Jon Waldman Talks Credit Union Cybersecurity on CUbroadcast

Credit unions face increasing pressure to keep pace with rapid advances in AI and cybersecurity. SBS CyberSecurity President Jon Waldman recently joined CUbroadcast to share actionable insights on protecting members, strengthening organizational defenses, and addressing emerging technology challenges.

Drawing on findings from SBS's The State of Cybersecurity in Credit Unions: 2025 Executive Report, Waldman highlighted a key challenge: Many credit unions struggle to maintain dedicated cybersecurity personnel and ongoing training programs. He noted that building staff expertise and ensuring proper education are among the most critical needs for organizations aiming to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

Waldman emphasized that every credit union is a potential target and must remain vigilant.

"Bad guys have all the time in the world, and they have all of the tools at their disposal," he said. "It only takes one attack to get in."

He encouraged organizations to prioritize detection and response capabilities in addition to protective measures, reinforcing the need for strategic planning and cybersecurity oversight at all levels, including the board.

He also addressed the growing role of AI in both cybersecurity and broader credit union operations.

"Don't say, 'We're never going to use AI.' You're already using AI. You just have to think, 'What are the right use cases?'" he said, underscoring the importance of using AI intentionally and the need for responsible AI adoption with strong human oversight.

For credit unions seeking additional guidance, SBS offers educational programs and certifications, cybersecurity services, and The State of Cybersecurity in Credit Unions: 2025 Executive Report, featuring actionable insights on risk management, emerging trends, and practical next steps.

Listen to the full podcast episode featuring Waldman to learn more about talent development, AI adoption, and practical next steps for credit unions.