When Cybersecurity Was a Jungle: Lessons from 30 Years in the Trenches

What’s changed in cybersecurity since the days of floppy disks and dial-up? After 30 years in the field, I’m sharing unvarnished truths and the hard lessons you won’t hear in training manuals.

The Ever-Changing Cybersecurity Maze

The cybersecurity world can feel like an ever-changing maze—just when you think you’ve mapped it out, a new twist or a fresh threat appears. Thirty years ago, I remember patching systems with handwritten notes and dial-up modems humming in the background. Back then, cyber attacks were more like awkward teenagers testing the waters. Today, they’re full-blown mafias with military precision. Do you think we’re prepared for what’s next? I doubt it.

Lessons From a Phishing Exploit

One vivid memory: a phishing exploit that bypassed every filter we had because it mimicked an internal memo so well; it’s a stark reminder that technology alone can’t solve this. Real security is about understanding human behavior, too. No firewall can guard against curiosity or complacency.

The Shift from Viruses to Ransomware

We’ve seen the shift—from viruses on floppy disks to ransomware targeting entire cities. But the core remains: vigilance, layered defenses, and constant adaptation. As the landscape grows more complex, asking the right questions—like “What if this happens tomorrow?”—becomes our best weapon.

Building a Resilient Mindset

From floppy disks to ransomware siege, 30 years in cybersecurity has taught me this: technology changes, but human nature doesn’t. Security isn’t a product—it’s a restless mindset built on vigilance, adaptability, and understanding that the next threat is always just around the corner.