Easy Prey
Chris Parker, the founder of WhatIsMyIPAddress.com, interviews guests and tells real-life stories about topics to open your eyes to the danger and traps lurking in the real world, ranging from online scams and frauds to everyday situations where people are trying to take advantage of you—for their gain and your loss. Our goal is to educate and equip you, so you learn how to spot the warning signs of trouble, take quick action, and lower the risk of becoming a victim.
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Cybersecurity for Everyday People with Greg Tomchick
04/24/2024
Cybersecurity for Everyday People with Greg Tomchick
Learning how to keep your business safe and protect your online data can be advantageous for your home and personal life as well. Your children and family can create awareness at school and with friends. Today’s guest is Greg Tomchick. Greg is a former professional baseball player turned award-winning cybersecurity coach. He has worked with more than 250 world-renowned companies, including American Airlines, Caterpillar, and Trinity Rail. He is regularly featured live on ABC, Fox, and is an expert contributor to Inc. Magazine. He is now the CEO of Valor Cybersecurity and host of The Connected Mindset. Show Notes: [1:10] - Greg shares his background coming from a military family and then as a professional baseball player before learning cybersecurity’s impact. [2:42] - As an entrepreneur, Greg’s business experienced a cybersecurity attack. [5:45] - The Connected Mindset is helping people become more consciously aware of how they navigate life both physically and digitally. [7:26] - Greg explains why they set up budgets of companies and individuals for cybersecurity at Valor. [9:25] - The focus should be on the mindset first. [10:27] - An unexpected positive is that cybersecurity gives a company or business a competitive advantage. [12:58] - Most people don’t think about security until after something has gone wrong. [14:43] - What is the difference between culture and mindset? [15:50] - Greg shares some of the mindsets and cultures that are unhelpful. [18:09] - As connected as we constantly are through technology, we have never been more disconnected. [20:50] - When Greg’s business had been attacked, there was no place to report the incident. Things have improved in recent years. [24:48] - No matter the size of the business or amount of money an individual has, everyone can be a target. [27:08] - Some companies are risking things by going remote without any plan, structure, or security in place. [28:45] - Every new device or software that is introduced needs to be considered. [30:16] - Greg discusses AI, including the costs and benefits. [34:03] - What is the minimum cybersecurity mindset that the everyday person needs to have? Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Misunderstanding Victims of Romance Fraud
04/17/2024
Misunderstanding Victims of Romance Fraud
The media loves sensationalized romance scams, but we need to understand that anyone can be emotionally seduced and it's not just the lonely. No one is off limits to being targeted, no matter the age, status, or career. And the impact is far greater than just financial. Today’s guest is Becky Holmes. Becky is the creator and voice behind the popular Twitter account Death to Spinach. Becky’s book looks at all aspects of romance fraud, from the heartbreaking to the hilarious, the academic to the anecdotal, and discusses where we’ve gone wrong in dealing with those affected. Show Notes: [1:08] - Becky runs a Twitter account where she spends a lot of time wasting the time of romance fraudsters. [2:38] - An unintended consequence of messing with fraudsters, Becky became a sounding board to victims of romance fraud. [4:56] - Once you engage with a fraudster, your name is put on a “sucker list.” [6:13] - Becky explains what romance fraud is. [7:22] - Victims of romance fraud are generally assumed to be lonely, middle-aged women, which is a stereotype. [8:27] - The media sensationalizes victim stories, but this could happen to anyone. [9:53] - There’s not a lot of services and support for victims of romance fraud. [11:40] - The damage extends farther than the financial loss. [13:43] - When it comes to scams, we focus so much on a victim “falling for it” which implies that they are somehow complicit. [16:31] - Becky describes an experience she had as a victim of fraud. [18:19] - Coercive control is at the center of all types of romance fraud. [19:56] - Becky explains confirmation bias and its prevalence in all types of scams. [21:25] - Romance fraud is really hard to deal with because it involves the heart. [22:43] - Becky shares how scammers usually start conversation and how they navigate getting you on a different app. [26:44] - In addition to social media and dating apps, fraudsters also send messages on online games. [28:07] - Another common technique is for scammers to pretend to be a celebrity. [31:24] - A very successful tactic is when fraudsters pretend to be a part of a charity. [34:18] - Becky explains the inspiration behind the title of her recent book. [35:56] - We should be looking out for our friends and family. [37:21] - If we see something happen, how can we help someone? Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Scams Exploiting Emotions with Alan Castel
04/10/2024
Scams Exploiting Emotions with Alan Castel
We can easily stereotype those we believe are susceptible to a scam. But the scammers are keeping up with current events and are prepared to take advantage of our basic human emotions. The impact of these frauds is underreported due to the shame and embarrassment. Today’s guest is Alan Castel. Alan is a Psychology professor at The University of California Los Angeles. He studies learning, memory, fraud, and aging. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Time Magazine. He recently published a book entitled . Show Notes: [1:08] - Alan shares his background and what he focuses on as a psychologist. [3:33] - We are all susceptible to scams, regardless of the stereotypes. [5:50] - Scams focus on our human nature of trying to make sense of the world and our emotional brain. Scams prey on our basic emotions. [7:34] - Scams are tailor made to expose our vulnerabilities. [8:50] - Some scams are situational and can be completely believable. [10:05] - There are people who are much more vulnerable to scams, but it’s not based on stereotypes. [12:48] - Education and awareness can come from podcasts like this, but it also needs to come from people who have experienced a scam. [15:33] - Although scams don’t only target older adults, the elderly tend to be more susceptible to scams that target their need to help others. [18:19] - There are some phrases that aren’t always recognized as false because they sound scientific. [20:48] - There are websites and organizations that support scam victims, and it is highly recommended that you report anything that happens. [22:32] - Alan admits that he has fallen victim to a scam on a website, entering his credit card information to purchase something. [26:37] - Alan describes a reinforcement schedule, which is a psychological tactic to build relationships. [28:10] - Scams are clever and Alan sees their potential to use psychological principles to part people from their money. [32:30] - How does memory play a role in scam vulnerability? [35:05] - Alan describes the “foot in the door” technique. [37:02] - It comes down to curiosity as human nature. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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3 Types of Insider Fraud with Claire Maillet
04/03/2024
3 Types of Insider Fraud with Claire Maillet
In this episode, we’re shining a light on a pervasive threat that often lurks in the shadows of corporate environments: insider fraud. We’ll explore the insidious nature of insider threats, the various forms they can take, and most importantly, how organizations can arm themselves with knowledge and strategies to mitigate these risks effectively. Today’s guest is Claire Mailet. Claire is an award-winning financial crime prevention expert and has worked in the field for over ten years. In her spare time, Claire assists universities in the UK to support staff and students who stammer and she’s currently undertaking a part time Ph.D at the University of Portsmouth, looking at internal fraud in FinTechs. Show Notes: [1:05] - Claire shares her background and what she does now in her career. [5:18] - The growth of counter-fraud in academia has increased in the last few years. [6:31] - Insider fraud is a type of fraud that isn’t really well known right now. It is under researched and underestimated. [7:59] - When people think about fraud, they think about the customer. They will very rarely think about people on the inside. [9:09] - What is insider fraud? [10:13] - An underestimated form of insider fraud is when employees who leave a company aren’t removed from internal systems and still have access. [12:50] - Organizations need to have vetting measures in place at the time of onboarding to ensure fraud is not committed on a CV. [15:18] - The more in depth you can go, the more safe and secure you are. [16:41] - Deterrents get lost when prevention is focused on. [18:35] - Cost is a real issue for many companies. [21:35] - Companies need to get on board with the idea of having things in place for protection. [23:40] - Current employees working from home can be a risk to data. [27:07] - It doesn’t matter how ethical and good someone is. [30:22] - In a lot of startups and small businesses, business owners will hire best friends or family members over someone who can best do the job. [33:50] - What could someone’s motivation be to commit insider fraud? [36:30] - There are a lot of different ways to commit insider fraud, such as falsified time sheets and information on a resume. [38:42] - For every possible way a person can commit fraud, there needs to be something in place. Owners need to think through these possibilities. [40:27] - The whole business needs to be involved in the education and prevention of fraud. [42:20] - It is common for employees to think that if “fraud” is not in their job title, they don’t have to worry about it. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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5 Fraud Vulnerability Factors with Martina Dove
