The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog
Welcome to The Cyber Cowgirl™ Blog - Hannah’s archived collection of early morning thoughts related to cyber, defense, entrepreneurship, and professional development.
Join Hannah on this journey of discovery and discussion as we navigate the Digital Wild West together!
What Makes Us Vulnerable to AI-Enabled Cyber Attacks
Artificial Intelligence is rewriting the rules of cybersecurity — and not in our favor. The same algorithms we use to innovate, automate, and defend are now being weaponized to manipulate human perception and behavior. AI-enabled cyber attacks don’t just exploit code; they exploit cognition. From deepfakes that distort reality to generative tools that lower the barrier for digital crime, these new threats target our psychology as much as our systems. The next frontier of cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting data — it’s about protecting decision-making itself.
The Weaponization of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence has transformed how we live, work, and defend ourselves — but it’s also being turned into a weapon. From AI-powered cyberattacks that outsmart human defenders to deepfakes that erode public trust and autonomous weapons capable of lethal decisions without human oversight, the age of weaponized AI has arrived. As innovation races ahead of regulation, the world faces an urgent question: how do we control a technology that can learn to deceive, destroy, and decide who lives or dies?
The Great Disconnect: Rebuilding Community in a Digital Age
or years, social media felt like a lifeline—helping me stay connected during military moves, build a business from scratch, and maintain friendships across time zones. But somewhere along the way, that connection turned hollow. The same platforms that once fostered community have become digital battlegrounds of misinformation, outrage, and isolation. After years researching the weaponization of social media, I’ve come to see this technology not as a bridge but as a barrier—an experiment that exposed what we truly crave: real human connection. As the digital Tower of Babel crumbles, we’re left with an opportunity—and a responsibility—to rebuild community offline, grounded in authenticity, empathy, and shared purpose.
SIGNAL Magazine - “Service Members and Veterans Face a New Cyber-Meets-Cognitive Battlefield”
Hannah Becker’s latest article in SIGNAL Magazine, examines how U.S. service members and veterans are increasingly targeted in a new cyber-meets-cognitive battlefield. The piece highlights how foreign adversaries such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea exploit veterans’ trusted voices to spread disinformation, recruit unwitting participants, and deepen social divisions. Becker warns that manipulated narratives shared by veterans can ripple across American society, amplifying adversary influence at home. She underscores the urgent need for digital literacy, source verification, and stronger community awareness to counter these tactics. Ultimately, the article calls on veterans, policymakers, and citizens alike to recognize the threat of cognitive warfare and take proactive steps to safeguard America’s most trusted messengers.
The War, The War…Which War?
The women I grew up around never had to explain what they meant when they said “the war.” Whether it was World War II, Vietnam, Desert Storm, or Bosnia, everyone at my grandmother’s kitchen table already knew. Their shorthand was born of loss, resilience, and a bond forged by sacrifice. Years later, I swore my life would be different—that I’d never marry a soldier, never find myself living in the shadow of conflict. But after 9/11, fate proved me wrong. Now, like the women before me, I speak of life “before the war” and “after the war.” The memories, anniversaries, and grief remain part of daily life—reminders not just of what was lost, but of what could have been.
The Jellyfish Effect: Why Cyber Intelligence Matters Against Emerging Threats
Emerging cyber threats can be as deceptive as jellyfish in the ocean—fascinating at first glance, but painful if not recognized in time. As technology evolves, new “jellyfish” surface in the digital realm, from AI-driven malware to complex, multi-point attacks. Cyber intelligence offers a way to detect these threats early, providing real-time insights that strengthen defenses and guide smarter risk management. Yet, the challenge remains: balancing powerful intelligence tools with privacy, ethics, and public trust.
Digital Natives: A New Generation of Warfighters
Meet Generation Z - the digital native warfighters! Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z service members bring fresh perspectives shaped by events like COVID-19, rising cyber threats, and evolving global conflicts. As true digital natives, they present both challenges and opportunities for military leaders adapting to social media’s influence on communication, recruitment, and readiness.
How Social Media Intelligence (SOCMINT) Collection Impacts the Public
Social Media Intelligence (SOCMINT) has become a powerful tool for governments, businesses, and organizations to gather insights from the endless stream of online data. While this practice can support public safety, crisis response, and even healthcare research, it also raises pressing concerns about privacy, trust, and surveillance. Studies show that awareness of monitoring often alters behavior—leading to self-censorship, anxiety, and reduced trust in institutions. Recent controversies, from Instagram’s real-time location tracking feature to proposed U.S. military monitoring of cadets, highlight the tension between security objectives and individual freedoms. Ultimately, SOCMINT’s impact extends far beyond data collection—it shapes how people perceive safety, community, and the organizations that hold power in their lives.
