In the Close Protection business, much of the work is physical, which is inherited from the old-school bodyguard principles. Nowadays, cyber-related threats are real and cover at least 75% of cybercrimes. This can be executed by rival companies, hate groups, or even ex-wives and foes. The industry is not yet ready for the next generation of crimes and threats in cyberspace, although OSINT and HUMINT are slowly being adopted. Cyberspace is a complex world and is too far away from the Close Protection world. Perhaps some organizations with enough funds have more robust knowledge. In-depth knowledge of digital security, cyberspace, hacking, risks of social media, encryption, and threats through the digital space require serious education, training, and practical experience which cannot be bought. The DCPT is the next generation of Close Protection in Cyberspace.

Position within the Close Protection Team

The DCPT team is a "section" of specialists who operate between the SOC, Security Operations Center, and the Close Protection Team. Its job is to detect and protect against threats from cyberspace. This is where "specialization" comes in and the reasons why it is separated from SOC. Whereas SOC is responsible for Operational Tasks, the DCPT is responsible for scanning, detecting, and preventing attacks from cyberspace. It also performs ad-hoc tasks requested by either SOC or the CPT operators. Scanning email communication, chats, social media channels, fora, and so on is a heavy duty and requires time, skills, and effort. Detecting and preventing in the digital world is far more complicated compared to the physical world, hence the "specialization."

Team Composition

The DCPT is a multidisciplinary team of specialists working in the Information and Communication Technology world. What specializations can be found in the DCPT team heavily depends on the budget, but to provide a few examples:

- OSINT + HUMINT

- Ethical Hackers / Penetration testers

- Encryption Specialists / Crypto security specialists

- Social Media account managers

- Endpoint protection specialists

- Mobile security specialists

- Cloud security specialists

- Infra security specialists

- Email specialists (detection of scam, cryptoware, fraudsters, etc.)

- Communication Security Specialist

- Networking Security Specialist

- Awareness Trainers

Team Roles and Responsibilities

The DCPT is mainly responsible for detecting and preventing any threat originating from the digital/cyber world. This is intentionally a very broad set of responsibilities, and this emphasizes the complexity and importance of the DCPT. Threats can come from anywhere, whether it's a scam sent by email, the corporate website hacked and sending out porn, or even worse, ransomware. Threats sent through private messages, DMs, or posts in closed/private forums? Even things like disrupting the company's Google indexation score can be a threat that puts the company out of business.

The roles within the team are based on the available budget. Some roles can be combined, while some roles are so specialized that they are hard to combine. The roles will be based on specialization as provided above.

In terms of communication, the DCPT has the task and responsibility to translate anything from the digital context to human-understandable language that the field operators and SOC operators understand.

Tasks and Tools

The DCPT is equipped with the latest technology and open-source software and is continuously undergoing certifications and training. Tools can also include software licenses, subscriptions, but also physical hardware, like routers, access points, satellite communication systems, and even BTS. The arsenal is vast and wide, hence the "specialization."

The main task of the DCPT is to detect and prevent any damage to the principal's image or property in the context of the digital world. This includes damage to any form of data owned by the principal or his/her company.

The secondary task of the DCPT is to provide ad-hoc services to the SOC and CTP operatives. This can be active monitoring of individuals, communication channels like social media, but also active research on suspicious individuals. Another task that DCPT can take on is to provide a secure communication infrastructure at or in a venue or maybe prevent any or a specific way of communication. It can include tasks like securing existing WiFi communication, fiber-optic communications, and hotspots.

Additional tasks can be setting up base stations, satellite communication, point-to-point gateways, camera systems, and so on. Anything that is attached to the digital world or cyberspace.

Other cyber-related tasks that the DCPT performs include infiltration, man-in-the-middle attacks, setting up honeypots, and so on. Gathering intel about threats or individuals by setting up rogue base stations, rogue WiFi hotspots, and so on.

DCPT Services

The DCPT should be able to provide any type of services related to cyberspace or the digital world in general. Anything that is high-tech or require ICT specific skills.

- Endpoint protection and security scanning

- Active monitoring of communication channels

- Setting up secure communication systems and channels

- Proactive security scanning of digital property

- Security analysis

- Ad-Hoc service provider

- Consultancy (ICT or Cybersecurity)

- OSINT

- HUMINT

- SPI / GPS tracking

- MiM attacks

- Scam/ransomware detection

Business Case: Digital Close Protection Team (DCPT)

Introduction

In today's interconnected world, where cyber threats are becoming increasingly prevalent, traditional methods of close protection are no longer sufficient to ensure the safety and security of individuals and organizations. The Digital Close Protection Team (DCPT) offers a comprehensive solution to address the evolving landscape of threats in cyberspace. By leveraging a multidisciplinary team of specialists and cutting-edge technology, the DCPT provides proactive detection and prevention of cyber threats, safeguarding both digital assets and the reputation of its clients.

Problem Statement

As cyber threats continue to proliferate, individuals and organizations are facing unprecedented risks to their digital security. Traditional close protection services are ill-equipped to address these emerging threats, leaving clients vulnerable to a wide range of cyber attacks, including hacking, data breaches, and online defamation. Without adequate protection in place, clients risk reputational damage, financial loss, and even personal harm.

Solution: Digital Close Protection Team (DCPT)

The Digital Close Protection Team (DCPT) offers a comprehensive solution to mitigate the risks posed by cyber threats. By combining expertise in digital security, encryption, social media monitoring, and threat detection, the DCPT provides a proactive defense against a wide range of cyber threats. Utilizing advanced tools and techniques, the DCPT monitors digital channels, detects potential threats, and takes swift action to prevent attacks before they occur. Whether it's protecting sensitive data, safeguarding online reputation, or ensuring the safety of individuals in cyberspace, the DCPT delivers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.

Benefits

- Proactive Detection and Prevention: The DCPT utilizes state-of-the-art technology and expertise to identify and neutralize cyber threats before they can cause harm.

- Comprehensive Protection: From social media monitoring to encryption services, the DCPT offers a wide range of solutions to safeguard digital assets and personal security.

- Reputation Management: By monitoring online channels and responding to potential threats, the DCPT helps clients protect their online reputation and maintain trust with stakeholders.

- Peace of Mind: With the DCPT on their side, clients can rest assured knowing that their digital security is in capable hands, allowing them to focus on their core activities without distraction.

Use Cases

1. Executive Protection: A high-profile CEO of a multinational corporation requires digital protection against potential cyber threats, including hacking attempts, online harassment, and data breaches. The DCPT conducts a thorough risk assessment, implements encryption protocols, monitors social media channels for threats, and provides real-time threat intelligence to ensure the CEO's digital security.

2. Celebrity Security: A famous celebrity is targeted by online trolls and hackers seeking to compromise their personal information and reputation. The DCPT deploys a team of social media specialists to monitor online activity, identify potential threats, and take proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as removing defamatory content and strengthening privacy settings.

3. Corporate Security: A Fortune 500 company faces ongoing cyber threats from competitors, hacktivist groups, and malicious insiders. The DCPT works closely with the company's IT department to conduct regular security assessments, implement robust encryption measures, and monitor network traffic for signs of intrusion. In the event of a cyber attack, the DCPT responds quickly to contain the threat and minimize damage to the company's reputation and bottom line.

In each of these use cases, the Digital Close Protection Team (DCPT) plays a critical role in safeguarding the digital security and reputation of its clients, providing peace of mind in an increasingly complex cyber landscape.

Document: Digital Close Protection as a Service

Date: Apr 29, 2024