Click Here

John Riggi, a former FBI agent, delves into the implications of new legislation that aims to classify certain ransomware attacks as acts of terror. He discusses the potential shift in government responses, including military interventions against cyber threats. Riggi emphasizes the importance of transitioning to offensive cybersecurity strategies to outmaneuver attackers. He also explores the evolving landscape of cyber threats, linking them to national security concerns and the adaptation of both criminal organizations and terrorist groups to technology.

In this gripping discussion, the focus is on the harrowing ransomware attack that targeted Skylakes Medical Center. The podcast delves into the chaos experienced by the IT director as they battle to restore vital systems and protect patient care. Listeners gain insight into how rural hospitals face unique cybersecurity challenges, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the increasing vulnerabilities in healthcare tech, exposing how outdated systems can lead to catastrophic incidents. It’s a powerful reminder of the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Vince Houghton, the affable director of the National Cryptologic Museum, shares intriguing insights into the world of espionage and code-breaking. Discover the museum's hidden gems, including a World War II Enigma machine and President Obama’s old Blackberry. Houghton reveals tales of mysterious WWII crates that housed groundbreaking artifacts like the 'Russian Fish.' He also discusses the revolutionary Colossus computer and its legacy, illustrating how these cryptographic advancements have shaped today's technology. A truly fascinating tour of history!

Renee Diresta, a former Stanford Internet Observatory Research Director and author of 'Invisible Rulers,' delves into the world of disinformation and its emotional underpinnings. She discusses the urgent need for timely analysis to tackle online misinformation, especially related to COVID-19 and the 2020 election. Diresta emphasizes how humor can undermine divisive narratives and explores the challenges faced by researchers combating falsehoods in a politically charged environment. The conversation highlights the potential for lightheartedness to influence serious discourse.

Allison Nixon, a researcher at Unit 221B, dives into the intriguing world of young cyber criminals and their radicalization. She explores how these youths mirror traditional offenders, driven by a quest for identity in the digital realm. The podcast discusses the creative yet risky tactics like SIM swapping that are popular among young hackers. Nixon also highlights the risks of isolation in fostering extreme behaviors, stressing the importance of support systems for rehabilitation over incarceration.

Explore the intriguing world of cryptocurrency crime with a riveting tale of redemption. Discover how a young gamer spiraled into hacking, driven by adrenaline and obsession. Dive into the dark realm of SIM swapping and a jaw-dropping $14 million heist. Witness the turning point as the hacker reflects on his actions through heartfelt conversations with his mother in prison. Ultimately, this journey showcases a powerful transformation from villain to hero, shedding light on ethical hacking and the complexities of the cyber world.

Nina Jankowicz, a leading disinformation researcher currently embroiled in a defamation lawsuit against Fox News, sheds light on her challenging journey. She discusses the chilling effects of misinformation on democracy and her personal experiences with media scrutiny. Nina highlights the complexities of defamation law, especially concerning freedom of speech. Additionally, she emphasizes the dire need for transparency and accountability in tackling deceptive political narratives and the formation of a new NGO dedicated to this cause.

Discover the touching tale of a boy named Matthew who finds peace through music, despite life's challenges. Dive into the unexpected thrill of locating a free Steinway baby grand piano. Learn about a unique scam that uses emotional stories to exploit unsuspecting victims in the piano shipping industry. Gain insights into the importance of skepticism in a world rife with fraud. Also, explore cybersecurity updates, including a DOJ lawsuit against TikTok and the implications of a proposed national internet ID in China.

TJ Nelson, a threat intelligence expert at Recorded Future, dives into the recent CrowdStrike outage that left millions in the dark. He examines how this incident impacted critical sectors like banking and healthcare. The conversation highlights the vital role of kernel-level software in security frameworks and the dangers of software update failures, showcasing how a simple logic error led to widespread chaos. Nelson also discusses the importance of rigorous quality assurance and the ongoing challenges of software vulnerabilities in today's digital world.

Tigran Gambaryan, a former IRS investigator turned Binance employee, reveals the alarming details of his legal troubles in Nigeria. He discusses the serious allegations against him and the implications for Binance amidst global regulatory scrutiny. Gambaryan's health crisis in prison raises serious humanitarian concerns, while the rapid rise of cryptocurrency in Nigeria underscores its role as a financial lifeline. The conversation dives into the precarious landscape of cryptocurrency regulations and the looming penalties that could reshape the exchange's future.