Ransomware incidents are among the most stressful and complex cybersecurity challenges that organizations face today. To help professionals navigate these high-pressure situations, Crystal is excited to announce our collaboration with Security Blue Team (SBT) on a groundbreaking new course: Ransomware: Negotiation & Threat Intelligence.
After almost a year in development, this first-of-its-kind training is designed to equip participants with both foundational knowledge and practical skills for handling ransomware incidents effectively. The course promises a wealth of actionable insights for anyone involved in cybersecurity.
Why mastering ransomware negotiation matters
As ransomware attacks become increasingly sophisticated, the need for professionals with specialized skills in ransomware negotiation has never been greater. Speaking about the course, SBT’s CEO and lead trainer, Joshua Beaman, explained:
“Ransomware is a horrendous scenario to be in and, in the worst cases, negotiation becomes essential. Amidst the chaos, with everyone juggling multiple IT responsibilities and addressing crises from all directions, this can be especially challenging. That’s why we’ve meticulously developed this course—to prepare people with the skills to tackle a ransomware scenario should it ever happen.”
The course focuses on building practical expertise, taking students from understanding ransomware fundamentals to mastering negotiation simulations that mirror real-world scenarios.
Bridging blockchain intelligence
Crystal contributed its expertise on analyzing ransomware-related transactions. The course introduces students to Crystal’s Blockchain Monitoring Solution with Entity Wallet Analyses, offering valuable insights into the ransomware and cybercrime ecosystem.
Navin Gupta, CEO of Crystal Intelligence, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“We are thrilled to work with Security Blue Team to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to combat illicit activities in the blockchain space. This collaboration ensures students gain hands-on experience in analysing ransomware-related transactions, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in crypto compliance and investigations.”
What the course covers
Participants will learn:
- Negotiation tactics: Effective psychological strategies, communication skills, and counter-offer techniques.
- Real-world case studies: Insights into how ransomware groups operate and how to counter their tactics.
- Hands-on experience: Practical exercises designed to build confidence in navigating and negotiating ransomware incidents.
One of the standout features of the course is its capstone project: an advanced AI-driven ransomware simulation tool. This simulation allows students to practice negotiation techniques from both client and threat actor perspectives, offering a realistic and immersive learning experience. Based on real-world data, the tool simulates ransomware scenarios, including ransom demands, double extortion tactics, and psychological pressure techniques.
Collaboration with industry leaders
Crystal is proud to have partnered with Security Blue Team to create an unparalleled learning experience. Security Blue Team have also partnered with Validin, whose expertise enhances the practical labs and real-world relevance of the course.
This infrastructure search enumeration tool supported the creation of two practical labs focusing on tracking ransomware groups Black Basta and Black Suit. Kenneth Kinion, founder of Validin, remarked:
“Partnering with Security Blue Team is a natural fit for Validin. By integrating Validin’s platform into the course, we’re giving students a unique opportunity to develop real-world skills in ransomware infrastructure analysis and negotiation.”
Secure your spot today
Whether you’re a cybersecurity professional or an organization preparing for the worst, Ransomware: Negotiation & Threat Intelligence offers the skills and insights needed to be ready for, navigate, and overcome even the most challenging scenarios. The course is available at a special launch price of £199 until March 19th. After this date, the regular price of £299 applies.
