Darknet Diaries

In 2012, a massive data breach on LinkedIn exposed millions of user details. The hacker's exploits not only impacted LinkedIn but also connected to breaches at Formspring and Dropbox, leading to a multi-jurisdictional investigation. The story of Russian hacker Yevgeny Nikulin unfolds, detailing his arrest and trials, showcasing the darker side of cybersecurity. Insights gathered emphasize the need for strong password practices and the risks of poor security measures, making it clear that vigilance is crucial in the digital realm.

Cam Harrison, also known as "kilobit," is a former prominent carder who spent eight years in prison for his role in a massive cybercrime operation. He shares his thrilling journey from a curious teenager to a skilled creator of counterfeit IDs, navigating shady forums and the moral dilemmas of a life steeped in deception. Cam details the reckless allure of cybercrime, the complexities of running a carding operation, and the sobering encounters with law enforcement that led to his fall, ultimately reflecting on the quest for redemption after a glamorous yet hollow lifestyle.

TProphet, a seasoned hacker and contributor to 2600 Magazine known for their extreme travel hacks on seat31b.com, dives into the thrilling world of travel hacking. They discuss the risks of posting boarding passes online after a bizarre incident involving a former Prime Minister's pass. Listeners get invaluable tips on maximizing travel rewards, including how to earn and use points effectively for luxurious flights. TProphet also shares adventurous insights from DEF CON, blending tech-savvy strategies with a passion for exploring the globe.

Marcus J. Carey and Jeff Man, both former NSA cryptologists, share their fascinating journeys in the realm of cybersecurity. They discuss how personal experiences shaped their identities and careers in tech. Hear about their transformative paths from the Navy to cryptology and the impactful role of the NSA's red teams in understanding vulnerabilities. They delve into the intricate world of cryptography, including its influence on cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Their stories highlight the blend of national security with cutting-edge technology.

Dustin Childs, a Senior Communications Manager for the Zero Day Initiative, Brian Gorenc, Senior Director at Trend Micro, and Pedro, a member of the renowned Team Flashback, discuss the thrilling Pwn2Own hacking contest. They delve into the discovery of zero-day vulnerabilities, showcasing how hackers exploit browsers, phones, and even cars. Ethical implications of the exploit broker market are explored, alongside personal stories of triumph and challenges faced in this competitive arena. Expect insights into the evolving relationship between security researchers and software vendors!

In this deep dive, former darknet marketplace vendor 'V' recounts his tumultuous journey from an upper-middle-class kid to an infamous online drug dealer. He candidly discusses the allure of the Silk Road, the intricacies of operating under anonymity, and the clever marketing strategies that helped him navigate the dark web. V reflects on his arrest, cooperation with authorities, and the heavy emotional toll of his choices, including the regrets of selling heroin and the personal growth that followed. It's a compelling tale of risk, redemption, and self-discovery.

Paint Parrot, an expert social engineer and former British Army personnel, dives into the fascinating world of manipulation. He shares gripping stories from his time in military intelligence, revealing the psychological challenges of drone warfare and moral dilemmas of whistleblowing. Parrot discusses the meticulous tactics used to build trust with insiders and the ethical complexities of social engineering. Listeners will be captivated by his insights on the emotional toll of whistleblowing and the undercurrents of corporate misconduct.

Matthew Earl, managing partner of Shadowfall Capital, shares his harrowing experience of being targeted in a hacking campaign while investigating Wirecard AG. Joining him is John Scott-Railton from Citizen Lab, discussing the relentless phishing attacks from the Dark Basin hacking group. They delve into the darker side of corporate fraud and the psychological toll on whistleblowers, exploring methods used by hackers to undermine accountability, particularly regarding climate change misinformation. The conversation sheds light on ethical dilemmas in the digital landscape.

This podcast features Ohm-I, a versatile Nerdcore musician, Dual Core, a dynamic hacking-hip-hop duo, and MC Whitey Cracker, a notable figure in the scene. They dive into the exhilarating intersection of technology and music, sharing tales from their nerdcore journeys. Listeners hear about the vibrant hacker culture of the 90s, the art of email spamming as a business, and how their rebellious roots shaped their music and identities. The energy culminates in spontaneous rap performances, showcasing the creativity of the Nerdcore community.

Andy Greenberg, a senior writer at Wired and author of Sandworm, dives into the startling cyber attack during the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. He reveals how critical IT systems were crippled, creating chaos at the event. The discussion takes a sinister turn as Greenberg examines potential state-sponsored attackers like North Korea and Russia, showcasing the complexity of cyber warfare. He also highlights the implications of the landmark indictment of the hacking group Sandworm, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability in the realm of cybersecurity.