Tom Eston
Cybersecurity Aficionado, Privacy Advocate, Founder and Co-Host of the Shared Security Podcast. Moved to Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/agent0x0.bsky.social
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Articles by Tom Eston
The $6.3B Binance Hack: North Korea’s Crypto-Hacking Threat
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/11/09/the-6-3b-binance-hack-north-koreas-crypto-hacking-threat/ A fake job interview and malicious software reportedly helped attackers reach Binance engineers before the roughly $6.3 billion crypto theft.
eMudhra’s Weak Private Keys: When Internet Trust Fails at Randomness
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/11/02/emudhras-weak-private-keys-when-internet-trust-fails-at-randomness/ A certificate authority issued intermediate TLS keys with so little randomness that researchers could recreate them, putting browser trust, certificate revocation, and the systems beyond the browser under a harsh spotlight.
Why Are Grocery Store Refrigerators Connected to the Internet?
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team.
Canada’s Bill C-22: Encryption, Lawful Access, and Systemic Risk
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team.
Roblox, Robux Scams, and What Parents Need to Know
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/10/12/roblox-robux-scams-and-what-parents-need-to-know/ Roblox is more than a game—it is a social platform where kids play, trade, spend Robux, and chat.
Meta Muse: When Your AI Assistant Becomes the Attack Surface
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/10/05/meta-muse-when-your-ai-assistant-becomes-the-attack-surface/ Meta Muse is designed to work across a user’s inbox, calendar, browser, connected apps, and other personal services. That makes it useful—and makes its delegated authority a security problem worth examining.
When Familiar Voices Become Scam Calls
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/09/28/when-familiar-voices-become-scam-calls/ A familiar voice is no longer proof of identity.
Will AI Kill Us All? Real Risks, Real Controls
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/09/21/will-ai-kill-us-all-real-risks-real-controls/ Will AI kill us all? Tom Eston, Scott Wright, and Kevin Tackett examine competing AI-risk claims, public calls for guardrails, and the gap between dramatic safety messaging and verifiable internal controls.
153 Million Driver’s Licenses for Sale: Why Identity Verification Is Broken
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Shared Security Podcast authored by the team. Read the original post at: https://sharedsecurity.net/2026/09/14/153-million-drivers-licenses-for-sale-why-identity-verification-is-broken/ A reported dark-web service offering more than 153 million U.S. and Canadian driver’s-license scans for sale has brought the hidden cost of identity verification into focus.
Could a Pattern on Your Clothing Fool Facial Recognition? Interview with Bill Swearingen
Can a pattern on your clothing change what a camera thinks it sees? Tom talks with Black Hat USA 2026 speaker Bill Swearingen about adversarial clothing research, why person detection and facial recognition are different problems, and what model limitations mean for biometric surveillance, privacy, and accountability.
What Happens to Your Digital Life When You Die?
Scott Wright joins Shared Security to discuss his Digital Legacy Tree framework and upcoming book, The Digital Legacy Tree. We talk about what happens to your accounts, passwords, devices, files, money, cloud storage, crypto, and online identity if you die, become incapacitated, or are suddenly unavailable — and how to plan for trusted access without weakening your security today.
Flock Cameras Exposed: Traffic Tickets, ALPRs, and Vehicle Surveillance
Flock cameras and automated license plate readers are often sold as tools for finding stolen cars, wanted suspects, missing people, and serious threats. But what happens when that same infrastructure starts being used for everyday traffic enforcement, broader vehicle surveillance, or searchable location databases?
OpenAI Says Its AI Hacked Another Company on Its Own
OpenAI disclosed an unusual AI security incident involving a frontier model evaluation and Hugging Face, but the episode cuts through the hype: was this true autonomous intent, an agent following bad scope boundaries, or a warning about giving AI systems real tools and permissions?
Your Monitor Can Install Adware Now?
You plug in a new monitor. Windows detects the hardware, pulls down a vendor companion app, and the first thing you see is… a McAfee ad. That’s the story that kicks off this episode, but the bigger issue is not just one annoying popup. Hardware setup has become a software delivery channel.
Surveillance Pricing: When Your Data Sets the Price
This week on Shared Security, Tom and Scott dig into surveillance pricing: the use of personal data, behavioral profiles, shopping history, location signals, income assumptions, household information, and AI-driven targeting to decide what price or discount different people see for the same product.
Signal Phishing and Russian Intelligence Targeting Messaging Apps
Russian intelligence services are targeting Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram users — not by breaking encryption, but by stealing accounts through phishing, QR code tricks, linked-device abuse, and backup recovery key theft. We discuss the FBI warning, the $10 million Rewards for Justice bounty, and the practical security lesson for anyone relying on encrypted messaging: your app can be secure while your account, endpoint, or recovery path is still the weak link.
