

The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast
LimaCharlie
An accessible but technical podcast about cybersecurity and the people who keep the internet safe. The podcast is built as a series of segments: we will be looking back at the last couple of weeks in cybersecurity news, talking to different people in the industry about areas of their expertise, we're going to break apart some of the TTPs being used by adversaries, and we will even cover a little bit of hacker history.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 5, 2024 • 31min
#90 - The similarities between punk rock and cybersecurity with James McMurry, Founder & CEO of ThreatHunter.ai
On this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we have a conversation with James McMurry, Founder and CEO of ThreatHunter.ai.James is a cybersecurity veteran (and a veteran) with a career that spans over 30 years. He's the problem-solver who sees complexity as a puzzle to unravel.His approach goes beyond buzzwords; James transforms innovation into reality by blending AI, machine learning, and a team of human threat hunters into an effective cybersecurity strategy. Beyond the office, James is a discerning whisk(e)y enthusiast, showcasing a refined taste that matches his coding finesse. He is also a philanthropist and the Founder of VETCON.James can be found on Twitter here.And on Instagram here.

Jan 3, 2024 • 32min
#89 - Hard-won entrepreneurial lessons with JP Bourget, Founder and President of Blue Cycle
On this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we have a conversation with JP Bourget, Founder and President of Blue Cycle, who shares some hard-won lessons from his entrepreneurial journey.JP Bourget specializes in empowering Blue Teams and Security Operations Centers (SOCs) by implementing cutting-edge methodologies to enhance Cyber Maturity. His expertise spans automation, data engineering, API integration, and advocating security-as-code principles. Additionally, he holds the role of Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at Lytical Ventures.Previously, JP was the Founder and Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Syncurity, a company acquired by Swimlane and an early pioneer in the Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) landscape. Syncurity's flagship product, IR-Flow, revolutionized alert triage, allowing organizations to optimize their security efforts efficiently.Before co-founding Syncurity, JP honed his skills as the Network Security Manager at Arnold Magnetic Technologies, a prominent global manufacturing enterprise valued at $250 million.JP can be found on LinkedIn here.

Jan 2, 2024 • 1min
Podcast trailer for 2024
Welcome to the Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast. My name is Christopher Luft, one of the founders of LimaCharlie and I am your host.This podcast is set up as a series of segments in and around cybersecurity - with a focus on the defensive side.Tune in for weekly intelligence reports and discussions, as well as deep-dives into major incidents like the MGM ransomware attack or the recent Okta breach with expert guests who can break down the events.I also get the privilege of interviewing many information security experts to share their unique stories. Hear from security analysts, detection engineers, CISOs, and other high-profile public figures. And my personal favourite, is a special segment called Hacker History where we narrate the true stories of infamous cybersecurity incidents with the help from those that were directly involved.The show is a constant work in progress and we would love for you to join us. We are always happy to hear from our listeners and encourage you to engage with us so that we can make this show the best it can be. So subscribe and follow along as we learn and grow together in this ever-evolving realm of cybersecurity.

Dec 31, 2023 • 1h 6min
#88 - Predictions for the future of cybersecurity from 2023
A special episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, where we look back at our conversations throughout 2023, and bring together all of the predictions for the future of cybersecurity.It is a fun episode, and we hope you enjoy listening to it. And a Happy New Year to all our listeners! Wishing you security and success in 2024.

Dec 28, 2023 • 22min
#87 - Hacker History: The Colonial Pipeline
In this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we recount some hacker history, and with the help of Casey Ellis, Founder and CSO at Bugcrowd, tell the story of the largest critical infrastructure ransomware attacks in history: The Colonial PipelineOn May 7, 2021, Colonial Pipeline, an American oil pipeline system that originates in Houston, Texas, and carries gasoline and jet fuel mainly to the Southeastern United States, suffered a ransomware cyberattack that impacted computerized equipment managing the pipeline. The Colonial Pipeline Company halted all pipeline operations to contain the attack. Overseen by the FBI, the company paid the amount that was asked by the hacker group (75 bitcoin or $4.4 million USD) within several hours; upon receipt of the ransom, an IT tool was provided to the Colonial Pipeline Company by DarkSide to restore the system. However, the tool required a very long processing time to restore the system to a working state.This episode was written by the talented Nathaniel Nelson.Casey Ellis can be found on LinkedIn here.

