Security Gets Serious 011: One-on-One with Theresa Payton

In this episode of Security Gets Serious, host Ben Carr sits down with Theresa Payton, CEO of Fortalice Solutions:

Ben and Theresa discuss a wide range of issues confronting security leaders, and dive into Theresa’s impressive career, including her stint at the White House.

About Our Guest:

Theresa Payton is a pioneering figure in cybersecurity and technology, renowned for her extensive expertise and leadership in the field. She made history as the first female Chief Information Officer (CIO) at the White House, serving under President George W. Bush from 2006 to 2008, where she oversaw IT operations for the Executive Office of the President.

Before her tenure at the White House, Payton built a robust career in the financial sector. She held executive roles in banking technology at Bank of America and Wells Fargo, where she developed a deep understanding of cybersecurity risks and measures within the financial services industry. Her educational background includes a double major in economics and business from Immaculata University, complemented by a computer certification program that sparked her interest in technology.

After her public service, Payton founded Fortalice Solutions in North Carolina, where she serves as President and CEO. Under her leadership, Fortalice has become a leading national security company, employing a team of experts dedicated to protecting businesses and governments from cyber threats. She also co-founded Dark3, a cybersecurity product company, further solidifying her status as an industry leader.

Payton's ability to demystify complex cybersecurity issues has made her a sought-after media commentator. She has appeared on programs such as The Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox Business, and Fox News, providing insights into data breaches and fraud mitigation. She also starred as a lead investigator on the CBS reality series "Hunted," where teams attempted to evade capture by expert trackers.

Throughout her career, Payton has received numerous accolades. Security Magazine named her one of the "Top 25 Most Influential People in Security," and she was recognized as the "Woman Cybersecurity Leader of the Year" in 2019. Her work in the field of fighting crime earned her the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award.

Throughout her career, Payton has received numerous accolades. Security Magazine named her one of the "Top 25 Most Influential People in Security," and she was recognized as the "Woman Cybersecurity Leader of the Year" in 2019. Her work in the field of fighting crime earned her the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award.

Theresa’s books include:

• Manipulated: Inside the Cyberwar to Hijack Elections and Distort the Truth: This book explores the complexities of digital deception and cyber manipulation that threaten the integrity of elections and personal security.  

• Privacy in the Age of Big Data: Co-authored with Ted Claypoole, this book examines the challenges to personal privacy in the digital age and offers practical advice on defending privacy rights and protecting one's family from data breaches and identity theft.  

• Protecting Your Internet Identity: Are You Naked Online?: Also co-authored with Ted Claypoole, this work explores the concept of online identity, and the risks associated with digital footprints, guiding readers on managing their online personas and safeguarding personal information.

Your Host:

Ben Carr, Halcyon Chief Security and Trust Officer: Carr is a Security & Risk Executive and recognized thought leader with more than 25 years of results driven experience in developing and executing security strategies. Carr has served in global leadership roles at advanced technology, high risk, and rapid growth companies such as Ericsson (Cradlepoint), Qualys, Aristocrat, Tenable, Visa and Nokia. Ben has served as a member of the Board of Directors for organizations such as IT-ISAC and NTXPKUA. He is an advisor for Noname Security and Syn Ventures and has previously served on Advisory boards for Living Security, TruStar, Mimecast, Qualys, and Accuvant.    

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