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 Rory Cellan-Jones.
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).
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
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 Bluesky at @smashinsecurity.com, 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
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 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!
6 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!
10 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!
18 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 32min
The curious case of the code copier
A GCHQ intern faces dire consequences after taking secrets home, showcasing the importance of cybersecurity. An Australian hacker's audacious exploits lead to an unexpected escape from legal trouble, only for him to face deportation. The hosts weave in humor through stories of flow states and engaging anecdotes, including a comedic reflection on a pet owl. With discussions around the ethics of hacking and the lessons learned from historical breaches, this lively conversation is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
26 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 36min
Toothpick flirts, Google leaks, and ICE ICE scammers
Exploring the oddities of nightlife, the hosts hilariously recount sticky memories from a chaotic discotheque. They dive into a shocking Google vulnerability that exposes user data and highlight the rise of dangerous scams targeting immigrants using fear tactics. There's also a light-hearted take on navigating historical films, mixed with essential safety tips like the Dutch Reach technique for opening car doors. Expect a blend of tech talk, social commentary, and plenty of laughs.
10 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 34min
Fake Susies, flawed systems, and fruity fixes for anxiety
A comedic yet concerning exploration of political impersonation sees a digital clone of Trump's aide causing chaos among Republicans. The hosts dissect the absurdity of mental health advice on TikTok, such as eating an orange in the shower — a suggestion that's more fragrant than effective. They also reminisce about simpler tech support days through a humorous story involving a CRT monitor and an unexpected shade of brown. Dive into the intersection of cybersecurity and mental health with a blend of humor and thoughtful discussion!