03/27/2024
5 Fraud Vulnerability Factors with Martina Dove
Understanding our cognitive biases can help us realize that we sometimes are too trusting of emails, texts, or calls from someone we perceive to be an authority. Today’s guest is Martina Dove. Martina is a researcher with a fervent passion for fraud prevention. Her expertise focuses on persuasion, scam techniques, and individual characteristics that make people susceptible to fraud. She is passionate about fighting fraud by teaching people how to spot scammer techniques and has recently published a book on fraud psychology. Show Notes: [0:50] - Martina shares her background in cybersecurity and what she does in her career now. [1:56] - Martina learned a lot about techniques scammers use by noticing cognitive bias. [3:27] - Through interviews with scam victims, Martina learned that it is not always the case that victims are just gullible. She has also been scammed. [5:48] - One of the scales that Martina developed is about how people perceive authority and how gullible they think they are. [7:03] - There are five fraud vulnerability factors: compliance, impulsivity, decision time, vigilance, and the belief in justice. [9:57] - Somebody who follows rules more than breaks them, there’s a persuasion technique that scammers use to dupe them. [11:19] - We tend to rationalize why bad things happen to other people. [13:06] - When we are under visceral influence, we lose our ability to reason. [15:42] - Some scams evoke social norms, especially in charity scams and fake social media posts. [19:06] - Scammers are always one step ahead. [21:37] - A good scammer will go a long way to support their story. [23:20] - Websites are very believable. How can you tell when one is legitimate? [24:36] - Fraud situations are complicated because no two human beings will be the same. [26:44] - Even if you have to lie, make it a rule for yourself to not make a decision right away. [29:20] - Scams work because humans are vulnerable and can be persuaded. [30:47] - Martina describes the way scammers control the conversation with a victim. [33:51] - The grooming component of fraud is hard to break. [35:17] - Prevention is always better than intervention. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Hacker Tactics with John Hammond
03/20/2024
Hacker Tactics with John Hammond
The tech world is ever-changing and it can be difficult to keep up. As businesses and individuals, it's important to remember to keep your software up to date and apply patches as they are released. Today’s guest is John Hammond. John is a cybersecurity researcher, educator, and content creator. As part of the Adversary Tactics Teams at Huntress, John spends his days analyzing malware and making hackers earn their access. He is an online YouTube personality showcasing program tutorials, malware analysis, dark web threats, and other cybersecurity content. Show Notes: [1:01] - John shares his role at Huntress and his side work as a YouTuber that creates content to help educate people about cybersecurity. [2:26] - John explains how he found himself in cybersecurity as a career. [4:10] - He hasn’t been a victim of a scam, but in his pursuit of catching hackers in the act, he has certainly been a target. [5:25] - What is doxxing and how can someone track down your information? [7:23] - When popular software is compromised, it is a really big deal. [9:22] - There’s a balance between companies releasing information about a threat and that information causing more damage. [13:17] - It is so important to update software and patch right away. [15:22] - Consumers are not always on the lookout for patches and updates. It’s crucial for companies to relay this information. [17:49] - One tactic for hackers is the use of remote software to access devices. [19:37] - It is best practice to not allow anyone to use your computer. [21:28] - Since 2020, there has been an increase in people working from home, which means that company devices are now out of their safety and control. [23:54] - John describes the People’s Call Center collaboration and the mission of bringing the fight back to scammers. [25:28] - John explains some of the tricks he has used to social engineer the scammers right back. [29:43] - The experience of keeping someone from being scammed or even just making a scammer’s life more difficult was rewarding for John. [31:09] - What is the dark web? [35:09] - John shares why he interacts on the dark web to research and learn how threat actors operate. [39:02] - By researching on the dark web, John has learned a lot about how cybercriminals work and think. [41:01] - Some of the ways cybercriminals work are better and more successful than some legitimate businesses and startups. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Top 5 Supply Chain Risks with Kevin Kumpf
03/13/2024
Top 5 Supply Chain Risks with Kevin Kumpf
As businesses embrace digital transformation and rely on interconnected networks for their operations, the vulnerabilities within the digital supply chain become increasingly apparent. From data breaches to third party vulnerabilities, the threats are multi-faceted and ever-evolving. Today’s guest is Kevin Kumpf. Kevin has more than 20 years of IT Security and Compliance experience including over 10 years of cybersecurity, governance, and critical infrastructure experience working in the energy, medical manufacturing, transportation, and fedramp realms. Show Notes: [0:54] - Kevin shares what he does in his current role and his background in the industry. [3:38] - He began his career in cybersecurity at a time when cybersecurity was not a priority. [4:30] - Scammers target anyone and everyone. Even Kevin has been a victim. [6:53] - It comes down to ownership. [8:19] - Know your baseline and who is responsible. [10:07] - Kevin makes an analogy to help us better understand the supply chain. [12:30] - Most of the time, people don’t know where and how their data is being transferred back and forth. [14:12] - You trust a process and then when something breaks, how do you find out about it? [17:01] - Kevin describes an example of observing an organization’s work and discovering crypto mining. [19:51] - What should be asked about the organization’s environment? [21:34] - Think about all the things you use regularly that are connected to something. Now expand that thinking to companies and businesses. [23:27] - Where do all of these components come from? [26:47] - Kevin points out the challenges in the cybersecurity legislature. [28:46] - Ask questions and accept the answers. Determine what is acceptable risk. [31:22] - The trickle down of data is really what the supply chain is. [33:17] - Kevin shares some information about articles for further reading on this topic as well as some interesting numbers about recent breaches. [35:48] - If you don’t know what is normal, you won’t know what is abnormal. This is why knowing the baseline is so important. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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The Risks and Rewards of Cryptocurrencies with Natalie Brunell
03/06/2024
The Risks and Rewards of Cryptocurrencies with Natalie Brunell
There are significant risks to be aware of when using crypto and over the past two years, many tokens have imploded. As you choose to invest digitally, do your research and understand the commodity that you use. Today’s guest is Natalie Burnell. Natalie is the host of the #1 woman-led show in the bitcoin space, Coin Stories. She is a bitcoin educator, a frequent media commentator, and an award-winning journalist. Show Notes: [0:50] - Natalie shares her background and the mission behind the Coin Stories Podcast. [2:19] - Learning about bitcoin gave Natalie a little more hope as she came from having no background in financial literacy. [3:48] - Anyone can issue a token and it is hard to tell what cryptocurrency is legitimate. [6:42] - There are some that are regulated and unregulated. Natalie shares some red flags. [8:09] - Choosing to work with companies that are Bitcoin only is one way to stay safe because of regulatory clarity. [10:01] - A major red flag is overpromising and guaranteeing unrealistic returns. [11:59] - Longevity should stand out. [14:08] - Natalie explains how Bitcoin custodians work and how you can take your own custody of Bitcoin. [16:29] - Self-custody could be intimidating, but it just takes a few steps to learn. [19:15] - Natalie shares a clever analogy to make the concept easier to learn. [20:47] - Bitcoin offers more privacy than other monetary technology. [22:38] - There are a lot of frictions in banks and the system is ultimately very fragile. [26:07] - If exchanges receive Bitcoin and they don’t know where it came from, they are contacted by agencies like the IRS. [28:56] - The knee-jerk reaction to people wanting privacy is to assume that they want to do something bad. [31:17] - Look for verified accounts to interact with. Be careful if someone says they’ll send you money. [33:39] - Some companies are trying to help people recover their funds. But most of the time, it is impossible. [34:50] - If you send your money somewhere, you are likely not getting it back. [36:40] - Natalie has several tutorials on her YouTube channel that can help you protect yourself and your money. [38:52] - Bitcoin the block chain was built beautifully for security, but that means it can only fit so much. Bitcoin is “slow” for a reason. [41:20] - Consider Bitcoin built in layers. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Tax Scams with Richard Gilbert
