
Smashing Security
A helpful and hilarious take on the week's tech SNAFUs.
Computer security industry veterans Graham Cluley and Carole Theriault chat with guests about cybercrime, hacking, and online privacy. It's not your typical cybersecurity podcast...
Winner of the best and most entertaining cybersecurity podcast awards in 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024, Smashing Security has had over ten million downloads. Past guests include Garry Kasparov, Mikko Hyppönen, and Rory Cellan-Jones.
Follow the podcast on Twitter at @smashinsecurity, and subscribe for free in your favourite podcast app. New episodes released at 7pm EST every Wednesday (midnight UK).
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
Latest episodes

May 7, 2025 • 49min
High street hacks, and Disney's Wingdings woe
Jon Cho, Senior Vice President at Dashlane, dives into the world of cybersecurity, discussing the alarming rise of cyberattacks on high street retailers in the UK. He shares insights on how AI is revolutionizing the landscape of password security and introduces Dashlane's innovative Omnix service for managing credentials. The conversation takes a humorous turn with tales of terminated Disney employees and their tech-savvy revenge. Expect tips on enhancing organizational security while keeping a lighthearted vibe throughout!

20 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 31min
Hacking hijinks at the hospital, and WASPI scams
A man posed as a family member to sneak into a hospital and attempted to plant spyware, raising questions about cybersecurity and social engineering. The hosts analyze the bizarre case of a cybersecurity CEO turned hacker while shedding light on the growing WASPI scams targeting elderly women in the UK. With humor and caution, they discuss the importance of scam awareness and share tips for cybersecurity. Plus, an exploration of viral TikTok chocolate trends adds a delicious twist!

20 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 33min
Zoom.. just one click and your data goes boom!
Cybercriminals are using unsuspecting Zoom calls to steal cryptocurrency, exploiting social engineering tactics. Meanwhile, a bio-hacker is investing millions in anti-aging experiments, raising ethical questions about extreme health practices. The hosts dive into Zoom's security risks, emphasizing the need for vigilance against scams. They also share insights on tech recommendations, from e-readers to cybersecurity solutions, while touching on compelling discussions about addiction and innovative literature. All this blends humor and serious themes in the digital age.

20 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 33min
Hacking the hackers... with a credit card?
A cybersecurity firm is purchasing access to underground crime forums, raising eyebrows about ethics in gathering intel. The challenges faced by Nigerian romance scammers trying to turn their lives around reveal the complexities of cybercrime redemption. Additionally, the value of employing former hackers in cybersecurity is explored, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness. The hosts also share personal picks for thrilling films and delve into the bold world of comedy, reflecting on a Canadian comedian's controversial performance.

20 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 56min
Signalgate sucks, and the quandary of quishing
Josh Donelson, who leads technology alliances at Material.Security, dives into the world of cybersecurity, discussing the alarming rise of 'quishing'—QR code scams that can compromise your security. He also addresses a comical yet serious security blunder involving the White House using Signal, where a journalist was mistakenly included in sensitive group chats. The conversation shines a light on the dual role of AI in cybersecurity, highlighting its potential for both protection and exploitation.

20 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 52min
The fall of Troy, and whisky barrel scammers
Alastair Paterson, CEO and co-founder of Harmonic Security, shares his expertise on safely adopting generative AI in business. The conversation takes a turn when Troy Hunt, a notable cybersecurity expert, falls victim to a phishing attack, prompting a discussion on the critical need for protective measures. They also tackle alarming scams, including a whisky barrel investment fraud that cost a cancer patient their savings. Expect insights on the balance between innovation and data security in the evolving tech landscape.

20 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 34min
Unleash the AI bot army against the scammers - now!
Dive into the world of scams as a YouTuber reveals their AI bot army, cleverly battling telemarketers. Discover Lenny, a bot posing as a confused elderly man, disrupting scam calls with humor. Unearth the complexities of money laundering and the dark networks behind online fraud. Experts discuss how AI technology is evolving to fight back against scammers in real-time. Plus, hear inspiring stories from activists confronting scammers head-on, emphasizing the urgent need for scam awareness.

Mar 19, 2025 • 35min
Peeping perverts and FBI phone calls
Delve into the alarming world of a Chinese cyber-attack on a local utility company and a shocking scandal involving a landlord's hidden cameras. The hosts share humorous childhood tales while contrasting them with modern cybersecurity threats. Gain insights into evading surveillance and the ethical implications of unauthorized recordings. Enjoy a light-hearted discussion on Shakespeare's colorful insults and the importance of creative language today. This lively mix of serious issues and witty banter keeps listeners engaged and informed.

28 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 33min
A gag order backfires, and a snail mail ransom demand
A legal battle surrounding a healthcare giant ignites the Streisand Effect, showing how attempts to silence information can backfire spectacularly. Meanwhile, a ransomware gang takes an odd turn, trading dark web tactics for old-school mail scams. The hosts dive into the evolving landscape of corporate accountability, warning about the latest deceitful strategies employed by criminals. Additionally, the intriguing language of elite education exposes barriers to understanding, and the captivating series 'Severance' sparks debates about the separation of work and life.

15 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 54min
HP's hold music, and human trafficking
Gerald Beuchelt, CISO of Acronis, shares insights from the cybersecurity world, emphasizing the crucial marriage of security and organizational goals. He dives into strategies for effectively communicating with leadership, avoiding jargon, and framing security as a business risk. The discussion also uncovers the dark reality of human trafficking in Myanmar, where victims are exploited for scams, and critiques HP's tech support wait times that may lead users to unsafe help. It's a blend of urgent issues and practical advice!
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