Another year of Black Hat has come and gone, prompting reflection on the shifts and constants shaping the cybersecurity landscape.
The resounding buzz at this year's conference revolved around Generative AI, what is next and how it's affecting the cybersecurity industry as a whole. While AI holds immense potential in streamlining the once manual and mundane facets of cybersecurity, there were very few actual examples of meaningful AI integration into security products. It will be interesting to see how companies begin to harness AI in products to provide proven and valuable results in the years to come.
Among the years I've attended Black Hat, this year stood out with its remarkable blend of attendance. Having everything at Mandalay Bay made it easy for cybersecurity enthusiasts to engage with clients, peers, and prospects. This geographical location facilitates seamless connections and post-event gatherings. After a prolonged absence from Black Hat due to the pandemic, it was truly delightful to reconnect with peers and colleagues I've known for nearly two decades.
Having absorbed the entirety of the experience, the rapidly evolving intersection of cybersecurity and the generative AI revolution emerges as the most significant theme to watch among cybersecurity professionals. Yet, amid ever-changing technological trends, one concept remains paramount: the power of in-person networking and face-to-face interactions.
Generative AI’s Role in Cybersecurity
Most of the insights I took away from Black Hat focused on the industry’s future, and no concept was referenced quite as frequently as generative AI. Considerable attention has been given to the potential of generative AI to revolutionize the security industry. In fact, our team connected with the analyst firm Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG), which had some interesting takeaways on the topic.
ESG argued that at the moment, the supply exceeds the demand in space, with so many generative AI engines servicing many of the same types of tasks. These could range from coding and code scanning, bridging gaps in understaffed teams, and real-time threat analysis. Over time, these tools could even shoulder the monotonous and repetitive responsibilities that currently burden security analysts.
They also noted how, on the flip side, generative AI is still in its early stages of development. Moreover, security experts aren't the sole individuals who recognize the potential of generative AI. What proves advantageous for security professionals often holds the same benefit for malicious actors. Present-day adversaries are actively exploring ways to leverage generative AI for their own malevolent intentions.
All in all, it's clear that as the industry continues to evolve, so do the malicious actors as well. Something to keep in mind as we close out the year.
Treble’s Impact
With many product announcements and similar messaging across attending companies, connecting with the right people at the right time and gaining meaningful coverage can be difficult.
Beyond engaging with our present clients in attendance, we took the initiative to engage in discussions with other prominent cybersecurity analysts and influencers. Several weeks prior to the event, we initiate interactions with attendees, extending invitations for in-person briefings with our company executives. Simultaneously, we keep a vigilant eye on potential trendjacking opportunities within the cybersecurity domain, leveraging these as engaging entry points to secure meetings with influential stakeholders. This underscores the vital importance of showcasing your company's expertise and establishing credibility with your target audience during these events. It was truly enriching to reconnect with technical security researchers and team members actively engaged in the forefront of cybersecurity. These interactions enabled us to formulate significant strategies for both current and potential clients.
One particular example of this at the conference was with our client Stack Identity, who released their Shadow Access Impact Report during the conference, securing coverage in outlets including VMblog, TechStrong TV, and Security Week. Not only did this act as a hook to set up multiple conversations with key stakeholders at the event, but our team was able to secure conversations with key industry analysts, helping solidify strategic relationships for future announcements. We were also able to help facilitate conversations between our clients and key buyers within the CISO community.
Closing Thoughts
Participating in Black Hat presented a remarkable chance for Treble to amplify its brand recognition as a prominent tech PR agency. We engaged with clients, media representatives and professionals from the industry, which allowed us to strengthen ties with existing clients and establish valuable connections with potential ones. Furthermore, the insights we gleaned into prevailing industry trends, enterprise challenges and technological advancements will be a foundation for our PR strategies as we close the year.