02/28/2024
Tax Scams with Richard Gilbert
In this episode, we uncover the intricate web of tax-related scams that prey on unsuspecting individuals every year. From phishing emails promising tax refunds to elaborate identity theft schemes, join us as we expose tactics used by scammers to exploit fear and ignorance during tax season. Today’s guest is Richard Gilbert. Richard is the Director of the Examination Division with the North Carolina Department of Revenue. He has been with the department for over 25 years. He is a licensed CPA and has received his Bachelor’s of Business Administration from North Carolina Central University. Show Notes: [1:10] - Richard shares his background and what he does in the Examination Division at the North Carolina Department of Revenue. [2:38] - Taxes can get very complicated for a lot of people. [5:17] - The vast majority of tax professionals do their job well and serve their clients honestly. But there are some people who don’t focus on the right thing. [8:09] - Tax preparers who say they can get you the largest return, ask questions. [9:36] - Like any other business you employ, you should ask for references. [11:43] - If you can afford a CPA, hire one. [12:39] - Be wary of YouTube tutorials and advice. You are responsible for your taxes and if you are audited, it is all on you. [13:52] - Richard shares some of the things that a good tax preparer will ask for. [15:11] - There are scammers that will try to file someone else’s tax return before they do and direct their refund somewhere else. [17:49] - There are things in place that slow down the process that can be frustrating, but are there to protect you. [19:29] - It is highly recommended to file your tax return as early as possible. [20:10] - You will never be contacted over the phone, via text, social media, or email by a legitimate tax collector. It will always begin through the mail. [21:28] - If someone is telling you there is only one way to make a payment, be suspicious. [24:33] - The biggest problem in mail correspondence is when people do not respond. Open your mail especially during tax season. [26:31] - There is a form of identity theft in which people use another person’s Social Security number to gain employment. [28:06] - Be sure that you have everything available to validate your identity when verification is asked for. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Virtual Kidnapping with Titania Jordan
02/21/2024
Virtual Kidnapping with Titania Jordan
In this episode, we shine a light on the sinister phenomenon of virtual kidnapping. From deceptive phone calls to the psychological manipulation tactics, join us as we delve into the dark world where fears are exploited for profit, leaving victims shaken and families torn apart. Today’s guest is Titania Jordan. Titania is a nationally renowned tech, social media, and family expert who has appeared on programs such as the Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox News, CNN, and more. She is the author and founder of Parenting in a Tech World and serves as Chief Parent Officer of the online safety company Bark Technologies. Show Notes: [1:06] - Titania Jordan shares her background and what she does at Bark Technologies. [3:04] - Virtual and cyber kidnapping are the same thing. Anything that involves kidnapping without actually moving a person’s physical location against their will. [4:26] - Titania explains a recent event in which an exchange student was targeted. [6:18] - Children and adults alike are targeted everyday, but Titania explains that older teenage boys are heavily targeted and impacted. [9:20] - Another type of scam is actually targeting the family and loved ones of someone to require a ransom for a kidnapping that hasn’t happened. [11:17] - Built-in location services are very helpful. Parental controls and alerts are also something important to have in place. [13:53] - Be careful answering the phone from a number you don’t know. [16:20] - Contact law enforcement immediately if this is something that happens to you. [19:51] - It is never a bad idea to be prepared. [22:17] - These events are opportunities to have really important conversations with your children. [24:41] - Flip the script and ask your children to help you do a safety audit. [27:52] - If it feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to report it and talk about it. [30:26] - Bark Technologies offers a lot of programs and even a family smartphone that can help keep kids safe. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Balancing Privacy, Security, and Accountability with Kurt Long
02/14/2024
Balancing Privacy, Security, and Accountability with Kurt Long
In this episode, we navigate the ever evolving landscape of messaging app dynamics, examining the challenges and opportunities in striking the right balance between preserving user privacy, ensuring robust security measures, and maintaining accountability in an ever changing digital landscape. Today’s guest is Kurt Long. Kurt is an entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in starting, growing, and building Information Security and Privacy businesses. Kurt is the Executive Director of The Long Family Force for Good Foundation which focuses on supporting not-for-profits dedicated to improving the mental health of families and children. Kurt is also the Co-Founder and CEO of BUNKR. Show Notes: [1:09] - Kurt shares his background and what he does through The Long Family Force for Good Foundation and BUNKR. [5:01] - He found himself interested in technology and the idea of doing something bigger than himself with a team. [9:26] - Currently, Kurt’s work is directed to messaging apps. [13:22] - In the early days of messaging, there was an inherent trust. We didn’t think about the bad guys yet. [15:57] - Communication platforms were never intended to secure communication. [17:31] - Most communication apps now do begin with good intent. Kurt describes WhatsApp as an example until it was purchased by Facebook. [19:50] - We want information and access, but we want safety, too. [21:38] - We have to put trust in someone to strike a balance. [23:41] - The Federal Trade Commission has announced apps that don’t support legal due process and implemented a fine for use of them. [25:56] - Kurt shares a true story that is a great example of inside trade problems in messaging apps. [28:28] - Using secret messaging apps or apps that feature disappearing messages are hard to track. You could be affiliated with someone doing something illegal. [30:29] - Privacy and security do help us retain rights we have. [32:35] - Messaging issues also impact the medical industry. [34:07] - Some countries have legislation that ban secret messaging apps, but they aren’t really being enforced. [36:25] - BUNKR has consumers and public usage in 32 countries worldwide and is popular with families. [37:52] - When companies have more control over their app, there is less criminality involved. [40:02] - This service is invitation based. You cannot receive random messages from anyone you do not invite. [41:55] - “The entire planet deserves to conduct their affairs with dignity at bank level security.” [44:29] - Kurt leans towards following United States laws and legal action, but also has a large legal team to help guide through unusual situations. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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5 Alerts to Prevent Identity Theft with Paige Hanson
02/07/2024
5 Alerts to Prevent Identity Theft with Paige Hanson
The fundamentals of scams are the same. However the technology used is increasingly more clever. It is important to know how to spot identity theft and credit card fraud and where to report it if and when it happens. Today’s guest is Paige Hanson. Paige is an authority in consumer and digital safety with nearly 20 years of experience in identity management. As co-founder and Head of Communications and Partnerships at Secure Labs, Paige has dedicated her career to protecting consumers and businesses from identity theft and cyber threats. She is a certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist and holds a certificate in Identity Leadership from the University of Texas. Paige also serves as an advisory board member to R.O.S.E. (Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly). Show Notes: [1:16] - Paige shares her background and what she does in her current roles. [3:02] - She worked with LifeLock in the early days of her career, but the experience led to her expertise in identity theft now. [6:08] - Chris shares what happened to a friend and their experience with identity theft. [7:40] - The Federal Trade Commission has an Identity Theft Affidavit. [9:25] - If you pay a bill that was made by a fraudster, it will be considered that you made the charge. Paige explains what best practice is. [12:06] - Always watch your credit card bills and take note of things that look unusual. Pay attention, even to the small charges. [13:47] - Notifications from your credit card company are a must have. [16:07] - Sometimes the notifications can seem annoying, but when something is out of the norm, these tools are critical. [17:48] - When you get an email that includes a link to login to an account, even if you recognize the sender, don’t click it. Develop the habit of using your browser. [20:22] - It can happen to anybody! Chris and Paige are security-minded, but it could happen to them as well. [22:48] - Paige shares an experience of noticing charges that she did not make and how noticing it early, she could cancel the order. [24:29] - Always use multi-factor authentication. Paige also recommends using an app in addition to what is included with your credit card company. [26:37] - Check links and make sure they are correct. [29:02] - At one time, Chris owned a business and shut it down because of the number of people making a fraudulent order. [30:45] - Online shopping and online payments are so common and a credit card doesn’t even need to be present to make a purchase. [32:35] - Paige explains how skimmers work and how they store card numbers. [35:19] - The likelihood of this happening is slimmer than other scams, but there are low-inconvenience and low-cost preventative measures you can take. [36:07] - The safest way to make in person payments is through mobile pay. If a location is breached, it doesn’t have your card info. [37:18] - If you use mobile pay, it is crucial that you keep your operating system up to date. [41:23] - When it comes to ATMs, it is best to go inside your bank’s branch and use the one inside. The worst ATMs to use are stand alone that are not attached to a bank. [44:33] - Identity theft could be accomplished by fraudsters by just taking advantage of low hanging fruit. [46:29] - Paige recommends using a credit card rather than a debit card. [49:11] - When traveling, Chris has a specific card that limits the amount of loss in the event of an issue. [52:47] - Using a service like PayPal helps with keeping things updated on accounts. [54:33] - When we make a convenient choice, we need to consider all the parts of risk management. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Advances in Everyday Tech with Leo Laporte
