Session #8: How Covert Adversaries Embed Themselves in Critical Infrastructure
Presented by Corelight
2:15 PM - 3:00 PMThu
South Flex
Speakers
Vincent Stoffer
Field CTO
Corelight
The "Typhoon" threat actors, including groups like Volt, Salt, and Silk, pose a growing and sophisticated threat, actively compromising organizations with an explicit focus on critical infrastructure and supply chains. Their advanced tactics involve exploiting vulnerabilities in unmanaged network and edge devices, utilizing Living off the Land (LoTL) techniques, and directly targeting Operational Technology (OT) assets. For example, Volt Typhoon specifically focuses on strategic infiltration of OT systems.  Given the nature of these threats, the presentation offers that relying solely on Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is insufficient. The critical recommendation is to implement Network Detection and Response (NDR), which offers the comprehensive visibility required for both traditional IT networks and the converged IT/OT environment. This approach is essential for detecting advanced attacks early, establishing a network “ground truth,” and strengthening the defense-in-depth strategy necessary to protect against modern, evolving cyber risks. Expected Outcome: Participants will leave with practical guidance on applying proven operational monitoring principles to cyber defense—helping organizations identify hidden adversaries earlier and reduce systemic risk before it becomes a crisis. Intended Audience: This session is intended for cybersecurity, IT, and operational leaders responsible for securing critical infrastructure environments.