Shared Security Podcast

Tom Eston, Scott Wright, Kevin Tackett
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Feb 2, 2026 • 19min

Why Gen Z is Ditching Smartphones for Dumbphones

Younger generations are increasingly ditching smartphones in favor of “dumbphones”—simpler devices with fewer apps, fewer distractions, and less tracking. But what happens when you step away from a device that now functions as your wallet, your memory, and your security key? In this episode, Tom and Scott explore the dumbphone movement through a privacy and cybersecurity lens. Drawing from a recent Wired article, the conversation digs into digital burnout, surveillance capitalism, multi-factor authentication dependencies, and whether opting out of smartphones is an act of digital self-defense—or a step toward digital disadvantage. ** Links mentioned on the show ** Dumbphone Owners Have Lost Their Minds https://www.wired.com/story/dumbphone-owners-have-literally-lost-their-minds/ Previous Shared Security episode from 2022 about the rise of dumbphones https://sharedsecurity.net/2022/04/18/dumbphone-sales-are-soaring-john-oliver-blackmails-congress-cicada-chinese-apt-group/ ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/GaTMwA4kz6E ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post Why Gen Z is Ditching Smartphones for Dumbphones appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Jan 26, 2026 • 8min

AirDrop Security in iOS 26.2: Time Limits, Codes & Privacy Best Practices

In this episode, we explore the latest changes to AirDrop in iOS 26.2 and how they enhance privacy and security. Learn about the new 10-minute limitation on the ‘Everyone’ setting and the introduction of AirDrop codes for safer file sharing with non-contacts. We also discuss best practices for configuring your AirDrop settings to safeguard your privacy, including tips for high-risk individuals and general recommendations for everyday use. Stay informed and keep your device secure by updating to the latest iOS version and regularly reviewing your AirDrop settings. ** Links mentioned on the show ** iOS 26.2 adds an AirDrop security tool that you shouldn’t ignore on your iPhone https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/ios-26-2-adds-an-airdrop-security-tool-that-you-shouldnt-ignore-on-your-iphone/ ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/roBhU2AvuTs ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post AirDrop Security in iOS 26.2: Time Limits, Codes & Privacy Best Practices appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Jan 19, 2026 • 16min

Ring’s Facial Recognition Feature: Convenience or Privacy Nightmare?

In this episode, we explore Amazon Ring’s newly introduced Familiar Faces feature that utilizes AI for facial recognition. We discuss the convenience of identifying familiar people at your doorstep, the privacy concerns it raises, and the legal implications surrounding biometric data. Learn about how this feature works, potential inaccuracies, and privacy laws in certain U.S. states. We also discuss broader concerns about AI and surveillance, and provide practical advice on using this technology responsibly. ** Links mentioned on the show ** Ring Doorbells Can Now Identify Faces—But Experts Say It’s a Major Privacy Invasion. Here’s Everything You Need to Know https://www.rd.com/article/ring-doorbells-facial-identification/ ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/W5Ishw7rkRk ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post Ring’s Facial Recognition Feature: Convenience or Privacy Nightmare? appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Jan 12, 2026 • 16min

Your Google Searches Aren’t Private? PA Court’s Surprising Ruling

In this episode of Shared Security, we discuss a significant Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling that permits police to access unprotected Google search histories without a traditional warrant. The discussion centers around the implications of the Commonwealth vs. Kurtz case and the concept of reverse keyword searches. Kevin Tackett joins the conversation, providing insights and posing critical questions about the balance between law enforcement needs and privacy rights. The episode explores concerns over digital privacy, third-party data, and potential broader impacts on users. ** Links mentioned on the show ** Pennsylvania court rules Google searches are not private https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/pennsylvania-supreme-court-google-searches-are-not-private ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/OYpbVIrBz_o ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post Your Google Searches Aren’t Private? PA Court’s Surprising Ruling appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 14min

AI and the End of the Traditional Entry-Level Tech Job

Welcome to the first episode of the Shared Security Podcast in 2026! As AI becomes increasingly integrated into technical fields such as software development and cybersecurity, traditional entry-level roles are evolving or disappearing. This episode discusses the implications of AI on entry-level knowledge worker jobs, emphasizing the need for students, recent graduates, and those entering the job market to adapt their strategies. Discover the new skills and approaches needed to stay relevant, explore potential career pivots, and learn why degrees and certifications alone are no longer sufficient. Tune in for practical advice on thriving in an AI-driven job market. ** Links mentioned on the show ** AI and the future of entry-level jobs https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/ai-future-entry-level-jobs-224013821.html Investors predict AI is coming for labor in 2026 https://techcrunch.com/2025/12/31/investors-predict-ai-is-coming-for-labor-in-2026/ ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/MGlzDTgEXI8 ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post AI and the End of the Traditional Entry-Level Tech Job appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Dec 29, 2025 • 36min

