The Vergecast Twitter gets hacked / NBC's streaming service Peacock debuts / TikTok in the US is threatened
Jul 17, 2020
In this discussion, guest Russell Brandom, a Senior Reporter at The Verge specializing in security and technology, dives into the staggering implications of the recent Twitter hack affecting high-profile accounts. The team uncovers the absurdities of a Bitcoin scam that erupted from this breach and its impact on cybersecurity. They also tackle the potential U.S. ban on TikTok, driven by privacy concerns, highlighting the platform's political influence. Additionally, they critique NBC's new streaming service, Peacock, and its attempt to blend traditional TV with modern streaming.
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Nature of the Hack
- The Twitter hack targeted high-value, verified accounts, suggesting a vulnerability beyond individual user error.
- The use of a single Bitcoin address, while simplifying tracking, revealed a lack of sophistication in the attack.
The Twitter Bitcoin Scam
- High-profile Twitter accounts like Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Jeff Bezos were hacked.
- They tweeted a Bitcoin scam, promising to double any Bitcoin sent to a specific address.
Password Change Advice
- Avoid changing your password during an ongoing security incident like the Twitter hack.
- This can lead to account lockouts as platforms prioritize identifying compromised accounts based on recent password changes.