EP 60 - Going Viral: Security Insights from TikTok's Former Global CSO

In this episode of the Trust Issues podcast, Roland Cloutier, who served as TikTok's Global Chief Security Officer (CSO) from April 2020 to September 2022, joins host David Puner for a discussion that covers his extensive experience in the field of security. He previously held similar roles at ADP and EMC and is now a partner at the Business Protection Group.

Roland discusses his challenges in protecting sensitive data at TikTok, the social media platform with over 1 billion active users. He also talks about the complexities of ensuring data security and compliance. Roland emphasizes the importance of identity in modern security, explaining how privilege controls across the IT estate are crucial for protecting workforce users, third-party vendors, endpoints and machine identities.

Roland also highlights the need for a deep understanding of the business and its culture to implement security measures effectively. He shares insights into the role of identity in determining access to data and the importance of continuous controls assurance and validation. 

The episode provides a fascinating look into the security imperatives of a major social media platform and the measures taken to protect user data. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the strategies and principles Roland employed during his tenure at TikTok, as well as his broader views on security and privacy in the digital age.