The Global Cyber Innovation Summit (GCIS) recently held an exclusive Security Briefing at One World Trade Center, uniting top critical infrastructure leaders, former national security officials, technology experts, and policy specialists for a high-level discussion on “National Security Threats to U.S. Critical Infrastructure.”

This invitation-only session focused on the rapidly escalating cyber threat landscape, response frameworks, and how CEOs and boards must prepare to safeguard essential services. Participants stressed that protecting critical systems demands a fundamental shift in how organizations manage the security and resilience of their networks, data, and operations.

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Opening remarks were delivered by Bob Ackerman, Founder and Chairman of GCIS, followed by Ida Kristensen, Senior Partner and co-Leader of McKinsey & Company’s Risk & Resilience Practice. Kristensen emphasized the financial dangers, pointing out that cyber incidents involving operational technology (OT) might cost the world economy $31.1 billion on average over the course of the following year.

The briefing’s central panel, “National Security & Critical Infrastructure,” featured:

General Paul Nakasone, Former Director of NSA and U.S. Cyber Command

Christopher Wray, Former FBI Director

Bill Fehrman, CEO, American Electric Power

Rob Lee, CEO & Co-Founder of Dragos, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army National Guard

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The discussion, moderated by James Rundle of The Wall Street Journal, highlighted how advanced threat groups are increasingly designing OT-specific attack methods that exploit detailed knowledge of industrial systems. Panelists warned that ransomware targeting industrial operators is surging, with attackers using IT intrusions as entry points before pivoting to OT networks.

Thomas Fanning, Former Executive Chairman & CEO of Southern Company, delivered the keynote, emphasizing the need for collaboration between IT and OT teams, security leaders, and executive boards. Drawing on his experience as co-chair of the Electricity Subsector Coordinating Council, Fanning urged organizations to place OT cybersecurity as a standing agenda item in boardroom discussions.

Ackerman closed the briefing by stressing the real-world stakes:

“The threats we examined are not just about data theft—they’re about ensuring power grids, water systems, and vital services remain operational. When critical infrastructure is compromised, it directly impacts the safety and daily life of every American.”

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