2025 Predictions: Hits, Misses & What We Learned

The hosts reflect on their 2025 predictions, analyzing what came true and what didn't. They dive into AI-themed phishing trends and the effectiveness of AGI guardrails. TikTok remains unbanned while federal privacy laws stagnate. Predictions for 2026 promise bold forecasts, from rising pushback against AI to local privacy legislation growth. The team also celebrates viewer milestones and the impact of engaging content, like shorts, on their audience. Tune in for insights on cybersecurity, AI, and geopolitical changes ahead!
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Dec 22, 2025 • 13min

Why Networking Is Your Secret Weapon in Cybersecurity Job Hunting

Delve into the competitive cybersecurity job market and discover why networking might be your secret weapon! Learn practical tips like attending top conferences for those vital 'hallway conversations.' Seek out professionals in your dream companies and consider volunteering to boost your reputation. Tom Eston highlights the value of blogging to showcase your expertise and recommends local speaking engagements to increase visibility. Don't underestimate the power of mentorship—starting your networking journey early can really pay off!
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Dec 15, 2025 • 19min

The Hidden Threat in Your Holiday Emails: Tracking Pixels and Privacy Concerns

Join us in the midst of the holiday shopping season as we discuss a growing privacy problem: tracking pixels embedded in marketing emails. According to Proton’s latest Spam Watch 2025 report, nearly 80% of promotional emails now contain trackers that report back your email activity. We discuss how these trackers work, why they become more aggressive during the holidays, the data being collected by marketers, and how you can protect yourself. We are joined by Scott Wright to explore Proton’s comprehensive study, identify the worst offenders in email tracking, and share tips on maintaining your online privacy. Tune in and stay informed about the invisible surveillance in your emails this holiday season! ** Links mentioned on the show ** Spam Watch 2025: The hidden trackers and inbox overload behind holiday marketing https://proton.me/blog/spam-watch-2025 Inbox full of promo emails? 80% are tracking you, new report warns https://www.zdnet.com/article/inbox-promo-emails-tracking-you-proton-mail-warns/ AnnonAddy https://addy.io/ SimpleLogin https://simplelogin.io/ Apple Hide My Email (required iCloud+ subscription) https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/create-and-manage-hide-my-email-addresses-iphcb02e76f7/ios ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/sSFvCkiTmNc ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post The Hidden Threat in Your Holiday Emails: Tracking Pixels and Privacy Concerns appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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Dec 8, 2025 • 17min

Seeing Is Not Believing: How to Spot AI-Generated Video

In this episode we discuss the rising challenge of AI-generated videos, including deepfakes and synthetic clips that can deceive even a skeptical viewer. Once the gold standard of proof, video content is now increasingly manipulated through advanced AI tools like Sora 2 and Google’s Nano Banana, making it harder to separate reality from fiction. Tom and Scott discuss the differences between malicious deepfakes and poorly-made AI-generated content, identify key indicators that reveal a video might be AI-generated, and explain how these videos are used in social engineering attacks. Practical advice is offered on how to protect yourself and your organization from this emerging threat. ** Links mentioned on the show ** Is that an AI video? 6 telltale signs it’s a fake https://www.zdnet.com/article/is-that-video-ai-6-tell-tale-signs-its-a-deepfake/ ** Watch this episode on YouTube ** https://youtu.be/7Zq4Jxli3vQ ** Become a Shared Security Supporter ** Get exclusive access to ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, listen to new episodes before they are released, receive a monthly shout-out on the show, and get a discount code for 15% off merch at the Shared Security store. Become a supporter today! https://patreon.com/SharedSecurity ** Thank you to our sponsors! ** SLNT Visit slnt.com to check out SLNT’s amazing line of Faraday bags and other products built to protect your privacy. As a listener of this podcast you receive 10% off your order at checkout using discount code “sharedsecurity”. Click Armor To find out how “gamification” of security awareness training can reduce cyber risks related to phishing and social engineering, and to get a free trial of Click Armor’s gamified awareness training platform, visit: https://clickarmor.ca/sharedsecurity ** Subscribe and follow the podcast ** Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SharedSecurityPodcast Follow us on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sharedsecurity.bsky.social Follow us on Mastodon: https://infosec.exchange/@sharedsecurity Join us on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/SharedSecurityShow/ Visit our website: https://sharedsecurity.net Subscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://sharedsecurity.net/subscribe Sign-up for our email newsletter to receive updates about the podcast, contest announcements, and special offers from our sponsors: https://shared-security.beehiiv.com/subscribe Leave us a rating and review: https://ratethispodcast.com/sharedsecurity Contact us: https://sharedsecurity.net/contact The post Seeing Is Not Believing: How to Spot AI-Generated Video appeared first on Shared Security Podcast.
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10 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 31min

So You Want to Be a CISO? With vCISO and Security Justice Alum Chris Clymer

In this engaging discussion, Chris Clymer, an experienced fractional CISO and former co-host of the Security Justice podcast, shares insights on the evolving CISO role. He explains the fractional CISO model and its benefits for businesses of all sizes. Chris highlights the essential balance of technical skills and soft skills needed for success, the challenges of resource constraints, and emphasizes the importance of understanding a company's mission. He offers valuable advice for aspiring CISOs, including skills development and the significance of effective people management.

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