7 chapters across the catalog
Chinese Hackers, Todd Blanche and Phone Spoofing
ABC News reports that hackers linked to Chinese intelligence breached the phone of Donald Trump's attorney, Todd Blanche. The breach allegedly allowed the recording of calls and the theft of text messages. The discussion questions the attribution of the hack, noting that sophisticated actors can easily spoof origins and phone numbers.
Senate Intelligence Committee, Russian Election Meddling
Senators Richard Burr and Mark Warner held a joint press conference to discuss the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. They alleged that Russia paid over 1,000 "hackers" to create fake news stories targeting Hillary Clinton. The hosts question the lack of evidence and the shifting narrative from "hacking servers" to "creating fake news."
Publications like Slashdot and Hacker News have analyzed the government's Joint Analysis Report on Russian hacking and found a lack of concrete proof. Skilled technical observers are noted for their silence or skepticism regarding the official narrative presented by the Obama administration.
New World Hackers, Mirai Botnet and DVR Exploits
A group calling itself New World Hackers claimed responsibility for the Dyn DDoS attack. Security firm Flashpoint suggests the hackers exploited vulnerabilities in Chinese-made DVRs and webcams using malware. The hosts discuss the poor security standards of these internet-connected consumer devices.
CIA Cyber Retaliation, Vladimir Putin and NBC News Report
NBC News reported that the CIA is preparing a "clandestine and embarrassing" cyber retaliation against Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin leadership. The report claimed "super hackers" at Langley could manipulate the banking accounts and personal phones of Russian oligarchs. The hosts mock the report's technical inaccuracies, such as "low-flying satellites" and the idea of announcing a "covert" operation on national television.
Encryption Access, Good People vs Bad People
The debate over encryption focuses on whether limiting security tools only hurts "good people" while "bad people" find alternative ways to communicate. Tim Cook argues that the US government already funds encryption in many cases and that creating a backdoor would be a "bad for America" precedent. The segment questions why ABC News granted Cook a half-hour platform for what is described as a "giant infomercial."
White House Phishing Attack and Cybersecurity Awareness Month
During National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, reports surfaced of a Chinese "hack attack" on White House computers, which was later revealed to be a simple phishing email on an unclassified network. The hosts mock the sensationalized coverage by Fox News and the Free Beacon. They also discuss evidence that DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano does not use a computer in her office, relying instead on printed PowerPoint slides and possibly an iPhone.
