Robert J. Hudock

As a partner in the Data, Privacy and Security practice group at King & Spalding LLP, Robert Hudock counsels clients on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from cyber-based attacks on their networks and information. He assesses clients’ security controls and practices for the protection of data, developing and implementing information security programs, and complying with federal and state regulatory requirements.

Robert is a leader in advising clients on the responsible and ethical deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies. He has deep expertise in AI governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance, with a focus on mitigating legal risks and maximizing opportunities. Robert frequently speaks and writes on AI issues, including presentations at major conferences like DEF CON. He takes a practical, hands-on approach to implementing AI, emphasizing the importance of understanding data lineage, testing for bias, and instituting human oversight. Robert partners closely with clients across industries to ensure their AI systems are legally and technically sound. His innovative work leverages AI for improved legal services while safeguarding ethics and privacy. Robert is shaping the future of AI in law as a thoughtful advocate for progress and responsibility.

Robert has represented companies on a range of cybersecurity and data-security incidents, including dozens of security breach matters involving tens of millions of affected consumers. He has represented clients before federal and state government agencies, national security-related investigations, cybersecurity matters, and Attorney General investigations into security incidents. He routinely advises clients on data, privacy and security matters arising from federal and state laws. He regularly conducts risk assessments and IT audits for healthcare and financial services companies and designs and implements cost-effective strategies for managing electronic documents. 

Robert is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and was awarded this information technology security audit certification by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium. He is certified by the National Security Agency to perform INFOSEC Assessment Methodology audits under FISMA and by the Health Information Trust Alliance (HITRUST) as a Certified CSF Practitioner. HITRUST is an organization that provides training to develop and maintain effective security programs for health care and life sciences companies. He is a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). The CEH credential is a professional certification provided by the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants. 

Robert is a two-time winner of DefCon's Capture the Flag Competition. DefCon CTF provides a venue for the true pro hackers to ply their craft and show off their skill. As such, it acts as a weather vane for the hacking community, pointing out the top hackers and the most effective techniques (tools, automation, etc.).

Previously, Robert served as a member of a nationally recognized law firm where he was a member of their Healthcare and Life Sciences practice group. He also served as the Chief Privacy and Data Security Officer and Senior Vice President of a major intelligence, military, aerospace, engineering, and systems contractor, where he managed all aspects of privacy and cybersecurity compliance across the company.