Smashing Security6 Nov 2025

The hack that messed with time, and rogue ransomware negotiators

Time itself comes under attack as a state-backed hacking gang spends two years tunnelling toward a nation’s master clock — with chaos potentially only a tick away.

Plus when ransomware negotiators turn to the dark side, what could possibly go wrong?

All this and more is discussed in episode 442 of the "Smashing Security" podcast with cybersecurity veteran Graham Cluley, and special guest Dave Bittner.

EPISODE LINKS:

Alleged Meduza Stealer malware admins arrested after hacking Russian org - Bleeping Computer.
Tap-and-Steal: The Rise of NFC Relay Malware on Mobile Devices - Zimperium.
Postcode Lottery's lucky dip turns into data slip as players draw each other's info - The Register.
Chinese Ministry of State Security MSS WeChat post - WeChat.
China blames US for cyber break-in, claims America is world's biggest bit burglar - The Register.
Chicago firm that resolves ransomware attacks had rogue workers carrying out their own hacks, FBI says - Chicago Sun Times.
MicroMacro: Crime City.
Star Wars 3.5 foot animated LED R2-D2 - Home Depot.
TrackaLacker.
Smashing Security merchandise (t-shirts, mugs, stickers and stuff)

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Material - Email security that covers the full threat landscape – stopping new flavors of phishing and pretexting attacks in their tracks, while also protecting accounts and data from exploit or exposure.
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THANKS:

Theme tune: "Vinyl Memories" by Mikael Manvelyan.

Assorted sound effects: AudioBlocks.

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