01/31/2024
Advances in Everyday Tech with Leo Laporte
Advances in technology are increasing at a rate we’ve never experienced before. Many will need to decide how much privacy they’re willing to give up for the sake of convenience and the impact that AI will have on that decision. Today’s guest is Leo Laporte. Leo is a broadcaster, author, tech pundit, the former host of The Tech Guy weekly radio show, and the founder and host of Twit.tv which is a podcast network focused on technology. Show Notes: [1:20] - Leo has been in broadcasting since 1976. He explains how he got into the industry. [5:02] - Eventually, Leo found himself learning more about technology which led to him writing for magazines. [9:32] - In 2004, Leo started a podcast network. [13:02] - Podcasting didn’t peak until 2018 and Leo already had a lot of podcast content online. [15:13] - Leo explains that if he were to start Twit.tv now, it would be a completely different business. [19:01] - Although technology has advanced, Chris admits he still loves listening to the radio and often has it on in the background. [21:40] - What motivated Leo to keep up was the terror and desperation callers showed when asking him questions. [24:09] - The goal has always been to educate people on technology but it is harder now than ever with how fast things are changing. [26:46] - A common problem right now is pig butchering. It is also becoming more and more apparent that many scammers are laborers. [31:04] - People in the field have to have the hope that people are good and we can help each other. [32:29] - Leo shares the experience of his ex-wife falling victim to a scam. [35:14] - A lot of people have the misconception that social media sites like Facebook operate like smaller businesses. [37:22] - Initially, AI like ChatGPT was pretty basic, but as it improves over time, scammers will be even stronger. [39:42] - What sounds impossible right now will be not only possible but a reality soon. [42:37] - If you are willing to give up some privacy, there are some real benefits you will get out of that. [44:17] - Leo shares what he expects will be available by the end of this year. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Financial Exploitation of Older Adults with Joyce Petrowski
01/24/2024
Financial Exploitation of Older Adults with Joyce Petrowski
Our golden generation, rich with wisdom and experience, unfortunately often finds itself in the crosshairs of deceitful schemes. In today’s episode, we shine a spotlight on the tactics employed by scammers, share real-life anecdotes, and provide practical advice to help safeguard our beloved seniors. Today’s guest is Joyce Petrowski. Joyce started her professional career in the public accounting sector and is an accountant and tax preparer. As an avid volunteer and philanthropist, she shares her focus on the non-profit sector and co-founded a non-profit in 2014. Since leaving that non-profit in 2021, she saw a need to educate people, especially the older adult population about the financial scams and how to protect themselves and their hard earned assets. In August 2021, Joyce founded R.O.S.E. (Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly), with the mission to prevent financial exploitation and frauding older adults through advocacy and education. Show Notes: [1:16] - Joyce shares her background and the mission of her non-profit, R.O.S.E. [3:42] - R.O.S.E. provides education and resources for older adults so they are aware of how these scams are happening. [5:54] - When speaking and meeting with people, Joyce sees the hesitation in people coming forward with past experiences with scams. [8:01] - It has been difficult for the general population, specifically the older generation, to keep up with the evolution of scams and red flags. [9:38] - The first sign that should raise some suspicion is unexpected contact. [12:07] - There is an option in your phone that can silence calls from unknown numbers so there is no accidentally answering scam calls. [15:03] - If you’re not sure, talk to somebody else that you know and trust. Them asking questions might help you determine if it is a scam. [18:51] - Many older adults feel uncomfortable sharing their experiences with their children to avoid losing their independence. [21:18] - Scammers don’t discriminate. They don’t care about age, gender, or even how much money you have. [23:34] - It can be very confusing and overwhelming when considering the ways to deal with this problem. [26:00] - Joyce shares some of the things that scammers are looking for and why it can be easy for them to get a victim into an emotional state. [29:44] - Scams are very sophisticated now compared to just ten years ago. [31:45] - Everybody needs to be aware and have conversations about this with the older adults in their lives. [33:17] - Joyce has recently started a podcast called Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Advances in Crypto with Bam Azizi
01/17/2024
Advances in Crypto with Bam Azizi
There are so many things to learn about utilizing crypto, understanding the benefits as well as the benefits. It can be used to save time and money, but you need to be careful and only interact with reputable companies. Today’s guest is Bam Azizi. Bam is a tech entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Mesh, which provides FinTech companies with a seamless and secure one-click system for users to transfer their assets for deposit, payment, and payout. He previously founded No Password, a cybersecurity identity company acquired by LogMeIn in 2019. Show Notes: [0:53] - Bam shares his background and current endeavors with Mesh, of which he is co-founder and CEO. [2:26] - Bam explains how he found himself working in FinTech with his background in cybersecurity. [5:01] - You cannot educate every single user on the planet. People make mistakes all the time and there should be no shame about that. [7:37] - Defense needs to get it right 100% of the time, but to move the scam forward, the scammer only needs to get it right once. [11:01] - Security and compliance act like guardrails. [12:30] - There are mechanisms in place that can protect users, but there are pitfalls and disadvantages. [13:41] - Crypto is like any other type of data, but how it is stored is different. [14:57] - Crypto is inherently secure, but transit becomes a problem. [17:34] - Sometimes, you just don’t know who you are sending money to or if the company receiving funds is legitimate. [19:40] - Bam explains what happens when we initiate a transaction and try to rescind it. [22:02] - We should be able to identify the people interacting with blockchain. [23:40] - The industry wants crypto to be adopted world wide, but if that were to happen, some things need to be accepted. [24:48] - The blame can’t be placed on one entity. [26:40] - One major benefit to crypto is global transfers. [30:44] - There are a lot of moving pieces when it comes to crypto and you never actually see it. It’s hard to think about in-transit security. [33:30] - There is a huge pushback against crypto from banks and financial institutions. [35:09] - Crypto has been demonized to some extent, but as a technology and the advances we will see in coming years, it’s not inherently bad. [37:34] - We can build practices and mechanisms that can prevent collapses. [40:36] - There are some risks in using crypto but some risks are much bigger than others. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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How Minds Change with David McRaney
01/10/2024
How Minds Change with David McRaney
