#29 How to Outsmart Impersonation Scams with Chris Hadnagy

In this episode of Cyber MAYnia, host May interviews Chris Hadnagy, CEO of Social Engineer LLC and founder of the Innocent Lives Foundation. They discuss Chris's journey into cybersecurity, the evolution of social engineering, the impact of AI on threats, and the importance of human factors in cybersecurity. Chris shares insights on phishing scams, psychological tactics used by cybercriminals, and the ethical considerations in social engineering training. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced in the cybersecurity industry and the significance of sharing knowledge to empower others.
takeaways
• Chris Hadnagy emphasizes the importance of human-based security in cybersecurity.
• The evolution of social engineering has been influenced by advancements in technology, particularly AI.
• Phishing remains one of the most common techniques used by cybercriminals today.
• Fear is a primary tactic used by cybercriminals to manipulate victims.
• Education and awareness are crucial in combating social engineering attacks.
• The Innocent Lives Foundation focuses on helping law enforcement locate child predators.
• Ethical considerations are vital in social engineering training to avoid causing harm to individuals.
• The human factor in cybersecurity is often overlooked in favor of technical solutions.
• Sharing knowledge and mentoring others can lead to greater rewards in the cybersecurity field.
• Building a strong moral compass is essential for success in cybersecurity.