Security Unfiltered

Latest Episodes:

Fighting Misinformation in a Divided Landscape Aug 22, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever wondered how drastically your media consumption could change just by crossing state lines? During a recent family vacation to Nashville, I experienced firsthand how my YouTube and social media feeds were manipulated to present opposing political views. This episode exposes the unnerving reality of regional media targeting, especially as we approach election season. By exploring the ease with which these platforms can alter our perspectives based on location, we uncover the potential for significant influence on public opinion.
As we navigate through today’s politically charged environment, it's more critical than ever to question the information presented to us. We discuss the alarming trend of historical facts being twisted or forgotten, drawing parallels to the propaganda tactics of the past. This episode underscores the importance of verifying sources and staying vigilant against misinformation. With election season on the horizon, our focus is on fostering awareness and preparedness to resist the unprecedented levels of targeted media influence aimed at swaying our opinions. Join us in this vital conversation about maintaining the integrity of our perspectives in the face of sophisticated propaganda techniques.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

Affiliates
➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh
➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE
➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/
Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout
*See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

AI, Security, and the Future of IT Explored With Michael Goldstein Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

How does a mischievous high school curiosity evolve into a rich, multifaceted career in IT and security? This episode promises a deep dive into Michael Goldstein's fascinating journey from tinkering with school computers to becoming an influential figure during the PC revolution. Learn from Michael's transition from mainframe to PC environments and his crucial role in an early managed service provider, all while absorbing the lessons of adaptability and foresight that have marked his professional life. Michael's story is not just a tale of technological advancement but a guide for anyone looking to carve their own path in IT and security.
Ever wondered how to break into the world of IT and security? Michael offers actionable insights, emphasizing the foundational role of help desk positions and the vital troubleshooting skills necessary to thrive. The episode delves into the mental fortitude required in security roles, painting a picture of seasoned professionals who tackle complex problems with strategic independence. Through personal anecdotes and professional reflections, we underscore the importance of teamwork and versatility, drawing comparisons to the multifaceted skill sets needed for success in various IT roles.
In your quest for success in the tech industry, what entrepreneurial lessons can you glean from a seasoned professional? Michael shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges of adapting to industry changes and the importance of staying ahead with emerging technologies like AI and cybersecurity. Gain insights into forming the right team and treating customers with genuine respect, while also exploring the transformative applications of AI in business operations. Michael's conversation offers real-world examples and thought-provoking topics, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the current and future landscape of technology.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

Balancing Tech and Soft Skills in Modern Cybersecurity With Rui Ribeiro Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Imagine the bustling energy of DEF CON suddenly shifting from Caesars to the Las Vegas Convention Center. How will this change impact the magic of one of the world's most renowned cybersecurity events? Join us as we share personal experiences from past DEF CONs, consider the logistical hurdles, and discuss the potential financial implications for local resorts. Our guest, Rui Ribeiro, brings his invaluable insights into how such changes can alter the attendee experience, setting the stage for a deep dive into his impressive professional journey in cybersecurity.
As we navigate the realm of client-side security, we uncover the fascinating story behind the founding of Chase Prep. From the chaotic days of the early internet boom to a pivotal meeting with Cloudflare's CEO, we explore the transformative power of JavaScript and the intricate parallels between telecom and banking industries. Rui and I emphasize the critical need for clear communication of security requirements to decision-makers, particularly in emerging markets, highlighting the often-overlooked technical challenges and opportunities in this niche field.
Our conversation also tackles the evolving landscape of cybersecurity with a focus on balancing technical and soft skills. We discuss strategies for embedding security into everyday processes, the importance of adaptive security measures, and how rapid advancements like those during COVID-19 have reshaped business practices. From insurance risks and evolving security models to the joy of building a safer digital world, this episode covers the passion and practicalities that drive us in the field of cybersecurity. Join us for an enlightening discussion that promises to leave you with fresh insights and actionable takeaways.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

NSA Red Team Founder - Jeff Man Aug 05, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