There are times we can answer a question without much thought. If we were to examine the reasons why we gave the answer, would we change our response? Today’s guest is David McRaney. David is a journalist, author, and lecturer fascinated with brains, minds, and culture. He has created a blog, book, and ongoing podcast entitled You Are Not So Smart which is about self-delusion. His most recent book, How Minds Change, is all about the science behind how and why people do and do not change their mind and the intricacies and nuances of persuasion. Show Notes: [1:09] - David shares what he does as a science journalist and how he found himself interested in the topics he writes and speaks about. [4:38] - The way people work has always fascinated him. [6:50] - David shares a story about psychology that really excited him. [8:35] - In the height of blogging’s popularity, David began his blog You Are Not So Smart. [9:57] - David explains what the Introspection Illusion is. [12:31] - If you want something, you will come up with reasons why. [13:40] - An example of this is when you share what you like about another person. [15:59] - This concept can be looked at as delusion, but it’s really just how brains work. [19:30] - What do you have in place to approach your own feelings and beliefs? [23:08] - David and Chris go through an exercise to demonstrate guided metacognition. [27:00] - We can answer some questions quickly, but others need more thought. [30:00] - The technique that David demonstrated is used to allow people more introspection. [32:22] - Start with things that you love and practice this technique. [33:37] - David and Chris talk about conspiracy theories and how to improve critical thinking. [35:27] - ConspiracyTest.org is a site that gives you a score on how susceptible you are to conspiratorial thinking. [37:48] - Conspiracy theories seem much more prevalent now, but conspiratorial thinking is no more rampant than it has been in the past. [39:32] - What should we do if a friend or family member has fallen into conspiratorial thinking? [42:17] - Finding reasons to rationalize conspiracy theories has never been easier with the internet. [44:31] - There are reasons that some people are more attuned to this thinking and some are more skeptical. [48:36] - Think about a scenario and imagine your initial reaction. [49:33] - Build rapport and assure the other person that you are not out to shame them. Get out of the debate frame. [52:01] - You can have conversations that don’t end in a dead end. [55:13] - Reactance is when someone takes away your agency. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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The Intersection of Technology and Domestic Violence with Audace Garnett
01/03/2024
The Intersection of Technology and Domestic Violence with Audace Garnett
The advent of technology has created both advantages and challenges for people trying to protect themselves from harmful situations. Being aware of the capabilities of the technology around us, the data that can be collected, and how it can be accessed can lead us to being physically safer. Today’s guest is Audace Garnett. Audace provides assistance nationally and internationally supporting crime victims and domestic violence survivor organizations. She worked at the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office where she served as Teen Services Coordinator in the Victim Services Unit. She is current a Technology Safety Project Manager with Safety Net at the National Network to End Domestic Violence, where she focuses specifically on the intersection between domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and technology. Show Notes: [1:12] - Audace shares what she does with Safety Net and the National Network to End Domestic Violence. [5:18] - 97% of cases include tech misuse, but Audace explains that domestic violence is very underreported. [8:06] - Technology is not the problem. It’s the person behind the technology that is causing harm. [9:22] - A common problem is the sharing of images without consent. Victims can report this to StopNCII.org. [11:42] - Survivors should trust their instincts. [13:17] - Audace shares some tips on protecting online identification. [15:54] - A major and unfortunately common concern and problem is location tracking through mobile devices. [18:25] - Tracking devices like Airtags and apps on smartphones can alert abusers of your location. [20:33] - Some vehicles also come with integrated GPS tracking. [22:14] - Although these services and tracking/monitoring devices can be used maliciously, the technology itself is not the problem. [24:20] - Another technology misuse possibility is abusers interacting in a victim’s social media platform as the victim. [25:56] - The impact of this interferes greatly with day to day life. [28:11] - The Domestic Abuse Hotline is a space to not only report domestic violence, but they can also help with support, resources, and a plan. [30:20] - How can community members help with this problem and build awareness? Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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4 Ways to Reduce Cybercrime with Roger Grimes
12/27/2023
4 Ways to Reduce Cybercrime with Roger Grimes
Social engineering has become so creative and clever with the ways scammers are trying to infiltrate your world. AI and deep fakes are only going to make things worse. Over the past 30 years, fighting viruses and malware has only increased with no end in sight. Today’s guest is Roger Grimes. Roger is a Data-Driven Defense Evangelist for KnowBe4. He is a 34-year computer security expert and an author of 14 books and over 1,300 articles on computer security. Show Notes: [1:06] - Roger shares his background and his drive to continue writing in the field of computer security. [3:17] - In his career as an accountant, Roger found himself more interested in the computer side of things. [7:45] - Things have gotten worse every year. Ransomware has attacked hospitals and law enforcement in addition to personal devices. [10:21] - In many cases, older devices are very hard to replace. [11:44] - Most employees of a company don’t know how devices work when it comes to security and things go without updates and patches. [15:10] - Some companies are getting better about making sure products are set to auto-patch. [16:20] - Social engineering is involved in about 70-90% of all successful hacks. [17:23] - Compromised credentials is another common way hackers are easily able to gain access to accounts. [19:38] - Social engineering is all about getting you to perform an action that is harmful to yourself or your organization. [19:50] - Three qualities to look for: unexpected, asking you to do something you’ve never done before, asking you to do something harmful. [21:12] - If something has those qualities, slow down before clicking anything within an email. [23:26] - Really good scammers will prepare you for the scam. [25:06] - It is hard to retrain yourself to think about these things during any communication. [27:14] - People shouldn’t get in trouble with their organization for taking precautions. [29:47] - Scammers prey on vulnerable populations, including the elderly. [32:10] - Always remember that no legitimate organization accepts payments in gift cards. [34:10] - The best we can do right now is educate people to help prevent successful scammers. There’s no stopping it. [36:04] - Try to use a MFA that is phishing resistant. [38:55] - Roger shares the experience of his fingerprints being stolen. [41:20] - Security questions are surprisingly guessable in a lot of situations. Your password might not be guessable, but the security questions aren’t always secure. [44:31] - Roger shares some data about patches and what is important to remember. [48:31] - Roger sets a time every few months where he sits down and changes every single one of his passwords. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Fake vs. Taken-Over Accounts with Jason Kent and Will Glazier
12/20/2023
Fake vs. Taken-Over Accounts with Jason Kent and Will Glazier
As we approach the next season, threat actors will be keeping a close eye on dating apps. These apps have become a prime target for threat actors due to the size of the market expanding to over 300 million users and the rich information stored in these apps. Today’s guests are Jason Kent and Will Glazier. Jason is a hacker-in-residence at Cequence Security. He has a diverse information security, networking, and IT background and a generous level of knowledge for most pieces of the IT spectrum including firewalls, security architecture, security controls, and security infrastructure. Will Glazier is the Head of Threat Research at Cequence Security where they protect some of the world’s largest brands from sophisticated bot attacks and threats against the public facing APIs. Will has a background in fraud abuse and prevention as well as building threat intelligence systems. Show Notes: [1:18] - Jason and Will share their backgrounds and current roles at Cequence Security. [5:24] - As common as scams and fraud are, even Jason and Will have personal experience with them. [7:39] - Dating app attacks are particularly hard because they prey on vulnerable people. There are so many cases, that there should not be shame around talking about it. [9:32] - The first red flag is when someone you are talking to on a dating app tries to get you over to texting or another app. [11:37] - In any given month, the amount of malicious API transactions that Cequence is blocking is in the billions. [13:52] - Fake accounts are constantly made but not as heavily used as taken over accounts. [16:08] - Scammers are now paying for premium accounts to appear more legitimate and the investment pays off when they scam someone. [18:11] - There are tools people can buy to make all accounts look real through automation. [19:29] - It is essential that people in a fraud department can trust the information and push it out to Cequence. [22:04] - Some organizations will pay a ransom to decrease the time wasted and money lost. In their eyes, the money lost to pay the ransom isn’t as much. [26:11] - Margins are getting tighter for the bad guys. [30:31] - The infrastructure that scammers use varies. There are some that are really well known at Cequence and some that are more difficult. [32:51] - It is easier to take out one big player than to take out hundreds of small ones. [36:03] - There are human and political pressures that make things more challenging for security. [38:07] - Romance scammers are employing new tactics and switching them up. [39:48] - If you put too much trust in the platform that it makes you trust the random person you’re talking to, take a step back. [42:40] - Take a look online for things that have been done by scammers historically, especially if you are new to dating apps. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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The Changing World of Data Breaches with Troy Hunt
