Security Unfiltered

Hosted by Joe South

Technology Business Careers NewsInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

281

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

About the show

Cyber Security can be a difficult field to not only understand but to also navigate. Joe South is here to help with over a decade of experience across several domains of security. With this podcast I hope to help more people get into IT and Cyber Security as well as discussing modern day Cyber Security topics you may find in the daily news. Come join us as we learn and grow together!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 31, 2026Episode 26353 min

The Real Innovation Wasn't Face Recognition - It Was Liveness

Joe talks with Andrew Bud, founder of iProov, about how an engineer’s career across mobile communications, payments, and identity led to one of the early liveness technologies for secure remote authentication. The conversation ranges from entrepreneurship and resilience to deepfakes, digital identity wallets, and why proving a real human is present is becoming central to cybersecurity. 00:00 The Importance of Family and Presence 03:44 Andrew Bud's Journey in Technology 09:40 The Entrepreneurial Mindset and Necessity 15:28 Conviction vs. Delusion in Entrepreneurship 23:11 Innovating Trust: The Birth of iProve 27:55 Discovering the Core Problem 29:17 The Rise of Authentication Technology 30:26 Deepfakes and the Evolution of Threats 35:19 The Challenge of Deepfake Detection 38:56 Attribution and Accountability in the Digital Age 44:51 Identity as a Defense Mechanism 49:22 Cybersecurity and National Defense Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions. Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast

August 24, 2026Episode 2621 hr 42 min

The Real Reason Iran, Iraq, and America Keep Colliding

The conversation covers Mark's journey to the CIA, his language training, overseas assignments, and the challenges and unpredictability of his career. Mark shares insights into the preparation, language proficiency, and stress associated with overseas assignments, as well as the different roles and responsibilities within the CIA. The conversation delves into the impact of language training on CIA officers, the challenges of post-9/11 operations, the Iraq war and WMDs, and the historical context of Iran's relations with global powers. The discussion provides insights into the complexities of intelligence operations and geopolitical dynamics. The conversation delves into the history of Iran, focusing on the rise and fall of the Shahs and the country's pursuit of nuclear weapons. It explores the Shah's attempts to modernize Iran, the overthrow of Mossadegh, and the impact of the Iran-Iraq war. Additionally, it discusses the development of Iran's nuclear program and the decision-making process behind Iran's nuclear ambitions. Takeaways Language training is a crucial part of CIA preparation Overseas assignments require extensive preparation and adaptation to real-time language use Language training is crucial for CIA officers Post-9/11 operations reshaped CIA priorities and focus The Iraq war and WMDs had significant intelligence implications Iran's historical context shapes its relations with global powers The complex history of Iran's political landscape and the role of the Shahs in modernizing the country. The motivations and implications of Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons and the challenges it presents to global security. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:00 Journey to the Agency 03:10 Applying to the Agency 04:04 Joining the Agency 05:16 Challenges and Qualifications 06:09 Language Training and Assignments 07:26 Specializing in Farsi 08:36 Roles in the CIA 09:23 Senior Roles and Responsibilities 10:20 Career Impact and Unpredictability 11:08 Preparation for Overseas Assignments 12:05 Language Training and Deployment 13:45 Preparation for Denied Areas 14:14 Cover and Role Preparation 16:00 Language Learning and Proficiency 17:17 Adapting to Real-Time Language Use 18:14 Language Training and Stress 19:30 Preparation for Overseas Assignments 21:16 Language Training and Deployment 22:50 Language Requirements for Different Countries 24:26 Preparation for Overseas Assignments 25:43 Language Training for Denied Areas 26:58 Preparation for Overseas Assignments 28:17 Language Proficiency and Role 29:07 Adapting to Real-Time Language Use 30:39 Language Learning and Proficiency 31:57 Language Training and Adaptation 36:00 Post 9/11 Operations and Iraq 40:21 Impact of 9/11 on Operations 47:36 Iraq and WMDs 01:03:59 Iran's Historical Context 01:08:13 The History of Iran 01:18:28 Iran's Pursuit of Nuclear Weapons

