Tag Archive for: Focus

Providing A Cyber Capability Focus > Space Operations Command (SpOC) > Article Display




The growing importance of cyber operations within the U.S. Space Force is driving a required focus on space systems at the Special Access Program level, explained Mr. David Wilcox, Space Operations Command’s Cyber Warfare Mission Area team chief. “Recognition of this gap lead to the stand-up of a Branch specifically focused on this… and I was chosen as the lead.”

As the Cyber Warfare Branch chief, Wilcox is the subject matter expert supporting SpOC’s cyberspace secure-and-defend operations for USSF missions. “Specifically, I provide subject matter expertise for integration of secure-and-defend capabilities on Special Access Program, and lead efforts for providing cyber-enabled space operations capabilities for combat power projection.”

The importance and criticality of SpOC’s cyberspace secure-and-defend operations has only increased over time. Wilcox explains, “…I know the impact of my job for SpOC and the USSF is critical to allowing our service to become a leader in cyberspace operations in support of space operations.  Our team, just with SpOC, has led USSF efforts to drive Commanders and Senior Leaders to understand the impact cyberspace risks have on total mission risk as we present our capabilities and forces in support of Combatant Commands around the globe.”

Leading a team that delivers such consequential capabilities to the security of the nation provides Wilcox a satisfaction that comes from knowing what he does, day-in day-out, is crucial and far-reaching.

Wilcox’s tenure as a Department of Defense civilian employee started with the now deactivated Air Force Space Command, and after 13 years developed into his current role which came about with senior leaders’ realization of the importance of cyber operations as part of the newly formed USSF.

“I am very satisfied with the work I do in trying to achieve the end state for SpOC and the USSF,” said Wilcox. “With the stand-up of the USSF, I feel honored to be part of something that will last years into the future and ensure and maintain access to space resources and capabilities for our nation and our Allies.”

Wilcox, an integral…

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The HACK Cybersecurity ETF in Focus


The ETFMG Prime Cyber Security ETF (HACK) is likely to continue enjoying increased investor interest as long as cyber defense remains an integral part of a business’s security measures—and it appears as though it will. According to a report by Global Market Insights, the cybersecurity market has an expected compound annual growth rate of 15% through 2032 and is forecast to reach a market size of about $900 billion.

Learn more about the HACK ETF and see what’s in store for the cyber defense securities market.

Key Takeaways

  • The HACK ETF invests in companies that create cybersecurity solutions.
  • Spending on cybersecurity is expected to grow rapidly, with a CAGR forecasted to be as much as 15% through 2032.
  • Cyber attacks on the U.S. government and businesses continue to make headlines, fueling growth expectations as the world migrates more to a digital landscape.

HACK ETF Overview

The HACK ETF, sponsored by ETF Managers Group LLC, or ETFMG, invests in companies that offer hardware, software, and services in the cybersecurity field. It is designed to track the performance of the Prime Cyber Defense Index (PCYBER), which includes “companies providing cybersecurity solutions that include hardware, software, and services.”

The fund launched in Nov. 2014, and as of Jan. 23, 2024, it has assets under management (AUM) of $1.7 billion.

Top Holdings

The fund has a total of 48 holdings. The top 10 holdings as of Jan. 23, 2024, are:

  • CrowdStrike Holdings Inc. (CRWD)
  • Zscaler Inc. (ZS)
  • Fortinet Inc. (FTNT)
  • Palo Alto Networks Inc. (PANW)
  • BAE Systems Plc. (BAESY)
  • Cloudflare Inc. (NET)
  • Check Point Software Tech Ltd. (CHKP)
  • Gen Digital Inc. (GEN)
  • Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO)
  • Okta Inc. (OKTA)

Performance

As of Dec. 31, 2023, the fund had a one-year performance of 37.42%, a three-year performance of 1.91%, and a five-year performance of 12.92%. Since its inception, the fund has a performance of 10.64%.

As of Jan. 22, 2024, HACK closed at $63.39. The stock dropped significantly at the end of 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued to fall throughout 2022. The share price started to gain traction again in 2023 and took off in Oct. 2023.

Cyber Security…

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Focus on internet security for Banff Probus Club members



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The Banff Probus Club members enjoyed their first meeting of 2024 in the Banff Springs Hotel where the guest speaker was Richard McDonald of North-East IT with his talk on Internet Security Tips.

Mr McDonald gave interesting and informative examples of spam e-mails and how to deal with them.

Also how to keep mobile phones, laptops and computers safe by installing good quality security software. But most important, never to open any e-mails or messages that anyone has any doubts about.

Internet security was the focus for Banff Probus Club members.Internet security was the focus for Banff Probus Club members.
Internet security was the focus for Banff Probus Club members.

After a session of questions and answers Mr McDonald was thanked by chairman Bob Smit.

The next meeting of the club will be on Wednesday, February 7, when the guest will be Gordon Hay talking about his work in translating the Bible into Doric.

On this occasion anyone interested in this subject, especially church members, will be made very welcome to attend and hear Mr Hay.


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Shifts in security focus in the Philippines


Alynna Carlos – Philstar.com

October 21, 2023 | 8:04am

Developments within the Philippine security landscape are continuously shaped by evolving security challenges, encompassing both personal and national levels and moving beyond geographical limitations. The shift in security focus is not only apparent in the Philippines.

Neighboring states are also confronted with the same risks, and these risks present an opportunity for collaboration. This is most apparent in the publication of Indo-Pacific strategies, the intensification of diplomatic visits for the alignment of national interests, and the frequency of military exercises aimed at boosting interoperability. 

Future risks will continue to evolve, as will security policies and strategies. The proliferation of new security risks and the uncertainty they bring signal a shift in security focus in the Philippines, prompting a more attuned approach and signaling the need to upgrade capabilities.

Considering current trends and developments, maritime security and cybersecurity emerge as areas where personal and national security are heavily intertwined.  

On a daily basis, people have become more exposed to cyber risks as they connect to the Internet and perform online transactions. Online scams and hacking incidents have been prevalent. Furthermore, as more information is shared in the digital space, the world has become apprehensive of disinformation and misinformation tactics that shape narratives and propaganda. 

On matters of maritime security, coastal communities worry about their livelihood as more Filipino fishermen are embroiled in territorial disagreements, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. There are also concerns about marine environment damage and loss of marine life in various areas. 

On a national level, the National Security Policy 2023-2028 underscores the vision of “a free, resilient, peaceful, and prosperous maritime and archipelagic nation.” With an emphasis on the country’s maritime and archipelagic nature, the Marcos Jr. administration sets its eye on elevating naval capabilities. Included in the agenda are maritime security as well as cyber, information, and cognitive security. 

Public awareness…

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