Darknet Diaries

John Lambert, a security expert at Microsoft, discusses the intense internal processes behind discovering major vulnerabilities in Windows. He shares insights into the MS08-067 exploit and how it fueled the Conficker crisis. Lambert explains the complexities of Patch Tuesday and the urgent response required to address critical risks. He also sheds light on the proactive measures taken by the Trustworthy Computing Group to enhance customer trust and the challenges of analyzing error logs to prevent future attacks. It's a captivating look into the world of cybersecurity!

Join Jordan Harbinger, a former troublemaking teen turned successful podcaster, as he shares his wild journey from mischief to encounters with the FBI. He recounts thrilling stories of close calls, including a trip to North Korea and his early days in hacking. Jordan also discusses his brush with cybercrime and the valuable lessons learned from online dangers. His transformation into a podcaster reflects a shift from seeking intelligence work to mastering social skills, showcasing the powerful impact of connection and trust.

Dive into a holiday-themed adventure where cybersecurity takes center stage. A private pen tester navigates a complex mission filled with quirky characters and unexpected challenges. The tale unfolds in Los Angeles as he grapples with the emotional weight of his job. This intriguing story highlights the importance of cybersecurity awareness during the festive season. Join a mischievous journey through the highs and lows of penetrating a secure facility.

Andy Greenberg, a Senior Writer for Wired and author of "Sandworm," dives into the NotPetya cyber attack that devastated Ukraine in 2017. He details how the attack spread through software updates, crippling vital infrastructure like Oshad Bank. Unraveling its deceptive ransomware facade, Greenberg discusses its catastrophic impact on multinational companies, including Maersk and FedEx. He examines the geopolitical implications and the involvement of Russian hacker groups, shedding light on the dark reality of modern cyber warfare.

In this enlightening discussion, Jake Williams, founder of Rendition InfoSec and a cybersecurity expert, delves into the alarming leak of the NSA's advanced hacking tools by the Shadow Brokers. He explains how these tools, if misused, could threaten personal privacy and internet security. They also discuss the critical role of cybersecurity professionals in managing such risks and the broader implications of these leaks on legacy systems. Williams sheds light on the intersection of political narratives and cyber incidents, raising essential questions about accountability in the digital age.

Jonathan Kleinsma, Head of threat research at RiskIQ, discusses the alarming rise of credit card skimming, both at gas pumps and online. He delves into notable cyber heists by the Magecart groups, including the British Airways breach, which left millions exposed. Kleinsma highlights the vulnerabilities in e-commerce and the need for stringent security measures, urging website owners to adopt practices like content security policies to combat these evolving threats. He also sheds light on the dark web's role in the trafficking of stolen credit card information.

Explore the intense and complex history of Kashmir as a battleground between India and Pakistan. Hear how tensions spill over into the digital realm, with hackers engaging in cyber warfare as a form of protest. Discover the emotional rallying among Indian hackers following tragic events, and how they target rival websites to tell their own narrative. The episode delves into the risks associated with hacking critical infrastructure and shares personal stories from the region, urging a call for peace amidst ongoing conflict.

The podcast dives into the U.S. military's Operation Inherent Resolve and its innovative approach to combat ISIS not just in the battlefield but also online. Discover the journey of a commander shifting to cyber warfare, where hacking becomes a new front in the fight against terrorism. Learn about Joint Task Force Ares, the elite hackers disrupting ISIS’s media presence through strategic cyber operations. With humor, the planning of 'Operation Glowing Symphony' is unveiled, showcasing the complexities and ethical dilemmas of modern cyber warfare.

In this discussion, Robert Baptiste, known as Elliot Alderson, reveals his journey as a security researcher who channels a fictional but relatable hacking persona. He shares the story behind breaching the Donald Daters app and exposing significant vulnerabilities in India's Aadhaar system. The conversation dives into the ethics of vulnerability discovery, including the balancing act between accountability and transparency in the cybersecurity world. Baptiste also emphasizes the importance of constructive dialogue with tech companies to improve security practices.

Delve into the shifting landscape of espionage as nations leverage advanced cyber techniques for covert operations. Discover the alarming malware attack on Belgium's telecom giant, Belgicom, revealing vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure. Unravel a web of anonymous servers and the legal dilemmas that arise in the wake of major cyber incursions. Explore the fallout between countries amid growing concerns over privacy rights, national security, and the ethical implications of surveillance on private companies.