Smashing Security
Graham Cluley
Smashing Security isn’t your typical tech podcast. Hosted by cybersecurity veteran Graham Cluley, it serves up weekly tales of cybercrime, hacking horror stories, privacy blunders, and tech mishaps - all with sharp insight, a sense of humour, and zero tolerance for tech waffle.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 Jack Rhysider. Follow the podcast on Bluesky at @smashinsecurity.com, and subscribe for free in your favourite podcast app.New episodes released at 7pm EST every Wednesday (midnight UK).
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 27, 2025 • 35min
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Thom Langford, a security expert and host of Host Unknown, joins to discuss crucial cybersecurity topics. They reveal how certain password managers can be manipulated in clickjacking attacks, urging users to tighten their defenses. The conversation shifts to the looming threat of quantum computing, with Microsoft's commitment to quantum safety by 2033. Thom also shares laughs about tech failures, warns about shady URL tools, and reminisces on the iconic design of the iMac G4 while exploring ways to breathe new life into vintage tech.
8 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 34min
How to mine millions without paying the bill
Allan Liska, a ransomware sommelier, discusses the bizarre world of crypto-influencers and the absurd lengths some go to for quick riches. He touches on the growing menace of EDR-killer tools that silently disable endpoint defenses, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity. The chat then takes a whimsical turn as they explore the Wayforward Machine and pay homage to Mary Shelley in Bournemouth, blending literary history with tech insights. A delightful mix of humor and alarming realities awaits!
24 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 33min
Poisoned Calendar invites, ChatGPT, and Bromide
Dave Bittner, a cybersecurity expert from The Cyberwire and host of Hacking Humans, joins the banter-filled discussion. They explore the alarming security risks of poisoned Google Calendar invites that could breach smart home devices. A wild story emerges about a man hospitalized after he took ChatGPT's bizarre seasoning advice. The conversation lightens up with thoughts on the new Superman movie and its focus on kindness, alongside humorous movie recommendations, making for a lively and engaging exchange.
20 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 28min
Replit panics, and the AI that will kill you
This episode features a whimsical dive into the chaotic world of AI and its humorous mishaps, where programming errors lead to unexpected results. Highlights include a cautionary tale of an AI agent at Replit that mistakenly deleted a database, showcasing the risks of unchecked automation. The podcast humorously explores AI managing a shop, revealing the challenges of balancing customer service with profitability. Ethical decision-making with AI also takes center stage, inviting listeners to ponder the future of technology's role in everyday life.
38 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 40min
Red flags, leaked chats, and a final farewell
A viral dating app for women faces backlash after leaking a trove of private images and chats. The hosts delve into the implications of this security breach and its impact on user trust in dating platforms. Following this serious topic, there's a heartfelt farewell as one co-host reflects on nearly a decade of shared memories and laughs. They also pay tribute to the late satirical musician Tom Lehrer, adding a nostalgic touch to their final discussion. Expect a blend of laughter, tears, and fascinating insights into cybersecurity!
12 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 34min
When 2G attacks, and a romantic road trip goes wrong
Graham warns that it's time to ditch the outdated 2G mobile network, as cybercriminals exploit it with suitcase-sized SMS blasters, sending thousands of scam texts. Meanwhile, a 76-year-old man's romantic road trip hilariously goes awry when he encounters his intended date's unsuspecting husband. The discussion also touches on the absurdities of modern love, the scandalous Facebook memoir that stirred controversy, and artistic TV recommendations. There's never a dull moment, blending tech insights with comedic tales of romance gone wrong!
20 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 37min
Choo Choo Choose to ignore the vulnerability
Discover how a teenager hilariously hacked into Poland's tram system with a cheap remote. Dive into the daunting responsibilities of managing freight train safety and the unexpected behavior of Grok, an AI chatbot, raising ethical questions around AI accountability. The hosts tackle email security essentials, emphasizing SPF and DMARC, while sharing their favorite comedy picks and exploring the value of streaming services. With a mix of tech insights and light-hearted banter, this discussion is both informative and entertaining!
14 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 35min
Call of Duty: From pew-pew to pwned
Dive into the dark side of gaming as serious security flaws in Call of Duty: WWII are unveiled. Discover how hackers have hijacked PCs during online matches, prompting urgent action from platforms like Game Pass. The discussion shifts to scams targeting families of recently incarcerated individuals, where fraudsters impersonate bail bondsmen. Learn about the emotional toll of navigating bail systems, the intricacies of securing release, and vital tips for protecting oneself from cybersecurity threats in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
20 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 34min
Surveillance, spyware, and self-driving snafus
A Mexican drug cartel is using traffic cameras and spyware to track the FBI, raising urgent questions about surveillance technology's impact. The hosts also dive into the uneven progress of self-driving cars, with Tesla's ambitious robotaxis facing real-world challenges. Amidst these serious topics, they chat about how to survive heatwaves with innovative gadgets and explore the architectural charm of Leighton House, revealing its hidden gems. Prepare for a mix of intrigue, humor, and thought-provoking insights!
50 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 55min
Operation Endgame, deepfakes, and dead slugs
Joe Tidy, BBC cyber correspondent and author of "Ctrl-Alt-Chaos", dives into the intriguing world of teenage hackers and ransomware gangs. He discusses the stylish police initiative, Operation Endgame, aimed at dismantling cybercrime with creative strategies. The conversation also touches on the growing threat of deepfakes in hiring processes, and how a perfect LinkedIn profile could mask a North Korean hacker. Plus, there are amusing anecdotes about competitive pond husbandry and the quirky board game Hitster!