In this insightful interview, Joe sits down with cybersecurity expert Mr. Jeff Man to delve into his extensive background in security and his impactful tenure at the National Security Agency (NSA). They explore how Jeff embarked on his security career, the critical mission of the NSA, and the agency's compartmentalized structure. Jeff recounts his experiences working on significant projects at the NSA and underscores the importance of compartmentalization for security. The discussion also highlights the challenges of government work and the stringent entry requirements for agencies like the NSA.
The conversation spans various topics, including the complexities of handling different telecom and operating systems, the advanced technology at the NSA, the pioneering days of hacking and network security, and the formation of the first red team. Jeff shares his motivations for staying at the NSA and the circumstances that led to his departure. Additionally, he talks about his current work in PCI compliance and his active participation in the security community through conferences and podcasts. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of cybersecurity from a seasoned expert.
00:00 Introduction and Podcasting
03:47 Getting into Security
10:47 Jeff's Background and Entry into the NSA
15:58 The Mission of the NSA
22:27 Challenges of Working in the Government
29:07 Overlapping Projects and Duplication of Efforts
31:02 Technological Advancement at the Agency
36:47 The Early Days of Hacking and Network Security
51:42 Reasons for Staying at the Agency
54:20 Leaving the Agency and the Significant Incident
57:06 Current Work in PCI Compliance and Involvement in the Security Community

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

Grant Borzikas' Unconventional Journey to CISO of Cloudflare Jul 15, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of Grant Borzikas, the CISO of Cloudflare. From his passion for baseball and a brief stint in accounting to becoming a prominent figure in IT, Grant's journey is anything but typical. Listen as he recounts how his father's influence and his own relentless curiosity led him into the tech world.

Grant shares his early experiences balancing financial auditing and computer risk management roles at Arthur Andersen, highlighting the challenges he faced and how he overcame imposter syndrome through continuous learning. His insights and personal anecdotes offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating their career path.

We discuss the importance of continuous learning for IT professionals, covering key areas such as understanding personal learning styles, asking fundamental questions, and securing certifications. Grant emphasizes building a strong foundation in technical areas like Linux, networking, and DNS, and staying ahead in rapidly evolving fields like AI and machine learning. Discover how tackling challenging subjects and maintaining curiosity can significantly enhance your career, keeping you relevant and effective in the fast-paced tech industry.

The episode also explores the future of AI in cybersecurity, addressing both the promising advancements and the sophisticated threats posed by AI-driven attacks. Learn about the crucial role of data and intelligence in strengthening network security practices and the innovative approaches of companies like Cloudflare. Grant discusses the accessibility of Cloudflare's services, from creating accounts and developing websites to utilizing security solutions with ease.

Packed with insights and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in IT, cybersecurity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of Grant Borzikas and his contributions to the tech industry.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

From Hacked Teen to Cybersecurity Pro: Ron Eddings' Journey to the NSA & Hacker Valley Studios Jul 08, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when a curious teenager gets hacked on AOL Instant Messenger and turns that experience into a thriving cybersecurity career? Join us as we sit down with Ron Edding from Hacker Valley Studios, who shares his journey from being a 13-year-old victim of hacking to becoming a professional at Booz Allen Hamilton by the age of 19. Along the way, he crossed paths with Marcus Carey, a pivotal mentor who recognized his potential and set him on the path to success.
Ron’s story underscores the importance of believing in young talent within the cybersecurity field. We explore how his initial dreams of joining federal law enforcement evolved into a passion for cybersecurity, driven by curiosity and determination. Learn how Ron faced skepticism head-on, proving that age is just a number when it comes to skill and dedication. His narrative is a testament to how setting intentions and vocalizing goals can help align opportunities, and how overcoming obstacles can fuel one's drive even further.
We also dive into Ron’s experiences working at Booz Allen, specifically on NSA contracts, and the unique process of obtaining security clearance. Discover the lessons learned during the "beach" period, the importance of becoming a subject matter expert, and the fine balance between meticulous documentation and creative problem-solving. Ron’s journey through various challenges and his emphasis on detailed documentation provide valuable insights into career progression and the significance of mentorship and referrals in landing roles at prestigious firms.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

From Mathematics to Cybersecurity: Fayon Atkinson's Unexpected Career Journey Jul 02, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

What if your career path took an unexpected turn into the fast-paced world of cybersecurity? Join us for an insightful conversation with Fayon, a senior cybersecurity advisor, who pivots from mathematics and mechanical engineering to become a cornerstone of breach response and risk advisory. Hear how her role as a breach assistant at an insurance company became the gateway to a successful cybersecurity career, and discover the unique challenges and rewards of navigating this dynamic field.
We bring you personal stories of career transitions, from fields as diverse as mathematics and criminal justice, to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Fayon shares her experiences working in both reactive breach response and proactive risk advisory, shedding light on the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. This episode also tackles misconceptions about introversion in the professional world and highlights the perpetual need to stay ahead in the ever-changing cybersecurity industry.
Dive into the unique challenges faced by Black women in cybersecurity as Fayon candidly discusses her experiences with imposter syndrome and the lack of representation. We also delve into the critical role of cybersecurity insurance, comparing it to auto insurance claims management, and emphasize why even small businesses need comprehensive security measures. From conducting incident response plan reviews to leveraging threat intelligence, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the intricate world of cybersecurity.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