The Supreme Court Just Put Limits on Geofence Warrants
The Supreme Court says constitutional privacy protections can apply to cellphone location history and geofence warrant data. Tom Eston and Scott Wright discuss the privacy implications of geofence warrants — requests that can sweep up information about many people near a location, not just a named suspect — and why this ruling matters for anyone carrying a smartphone.
Jay Beale on Kubernetes, DEF CON, and AI Attack Paths
This week on Shared Security, Tom and Kevin sit down with Jay Beale — founder of InGuardians, long-time Black Hat trainer, creator/contributor behind Kubernetes security training, and part of the team behind the DEF CON Kubernetes CTF. Jay shares stories from decades of offensive security work, including the time Tom hired him for a physical penetration test and Jay somehow ended up inside a call center instead of stuck in the lobby.
Can the Government Shut Down Frontier AI Overnight?
The U.S. government reportedly ordered Anthropic to suspend access to two of its newest frontier AI models, Fable 5 and Mythos 5, citing national security concerns tied to a possible jailbreak. Anthropic complied, but pushed back on the reasoning, arguing that the reported behavior was narrow and that similar capabilities already exist in other advanced AI models.
Guarding AI Agents: Boundaries and Safeguards
AI agents are useful, but they become risky when they can take action in real systems. In this episode, Tom Eston discusses recent reporting about attackers tricking Meta’s AI support chatbot into helping hijack Instagram accounts, and why that story matters far beyond social media.
Mobile Application Security: What Every Organization Needs to Know
Mobile apps are now deeply connected platforms for identities, payments, sessions, APIs, healthcare, retail, gaming, and cloud services. In this special episode, Tom Eston talks with Joel Destefano, Senior Product Manager at Guardsquare, about the modern mobile app threat landscape and why organizations can’t treat mobile security as an afterthought.
Microsoft Threatens Legal Action Over Exploit Disclosure
Microsoft’s response to a researcher publicly disclosing proof-of-concept exploit code has reignited an old debate in security: where does responsible disclosure end and reckless disclosure begin? Tom and Scott discuss the Nightmare Eclipse controversy, the history of full disclosure, bug bounty incentives, and why legal threats against researchers may ultimately hurt customers.
Apple Finally Fixes One of Texting’s Biggest Security Problems
Apple and Google are finally bringing end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging to iPhone and Android chats. In this episode, Tom Eston and Kevin Tackett explain why that matters, why insecure SMS is not going away anytime soon, and why Signal is still the better choice for truly sensitive conversations. They also revisit the green bubble versus blue bubble debate, platform trust issues, and what everyday users should understand before assuming every text message is private.
Should AI Have Access to Your Financial Life?
OpenAI is now allowing some ChatGPT users to connect their bank accounts and financial data directly to the platform. In this episode, we discuss the technology behind the feature, the convenience it promises, and the serious privacy and security questions it raises. From AI-generated budgeting advice to the risks of centralized financial profiling, we examine what happens when conversational AI gains visibility into your spending habits, debts, subscriptions, and financial goals.
Cybersecurity Lessons from the Canvas Data Breach
In this episode we discuss the recent cyber attack targeting Instructure’s widely used learning platform, Canvas, and the major late-breaking development that Instructure reached an “agreement” with the ShinyHunters cybercriminal group after threats to leak large amounts of stolen student and faculty data.
Passwords Are Still Failing Us (World Password Day 2026)
World Password Day was on May 7th—but are we actually getting better at password security? In this episode, we discuss why compromised credentials are still behind the majority of breaches in 2026. From password reuse and phishing to infostealer malware and MFA bypass techniques, attackers are finding it easier than ever to log in instead of hack in. We also talk about whether passkeys can finally shift the landscape—and what organizations should be doing right now to reduce risk.
Fake Party Invites and the Rise of Social Phishing Attacks
Attackers are now impersonating invitation services to trick people into clicking malicious links and sharing sensitive information. These phishing attempts look like legitimate event invites, making them especially effective. In this episode, we discuss how these scams work and what steps you can take to stay protected. Special thanks to Guardsquare for sponsoring this episode! Guardsquare is the leader in mobile application security, with multi-layered protection for your Android and iOS apps.
New York’s 3D Printing Crackdown: Security or Surveillance?
