Reflecting on Y2K: Lessons for the Next Tech Crisis and AI Safety
Release Date: 01/06/2025
Cybersecurity Talent Shortage: Myth, Mismatch, or Reality?
Shared Security
Is there really a cybersecurity talent shortage, or are we just looking in all the wrong places? This week on the Shared Security Podcast, we tackle the buzz around the so-called cybersecurity skills gap. Host Tom Eston welcomes Katie Soper, Senior Consultant at Avetix Cyber and co-founder of the CyberVault Podcast, to discuss the challenges and misconceptions in the industry. They explore whether the shortage is a myth, a mismatch, or something else entirely and what companies and professionals can do about it. With insights into hiring practices, skill shortages, and the importance of...
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Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA): Protecting Kids or Censorship?
Shared Security
In this episode, we explore the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), a controversial bill aimed at protecting children online. Joined by co-host Scott Wright, we discuss the potential implications of KOSA, including concerns about censorship, mass surveillance, and the impact on free expression and online privacy. We also touch on the broad support for the bill from both political parties and the involvement of social media giants like X. Additionally, we examine the balance between government regulation and parental responsibility in ensuring online safety for children. Thanks to Material Security...
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Cities of the Future or Hacker's Paradise? The Cybersecurity Risks of Smart Cities
Shared Security
Join us as we explore the concept of smart cities—municipalities enhanced by connected technology like sensors, cameras, and automated systems to improve services and infrastructure. We discuss the inherent vulnerabilities that come with these advancements, including cybersecurity threats and real-life incidents such as hacked crosswalk signals featuring voices of tech moguls. Our discussion covers how easily these systems can be compromised, the inadequate security measures currently in place, and the broader implications for critical infrastructure. Thanks to Material Security for...
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Do You Really Need a REAL ID to Fly in the US? Breaking Down the Myths
Shared Security
Join us as we discuss the long-awaited implementation of the REAL ID Act in the U.S. We cover the essentials you need to fly, the potential benefits of using your passport, and how new mobile IDs fit into the TSA's plans. We also discuss the broader implications for identity surveillance and who truly benefits from these security upgrades. We also discuss the problems faced by individuals with name changes and the challenges they face with REAL IDs. Plus, we explore the political and social ramifications of such security measures and why this might all just be 'security theater.' Show notes:
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Invasion of Privacy: The Hidden Camera Dilemma
Shared Security
Ever worried about hidden cameras in Airbnb rentals? You're not alone! In this episode, we explore the unsettling rise of hidden cameras in personal spaces, the inadequacy of current laws, and practical tips to detect surveillance devices. Join hosts Tom Eston, Scott Wright, and Kevin Johnson as they share insights and discuss the implications of voyeurism technology, law enforcement challenges, and personal safety strategies. Show notes:
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When AI Fights Back: Threats, Ethics, and Safety Concerns
Shared Security
In this episode, we explore an incident where Anthropic’s AI, Claude, didn't just resist shutdown but allegedly blackmailed its engineers. Is this a glitch or the beginning of an AI uprising? Along with co-host Kevin Johnson, we reminisce about past episodes, discuss AI safety and ethics, and examine the implications of AI mimicking human behaviors like blackmail. Join us for an in-depth conversation on the future of AI and its potential risks. Show notes:
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Mark Zuckerberg's Vision: AI Companions and the Loneliness Epidemic
Shared Security
In this episode, we explore Mark Zuckerberg's bold claim that AI friends will replace human friendships, and discuss the potential implications of a world where technology mediates our connections. We also update listeners on the recent developments in the 23andMe bankruptcy case and what it means for former customers. Joining the conversation is co-host Scott Wright, who shares his insights on AI, social media, privacy, and a thought-provoking book on the potential for a future US civil war. We touch on the eerie predictions of AI companionship and what this might entail for societal norms....
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Facebook Flaws and Privacy Laws: A Journey into Early Social Media Security from 2009
Shared Security
Join hosts Tom Eston, Scott Wright, and Kevin Johnson in a special best-of episode of the Shared Security Podcast. Travel back to 2009 with the second-ever episode featuring discussions on early Facebook bugs, cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, and a pivotal Canadian privacy ruling involving Facebook. Gain insights into social media security from the past and see how much has (or hasn't) changed. Don't miss out on this informative episode on web application security, user privacy, and the efforts to keep social media safe. Show notes:
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What Vibe Coding, MCP, and Slopsquatting Reveal About the Future of AI Development
Shared Security
Join us as we explore the transformative changes in software development and cybersecurity due to AI. We discuss new terminology like 'vibe coding' — a novel, behavior-focused development approach, and 'MCP' (Model Context Protocol) — an open standard for AI interfaces. We also address the concept of 'slopsquatting,' a new type of threat involving AI-generated package names. Our co-hosts Scott Wright and Kevin Johnson discuss these topics, share personal insights, and ponder the future of coding in the AI era. Additionally, we draw some intriguing parallels between AI advancements and past...
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The Impact of Politics on Cybersecurity: CVE’s and the Chris Krebs Executive Order
Shared Security
What would happen if the US government halted funding for the CVE program? In this episode, we explore the controversies surrounding the funding of the CVE program, the role of CVEs in the cybersecurity industry, and the recent launch of the CVE Foundation. We also discuss the Trump Administration's executive order that revoked the security clearance of former CISA Director Chris Krebs, following his declaration that the 2020 election was the most secure in history. Join us as we unpack the impact of these events on the cybersecurity landscape and what it means for the future. Show notes:
info_outlineJoin us as we reminisce about Y2K, the panic, the preparations, and the lessons learned 25 years later. We also discuss the implications for future technology like AI and potential cybersecurity crises. Plus, in our 'Aware Much' segment, Scott shares tips on protecting your data if your phone is stolen. Happy New Year and welcome to our first episode of 2025!
Show notes: https://sharedsecurity.net/2025/01/06/reflecting-on-y2k-lessons-for-the-next-tech-crisis-and-ai-safety/