Sean interviews Valéry Rieß-Marchive of LeMagIT:
Valéry, co‑founder and editor of LeMagIT and an experienced specialist in cybersecurity and end‑user computing, has long translated complex technologies into practical advice.
In this interview, he shares how organizations should manage crisis communication during cyberattacks, with a specific focus on the risks and impacts of leaked ransomware negotiations — from first responses to coordination with internal teams and authorities — so they can protect stakeholders and preserve trust.
Here is a small snippet of the interview, which seems quite timely in light of the fact that Balenciaga’s chat negotiations were recently leaked — and reported — on this site.
2.What are the key risks associated with leaks of ransomware negotiations?
Valéry: “The first risk is obvious: an undisclosed cyberattack becomes public. If a ransom had been paid to suppress the news, that intent fails.
Worse, sensitive information shared during negotiation might be exposed, wrecking any planned communication strategy.”
3.How can leaked ransomware negotiations impact an organization’s reputation and overall security posture?
Valéry: “In case of a cyberattack, resilience depends on two pillars: IT and communication.
As shown in a 2022 Bessé/G.P. Goldstein analysis, ‘communication is essential to trust’. If communication appears inconsistent or unprofessional — especially in leaked chat logs — it damages trust.
Leaked conversations may also make the victim a target for additional threat actors looking to exploit perceived weakness. It has happened before.”
Read more of Valéry advice and thoughts at Man in the Browser.