Former Cybersecurity Official Leaves Company After Trump’s Controversial Targeting
Chris Krebs, the former senior cybersecurity official dismissed by Trump for affirming the security of the 2020 election, is leaving his role at SentinelOne after imminent threats from Trump. Krebs, who led the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency during Trump’s first term, faced scrutiny when Trump called for investigations into him and other employees.
In a resignation note, Krebs emphasized the importance of his fight for democracy, stating he needed to focus fully on this battle. “I don’t shy away from tough fights,” he wrote, highlighting the fight for freedom of speech and the rule of law. Krebs confirmed his departure to NBC News, with The Wall Street Journal first reporting the news.
Krebs gained recognition for coordinating national election security efforts, maintaining a “rumor control” website to dispel false claims. In a retaliatory move, Trump fired him via Twitter shortly after the 2020 election, a moment that became a humorous highlight in cybersecurity circles. After leaving government, Krebs co-founded the Krebs Stamos Group, which SentinelOne acquired in 2023.
Despite the controversy, many in the cybersecurity industry have remained silent on Trump’s attacks on Krebs. However, Katie Moussouris, CEO of Luta Security, voiced support, indicating that her sentiments reflect the views of many within the sector. Krebs’s integrity and commitment to cybersecurity principles continue to resonate in the industry during these turbulent times.
