Spies and Bytes: Victory in the Digital Age
Reflections on national cyber defense, foreign intelligence threats, and modern cyber operations from the former NSA and USCYBERCOM commander.
Summary
Perspectives on Modern Cyber Warfare
Join General Paul M. Nakasone, U.S. Army (Retired), for a deep dive into the realities of modern cyber warfare at DefCon. With critical stories from his extensive career, General Nakasone will expose the details of national security in the digital era.
Leadership at NSA and USCYBERCOM
The longest-serving leader of both the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command, General Nakasone has been on the frontlines of America's cyber defense. He will share firsthand accounts of defending against nation-state hackers, securing critical infrastructure during global crises, and the strategies that kept adversaries at bay.
National Security in the Digital Age
This talk will examine the evolving nature of conflict, where the battlefield extends into cyberspace and unique partnerships must be built to offer agility and resilience. General Nakasone will discuss the persistent threats posed by sophisticated hackers and the innovative defenses employed to counteract them. He’ll delve into the importance of intelligence sharing, international alliances, and transparency in operations.
Looking ahead, General Nakasone will present a forward-thinking vision for the future of warfare. He’ll highlight the necessity for adaptive cyber strategies, resilient defenses, and the cultivation of new leadership to address emerging threats.
Related talks
Creator Stage·39 min
Herming Chiueh · Jason Vogt · Frank Smith
Taiwanese digital affairs officials and experts discuss digital blockade scenarios, undersea infrastructure protection, and cyber-resilience against nation-state threats.
Main Stage·41 min
The Dark Tangent · Anne Neuberger
Discussion on emerging technology policies, quantum resilience, and securing critical infrastructure between Anne Neuberger and Jeff Moss.
Main Stage·18 min
Mieke Eoyang
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Mieke Eoyang debunks nuclear analogies in cyberwarfare, detailing modern Defend Forward strategies and public-private partnerships.