August 3, 2026Episode 26149 min

The Hidden Security Risks of Agentic AI Moving Beyond Traditional Defenses

Nudge Security: https://www.nudgesecurity.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-spitler/ In this episode, Joe chats with Russell Spitler from Nudge Security about the evolving landscape of AI, SaaS, and cybersecurity. They explore how rapid technological advancements are reshaping security challenges and solutions, especially with AI's increasing capabilities and integrations. 00:00 - Russell’s cybersecurity origin story and early influences 04:24 - The industry’s rapid expansion and current security workforce trends 08:05 - How organizations struggle to manage SaaS security and AI integrations 12:49 - The shared responsibility model in SaaS and AI platforms 19:13 - How Nudge secures AI and SaaS ecosystems through API and browser insights 22:39 - Challenges with agentic AI: delegation, access, and risk mitigation 24:34 - The rise of agentic AI capabilities and security implications 27:23 - The potential for AI to democratize security and development 32:08 - Future of security automation and behavioral engagement strategies 36:58 - Building secure, scalable AI security solutions compared to container security 41:17 - The next phase: automation, policy enforcement, and behavioral redirects

July 30, 2026Episode 26046 min

The Future of Digital Identity: How Suremark Makes Verifying People Seamless at Scale

Explore how AI, neural networks, and technological scaling are transforming industries, security, and business operations today. Scott Stornetta shares insights from his pioneering work in AI, the evolution of neural networks, and the strategic advancements by companies like Elon Musk’s ventures — all through the lens of future-proofing and responsible innovation. Perfect for entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and security professionals aiming to understand the next wave of digital evolution. 00:00 - Intro: The unpredictable nature of AI progress and technological breakthroughs 02:00 - The hardware arms race: Scaling compute power in AI industries 05:00 - Elon Musk’s space ventures: Pushing the limits of orbital compute and AI scalability 08:00 - The evolution of neural networks: From thousand-parameter models to trillion-parameter systems 12:00 - How large language models learn: The mechanics of training and generalization 16:00 - The slowdown in innovation: Is more data the key or are new models needed? 20:00 - Leveraging AI tools to overcome writer's block and improve research productivity 24:00 - The importance of responsibility and accountability when using AI-generated content 28:00 - Blockchain-style identity verification and combating deepfake fraud 32:00 - The business perspective: Scaling rapidly and managing organizational change like a sports team 36:00 - The role of profitability versus mission-driven entrepreneurship 40:00 - AI in security: Protecting digital identities and verifying online interactions with Shermark 44:00 - The future of content authenticity: Using blockchain to prevent fakes and deepfakes 48:00 - Final thoughts: Embracing responsible AI innovation and strategic scaling

September 8, 2025Episode 20239 min

The Future of AI: Security, Ethics, and Human Augmentation

Send us Fan Mail Artificial intelligence is developing at unprecedented speed, becoming a transformative force that may rival nuclear technology in its impact on human civilization. The rapid evolution of AI capabilities presents both extraordinary opportunities and profound challenges that we're only beginning to understand. • AI development is accelerating faster than any previous technology, with research papers becoming outdated within weeks or months • Current AI systems function primarily as prediction engines rather than truly conscious entities, despite sometimes exhibiting behaviors that appear sentient • Companies often implement AI solutions without clearly understanding the problems they're trying to solve or the technology's actual capabilities • AI regulation is developing globally, with the EU currently leading efforts to establish comprehensive frameworks and security standards • Most organizations will benefit more from using AI to augment human capabilities rather than attempting to replace workers entirely • The cybersecurity job market has become increasingly competitive, with automation making application processes more challenging for job seekers • When looking for jobs on LinkedIn, changing the URL parameter from 84,000 to 3,600 helps find postings from the last hour instead of the last 24 hours Connect with Chris Cochran on LinkedIn to learn more about his work in AI and cybersecurity or to request assistance with making connections in the field. Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

September 1, 2025Episode 20155 min

Breaking the Sky: How Vulnerable Are Our Satellites?

