NeedleStack

Hosted by Authentic8

Technology NewsInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn X / Twitter YouTube

Episodes

104

Latest episode

Jul 2026

Language

About the show

NeedleStack co-hosts interview professional open-source researchers who discuss tips, tricks and insights into the practice of digital investigative research. Whether you’re an open-source expert or aficionado, tune in to learn how to hone your skills, improve your craft and protect yourself as you search the surface, deep and dark web. From Authentic8, creators of Silo for Research. Visit authentic8.com/needlestack to learn more!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

July 29, 202642 min

Deepfake Detection is Failing. Here's What Comes Next for CTI & Investigation Teams

In this episode of NeedleStack, host AJ Nash welcomes new co-host Kacper Piwowar to tackle the growing threat of deepfakes and synthetic media. They explore how AI has made impersonation cheap and easy, with more than 100 million fake profiles on Meta platforms alone and deepfake losses projected to hit $40 billion by 2027. The sobering reality: Only 24.5% of people can accurately detect AI-generated content, making everyone from individuals to investigators vulnerable.AJ and Kacper discuss practical protection strategies and introduce a paradigm shift in fighting deepfakes. They cover the balance between necessary digital presence and privacy protection, implications for OSINT professionals, and why effective security education must meet people where they are.

July 22, 202646 min

Securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup: An Intel Playbook for the Biggest Event in Sports History

In this (very timely) episode of NeedleStack, host AJ Nash and guest Kevin Uniacke from Seerist discuss securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the US, Canada, and Mexico.They explore how intelligence professionals break down massive security challenges across multiple countries, the differences in threat environments between venues, and why organized crime is actually more predictable than random threats. Kevin shares insights on the intelligence cycle, stakeholder requirements, and how to deliver actionable intelligence products. The conversation covers travel safety for attendees, the role of AI in open-source intelligence, and practical preparation tips including site surveys and emergency planning.They also discuss why transparency in intelligence sources matters and the importance of expert analysis over social media rumors.

March 19, 202646 min

Alligator in the Boat

Integrating security into our daily lives can feel overwhelming. From password management to encryption, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash share our experiences navigating security in our personal and professional lives. They discuss practical strategies like how to choose your seat in a restaurant for safety and the importance of encryption. Remember, security isn’t just a job; it’s a lifestyle. Finding the right balance is key, and it’s okay to have slip-ups along the way.

March 5, 202649 min

Navigating the Ransomware Negotiation

In this episode, hosts Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash engage with cybersecurity expert John DiMaggio to explore the complexities of ransomware negotiation. They discuss the process of responding to ransomware attacks, the stakeholders involved, and the legal and ethical considerations that companies face when deciding whether to pay a ransom. The conversation delves into the tactics used by ransomware groups, the importance of understanding target selection, and the role of insurance in these scenarios. Additionally, they highlight the need for standards in negotiation practices and preventative measures that organizations can take to mitigate risks. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of ransomware negotiation and the importance of having knowledgeable advisors in the field.

February 5, 202655 min

Exploring the Dark Web: Myths and Realities

NeedleStack hosts, AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi engage with Roman Sannikov a seasoned expert in cyber threat intelligence, to explore the complexities of the dark web. The conversation delves into the myths surrounding the dark web, the community dynamics within cybercrime, and the professionalization of criminal enterprises. Roman shares insights on how trust and reputation are managed in these underground communities, the barriers to entry for new members, and the human element that often gets overlooked in discussions about cybercriminals.

January 21, 202644 min

Navigating China's Strategic Landscape

In this episode of NeedleStack, hosts AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi engage with John Costello, a director at WireScreen, to discuss the complexities of China's strategic competition with the United States. The conversation covers China's technological advancements, the implications of its five-year plans, challenges in intelligence gathering, and the dynamics of military-civil fusion. The discussion also touches on the importance of due diligence for businesses engaging with Chinese companies and the role of Chinese students in U.S. education.

January 7, 202655 min

Is Mass Surveillance Helping or Hindering Intelligence?

In this episode, the hosts discuss the implications of surveillance technology and AI on intelligence, journalism, and civil liberties. They explore the dual nature of surveillance as both a tool for security and a potential threat to privacy. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by misinformation, the importance of expertise in navigating these issues, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of surveillance technology. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of journalism and the role of AI in shaping public perception and trust.

December 11, 202549 min

Mastering the Art of Disappearing Online

In this episode of Needlestack, hosts AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi delve into the complexities of disappearing online, drawing insights from their experiences and the book 'The Art of Invisibility' by Kevin Mitnick. They discuss practical steps for maintaining anonymity, the role of technology in obfuscation, and the challenges of creating and sustaining multiple identities. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on privacy and the importance of understanding personal risks in a digital world. Through engaging anecdotes and expert insights, the hosts provide a comprehensive overview of the art of invisibility in today's interconnected society.

November 26, 202542 min

The Rise of Citizen OSINT, and What to Do About It

In this episode, hosts Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash engage with Neil Ysart, a seasoned expert in cyber investigations and open source intelligence (OSINT). They discuss the Coalition of Cyber Investigators, its role in promoting OSINT, and the importance of establishing standards in the field. The conversation delves into the challenges and risks associated with OSINT, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and the potential dangers of unregulated citizen intelligence efforts. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to advocate for the development of global standards in OSINT.

November 12, 202546 min

What is Cyber HUMINT?

In this episode, Michael DeBolt joins Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash to dive into the world of Cyber HUMINT — the application of traditional human intelligence (HUMINT) tradecraft in cyberspace. They discuss how investigators use digital personas (sometimes called “sock puppets”) to infiltrate online threat actor communities, collect intelligence, and even engage adversaries safely. Michael explains how credibility, language, slang, and cultural nuance are essential to blending in, while AJ highlights the risks of untrained amateurs attempting such operations. They explore the art, ethics, and operational security challenges of conducting human intelligence in the digital realm.