Darknet Diaries

Geoff White, an investigative journalist for BBC News and Channel 4, dives into the audacious billion-dollar Bangladesh Bank Heist. He unpacks the meticulous planning and execution by hackers, showcasing how they exploited network vulnerabilities to pull off the largest bank robbery in history. The conversation also reveals the chaos that erupted at the bank when unauthorized transactions came to light. White discusses the laundering of $81 million through Philippine casinos and the troubling connections to North Korean cyber activity, shedding light on modern cybercrime's global implications.

Yeonmi Park, a North Korean defector and human rights advocate, shares her harrowing escape story from a totalitarian regime. Alongside Alex Gladstein, Chief Strategy Officer at the Human Rights Foundation, they discuss the innovative ways of smuggling information into North Korea, like using USB drives to access banned content. The conversation dives into the severe realities of life under oppression, the risks defectors face, and how technology serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom. It's a compelling exploration of resilience and the fight against censorship.

In this riveting discussion, Ghost Exodus, a former hacker turned musician, shares his journey from a troubled upbringing and a life of cybercrime to seeking redemption. He reflects on his dangerous escape from law enforcement and the moral dilemmas of hacking for justice. Wesley McGrew, a researcher who reported Ghost's activities to the FBI, provides insight into the impact of hacking culture and the relentless pursuit of criminals. Together, they explore the blurred lines of activism and the consequences that followed.

In this engaging discussion, Christopher Hadnagy, a renowned security consultant and master social engineer, dives deep into the world of human hacking. He shares thrilling tales from his career, including audacious infiltration attempts and the evolution of phishing tactics. Hadnagy emphasizes the vulnerabilities that arise from human interaction with technology and explores the fascinating dynamics of trust and deception. With insights on effective communication and security awareness, this conversation is a captivating look into the art of manipulating human psychology.

Julian Gutmanis, an industrial incident responder, along with Marina Krotofil from FireEye and Robert M. Lee, CEO of Dragos, dive into the Triton malware attack on a Saudi chemical plant. They discuss how this sophisticated malware jeopardizes safety systems, highlighting the dire consequences of cyber threats in industrial settings. The trio uncovers the complexities of cybersecurity and safety protocols, emphasizing the risks posed by insider threats. Moreover, they address the urgent need for robust security measures and international regulations to mitigate potential disasters.

John Strand, a penetration tester and founder of Black Hills Information Security, dives into thrilling tales of breaking into secure environments. He shares chaotic moments from a military infiltration that escalated to confrontations with armed personnel. The light-hearted anecdote of a lavish Las Vegas conference dinner sparks family judgments about business expenses. He also highlights the clever use of tools like Google Street View in planning stealth missions, revealing the humor and tension behind each operation's unexpected twists.

FC 'FreakyClown' is the co-founder and co-CEO of Sygenta, specializing in cybersecurity and ethical hacking. He shares thrilling stories of his daring penetration tests, including a comical yet perilous attempt to foil a helicopter theft from a hospital helipad. The conversation reveals his unique journey from auto mechanics to breaking into secure facilities, highlighting both moral complexities and the significance of education in cybersecurity. He also discusses the crucial role of human awareness in safeguarding banking systems against cyber threats.

Jon Nichols, a PSYOP specialist with experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, takes us deep into the world of Psychological Operations. He discusses the nuances of white, gray, and black PSYOP missions and their impact on warfare. Listeners learn about the ethical implications of manipulating public sentiment and how communication can defuse tensions. Nichols shares gripping tales of using loudspeakers and leaflets to combat IED threats in Iraq. The conversation even touches on the intersection of PSYOP and cybersecurity, raising compelling questions about digital manipulation in our everyday lives.

A major telecom scandal rocked Greece in 2004, linking Vodafone to unauthorized wiretaps on high-profile officials. The investigation reveals a chilling intersection of cyber espionage and personal tragedy, particularly surrounding the mysterious death of a network employee. The podcast also discusses the dark evolution of wiretapping from manual techniques to sophisticated digital breaches. It dives into the ethical dilemmas posed by government surveillance during the Athens Olympics, highlighting the shadows lurking in global telecommunications.

Hinyo Ochoa, known as "w0rmer," is a former hacktivist who was deeply involved with Anonymous, fighting against societal injustices through hacking. He shares riveting tales of targeting police websites to expose misconduct, illustrating the ethical dilemmas faced in digital activism. Ochoa also recounts a surprising romance that blossomed amidst his covert life, showcasing the intersections of love and the risks of his actions. As he reflects on the challenges of reintegration post-arrest, he offers cautionary advice on the consequences of hacktivism.