Send us Fan Mail Grant McCracken shares his groundbreaking PhD research on satellite security, revealing how vulnerable our orbital infrastructure is to cyberattacks and the urgent need for better security measures before quantum computing renders current encryption obsolete. • Satellites face unique security challenges with limited patching windows of only 15 minutes during orbit • Most satellites run on outdated technology with numerous vulnerabilities that can allow complete takeover • A real-world attack in 2022 showed how Russia could penetrate ground stations and control entire satellite constellations • Post-quantum encryption will be essential within 5-10 years according to global experts • CubeSats (small satellites) can be purchased and tested by anyone, creating both research opportunities and security risks • Bug bounty programs provide unique opportunities for security researchers to specialize and potentially earn substantial rewards • Zero trust principles must be applied to satellite security before launch since patching in orbit is extremely difficult • The infrastructure dependent on satellites includes GPS, cellular communications, and financial transactions You can find Grant on LinkedIn by searching "Grant McCracken Dark Horse" or contact him directly at grant@darkhorsesh.com. His company Dark Horse Security helps organizations at all budget levels improve their security posture, including pro bono work for those who cannot afford security services. Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

July 28, 2025Episode 19749 min

Zero Trust Architecture: The Future of Cybersecurity

Send us Fan Mail Cybersecurity expert Bob Kochan from Beyond Identity discusses the evolution of security from network defense to identity-first approaches. He shares insights on how AI is transforming security operations while creating new threat vectors, emphasizing the need for phishing-resistant authentication solutions in today's threat landscape. • Traditional security focused on network layers, but SaaS adoption exposed vulnerable identity systems • Zero Trust architecture must start with device-level security and extend through the entire authentication chain • AI will augment rather than replace security professionals, making systems-thinkers 10x more effective • Government agencies are often driving cybersecurity innovation faster than private industry • Security solutions must prioritize usability or users will inevitably find workarounds • Legacy MFA solutions are insufficient against modern attack methods like phishing and deepfakes • Security should be designed into systems from the start rather than bolted on as "security through configuration" • Nation-state funded threat actors have created their own innovation ecosystem rivaling private sector development • Beyond Identity offers phishing-resistant authentication that eliminates password vulnerabilities Check us out at beyondidentity.com or visit us at our booth at Black Hat this year. 00:00 The Entrepreneurial Spirit 02:35 Passion and Problem-Solving in Startups 05:12 The Evolution of Cybersecurity 07:49 AI's Impact on Security 10:19 The Role of Engineers in Cybersecurity 12:51 AI and the Future of Cybersecurity 15:16 Research and AI Tools in Cybersecurity 22:05 The Impact of AI on Employment Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

August 11, 2025Episode 19847 min

From Russia with Code: A Malware Analyst's Journey

Send us Fan Mail Sergey Novikov shares his fascinating journey from early days at Kaspersky Lab through his evolution as a malware analyst and cybersecurity expert, offering unique insights into the changing threat landscape and ethical considerations of security research. • Started at Kaspersky in 2002 when it was a small startup with fewer than 100 employees • Applied mathematics background led to research correlating human epidemic models with computer virus propagation • Worked as a "woodpecker" malware analyst detecting threats 24/7 • Became part of Kaspersky's elite Global Research and Analysis Team (GREAT) • Team took pride in identifying APTs regardless of national origin to protect customers worldwide • Described security researchers as "paleontologists" uncovering complex digital threats • Participated in analysis of sophisticated threats like Stuxnet requiring specialized knowledge • Left Kaspersky in 2022 after Russia-Ukraine conflict began • Transitioned to pharmaceutical industry cybersecurity before joining CyberProof • Observes modern threats have blurred lines between nation-state actors, cybercriminals and hacktivists • Believes cybersecurity professionals must maintain perpetual learning mindset • Recommends self-learning and hands-on experience for aspiring security researchers • Notes AI is enabling more agile, automated attacks rather than quantum computing threats Connect with Sergey on LinkedIn or visit cyberproof.com to learn more about their security services and research blog. Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

June 24, 2025Episode 19451 min

Can Your Messaging Survive the Quantum Computing Threat?

