In a recent episode of the “Hacking Humans” podcast, guest Chris Sherwood, owner of Crosstalk Solutions, joined host Dave to discuss the importance of passkeys in cybersecurity. The podcast also included follow-up from a listener named Joe regarding the concept of “revert” and side-loading applications on Android phones, as well as a Catch of the Day (COTD) submission from a listener named Kyle about a phishing scam email conversation concerning event sponsorship.
During the podcast, Chris Sherwood emphasized the significance of passkeys in safeguarding personal and sensitive information from cyber threats. He explained that passkeys, which are also commonly known as passwords, act as the first line of defense against unauthorized access to devices, online accounts, and networks. Sherwood highlighted the importance of using strong and unique passkeys for each account or device, as reusing the same passkey across multiple platforms can leave individuals vulnerable to cyber attacks.
The podcast then delved into listener follow-up from Joe, who shared his insights on “revert” and side-loading applications on Android phones. Joe explained that “revert” refers to the process of returning a device or system to its previous state, typically to fix any issues that may have arisen after making changes or updates. Side-loading, on the other hand, involves downloading and installing applications from sources other than the official app store. While side-loading can offer more flexibility and access to a wider range of applications, it also introduces potential security risks as these apps may not undergo the same level of scrutiny and verification as those found on official app stores.
Next, the podcast featured Kyle’s COTD submission, which described a phishing scam email conversation related to event sponsorship. Kyle shared an email exchange in which he received a suspicious email offering him the opportunity to sponsor an event. Recognizing the signs of a scam, Kyle wisely decided to play along and gather as much information as possible to expose the fraudsters. Kyle’s actions serve as a valuable lesson in how to handle phishing attempts and protect oneself from falling victim to such scams.
Dave then discussed a post he came across on Mastodon from user Bjorn, who shared his experience with fraudulent bank charges and successfully stopping a scam in progress. Bjorn recounted how he noticed unusual charges on his bank statement and immediately took action by contacting his bank to report the fraudulent activity. Through his quick response and collaboration with the bank’s fraud department, Bjorn was able to prevent further unauthorized transactions and protect his financial assets. His story serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and promptly address any suspicious financial activities.
Lastly, the podcast featured a COTD from listener Alec, who shared a potential dating scam over Instagram. Alec received a message from an unknown person on Instagram claiming to be interested in a romantic relationship. However, as the conversation progressed, Alec noticed several red flags indicating the possible involvement of scammers. He wisely chose not to disclose any personal information or engage further with the suspicious individual. Alec’s experience serves as a reminder to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online and to be wary of potential dating scams.
In conclusion, this episode of the “Hacking Humans” podcast highlighted the significance of passkeys in cybersecurity, discussed the concepts of “revert” and side-loading applications on Android phones, shared real-life examples of phishing scam emails and fraudulent bank charges, and provided insights on how to protect oneself from potential dating scams. By staying informed and being proactive in implementing cybersecurity best practices, individuals can minimize their risk of falling victim to cyber threats and scams.