Darknet Diaries

Rory Donoghue, a human rights activist and founder of the Emirates Centre for Human Rights, shares his chilling experience of being hacked by Project Raven, a secretive UAE operation. He discusses the emotional toll of covert surveillance tactics against him and the ethical dilemmas faced by cyber operatives. Rory sheds light on how advanced hacking tools target activists and the frightening implications for those advocating for human rights in authoritarian regimes. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of cybersecurity work abroad.

Dylan, a key player in the Xbox Underground, shares thrilling tales from the world of hacking. He discusses the group's bold infiltration of Microsoft, revealing secrets about Project Durango, the Xbox One prototype. The conversation deepens with stories of dramatic heists, FBI raids, and the emotional toll of their actions. They dive into the legal battles faced by hackers and the challenges of redemption after incarceration. This captivating narrative explores the intersection of gaming culture and the underground hacking scene, filled with tension and intrigue.

Join Bunny, an MIT graduate and hacker renowned for his Xbox work, along with Dylan, a young talent who breached Epic Games' network, and Sanad Neshiwat, a console hacking expert. They discuss the thrilling journey of hacking the original Xbox and the moral complexities faced in the hacking community. Dive into the underground economy of gaming hacks, the creation of Team Avalanche, and misadventures at PAX that highlight the exhilarating yet perilous world of console exploitation. Get ready for an insightful and wild ride!

Ransomware wreaks havoc by locking users out of their data until a fee is paid. Dive into the story of a computer science student who teams up with Russian hackers, exploiting outdated software through the Angler exploit kit. Discover the dark underbelly of cybercrime, where malware spreads and money is laundered, highlighting the dire consequences of misdirected skills. The podcast uncovers the rise of scam emails and the ethical dilemmas faced by those with technical prowess choosing the wrong path.

Dive into the chaotic world of DEF CON, where appearances can be deceiving. Discover the exhilarating journey of the Plaid Parliament of Pwning, a team that rose through the ranks in Capture The Flag competitions. Enjoy thrilling stories of unexpected scavenger hunts and immersive alternate reality games. Celebrate the triumphs and challenges faced by hackers in their quest for the coveted black badge. With camaraderie and strategy at the forefront, listen as they navigate the competitive landscape of cybersecurity.

Dave Kennedy, a prominent figure in InfoSec and founder of TrustedSec, shares the nerve-wracking tale of a penetration test gone wrong at a datacenter. Dan Tentler, from Phobos Group, recounts an outrageous client engagement filled with unexpected twists. The conversation dives into the intricacies of hacking methodologies, the significance of security assessments, and the challenges of managing emerging threats, offering a thrilling glimpse into the world of cybersecurity and the real-life stakes involved.

Jack Hyde, a physical penetration tester and social engineer, dives into the thrilling world of hacking and security. He shares his experience of infiltrating secure buildings using clever disguises and social engineering tactics. The discussion highlights the psychological elements of manipulating people to gain access to restricted areas, alongside a harrowing tale of navigating strict security measures. Hyde's explorations reveal the fine line between ethical hacking and deception, as he reflects on the emotional complexities of exploiting goodwill in the name of security.

Join a physical penetration tester as he sneaks into restricted mall areas, shedding light on the importance of security awareness. Hear thrilling tales of night-time infiltration attempts, where disguise and clever tactics come into play. Discover the meticulous planning behind accessing a utility company's headquarters, emphasizing the need for stronger safeguards. The tension ramps up as a group of friends attempts a lock-picking escapade, facing risks while searching for valuable data. It's an eye-opening journey into the vulnerabilities of corporate security!

Dive into a wild world where a young innovator's passion for technology leads to a unique journey in Bitcoin and hard drive destruction. A hilarious DEF CON talk reveals quirky methods for data obliteration, while discussions on nuclear shelters stir thoughts of paranoia and protection. Among tales of DIY projects gone awry, tragedy strikes during a secret tunnel endeavor, mixing chaos with a critical look at responsibility. This mix of tech, humor, and cautionary tales delivers a thrilling exploration of creativity in the shadowy corners of cybersecurity.

In a gripping discussion, Cooper Quinton, a Senior Staff Technologist at EFF's Threat Lab, delves into the disturbing case of journalist Irina Petrushova, who faced cyber threats from the Kazakhstan government for her criticism. The conversation uncovers the chilling realities of state-sponsored espionage and the role of private hacking firms. They explore mobile malware connections and the EFF's mission to protect vulnerable populations from digital attacks, emphasizing the ongoing battle for civil liberties in an increasingly threatening cyber landscape.