

Cyber Security Headlines
CISO Series
Daily stories from the world of information security. To delve into any daily story, head to CISOseries.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 7min
'DroidLock' demands ransom, Google fixes secret Chrome 0-day, UK fines LastPass over 2022 breach
Explore the alarming tactics of DroidLock malware, which targets Spanish users and demands ransoms while bricking devices. Google rolls out an emergency patch for a zero-day exploit affecting Chrome on major platforms. The UK imposes a hefty fine on LastPass for a breach that compromised user vaults due to stolen credentials. Additionally, learn about doxing attempts impersonating police to gather data from tech companies, and the rise of Docker Hub leaks exposing cloud credentials. Cybersecurity threats are evolving rapidly!

8 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 8min
Coupang CEO resigns, hactivists target US infrastructure, Israeli cybersecurity hits record funding
Big changes are afoot as Coupang's CEO steps down after a massive data breach affecting 34 million customers. Meanwhile, pro-Russia hacktivists are targeting critical US infrastructure, posing serious risks to water, food, and energy systems. In brighter news, Israeli cybersecurity startups have achieved record funding, raising an astonishing $4.4 billion, propelled by advancements in AI and endpoint security. The digital landscape is buzzing with threats and innovation, making cybersecurity more crucial than ever.

8 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 7min
Spain arrest over data records, goodbye dark Telegram, scammers poison AI search results
A 19-year-old in Barcelona faces arrest for stealing 64 million personal records, highlighting a massive data theft scandal. Meanwhile, Telegram's underground cybercrime channels are shrinking amid shutdowns. Scammers are also manipulating AI search results by planting spam to mislead users with fake support numbers. Concerns arise about AI-powered humanoid robots potentially being vulnerable to malware attacks. The podcast also discusses critical security patches from Fortinet and new links between React2Shell incidents and North Korean tooling.

9 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 9min
Ransomware costs billions, cybercrime leads to real violence, three arrested for hacking tools
Ransomware payments have skyrocketed past $4.5 billion, raising alarms in multiple sectors. Cybercrime networks are reportedly driving incidents of real-world violence, highlighting the dangers of modern crime tactics. In a proactive measure, three individuals were arrested in Poland for possessing advanced hacking tools. Additionally, a major Russian malware scam was disrupted, which targeted banking institutions. These stories shed light on the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity challenges.

Dec 9, 2025 • 31min
Department of Know: CISO hiring warning, critical threat actor law, Microsoft Defender outage
In this engaging discussion, Jason Shockey, CISO at Cenlar FSB, and Mike Lockhart, CISO at EagleView, dive deep into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. They explore the implications of browser extensions being turned into spyware and debate the UK's proposed ban on ransomware payments. The duo also addresses the rise of complex DDoS attacks and the importance of educating teams on AI-driven extortion. With insights into holistic leadership and CISO skills, they stress the need for bridging technical issues with executive communication.

16 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 8min
Palo Alto VPN attacks, NATO cyberdefense exercise, Chinese exploit React2Shell
A surge of VPN login attempts has targeted Palo Alto GlobalProtect portals, raising concerns about security. NATO recently conducted its largest cyber defense exercise, simulating critical infrastructure scenarios with 1,300 participants. Chinese hackers are exploiting the React2Shell vulnerability, highlighting the urgency of cybersecurity measures. Meanwhile, the FBI warns against AI misuse in virtual kidnapping scams. Intriguingly, companies like Adaptive Security are helping teams combat these emerging threats effectively.

30 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 7min
Predator spyware, Russia blocks FaceTime, US cyber strategy coming
Predator spyware is causing concern as it spreads across various countries. In an unexpected move, Russia has blocked FaceTime, citing unproven links to criminal activity. A preview of the upcoming U.S. cyber strategy reveals a six-pillar plan aimed at enhancing cybersecurity. In other news, brothers face charges for deleting government databases, and Arizona has filed a lawsuit against Timu for questionable data collection practices. Cutting-edge phishing techniques, like GhostFrame, are also emerging, highlighting ongoing cybersecurity challenges.

16 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 8min
Record-breaking DDoS attack, React bug puts servers at risk, RansomHouse attack
A staggering 29.7 TB/s DDoS attack utilizing countless IoT devices wreaked havoc, showcasing the growing threat of botnets. A critical flaw in React server components poses significant risks, affecting many developers. RansomHouse struck a Japanese retailer, interrupting operations and compromising sensitive data. The UK is considering a ban on ransom payments for public entities, while Klopp ransomware targets universities, highlighting the ongoing battle against cybercrime and the vulnerabilities in education systems.

8 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 8min
Microsoft Defender outage disrupts threats, Apple resists India's app order, MuddyWater strikes Israel
A Microsoft Defender outage has thrown a wrench into threat management. Meanwhile, Apple stands firm against India's demand to preload a state-run app over privacy issues. In a surprising turn, the MuddyWater hacking group launches the MuddyViper campaign targeting Israel and Egypt. Also discussed are critical cybersecurity measures being proposed by lawmakers and new training mandates from the Coast Guard for IT personnel. Finally, listeners can look forward to an upcoming event on AI data readiness.

8 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 7min
India orders web safety app, arrests over IP camera snooping, Albiriox shows up on dark web
India is pushing forward with a mandatory web safety app, sparking privacy concerns. Meanwhile, authorities in South Korea have made significant arrests linked to hacking over 120,000 IP cameras. Dark web activities are highlighted as Albiriox malware surfaces on Russian forums, targeting banking systems. Additionally, a European crackdown has hit CryptoMixer, which was involved in laundering vast sums. A Dutch study reveals that most teenage cybercriminals cease their activities by age 20, challenging the stereotype of lifelong hackers.


