guzman living in the Philippines had been playing with a script called “I Love You”. Distributed via email, it could assume secret control of an individual's computer from a centralized control. The “I Love You” virus spread to over 50 million computers, creating the world's largest botnet. Michael Tiffany and his co-founders were aware of these types of cyber attacks and wanted to ensure the Internet worked for businesses wanting to connect with consumers. They founded Human Security, one of the first companies to combat botnet activity for major brands and today a very powerful cybersecurity company for major corporations.
In this episode of Secure Talk, host Justin Beals interviews Michael Tiffany, co-founder of Human Security and the current leader of Fulcra Dynamics. Michael shares his early experiences with computers and his journey into cybersecurity, discussing topics the founding of Human Security as a solution for botnets, ad fraud, and early “Know Your Customer” challenges. He explains his current company, Fulcra's mission to empower individuals by unifying their personal data and promoting privacy and control in the age of AI. Listen as Michael reflects on the ethical responsibilities in technology and shares his vision for a future where individuals have sovereignty over their data.
00:00 Introduction to SecureTalk
00:32 Host's Journey into Computer Science
01:39 Introducing Michael Tiffany
03:12 Michael Tiffany's Early Experiences
15:26 The Birth of Human Security
20:56 Challenges and Innovations in Cybersecurity
27:11 Fulcra Dynamics: Empowering Personal Data
37:22 Vision for the Future of AI and Data Sovereignty
43:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
What is Secure Talk Podcast?
Secure Talk reviews the latest threats, tips, and trends on security, innovation, and compliance.
Host Justin Beals interviews leading privacy, security and technology executives to discuss best practices related to IT security, data protection and compliance. Based in Seattle, he previously served as the CTO of NextStep and Koru, which won the 2018 Most Impactful Startup award from Wharton People Analytics. He is the creator of the patented Training, Tracking & Placement System and the author of “Aligning curriculum and evidencing learning effectiveness using semantic mapping of learning assets,” published in the International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJet). Justin earned a BA from Fort Lewis College.