Where AI Stops and We Begin
AI is everywhere—writing resumes, changing warfare, even reshaping how doctors interact with patients. Some of these tools save time and streamline work, but others leave us frustrated, disconnected, or questioning whether convenience is worth the cost. As technology blurs the line between human and machine, we have to ask: where does AI stop, and where do we begin? True creativity, empathy, and authenticity can’t be replicated by algorithms, no matter how advanced they become. The danger is letting automation erode the messy, beautiful, human qualities that make life meaningful. The future won’t be determined by another software update—it will be shaped by our willingness to protect what should never be outsourced.
Finding Connection in the Dead Zone
In today’s digitally-driven world, stepping into the “Dead Zone” provided something increasingly difficult to attain - a chance at a real connection. Technology has done a lot of good and a lot of bad for humankind. Navigating the uncharted wilderness of cyberspace requires us to revitalize our ability to connect, engage, and impact the physical world. Check out my field notes from a recent trek in the wilderness.
Behind the Mic: Lessons Learned From 20 Episodes of Tipping Spears
Back in January, I was coming off a tough year and craving a project that reconnected me with the work I love—cyber, defense, and national security. A mentor suggested I start a podcast, and without overthinking it, Tipping Spears was born. Twenty episodes later, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with some of the most inspiring and forward-thinking leaders in the field. From warfighters and intelligence scholars to policy experts and nonprofit execs, each guest has challenged the way I think. This podcast isn’t just about information—it’s about sharpening perspective. If you're looking for real conversations about the future of our world, this one's for you.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: What Does Technology Say About Us All?
Explore how technology reflects—not causes—many of our societal challenges. This article examines the human behaviors behind digital tools, the ethical cost of distraction, and why real solutions require connection, responsibility, and values—not automation.
Tech That Truly Terrifies Me
As a cyber professional and educator, I usually approach emerging technology with cautious optimism. But even with all the benefits tech has brought into my life, there are some developments that truly keep me up at night. From brain-computer interfaces to AI that could surpass human intelligence, we’re entering a new era where the line between innovation and existential risk is razor-thin. In this post, I share five emerging technologies that terrify me—not because I fear progress, but because I fear what happens if we don’t proceed with responsibility and restraint.
Don’t Let the Noise Distract You from Riding
Rodeo taught me how to focus under pressure—how to block out the chaos, trust my training, and ride with purpose. Whether you're in the arena or the boardroom, the distractions are real, and the stakes are high. In this post, I share hard-earned lessons on staying grounded, seeking honest feedback, and riding toward what truly matters. Because in the end, success isn’t about the noise around you—it’s about the grit to keep going through it.
Adversarial Manipulation, Social Media, and the War for Your Mind
Foreign adversaries are waging war on the American mind through cyberspace—no bullets, just manipulation. From viral TikToks to false narratives, hostile nations exploit our digital spaces to erode trust, sow division, and weaken democracy. Most people don’t even realize they’re targets. It’s time to wake up, push back, and defend against the cognitive warfare happening right in our pockets.
Cryptology, Garden Parties, and Unconventional Trailblazers
At a charming garden party, a chance encounter with a framed letter honoring Agnes Driscoll—one of the most influential cryptologists of WWII—unveils a story of remarkable contributions hidden in plain sight. Known for her groundbreaking work in codebreaking, Driscoll’s legacy as a Navy cryptologist and cyber pioneer is a testament to the often-overlooked self-censorship of unconventional trailblazers in defense.
Is Technology Diminishing Our Cognitive Abilities?
Is technology diminishing our cognitive abilities? Research suggests our reliance on digital devices may be eroding focus, problem-solving, and social skills. As human interaction declines, so does our brain health. Discover why real-world connections are essential for mental clarity and how you can reclaim your cognitive strength.
Navigating Chaos With Clarity
Navigating chaos is a defining trait of successful professionals. Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t have to be the end of the story. With the right mindset and strategies, challenges can become opportunities for growth. Learn how to adapt, innovate, and turn adversity into a stepping stone for success.
What Every Aspiring Entrepreneur Should Know
Starting a business isn’t about having the perfect idea—it’s about resilience, problem-solving, and relentless effort. When I first pursued business, I was told I had no future as an entrepreneur. Years later, I proved that professor wrong. I built a successful company with no money, no network, and no shortcuts—just hard work and adaptability. If you’re considering entrepreneurship, start where you are, invest in relationships, and hold yourself accountable. Success follows those who refuse to quit.
Should We Fear Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, raising questions about its impact on jobs, healthcare, and security. While AI offers powerful benefits, concerns arise about its potential misuse. Understanding how AI works — and ensuring responsible innovation — is key to harnessing its potential while minimizing risks. The future of AI depends on us.