In this episode of NeedleStack, hosts AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi engage with James Villenueve, a geospatial intelligence expert, to explore the world of GEOINT and its intersection with open source intelligence (OSINT). They discuss the importance of understanding geospatial data, the ethical implications of its use, and the challenges of protecting personal information in a data-rich environment. The conversation also highlights positive applications of geospatial intelligence, including environmental monitoring and humanitarian efforts, while addressing the risks associated with data misuse and the evolving role of AI in the field.
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48:44
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48:44
Ransomware’s Collateral Damage
Jason Baker from the Guidepoint Research & Intelligence Team (GRIT) shares his background and provides insights into ransomware attribution, the challenges of defending against ransomware, and the implications of AI in ransomware operations.
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26:38
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26:38
Identifying fraud in financial services
How can Intelligence benefit financial sectors? It can address challenges like sanctions, data privacy, and cryptocurrency. Teresa Walsh highlights the importance of collaboration, the role of AI in intelligence, and the necessity to professionalize intelligence roles in the private sector. The conversation also delves into building mature and unified intelligence programs, emphasizing the need for a Chief Intelligence Officer role in any organization.
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41:43
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41:43
Adding Agentic AI to Analysis
Ultimately, GenAI has the potential to create jobs in areas like data science and cybersecurity, but only if it is integrated responsibly. However, the consensus today is that AI should remain a just tool for analysts, not a direct decision-maker, until reliability and trust in its outputs significantly improve.About Brian FullerBrian A. Fuller is Director of Operations for the Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst University, a position he assumed in December 2019. As the Director of Operations, Fuller supports all operations related to the academic curriculum or Ridge College activities. This includes working as the Director for the Center of Intelligence Research, Analysis and Training (CIRAT) and Director of the Innovation Entente Lab (IEL). Previously, he served as a Senior Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) instructor for the Department of the Army’s OSINT Office, where he was charged with overseeing the Army’s OSINT training program for the Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions. He trained Army intelligence professionals at the strategic, tactical, and special operations levels. He managed the training curriculum, personnel, financial, and administrative affairs of the program while participating as a subject matter expert in the intelligence communities’ OSINT program and operational development working groups, ensuring the continued growth of the discipline and associated tradecraft and technologies.
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57:31
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57:31
Hacker Summer Camp 2025
Robert and AJ went to Hacker Summer Camp. What’s that? It’s a week of conferences such as Black Hat USA, BSidesLV, the Dianna Initiative, Squadcom, and of course DEF CON. Find out what’s relevant for the intelligence community during this first week in August annual event.
NeedleStack co-hosts interview professional open-source researchers who discuss tips, tricks and insights into the practice of digital investigative research. Whether you’re an open-source expert or aficionado, tune in to learn how to hone your skills, improve your craft and protect yourself as you search the surface, deep and dark web.
From Authentic8, creators of Silo for Research. Visit authentic8.com/needlestack to learn more!
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