
Best of 2025 Encore: Inside the Dark Web: Exploring Cybercrime with Expert David Décary-Hétu
31/12/2025 | 53 min
In this episode, the host shares a pre-recorded favorite interview with David Decary-Hetu, a criminologist at the University of Montreal. They discuss the dark web, its technology, and its role in cybercrime. Decary-Hetu explains how the dark web operates, its users, and the dynamics between researchers and law enforcement in tackling cyber threats. Key topics include the economics of illicit markets, the cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and criminals, the role of cryptocurrencies, and the evolution of cyber threats. The episode offers insights into the social aspects of cybercrime and the measures being taken to combat it. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:52 Understanding the Dark Web 02:16 Interview with David Decary-Hetu 05:10 The Basics of the Dark Web 06:27 Technology Behind the Dark Web 14:49 Law Enforcement Challenges 21:50 Trust and Transactions on the Dark Web 23:45 Recruitment and Structure of Cybercriminals 26:42 Cultural Dynamics in Hacking Communities 27:32 Researching the Impact of Technology on Crime 29:01 Challenges in Policing the Dark Web 30:12 The Role of Social Engineering in Cybercrime 31:18 Law Enforcement Strategies and Conditional Deterrence 32:09 The Evolution of Cybercrime and Cryptocurrency 41:24 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Cybercrime 43:47 Advice for Policymakers and Corporations 48:44 Educational Resources and Conferences 50:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A Hacker Tells His Story
28/12/2025 | 56 min
This is an interview with former hacker Brian Black. Brian is now on the right side of the battle and bringing his skills to to the fight against hackers. He finds the weaknesses in corporate security so that it can be patched. This was one of my favourite interviews this year. Listening to what Brian has learned and understanding how we can use that knowledge and experience kept me on the edge of my seat. Once more I want to thank Meter for making this possible. Visit them at meter.com/cst

The Ransomware Ecosystem: An Encore Holiday Episode (reposted)
27/12/2025 | 1 h 15 min
Some of you may have missed this yesterday as the Google feed didn't catch it. It's a great episode and I want to make sure everyone gets it. I'll be posting another great repeat episode on Saturday Morning.

An Introduction To The Ransomware Ecosystem:: An Encore Episode from Hashtag Trending
26/12/2025 | 1 h 15 min
Jim takes a break for some R&R during the holidays and shares his favorite podcast episodes from the year. He acknowledges that some listeners might have heard these episodes already, while others may find them new. The podcast's production is supported by Meter, a company providing integrated networking solutions. Additionally, support from listeners through the Buy Me a Coffee program has helped sustain the shows and expand their content offerings. Jim thanks Meter and the listeners, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Plans 00:33 Sponsor Acknowledgment 01:08 Support and Growth 01:55 Final Thoughts and Episode Introduction

Year End "Best Of" Episodes: Pig Butchering: Operation Shamrock Fights Back
24/12/2025 | 41 min
Over the holidays we are rerunning some of our favourite episodes. This one first aired this summer and was one of my first conversations with the fascinating head of Operation Shamrock. We'll be back with regular programming on January 5th.



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