CyCube and ISMG Collaborate to Enhance Training for AI-Era Defenders

Information Security Media Group has strategically invested in Israeli startup CyCube to bridge the gap between cybersecurity intelligence gleaned from ongoing research and conferences, and practical, adaptive training labs for security professionals.

In light of the escalating threat landscape propelled by artificial intelligence, there is an increasing necessitation for dynamic training platforms capable of evolving with learners’ competencies and real-time threat scenarios. Carlos Enamorado, director of product strategy and partnerships at CyberEd.io, emphasized that the ISMG-CyCube collaboration will leverage AI to facilitate an innovative environment featuring dynamic labs, continuous assessments, and personalized learning experiences. This partnership aims to close the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in cybersecurity.

Etti Berger, CyCube’s co-founder and CEO, articulated a vision where insights from threat intelligence can be seamlessly translated into hands-on training exercises. This transition allows security teams to actively engage with real-world threats rather than simply absorbing theoretical knowledge. The integration of CyCube with CyberEd.io aims to transform the latter from merely an educational content provider into a comprehensive ecosystem for skills development and performance assessment.

The necessity for skills validation rather than rote content consumption was underscored by Enamorado, who noted a significant disparity between traditional cybersecurity training’s focus on knowledge transfer and the actual demands placed on security teams to respond effectively under pressure. As adversaries increasingly employ AI-driven techniques to enhance their attacks—creating polymorphic malware and executing automated phishing schemes—cybersecurity professionals must evolve their training to address these sophisticated threats.

Berger emphasized that the adaptability of learning scenarios is crucial. CyCube utilizes AI to modify training exercises in real-time based on a learner’s responses, allowing for an accurate simulation of decision-making under stress and unpredictable conditions. This methodology stands in stark contrast to static assessments, providing a more realistic portrayal of incident responses required in modern cyber threats.

ISMG’s global conferences, such as NullCon and Hardware.io, provide critical early access to emerging vulnerabilities and attack methodologies. The synergetic partnership with CyCube enables these insights to be quickly transformed into practical laboratories, facilitating rapid training adaptations against new threats. By tailoring training to the specific needs of various sectors—ranging from enterprise risk management to government infrastructure protection—this collaboration ensures that training is relevant and impactful.

Professionals in today’s cybersecurity landscape must commit to continuous development, regularly validating their skills and adapting to evolving attack techniques. As the threat landscape shifts with advancements in AI, training must not be a one-off event but a continuous cycle of assessment and improvement. By perpetually reevaluating and enhancing their skill sets, cybersecurity defenders can remain resilient against sophisticated, AI-driven attacks.