About this episode
Kevin Mitnick discusses his notorious hacking career and the vulnerabilities in computer security systems he exploited. Mitnick examines the social engineering techniques he used to gain unauthorized access to protected systems and information. The conversation explores Mitnick's prosecution and imprisonment for computer crimes and the restrictions still imposed on his computer use. Mitnick discusses the psychology of hacking and what motivates individuals to break into secure systems despite legal consequences. The discussion addresses the current state of computer security and how little has improved despite high-profile breaches. Mitnick examines the techniques hackers use today and the vulnerabilities in systems most people trust with sensitive information. The broadcast explores the ethics of hacking and the distinction between malicious attacks versus security research exposing weaknesses. Mitnick discusses his transformation from notorious hacker to security consultant helping organizations protect against intrusion. The conversation addresses the cat-and-mouse game between hackers and security professionals and whether systems can ever be truly secure. Mitnick examines what his experiences reveal about technology dependence and the illusion of privacy in the digital age.