Smashing Security

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.

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.

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.

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!

An astonishing $1.5 billion was compromised in a recent cryptocurrency exchange hack, raising alarms over digital security. The discussion also covers the chilling reality of online abuse affecting women and girls, with calls for stronger regulations. Historical heists are compared to modern cybercrimes, emphasizing the evolving nature of theft. Amidst serious topics, there's a light-hearted look at pop culture, including sitcoms and quirky TV shows, making for an engaging blend of humor and cybersecurity insights.

Cliff Crossland, CEO and co-founder of Scanner.dev, discusses the dark history of the controversial Bitcoin exchange BTC-e and its role in cybercrime. He sheds light on how Alexander Vinnik became a geopolitical chess piece amid international law enforcement efforts. The conversation also dives into the alarming rise of ticket scams targeting concert-goers, where fans are urged to remain vigilant while purchasing tickets. Additionally, innovative data solutions for log management in cybersecurity are explored, showcasing how technology is evolving to combat these challenges.

Jane Wakefield, a technology journalist known for her insights on scams and AI, joins the discussion to unravel the shocking SEC Twitter hack that misled many into thinking Bitcoin ETFs were approved, impacting cryptocurrency prices. The conversation dives into the alarming rise of ransomware, exploring proposals to ban ransom payments and the ethical implications involved. Wakefield also highlights the susceptibility of younger generations to conspiracy theories exacerbated by AI, calling for heightened security measures in an increasingly digital world.

Geoff White, a cybersecurity expert and author of "The Lazarus Heist," joins the discussion to unravel the mysteries behind a staggering $65 million lost from Coinbase. He critiques the cybersecurity failures of tools like PowerSchool, highlighting dangers for student data. The conversation also dives into the dark side of QR codes, revealing their exploitation in scams. With a mix of humor and insights, they emphasize the importance of vigilance in online safety amid rising cyber threats.

Lianne Potter, a cybersecurity expert and guest host from the Compromising Positions podcast, dives into the murky waters of hacking and influencer culture. She discusses how unsuspecting enthusiasts can unwittingly download harmful tools and reflects on a concerning IT incident at the British Museum. The conversation shifts to the alarming trend of social media influencers staging fake kidnappings for clout. Lianne emphasizes the pressures influencers face and the ethical dilemmas in cybersecurity, making for a thought-provoking and entertaining discussion.

Avery Pennarun, Co-founder and CEO of Tailscale, dives into the wild world of cybersecurity and home protection. He discusses a teenage hacker's audacious exploits, from changing exam scores to tampering with shipping routes. Avery highlights the growing threat of home title scams, emphasizing the need for vigilance to safeguard personal property. The conversation also touches on modern networking challenges and how Tailscale simplifies security for users. Tune in for a mix of tech insights and cautionary tales!