Dec 20, 2023 • 30min
#86 - Intel Chat: pfSense vulnerability, Gootloader, OilRig & the KV-botnet
In this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we discuss some cutting-edge intel coming out of LimaCharlie's community Slack channel.Sonar Source are reporting on a few vulnerabilities they have found in pfSense.eSentire’s Threat Response Unit launched a multi-pronged offensive against the Gootloader Initial Access-as-a-Service Operation. ESET researchers documented a series of new OilRig downloaders, all relying on legitimate cloud service providers for command and control communications.The Black Lotus Labs team at Lumen Technologies is tracking a small or home office router botnet that forms a covert data transfer network for advanced threat actors. You can make a donation in support of ending domestic violence through Cybersecurity Cares.

Dec 14, 2023 • 33min
#85 - Going deep on Active Directory with James Potter, founder of DSE
On this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we have a detailed conversation with James Potter, founder of DSE, about Active Directory.James boasts over two decades of expertise in Active Directory security, serving as a trusted consultant for major companies. His focus is on fortifying security measures and devising strategies to strengthen critical systems. He's collaborated with diverse teams, identifying vulnerabilities and implementing robust security measures while balancing cost, usability, and security for each client's specific needs.Beyond consultancy, James proudly leads a team at DSE, providing cutting-edge security solutions to global corporations. Actively engaging in the security community, he shares insights through conferences, publications, and forums, emphasizing continuous learning and innovation to counter evolving threats.His passion lies in aiding organizations to navigate the dynamic threat landscape, ensuring resilient security frameworks and efficient business objectives. Whether crafting secure Active Directory environments, conducting assessments, or delivering tailored training, James's dedication ensures exceptional results surpassing client expectations.James can be found on LinkedIn here: James Potter

Dec 13, 2023 • 28min
#84 - Intel Chat: Push notification surveillance, a RAT, a critical Bluetooth flaw & 5Ghoul
In this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we discuss some cutting-edge intel coming out of LimaCharlie's community Slack channel.Unidentified governments are surveilling smartphone users via their apps' push notifications, as reported by a US senator on December 6th.Cyber.wtf reporting on an interesting piece of malware that turned out to be a RAT written in C#.Israel’s critical infrastructure is under threat from an Iranian proxy hacking group operating out of Lebanon.Hacker News is reporting on a critical Bluetooth security flaw that could be exploited by threat actors to take control of Android, Linux, MacOS and iOS devices.A collection of security flaws in the firmware implementation of 5G mobile network modems from major chipset vendors such as MediaTek and Qualcomm impact USB and IoT modems as well as hundreds of smartphone models running Android and iOS.The Cybersecurity Cares Holiday Telethon is taking place on December 15th. More information can be found at cybersecurity-cares.com

Dec 8, 2023 • 31min
#83 - Intel Chat: Atomic Stealer, Okta breach grows, CrushFTP & Danabot opens the door for Cactus ransomware
Atomic Stealer, popular information stealer for MacOS, discussed along with the importance of educating Mac users about the threat. Okta's disclosure of threat actor activity related to the breach of its support case management system questioned. Targeting of managed file transfer applications by threat actors highlighted, emphasizing the importance of careful integration and securing access. Evolution of threat actors explored, discussing the use of Danabot to deploy Cactus ransomware and the importance of threat intelligence in tracking evolving threats.

Dec 7, 2023 • 41min
#82 - Decrypting Darknet Diaries: A Conversation with Jack Rhysider
On this episode of The Cybersecurity Defenders Podcast, we speak with Jack Rhysider, the creator of Darknet Diaries.Darknet Diaries is a captivating podcast that delves into the intriguing and often clandestine world of cybersecurity and hacking. Hosted by Jack Rhysider, each episode features gripping narratives that explore real-life cybercrime incidents, hacking escapades, security breaches, and the individuals involved. Rhysider skillfully combines storytelling with in-depth interviews, providing a unique and engaging perspective on the complex landscape of cybersecurity. The podcast not only highlights the darker aspects of the internet but also sheds light on the efforts of cybersecurity professionals, their challenges, and the measures taken to defend against cyber threats. With its compelling storytelling and insightful discussions, Darknet Diaries offers a fascinating glimpse into the ever-evolving world of digital security.Learn more about the show, purchase swag, and listen to episodes at https://darknetdiaries.com/You can find Jack Rhysider on Twitter/X here: @JackRhysider