12/13/2023
The Changing World of Data Breaches with Troy Hunt
Everyone who’s on the internet is exposed to risk. Every time you set up a new account or app, you create another place where your data can be hacked or breached. This makes your differing passwords crucial. Today’s guest is Troy Hunt. Troy is a Pluralsight author and instructor, Microsoft Regional Director, and Most Valued Professional specializing in online security and cloud development. He is a conference speaker and runs workshops on how to build more secure software with organizations. He is also the creator of the popular data breach aggregation service known as Have I Been Pwned. Show Notes: [1:26] - Troy shares what he currently does and the work he is known for. [2:57] - You can put your data in one place and it can traverse the internet and end up in places you don’t expect. [6:54] - There’s a challenge in running a site that has millions of queries at any time. [9:25] - Troy shares some of the accomplishments of Have I Been Pwned. [13:32] - Does he experience a lot of malicious traffic? He used to. Troy explains how he has managed this. [18:14] - Have I Been Pwned has been around for a while and began as a lot of manual labor for Troy. [23:10] - It is crucial for organizations to be receptive to security reports. [25:09] - In a lot of ransoms, data of specific groups of people are used as threats. [27:56] - Troy lists some of the things that happen on the back end of running a site like Have I Been Pwned. [30:36] - Cloud services have been an amazing advancement in technology, but they open up more points of entry. [33:35] - There is a hierarchy of multi-factor authentication. Troy discusses the current strategies that are best practice. [35:45] - For users, what is the second-factor authentication you can manage to use? [37:27] - There are different risk levels to different things. What do you actually need to carefully protect and what level of inconvenience are you willing to bear? [39:59] - Troy shares how his parents have been impacted by confusing technology. What is the right technology for a demographic? [43:15] - Some data is more important than other pieces of information. [45:33] - Some data is also more or less important to different individuals. [46:54] - For those managing and discussing data breaches, we also need to be aware that there are pieces of data that could be important to someone but isn’t important to others. [48:24] - Unfortunately, data breaches haven’t gotten less common and aren’t really getting better. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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When Conservatorships Go Wrong with Diane Dimond
12/06/2023
When Conservatorships Go Wrong with Diane Dimond
As people age and their physical and mental health declines, conservatorships are often considered. If you’re not careful, the entire estate can be spent on management costs and abuse can occur. There are things a family can do for better outcomes. Today’s guest is Diane Dimond. Diane is the author of four books and is a veteran investigative reporter for radio, TV, and print. Crime and justice is her preferred genre and she broke the Michael Jackson story twice. Currently abusive guardianship and conservatorships are her focus. Show Notes: [0:55] - Diane shares her background as an investigative reporter. [2:48] - Her recent book is all about the possible pitfalls and risks of conservatorships. [5:15] - Diane explains how guardianship and conservatorship is granted. [6:21] - In a lot of cases, Diane has found that judges assume if conservatorship is being asked for that the family is dysfunctional. [8:59] - Guardians are paid out of the ward’s estate and many charge an outrageous amount of money. [10:31] - The most public conservatorship that went wrong was Britney Spears’s. But some celebrity guardianship scenarios have been beneficial. [12:29] - Diane firmly believes that guardianship needs to be harder to establish. [14:06] - Anybody can initiate a petition. [17:14] - Once it is in front of a judge, it can become a catch-22 situation. [19:11] - Every state is different and many are starting to pass some reform. Florida in particular is a terrible state for this system. [20:42] - SEAR is a very useful resource if you are in an abusive guardianship situation. [23:07] - It is almost impossible for the ward to make any decisions. [25:50] - It is you against a whole system. [27:52] - Unfortunately there is a lot of criminality that is possible. [29:51] - It isn’t impossible for abusers to be caught and punished, but it is not common. [31:59] - There are alternatives to guardianships that really should be considered. [34:21] - If these abusers were punished, they would go somewhere else and commit a different crime, but they would at least leave these vulnerable people alone. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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5 Things to Teach Your Kids About Predators with Michael Buraimoh
11/29/2023
5 Things to Teach Your Kids About Predators with Michael Buraimoh
Many parents assume that their children will never be groomed by a predator and then miss the opportunity to educate their kids on the techniques that are used. Every child, regardless of gender, can be manipulated and tricked into making poor choices and put themselves in dangerous situations. Today’s guest is Michael Buraimoh. Michael joined Breck Foundation as CEO in January 2022. He is dedicated to the foundation’s mission to create a better online world for children and young people and is helping take the foundation’s important work to new heights. He is an author, and having his own children inspires him to create a safer digital world for them to grow up in. Show Notes: [1:01] - Michael shares the background and the reason behind the creation of the Breck Foundation. [4:02] - Michael’s own background is in criminal justice, specifically with young people. [6:23] - It is crucial that parents are honest and open with their children about this discussion. [7:51] - Ignore the misconceptions about grooming. [10:37] - Safety doesn’t mean having to put every form of digital activity aside. Parents need to be involved. [12:07] - Trust is the key to ensuring that a child will tell their parents things that are happening online. [14:05] - There are signs to look out for that could be indicative of something going on. [16:32] - It can be hard to determine what is unsafe and what is normal teenage conversations, but it's important to be aware of red flags. [18:11] - Young people now are digital natives. They have to be able to engage online. [19:52] - There is a place and time for parental controls and limiting access, but relationships are far more important. [21:42] - The Breck Foundation educates parents but also the children and young people themselves. [23:08] - Young people need to know that if someone is trying to isolate them from their friends and family through secret conversations, something isn’t right. [24:52] - Look for a trusted adult to report to. For parents, contact authorities. [28:30] - Screenshot, shutdown, and report. The Breck Foundation has a lot of resources for this education. [31:51] - Play virtually, but live real. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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The Evolution of Digital Identity with Philipp Pointner
11/22/2023
The Evolution of Digital Identity with Philipp Pointner
Currently we have hard copy passports and driver's licenses, but as our digital identities evolve, we may find ourselves with a worldwide digital standardized way of proving who we are. Today’s guest is Philipp Pointner. Philipp leads Jumio’s digital identity strategy and the initiative to enable multiple digital identity providers in its ecosystem. Prior to Jumio, Philipp was responsible for paysafecard, Europe’s most popular prepaid solution for online purchases. Show Notes: [0:53] - Philipp shares his background and current role at Jumio. [2:12] - Our online identity has changed very quickly over the last decade. [3:47] - Over time, this evolution has made people a lot more comfortable with technology. [5:50] - The changes that Philipp thinks are coming may cause problems with some countries not accepting them. [7:30] - The digital identity will likely be more secure than physical copies of important documents like passports and driver’s licenses. [10:47] - Chris and Philipp discuss a recent experience in verifying the credibility of physical documents. [12:52] - With more sophisticated benefits to a digital identity comes more sophisticated attack attempts. [15:40] - Where does one turn if they are a victim of identity theft? [17:11] - Philipp believes that it should be the responsibility of an organization to ensure the end user is safe. [18:48] - Philipp shares the results of a survey that asked people if they were willing to take more steps to ensure that they were secure online, but the exception was social media. [22:02] - Education around scams is improving and increasing, but not about everything. [26:20] - The technology exists to keep people more secure, but it isn’t employed as often as is necessary. [27:47] - At the end of the day, the inconvenience is always put on the end user. [29:07] - Biometrics are strong and have a lot of well governed standards already in place. [31:40] - Research shows that the requirement to change passwords every 90 days is ineffective. [32:59] - Currently, there isn’t a one-stop shop to receive the education they need to better understand cybersecurity. [35:48] - Philipp and Chris talk about the recent issue with concert tickets being purchased by bots for scalping. [38:28] - The general public has become an easier target than in years past because of the increase in online activity. [40:09] - People vastly overestimate their ability to detect fake images and deep fakes. [41:42] - Philipp explains what it means to have a reusable digital identity. [43:30] - When digital identity is used to verify in the future, will users have the ability to revoke their provided information? [46:58] - Pursue education on this topic and then take action. [50:01] - Your data is definitely online and it's important to be aware of what is available for potential scammers to know. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Preventing and Reporting Cyber Attacks with Robert Karas