New York’s latest budget proposal could fundamentally change how 3D printers work—requiring built-in software that scans and blocks certain designs. Supporters say it’s about stopping ghost guns. Critics say it opens the door to surveillance and limits innovation. In this episode, we break down what’s actually in the proposal, why it’s raising alarms across the tech community, and what it could mean for the future of user-controlled technology.
Project Glasswing: When AI Becomes the Ultimate Hacker—and Defender
Anthropic has introduced Project Glasswing, a cybersecurity initiative powered by an unreleased AI model called Claude Mythos. This system can identify zero-day vulnerabilities, generate exploits, and even help fix them—often without human input. But there’s a catch: it’s considered too powerful for public release. In this episode, we discuss what Project Glasswing is, why it matters, and what it means for the future of cybersecurity, red teaming, and AI-driven threats.
The Dark Web Explained with John Hammond
The dark web is often misunderstood, but it plays an important role in both privacy technology and cybercrime activity. In this episode, Tom Eston speaks with cybersecurity researcher and educator John Hammond about what the dark web actually is and how it has evolved in recent years. The discussion covers underground marketplaces, ransomware leak sites, threat intelligence collection, and the operational risks involved in dark web investigations.
Meta & YouTube Found Negligent: A Turning Point for Big Tech?
A landmark jury verdict has found Meta and YouTube negligent in a social media addiction case, raising major questions about platform accountability and legal protections under Section 230. This episode covers the details of the case, why the ruling is significant, and what it could mean for the future of social media, privacy, and cybersecurity. Could this trigger a wave of lawsuits against tech companies? And are platforms finally being held accountable?
The Hidden Tracking Risk Inside Your Tires
In this episode, Tom Eston and co-host Scott Wright discuss research showing that Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) can create privacy risks because the sensors broadcast unencrypted, uniquely identifying wireless signals that could be used to track vehicles.
The Real State of Offensive Security: AI, Penetration Testing & The Road Ahead with Andrew Wilson
Tom Eston interviews offensive AI researcher and PhD candidate Andrew Wilson, a former Bishop Fox partner who helped grow the firm from under 20 people to nearly 500, built award-winning AI solutions for SOC modernization, founded Cactus Con, and relocated his family to Guadalajara to open and scale a Bishop Fox office.
The Privacy Problem With Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
This episode discusses Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, which blend a camera, microphone, AI features, and social media integration into sunglasses that look like normal fashion eyewear, raising major privacy concerns. It highlights reports that footage captured by the glasses may be reviewed by human contractors to help train Meta’s AI systems, and notes critics’ concerns about how easily people can be recorded in public without their knowledge.
TikTok Says No to End-to-End Encryption: Here’s Why That’s a Big Deal
In a move that bucks the entire industry trend, TikTok has confirmed it will not implement end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for direct messages on its platform — arguing that E2EE would make users less safe. We break down what’s really going on: the child safety argument, the privacy counterargument, the geopolitical questions surrounding ByteDance, and what it all means for TikTok’s 1 billion+ users. If you use TikTok, this episode is essential listening.
Claude Code Security: The AI Shockwave Hitting Cybersecurity
Anthropic’s Claude Code Security research preview promises AI-powered code analysis and vulnerability detection at scale. The announcement triggered strong reactions across the cybersecurity community and sent several vendor stocks lower. In this episode, we break down what the tool actually does, where it fits in modern AppSec, and whether AI automation threatens traditional security products or simply makes teams more efficient.
TikTok’s New U.S. Deal and Privacy Policy: What Users Don’t Understand
TikTok has shifted to a majority-American entity, TikTok USDS Joint Venture, LLC, to comply with U.S. national security requirements and avoid a ban. This week we discuss why a recent privacy policy update went viral—especially language about sensitive data like immigration status and precise location—and argue much of it reflects longstanding practices and required California privacy disclosures.
Ring’s Search Party ‘Dystopia’ Debate & Claude Zero-Click RCE Vulnerability
In this episode, we discuss two major tech stories impacting privacy and security. First, we analyze Ring’s new AI-powered ‘Search Party’ feature and its controversial Super Bowl ad that sparked privacy concerns. We then transition to a breaking story about a zero-click remote code execution flaw in the Claude Desktop, highlighting the potential risks of AI. The hosts also reflect on their most popular YouTube episode on why Gen Z is ditching smartphones.
OpenClaw & Moltbook: AI Agents and Cybersecurity Risks
Autonomous AI assistants are hitting the mainstream — but at what cost? This week, we discuss the recent OpenClaw phenomenon (formerly Clawdbot/Moltbot), the security fiasco surrounding Moltbook’s exposed database, and the quirky yet concerning AI agent dating platform MoltMatch. We explore the privacy and cybersecurity implications of entrusting AI agents with sensitive access and how defenders should think about emerging agentic risks.