Send us Fan Mail Anurag Lal discusses the critical importance of quantum-resistant encryption for enterprise messaging and the urgent need for organizations to prepare for the coming quantum computing revolution that will render current encryption methods obsolete. • Anurag's extensive background in technology from Apple to Sprint and participation in the National Broadband Task Force • How mobile messaging has infiltrated enterprises without proper security consideration • Consumer messaging apps were never designed to be secure, controlled by IT, or regulatory-compliant • What "true end-to-end encryption" means and why most platforms claiming it actually decrypt messages in transit • The concept of "Q-Day" - when quantum computers will break current encryption methods • Biden administration's executive order mandating quantum-resistant encryption by 2028 • How cyber capabilities have been weaponized by nation-states, creating unprecedented threats • AI-powered phishing attacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, including voice cloning • The importance of implementing quantum-proof encryption now rather than waiting • Netsphere's approach to quantum-resistant security for enterprise messaging Find Anurag on LinkedIn (Anurag Lal) and learn more about Netsphere at netsphere.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Anurag Lal 05:52 Netsphere: A Solution for Secure Enterprise Messaging 12:08 The Importance of Encryption and Quantum Security 18:03 Apple's Approach to Security and Personal Experiences 28:34 Security Perspectives: Apple vs. Android 35:46 The Urgency of Quantum Security 43:10 Access Control: The Weakest Link in Security 49:42 AI in Phishing: A Real-World Example Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.

March 17, 2025Episode 18653 min

Security Data Strategy: Lessons from the Equifax Breach with Justin Borland and Aqsa Taylor

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we dive into the critical world of security data strategy with experts Aqsa Taylor and Justin Borland, authors of the upcoming book Applied Security Data Strategy: A Leader’s Guide. Justin, a veteran of the Equifax breach, shares firsthand lessons from one of the biggest security incidents in history, while Aqsa explores her journey from electrical engineering to cloud security and the role of governance in data management. Together, they unpack the challenges of handling massive security data, the power of real-time analytics, and how Abstract Security’s platform transforms data strategy with deduplication, normalization, and tiered storage. Perfect for CIOs, CSOs, and security pros looking to future-proof their organizations. Subscribe for more cybersecurity insights! Key Points Covered: Introduction to Aqsa Taylor and Justin Borland, emphasizing their expertise and new book. Justin’s Equifax experience as a compelling narrative hook. Aqsa’s background and insights on governance and cloud security. Abstract Security’s innovative approach to data strategy (deduplication, real-time analytics, etc.). Target audience callout (CIOs, CSOs, security professionals) and a subscription prompt. Why this description? It’s concise, highlights the episode’s value, and uses action-oriented language to engage viewers. It balances technical appeal with accessibility for a broad cybersecurity audience. Support the show Follow the Podcast on Social Media! Tesla Referral Code: https://ts.la/joseph675128 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@securityunfilteredpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secunfpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SecUnfPodcast Affiliates ➡️ OffGrid Faraday Bags: https://offgrid.co/?ref=gabzvajh ➡️ OffGrid Coupon Code: JOE ➡️ Unplugged Phone: https://unplugged.com/ Unplugged's UP Phone - The performance you expect, with the privacy you deserve. Meet the alternative. Use Code UNFILTERED at checkout *See terms and conditions at affiliated webpages. Offers are subject to change. These are affiliated/paid promotions.