Inside the Cyber Battlefield: States and Non-State Actors | ft. Max Smeets, Cyber Expert. (Ep 32 - Clip 6)

Inside the Cyber Battlefield: States and Non-State Actors | ft. Max Smeets, Cyber Expert. (Ep 32 - Clip 6)

Author: Anirudh Suri June 4, 2025 Duration: 4:02

In this clip, Max Smeets unpacks the global ransomware threat landscape—mapping out where the major cybercriminal groups operate from, who they target, and how geopolitics plays into it all.While Russia remains the epicenter of many ransomware operations, these groups often have multinational member bases across Belarus, Ukraine, and beyond, operating with a tacit agreement not to target Russian allies.We also explore how English-speaking countries like the U.S. are primary targets, not only for ideological reasons, but also because of language familiarity and financial payoff.This conversation dives into groups like Conti, the fragmentation of ransomware gangs, and the shift in targets toward Latin America, as attackers evolve both strategically and politically.If you’re curious about cybercrime, digital geopolitics, or how language shapes attack strategies, this is a must-watch.

Watch Full Episode: https://youtu.be/XXSIa5-exTI


Anirudh Suri sits at a unique crossroads, drawing from his experience as a tech venture capitalist and policy advisor to frame some of today's most pressing questions. In The Great Tech Game Podcast: Geopolitics, Technology, Business and Global Affairs, with Anirudh Suri, he moves beyond surface-level news to explore how technological shifts are actively redrawing the lines of global power and economic opportunity. Each episode is built around a conversation with a carefully selected thinker, from entrepreneurs and investors to strategists and scholars, who can unpack the real-world implications of these converging forces. You'll hear specific discussions on how supply chains are being reshaped by policy, what the race for semiconductors means for national security, and how business strategies must adapt in a fragmenting digital world. The dialogue is grounded in Anirudh's perspective as the author of *The Great Tech Game*, ensuring a consistent, insightful thread through diverse topics. This isn't about abstract theory; it's about understanding the tangible game board where technology decisions collide with geopolitical realities. Tuning into this podcast provides a clearer lens on the forces shaping your industry, investments, and the broader global landscape, offering depth and context that daily headlines often miss.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Great Tech Game Podcast: Geopolitics, Technology, Business and Global Affairs, with Anirudh Suri
Podcast Episodes