Why Gen Z is Ditching Smartphones for Dumbphones
Younger generations are increasingly ditching smartphones in favor of “dumbphones”—simpler devices with fewer apps, fewer distractions, and less tracking. But what happens when you step away from a device that now functions as your wallet, your memory, and your security key? In this episode, Tom and Scott explore the dumbphone movement through a privacy and cybersecurity lens.
AirDrop Security in iOS 26.2: Time Limits, Codes & Privacy Best Practices
In this episode, we explore the latest changes to AirDrop in iOS 26.2 and how they enhance privacy and security. Learn about the new 10-minute limitation on the ‘Everyone’ setting and the introduction of AirDrop codes for safer file sharing with non-contacts. We also discuss best practices for configuring your AirDrop settings to safeguard your privacy, including tips for high-risk individuals and general recommendations for everyday use.
Ring’s Facial Recognition Feature: Convenience or Privacy Nightmare?
In this episode, we explore Amazon Ring’s newly introduced Familiar Faces feature that utilizes AI for facial recognition. We discuss the convenience of identifying familiar people at your doorstep, the privacy concerns it raises, and the legal implications surrounding biometric data. Learn about how this feature works, potential inaccuracies, and privacy laws in certain U.S. states.
Your Google Searches Aren’t Private? PA Court’s Surprising Ruling
In this episode of Shared Security, we discuss a significant Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling that permits police to access unprotected Google search histories without a traditional warrant. The discussion centers around the implications of the Commonwealth vs. Kurtz case and the concept of reverse keyword searches. Kevin Tackett joins the conversation, providing insights and posing critical questions about the balance between law enforcement needs and privacy rights.
AI and the End of the Traditional Entry-Level Tech Job
Welcome to the first episode of the Shared Security Podcast in 2026! As AI becomes increasingly integrated into technical fields such as software development and cybersecurity, traditional entry-level roles are evolving or disappearing. This episode discusses the implications of AI on entry-level knowledge worker jobs, emphasizing the need for students, recent graduates, and those entering the job market to adapt their strategies.
2025 Predictions: Hits, Misses & What We Learned
Join us this week as we rewind the tape on our 2025 predictions. In this episode, we revisit last year’s forecasts in cybersecurity, geopolitics, and AI, discussing which ones came true, which ones fizzled out, and which ones were a mixed bag. Additionally, we share insights from past guests, celebrate milestones, and make bold new predictions for 2026.
Why Networking Is Your Secret Weapon in Cybersecurity Job Hunting
In this episode, Tom Eston discusses the unique challenges in the current cybersecurity job market, emphasizing the importance of networking. Tom provides practical tips on how to enhance networking skills, such as attending conferences, volunteering for open source projects, creating a blog, and seeking mentors. He also addresses misconceptions about the job shortage in cybersecurity and encourages listeners to start building their professional networks early.
The Hidden Threat in Your Holiday Emails: Tracking Pixels and Privacy Concerns
Join us in the midst of the holiday shopping season as we discuss a growing privacy problem: tracking pixels embedded in marketing emails. According to Proton’s latest Spam Watch 2025 report, nearly 80% of promotional emails now contain trackers that report back your email activity. We discuss how these trackers work, why they become more aggressive during the holidays, the data being collected by marketers, and how you can protect yourself.
AI Agent Does the Hacking: First Documented AI-Orchestrated Cyber Espionage
In this episode, we discuss the first reported AI-driven cyber espionage campaign, as disclosed by Anthropic. In September 2025, a state-sponsored Chinese actor manipulated the Claude Code tool to target 30 global organizations. We explain how the attack was executed, why it matters, and its implications for cybersecurity. Join the conversation as we examine the details, Anthropic’s response, and the broader impact on AI in cybersecurity.
OWASP Top 10 for 2025: What’s New and Why It Matters
In this episode, we discuss the newly released OWASP Top 10 for 2025. Join hosts Tom Eston, Scott Wright, and Kevin Johnson as they explore the changes, the continuity, and the significance of the update for application security. Learn about the importance of getting involved with the release candidate to provide feedback and suggestions.
Meet NEO 1X: The Robot That Does Chores and Spies on You?
The future of home robotics is here — and it’s a little awkward. Meet the NEO 1X humanoid robot, designed to help with chores but raising huge cybersecurity and privacy questions. We discuss what it can actually do, the risks of having an always-connected humanoid in your home, and why it’s definitely not the “Robot Rosie” we were promised.
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