Protecting Small Businesses in the Digital Age With Chris Petersen From Radicl Jun 24, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered how a degree in accounting could lead to a thriving career in cybersecurity? Join us as Chris Petersen shares his riveting journey from Colorado State University to becoming a cybersecurity expert. Initially hesitant to dive into engineering, Chris leveraged his minor in accounting information systems and a golden opportunity at Price water house to pivot into IT. His story underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities, offering invaluable insights for anyone contemplating a career shift in the tech industry.
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in critical sectors often find themselves in the crosshairs of cyber adversaries. Chris and our hosts dissect the pressing cybersecurity challenges these businesses face, especially those in the defense industrial base. Learn about Radical's mission to democratize enterprise-level security through cloud technology and AI, making it affordable for vulnerable companies. We also discuss how upcoming regulations mandating third-party cybersecurity assessments could change the landscape, ensuring that contractors handling sensitive information are adequately protected.
Finally, we tackle the evolving threats in the defense industry and the necessity for advanced threat detection and attribution. Chris offers an insider's perspective on the methodologies employed to counteract these sophisticated attacks. We also delve into the controversial topic of a national digital ID system, debating its potential to combat identity fraud and deep fakes while navigating the intricate balance between security and privacy. This episode is packed with critical information and actionable insights, making it a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of cybersecurity and digital identity.
https://radicl.com/

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

The Future of Encryption and Digital Safety With Ameesh Divatia Jun 17, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

What if you could unlock the secrets of a thriving tech career and learn how to safeguard sensitive data in the digital age? Join us for an insightful episode featuring our special guest, Ameesh Divatia, who shares his captivating journey into IT, sparked by reading tech articles in Time magazine and National Geographic. From his early fascination with electronics to pursuing electrical engineering and navigating the evolution of technology, Ameesh offers a unique perspective shaped by experiences in tech hubs like the San Francisco Bay Area.
Ever wondered how stepping out of your comfort zone could propel your career in tech? We explore this theme with personal anecdotes about embracing discomfort for continuous growth, inspired by my father's philosophy. Discover how Amazon, particularly AWS, has revolutionized modern life and shopping habits. Learn about the dynamic culture of Silicon Valley, where rotating between major tech companies brings fresh perspectives. The episode also features an intriguing story about hiring practices and the essential lessons drawn from past cybersecurity breaches.
Finally, we tackle the critical challenge of securing sensitive data in today's interconnected world. Dive into advanced topics such as cryptography, privacy-enhanced computation, and the looming threat of quantum computing. Understand the pivotal role of human factors in cybersecurity and how changing attitudes can enhance protection measures. This episode wraps up with insights on mastering encryption concepts and the importance of collaboration and simplification in the learning process, providing you with the knowledge to navigate the increasingly complex digital security landscape.

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

Safeguarding the Future Of AI Meets Cybersecurity With Erick Galinkin Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Curious about the real history of artificial intelligence and how it has woven itself into the fabric of modern life? Join us as Erick Galinkin returns to share his insights on the evolution of AI, from its early conceptual stages to its present-day applications like self-driving cars. We promise you'll walk away with a deep understanding of the various levels of autonomous driving and the enormous strides AI has made, surpassing even the most ambitious expectations of the past. This is not just a technical conversation; it's a philosophical journey questioning AI's origins and contemplating its future.
Discover the transformative role of massively parallel processing in AI, especially within computer vision. Learn how CUDA, initially designed for computer graphics, has become indispensable for deep learning by efficiently handling complex computations. We break down neural networks and activation functions, explaining how frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch leverage specialized hardware to achieve remarkable performance improvements. If you've ever wondered how deep learning mimics human neural behavior or how AI-specific hardware is optimized, this segment will be invaluable.
In the latter part of our episode, we tackle the intricate relationship between AI and cybersecurity. Hear about the challenges of training machine learning models to detect malware and the dual-use nature of AI models that can serve both defensive and offensive purposes. We shed light on the complexities of securing AI systems, emphasizing the need for specialized risk management strategies distinct from traditional cloud security. From tools like Garak to frameworks like Nemo Guardrails, we explore various solutions to secure large language models and ensure they operate safely within an organization. This episode will arm you with the knowledge to understand and mitigate the risks associated with deploying AI technologies in your own projects.
https://github.com/leondz/garak

https://github.com/nvidia/nemo-guardrails

Support the show

Follow the Podcast on Social Media!

Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast