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 @smashingsecurity.com, and subscribe for free in your favourite podcast app.New episodes released at 7pm EST every Wednesday (midnight UK).
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 17, 2025 • 43min
Lights! Camera! Hacktion!
Join Jenny Radcliffe, the renowned 'people hacker' and social engineering specialist, as she delves into fascinating topics. She and Graham explore how an Iranian gang tricked Israeli performers with fake casting calls, revealing the power of emotional lures in phishing. Jenny also discusses a UK report highlighting students hacking their own schools, advocating for proactive cyber education. Plus, there's a whimsical chat about local legends like the Wirral’s mysterious 'Catman'. It's a captivating mix of intrigue and lighthearted banter!
14 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 45min
Whopper Hackers, and AI Whoppers
Lianne Potter, a cyber anthropologist and host of the Compromising Positions podcast, joins to explore fascinating cybersecurity themes. They discuss ethical hackers revealing alarming vulnerabilities in Burger King's systems, including the ability to manipulate reviews. The conversation also dives into a lawsuit involving AI trade secrets and the challenges of retaining talent in the tech industry. With humor, they address the bizarre metrics monitored in fast food and the ethics surrounding insider threats, highlighting the need for better workplace culture.
33 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 45min
How hackers turned AI into their new henchman
This week highlights the insidious nature of LegalPwn, where hackers exploit code comments to trick AI into performing harmful actions. Research reveals AI is now aiding cybercriminals in stealing data and crafting ransom notes, amplifying the threat landscape. A humorous detour into keyboard history leads to absurd AI-generated CAPTCHAs designed to frustrate friends. The discussion emphasizes the alarming rise of ransomware, showing how AI enhances these attacks and complicates cybersecurity efforts.
10 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 35min
Oops! I auto-filled my password into a cookie banner
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.
16 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!
32 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!
