Click Here

Dan Guido, a cybersecurity expert and founder of Trail of Bits, dives into the art of hacking and human error. He shares his firsthand experience with Elusive Comet's strategies, revealing how hackers exploit trust and emotions, like urgency and ego. Guido highlights the vulnerabilities in popular communication tools like Zoom and discusses the shifting tactics in cryptocurrency attacks. Emphasizing the need for skepticism, he reminds us that the weakest link in security often lies within ourselves, not the technology.

Jake Gallen, a rising star in crypto and an NFT collector, shares his harrowing experience after a Zoom-based hacking incident left his digital assets liquidated and social accounts hijacked. He emphasizes the hidden dangers of online interactions and the ease with which hackers can exploit trust. The conversation highlights the vital role of vigilance in cybersecurity and outlines the unique challenges faced by professionals in the field. Gallen introduces the impactful work of the Open Security Alliance in combating crypto-related attacks.

Omid Malakad, a crypto and blockchain educator at Columbia Business School, dives into the aftermath of a polarizing dinner that linked political figures with cryptocurrency. He questions the legitimacy perceived by the crypto community amidst skepticism. The discussion highlights how political influence shapes investor confidence, explores the dual-nature of crypto through controversial figures, and outlines the dynamic transformation of the industry, including the rise of stablecoins and legislative efforts to legitimize them.

Explore the curious world of memecoins, born from internet humor but now influencing political power. A controversial Trump meme coin raises eyebrows with its legal implications and massive financial stakes. Discover the risks of meme coins, from market volatility to potential foreign interference in U.S. politics. The discussion also connects today’s crypto climate to past financial crises, highlighting the need for regulatory measures in an era of digital finance and cyber threats.

A defector from North Korea shares harrowing experiences of life within an oppressive regime and its secretive cyber army. Learn how IT workers are dispatched overseas under strict surveillance, often forced to create spyware and launder money. The emotional journey highlights the shift from seeing North Koreans as enemies to understanding them as victims. Personal stories reveal the impact of propaganda and the longing for reunification, while shedding light on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.

North Korea is pushing boundaries with its new artificial intelligence research center, aimed at enhancing cyber operations. Experts discuss its alarming transition from a conventional state to a criminal entity. Youth-driven hacking culture thrives despite technological shortcomings, revealing sophisticated skills. The rise of AI in their cyber strategies raises concerns about potential global ramifications. With AI-generated identities and deceptive practices in play, North Korea's cybercrime landscape poses serious national security threats.

Richard Hunter is a Bitcoin miner who returned to his Kentucky roots, lured by promises of cheap power and tax perks. He shares his journey from optimism to frustration as he navigates the challenges of setting up a mining operation. The discussion touches on the transition of Kentucky's economy, the impact on local communities, and the reality of scaling mining amid noise pollution and fluctuating Bitcoin prices. Hunter reflects on unfulfilled promises, yet manages to maintain a spark of hope for cryptocurrency's future.

Zach Hirsch, a field producer known for his insightful reporting, dives into the intriguing world of crypto mining in Eastern Kentucky. He discusses the region’s shift from coal to cryptocurrency, revealing the community's mixed feelings about this new economic opportunity. Hirsch highlights the energy demands of crypto mining and Kentucky's surprising role in the landscape after China's ban. The podcast also reflects on the historical ties to coal, showcasing the hopes and skepticism surrounding this latest extraction method.

Micah Lee, an information security engineer and investigative journalist renowned for his expertise in privacy and cryptography, dives into the alarming security issues behind the TMSGNL messaging app. Highlighting a viral photo of Mike Waltz during a Cabinet meeting, he discusses the implications of using flawed messaging services for sensitive government communications. Lee emphasizes the risk of backdoors and security vulnerabilities, urging a reevaluation of encrypted messaging practices to safeguard national security.

Jen White, the host of NPR's 1A, and Karen Moronsky-Chapman, a former employee at the U.S. Digital Service, dive into the implications of DOGE's handling of federal data. They discuss alarming privacy risks, especially related to undocumented immigrants, and how recent agreements between the IRS and ICE heighten these concerns. The discussion also explores the challenges facing the U.S. Digital Service under DOGE's influence, the need for effective government audits, and the potential for whistleblower revelations amidst escalating cybersecurity threats.