Winter SHIELD: Closing the Security Control Gap

In this episode of the Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast, host⁠ ⁠⁠Sherrod DeGrippo speaks with Jarrod Forgues Schlenker of the FBI’s Cyber Division about the pattern's investigators see in cyber incidents and how initiatives like Operation Winter Shield aim to close the gap between knowing what to do and actually implementing it. They discuss the importance of foundational controls like phishing-resistant authentication, secure logging, and strong identity protection, as well as the role threat intelligence and prevention play in strengthening organizational defenses. The conversation highlights how small, practical security improvements can significantly disrupt attackers and help organizations reduce risk before an incident occurs. In this episode you’ll learn: How the FBI identifies recurring patterns in cyber-attacks across investigations Why phishing-resistant authentication and MFA are critical for stopping credential theft What Operation Winter Shield is and how it encourages organizations to move from awareness to action Some questions we ask: Which security control themes in the program stand out to you the most? Why are log retention and protection so critical during investigations? How can threat intelligence programs help organizations strengthen their defenses? Resources: View Jarrod Forgues Schlenker on LinkedIn View Sherrod DeGrippo on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Get the latest threat intelligence insights and guidance at Microsoft Security Insider The Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast is produced by Microsoft, Hangar Studios and distributed as part of N2K media network.