Geert Baudewijns

Negotiating in the dark: Insights from a Ransomware Negotiator

Imagine logging into your system only to be greeted by the chilling message: “You’ve been hacked.” In today’s digital age, this nightmare scenario is all too real. Cybersecurity breaches are escalating at an alarming rate, with hackers becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods. 

The aftermath of a cyber attack is chaotic, with organizations scrambling to regain control of their networks and salvage their reputation. That’s where Geert Baudewijns from Secutec comes in. Armed with over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, Geert has negotiated numerous ransomware cases for companies and institutions in Belgium and beyond. He undertakes the delicate task of brokering deals with hackers to minimize the damage, on all levels. He understands the nuances of each criminal organization, from amateur hackers to highly professional ransomware groups. 

In this session, Geert elaborates on commonly used cybercrime tactics and trends, delving into the hacking process and his negotiation strategies. He guides you through a journey where psychological manipulation, stall tactics, and threat intelligence are employed to shift the advantage in favor of the defenders. And, most importantly, he discusses proactive measures to stay one step ahead of cyber threats. 

Geert Baudewijns is a cybercrime specialist with a passion for leveraging technology to combat digital threats. He founded Secutec in 2005 after working as a Benelux Sales Representative and Account Manager for McAfee products. With over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity, he has led numerous high-profile investigations and negotiations, contributing significantly to the apprehension of cybercriminals and the advancement of cybersecurity practices. Through his work, he has become a trusted advisor to government agencies, corporations, and law enforcement entities worldwide.