Darknet Diaries

EvilMog, a glider pilot and former military cadet, shares gripping stories from troubleshooting networks in Afghanistan, including a heartwarming moment connecting a soldier with his newborn. Joe Sarkisian, a penetration tester, recounts valuable lessons learned during ethical hacking engagements, discussing challenges that arise in network assessments. Both guests illustrate the emotional and technical complexities of their work, highlighting the crucial role of communication and storytelling in high-stakes environments.

Join Professor Dubstep, a dedicated dubstep producer and music enthusiast, as he dives into the audacious world of unreleased music trading. Discover the thrill of viral leaks, like the infamous Knife Party track that captured attention on SoundCloud. Explore the quirky quirks of dolphin sounds in dubstep and a cheeky young producer's quest for hidden gems. The conversation delves into ethical dilemmas in music trades, the risks of USB thefts, and the digital hunt for elusive beats, showcasing the exhilarating chaos of the music underground.

Geoff White, an investigative journalist and author known for his work on organized crime and technology, dives into the thrilling world of cryptocurrency heists. He details the monumental $625 million theft from Axie Infinity and the challenges faced in laundering the stolen crypto. The conversation also unpacks the controversial Tornado Cash, a tool for privacy that raises ethical questions about accountability and surveillance. With insights from his book "Rinsed," Geoff highlights the evolving landscape of digital crime and its far-reaching implications.

Joseph Cox, author of 'Dark Wire' and co-founder of 404 Media, dives into the intriguing world of Anom, a secure phone created by criminals that became a tool for law enforcement. He discusses the ethical dilemmas of surveillance technology and the complexities surrounding privacy rights. Cox reveals how Anom blurred the lines between security and crime, raising essential questions about government oversight. Tune in for insights on encrypted communication and the ongoing battle between law enforcement and individual privacy.

Explore the remarkable journey of Shannen Rossmiller, a mother turned cyber warrior fighting terrorism from her home. Witness her resilience in the wake of 9/11 as she navigates personal challenges and transforms into a key figure in counterterrorism. Delve into her covert operations, including the intriguing Operation Whirlpool, where malware is deployed in the fight against extremism. Experience the tension of undercover work, as she uncovers a potential terrorist plot while balancing her dual roles as a judge and guardian against digital threats.

Rachel Tobac, a social engineer and founder of Social Proof Security, shares her fascinating journey from aspiring spy to cybersecurity innovator. She discusses her experiences in social engineering at DEF CON, revealing how she used charm and tactics to extract sensitive information. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas of voice cloning technology and its implications. Additionally, Tobac and Daniel Miessler dive into the rising threats in cybersecurity and the importance of awareness in navigating these challenges.

Jim Browning, an IT professional and YouTuber known for his scam baiting efforts, dives deep into the world of online scams. He shares fascinating tales of infiltrating scam operations and the clever tactics scammers use to deceive victims. Jim discusses the use of gift cards for fraud and emphasizes the importance of internet security. With his unique blend of humor and insight, he reveals the ethical dilemmas of confronting scammers, while offering strategies to fight back and raise awareness.

Explore the bizarre world of fake diplomas and the shady operations behind Baytown University, where deceptive marketing hooks unsuspecting students. Discover Fazal's eye-opening journey through competitive call centers in Pakistan. Uncover the alarming issue of fake pilot licenses affecting civil aviation. The episode also dives into ethical dilemmas in workplaces offering lavish perks while masking exploitation. As the narrative unfolds, shocking courtroom twists reveal the fallout from the X-Act scandal, highlighting the consequences of educational fraud.

Ronnie Tokazowski, a cybersecurity expert focused on romance scams and business email compromise, dives deep into the world of pig butchering schemes. He reveals how scammers prey on emotions, leading victims to lose staggering amounts, like one individual who lost over $450,000. The discussion uncovers the psychological tricks used to manipulate trust and isolation. From cryptocurrency scams to the innovative tactics involving deep fakes, Tokazowski sheds light on the evolving landscape of digital deception and the urgent need for awareness and prevention.

Explore the emotional toll of digital harassment through the gripping stories of victims. Delve into the legal challenges they face as they navigate the complexities of non-consensual pornography. Witness the determination of two sisters fighting back after feeling ignored by authorities. Uncover the dark web's role in identity theft, and experience the anxiety of courtroom confrontations with perpetrators. This podcast unveils the harsh realities of online abuse, advocating for awareness and action against cyber harassment.