11/15/2023
Preventing and Reporting Cyber Attacks with Robert Karas
Cyber criminals are growing in their attack planning. CISA is continuing training their teams to look for vulnerabilities and help out not only the government, but other entities secure their networks and products. Today’s guest is Robert Karas. Rob came to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in 2010. He has over 30 years experience in the information security field and significant experience in building nationally recognized security platforms. At CISA, Rob built the Cyber Hygiene Program, risk and vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing programs. He has also created the Cyber Defense Education training programs to address industry challenges. Rob was also recognized by Cyber Patriot as Mentor of the Year. Show Notes: [1:03] - Robert shares his background, what he does at CISA, and what CISA does as an agency. [4:01] - At CISA, agents hack into a company’s system with their permission to see where the vulnerabilities are. [5:53] - Phishing and social engineering continue to be the most successful attacks. [8:41] - A lot of times it feels like good security equals bad customer service. [10:27] - Playbooks are all the same or similar but the tools that CISA uses are unique. [12:29] - With the introduction and evolution of AI, there is some preparation to be done for an inevitable increase in attacks. [14:07] - Attackers prey on human vulnerability and emotion. [15:53] - Phishing emails are so good now that many times they really appear to come from someone you know. [17:15] - Over the last ten years, the statistics of people reporting a scam have improved. [20:16] - It is important for organizations to be prepared. For help with this, you can email . [23:39] - CISA has implemented Secure by Design. [25:30] - If you suspect you are communicating with a scammer, stop communicating right away. [27:02] - It is overwhelming when you think about the amount of devices we have that are connected and relied on. [30:16] - The amount of data we have and can have access to is so immense. How can we inspect everything? [32:09] - When it comes to purchasing new devices, ensure that frequent updates are part of the guarantee. [34:41] - A great place to start for resources on CISA’s website. Robert shares some of the resources available, including . [35:54] - CISA also offers free vulnerability scans for businesses. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Support to Navigate the Justice System with Rachel Gibson
11/08/2023
Support to Navigate the Justice System with Rachel Gibson
Everyday people are falling victims to scams and fraud. Embarrassment and guilt can prevent people from reporting the incident. Not everyone is aware that there are resources available to help navigate the justice system. Today’s guest is Rachel Gibson. Rachel is the Director of the Center of Victim Service Professionals at the National Center for Victims of Crime where she works to further the mission by supporting and overseeing programs for victim service professionals, providing training and technical assistance. Show Notes: [0:48] - Rachel shares her background and her role as the Director of the Center of Victim Service Professionals. [2:53] - We talk a lot about prevention work, but there aren’t as many resources for what to do after an incident. [3:47] - Rachel explains the background and how the Center for Victims of Crime was founded. [5:46] - Many victims are experiencing polyvictimization and may not realize they are victims of a crime at first. [7:14] - 24-hour hotlines are available and very impactful. [8:51] - Rachel describes the different programs that she is involved in at the Center for Victims of Crime. [9:57] - Part of the work she does is helping people realize the intersection and connections between different types of crime. [12:08] - Oftentimes in these cases, this is the first time victims have been involved with the justice system. [14:02] - Maybe a victim doesn’t want to go to law enforcement, but the crime should still be reported. [15:12] - Financial fraud is a crime where society victim blames right out of the gate. [16:24] - The conversation shouldn’t be about who is victimized, but rather who is being targeted. [19:17] - Google is a great first step in determining legitimacy. [21:51] - Fraudsters are banking on targets not being knowledgeable. [23:55] - We have to come to the conversation with an attitude of empowerment. [26:26] - Rachel explains how partnerships are important as service professionals will likely hear about crimes. [28:47] - Legally, there’s a difference between a scam and fraud. But there’s always an opportunity to connect people to resources. [32:07] - Think about what someone needs in the moment. It might not be to go to law enforcement. [35:03] - Talk to your friends and family. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. [36:24] - A big trend right now in questions and concerns is the intersection of AI and fraud. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Human Trafficking Into Scam Call Centers with Matt Friedman
11/01/2023
Human Trafficking Into Scam Call Centers with Matt Friedman
It’s hard to imagine finding a job, advancing into a second interview, they send you a ticket to their overseas office, only to find out that you’re about to be trafficked into a life of forced labor while they threaten your family. But this is happening all around the world today. Today’s guest is Matt Friedman. Matt is an international human trafficking expert with more than 35 years of experience. He is the founder and CEO of The Mekong Club, an organization of Hong Kong’s leading businesses which have joined forces to help end all forms of modern slavery. Show Notes: [0:57] - Matt shares his background and the extensive experience he has in this field. [2:09] - Matt explains some of the terrible situations that he has seen in human trafficking and the reason he became an activist. [5:31] - Covid-19 impacted criminal activity in China. They started to trick and deceive people into accepting a job at a scam center. [6:51] - There are tens of thousands of people who have been human trafficked into scam call centers. [9:12] - A red flag is if it sounds too good to be true. [12:15] - Matt describes the buildings these call centers are in. [13:34] - In Myanmar and Cambodia, the people being trafficked into call centers tend to be citizens of other countries. [16:04] - The scams that they are forcing people to do are pig butchering. [18:20] - Matt shares some of the types of scams that they do from these call centers. [20:28] - In these call centers, if a person does not hit their daily quota, they are beaten and tortured. [22:56] - If you think that you want to have a job opportunity overseas, you need to know without a doubt that it is legitimate and have a system in place to make sure your friends and family know where you are. [25:21] - Matt’s organization The Mekong Club works with businesses on understanding scams and trafficking. [27:09] - Where does this laundered money go? [28:41] - The Mekong Club has a large social media presence in multiple languages and PSA campaigns to provide education. [31:32] - We’ve entered a time where scams are commonplace and it’s getting harder to tell what is real and what is not. [33:40] - If we don’t take action now, we will find ourselves in a situation that we cannot control. [37:33] - Share this information with other people. This is the most important step to take and right away. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Active Shooter Preparedness with Katherine Schweit
10/25/2023
Active Shooter Preparedness with Katherine Schweit
No one ever wants to find themselves in an active shooter situation. But if you are, it’s important to know how to respond. Today’s guest is Katherine Schweit. Katherine is an attorney, consultant, and retired FBI special agent who created and led the FBI’s Active Shooter Program after the horrible tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School. She joined a White House team working on violence prevention matters, led by then Vice President Biden. She is the author of , , and the FBI’s research on mass shootings, a study of 160 active shooter incidents in the United States between 2000 and 2013. She was part of the crisis team responding to shooting incidents including at the Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Pentagon, and the Navy Yard in Washington, DC. Show Notes: [1:14] - Katherine shares her background, her experience in the FBI, and her work in the Active Shooter Program. [3:05] - In her work, she spent time with parents and families of those killed in mass shootings. [4:23] - What constitutes a mass shooting or an active shooter situation? There is no real definition. [6:10] - Most mass killings are domestic, particularly murder/suicides, but those will not show in data. Katherine explains what the FBI looks at. [8:44] - Journalists and media impact what stories are news-worthy. [10:21] - Katherine released her book to keep the conversation going. [13:19] - In 2020, the CDC determined that gun deaths in youth 19 and younger exceeded the deaths by traffic accidents in the same age group. [15:56] - Safety isn’t about when it happens. It’s about if it happens. [16:58] - The shooting at Columbine changed the way the American public viewed and feared shootings, although public shootings were not new events. [18:32] - Katherine explains the response and training of law enforcement officers during the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary. [21:06] - The numbers of incidents have increased but we have not seen the number of casualties increase. [25:00] - Television shows and movies create misunderstandings on what law enforcement officers and FBI agents can accomplish. [26:37] - See something, say something. [28:00] - In most cases, someone close to a shooter had information and didn’t say anything. [29:48] - What do you do when something happens? People should have Run, Hide, Fight training. [32:51] - In 13% of shootings, a civilian was successful in getting in to help incapacitate the shooter. [37:40] - A simple thing to be prepared with is knowledge of the exits in your location. [39:19] - It is important when hiding to hide where there is actual cover. [40:27] - Don’t stay where there is no protection. [42:51] - Shooters come in with a plan and it is always intentional. [44:11] - Sometimes an unexpected distraction makes a difference because it throws off a shooter’s plan. [47:37] - While school shootings are terrible incidents, children are actually more in danger in their homes and neighborhoods. [49:45] - Although they are major news stories when they happen, elementary school shootings are rare. [51:29] - Listen to Katherine’s podcast, Stop the Killing, for more information. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources: by Katherine Schweit by Katherine Schweit
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The Passwords Are the Problem with Thierry Gagnon and Philippe Desmarais
10/18/2023
The Passwords Are the Problem with Thierry Gagnon and Philippe Desmarais
With the use of passwords, we’re hoping to ensure privacy and security, but sometimes it is at the expense of convenience. As technology changes and biometric databases become more utilized, we need to remember that they may also be hacked. Today’s guests are Philippe Desmarais and Thierry Gagnon. Philippe is a tech entrepreneur who co-founded Kelvin Zero and currently serves as its CEO, overseeing the company’s strategic direction. He is also a member of the Next Generation Advisory Council at Rockefeller Capital Management. Before creating Kelvin Zero, Philippe played a significant role in various start-ups, focusing on data analytics for political campaigns, remote hardware device management, and cybersecurity. Thierry Gagnon is co-founder and Chief Technology at Kelvin Zero. He is an expert in software development, malware analysis, cryptography, and reverse engineering. He has been actively involved in the cybersecurity community, participating in renowned competitions and projects such as Malware Information Sharing Platform. Show Notes: [1:18] - Philippe and Thierry share their backgrounds and their roles in the company they co-founded together, Kelvin Zero. [2:34] - Thierry’s expertise is in cybersecurity but Philippe’s interest was more in crime. They combined their strengths and passions to create Kelvin Zero. [6:18] - Passwords have been around for millennia. [7:24] - We often confuse being smarter with being faster. [9:45] - Passwords are not often attached to an individual. We have so many passwords and can’t actually know them all. [11:53] - We can compromise passwords at scale. [13:20] - The attackers only need to be right once. The defenders need to be right 100% of the time. How can we flip this? [15:47] - The average person is tasked with trying to keep up with cybersecurity and, in most cases, they are not qualified to do this. [17:11] - What does it look like to take a password-less approach? [19:20] - If cybersecurity is done successfully, the opportunities are massive. But regulation holds us back. [21:51] - Once a tech company can serve protection, then companies can focus on their services and products. [24:46] - There are differences between the physical world and the logical world. [28:41] - How do you convince people to share medical data for research when there are constant breaches? [31:33] - Is privacy the same as anonymity? [33:52] - Technology should be able to do what we want it to do, but that’s not the case. [36:36] - In a password-less environment, how can we validate a user? [39:40] - Thierry believes we should get away from the server authenticating because then it is the responsibility of the organization. [43:18] - Sci-fi movies sound far-fetched, but a lot of them predict technology. [46:35] - Thierry and Philippe share their thoughts on what we should be putting our focus on now. [49:40] - Stay away from single-factor authorization. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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5 Ways to Stay Safe Online with Patrick McNamara
10/11/2023
5 Ways to Stay Safe Online with Patrick McNamara
Staying safe online requires you to be an active participant. You need to do your own research and not rely entirely on other people’s tools, some of which are intended to actually take advantage of you. Today’s guest is Patrick McNamara. Patrick holds a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from University of Maryland Global along with multiple certifications. He operates the cyber awareness site DIYSecurityTips.com and is currently a cybersecurity engineer for a software company. Show Notes: [0:52] - Patrick shares his background and current role in cybersecurity. [3:09] - Chris and Patrick discuss the changes in cybersecurity in education in just a few years. [7:18] - When it comes to working in the industry, there are a lot of misunderstandings and inflexible definitions of what cybersecurity is. [9:35] - Volunteer as much as you can. [10:48] - A great place to start for your own online security is with passwords. [13:17] - Literally anything can be breached. A password manager can at least mitigate risk. [15:40] - Is it safe to connect to public wifi? [17:56] - Using your cell phone’s hotspot is a lot safer than using public wifi. VPNs are also fantastic to invest in. [20:42] - VPNs that are free could be dangerous as well. How are they making money if they are offering the service for free? [21:33] - Pay attention to the developer before downloading any app on your phone or mobile device. [23:16] - Check the permissions for the apps you download. For example, a calculator app doesn’t need access to your contacts and pictures. [25:01] - Anything that is new and exciting, malware developers will be on it very quickly. [27:40] - Understand how crypto works before investing in it. [28:52] - Patrick believes that it is possible to be completely anonymous online but there are a lot of very difficult steps to follow to do so. [32:13] - Privacy is easier to maintain than anonymity. [34:41] - There’s special malware for every type of attack. Patrick shares some scenarios on different types of attacks. [35:57] - VPNs cannot protect you from social engineering. [37:21] - Some malware is downloaded through files online on a site that was recently breached. [39:01] - Chris shares an experience in supply chain crypto mining that happened unintentionally. You never know. [40:34] - You should at least know how to back up your data. [44:13] - Patrick shares about his website and how to learn more about online safety. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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Tracking Down Scammers with Ryan Kelly
10/04/2023
Tracking Down Scammers with Ryan Kelly
Everyone is being targeted by organized crime to separate you from your money. If you’ve been scammed, don’t allow embarrassment to keep you from reporting it. Your story could keep someone else from going through the same thing. Today’s guest is Ryan Kelly. Ryan is a stand-up comedian who hunts scammers with his master’s degree in Homeland Security. Show Notes: [0:45] - Ryan shares his background and how he wound up hunting scammers. [2:12] - Just a few months ago, Ryan himself was scammed. [3:25] - Through social media, Ryan shared his experience and all of the comments showed that an incredible amount of people experienced it as well. [6:13] - We do victims an injustice when we describe a hacker as a bored man in a basement and a hoodie. There are incredibly organized scam crime rings. [9:07] - Your phone sells a lot of data. [10:53] - Ryan shares what he does initially when tracking down a scammer. [13:47] - Knowing an IP address can be helpful in knowing a little information, but it’s not exact. [15:46] - Some military personnel cannot use fitness trackers or other devices that transmit data. [18:08] - Ryan explains how a fan of his social media content recognized the background of a video and found him in person. [21:03] - If you possibly feel like you are being targeted as a scam but you are unsure, you can ask a series of questions to see if they are lying. [22:16] - Sometimes scammers purposely use bad grammar and spelling to weed out the people who are suspicious. [24:37] - Two factor authorization should be a requirement on every login. [27:01] - Your information is easy to find. There are ways to take some things down. [29:01] - LinkedIn is a great tool, but it can be dangerous as scammers can create a false connection. [32:09] - If you’re paying for something and it feels like a weird way to be paying for something, stop. [34:51] - If you are looking at investing in something, think about the risk. Can you afford to possibly lose it all? [37:36] - Scammers also target people under the pretense of helping them get their money back after a scam. [40:25] - Don’t send photos to people you don’t know. Thanks for joining us on Easy Prey. Be sure to and leave a nice review. Links and Resources:
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