Episodios

  • Alligator in the Boat
    Mar 19 2026

    Integrating security into our daily lives can feel overwhelming. From password management to encryption, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash share our experiences navigating security in our personal and professional lives. They discuss practical strategies like how to choose your seat in a restaurant for safety and the importance of encryption. Remember, security isn’t just a job; it’s a lifestyle. Finding the right balance is key, and it’s okay to have slip-ups along the way.

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    46 m
  • Navigating the Ransomware Negotiation
    Mar 5 2026

    In this episode, hosts Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash engage with cybersecurity expert John DiMaggio to explore the complexities of ransomware negotiation. They discuss the process of responding to ransomware attacks, the stakeholders involved, and the legal and ethical considerations that companies face when deciding whether to pay a ransom. The conversation delves into the tactics used by ransomware groups, the importance of understanding target selection, and the role of insurance in these scenarios. Additionally, they highlight the need for standards in negotiation practices and preventative measures that organizations can take to mitigate risks. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of ransomware negotiation and the importance of having knowledgeable advisors in the field.

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    50 m
  • Best Practices For Open-Source Investigations
    Feb 18 2026

    In this special 100th episode of Needlestack, hosts Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash celebrate the milestone with former NeedleStack host, Matt Ashburn, discussing the evolution and importance of OSINT. They dive into best practices, the risks of normalized habits, and the significance of isolation in investigations. The conversation highlights the behavioral attributes that can identify investigators, the challenges of new generations in the field, and the need for accountability and reputation in intelligence work. They also explore the role of technology, the importance of first-hand access, and the balance between timeliness and accuracy in intelligence reporting.

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    51 m
  • Exploring the Dark Web: Myths and Realities
    Feb 5 2026

    NeedleStack hosts, AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi engage with Roman Sannikov a seasoned expert in cyber threat intelligence, to explore the complexities of the dark web. The conversation delves into the myths surrounding the dark web, the community dynamics within cybercrime, and the professionalization of criminal enterprises. Roman shares insights on how trust and reputation are managed in these underground communities, the barriers to entry for new members, and the human element that often gets overlooked in discussions about cybercriminals.

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    55 m
  • Navigating China's Strategic Landscape
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode of NeedleStack, hosts AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi engage with John Costello, a director at WireScreen, to discuss the complexities of China's strategic competition with the United States. The conversation covers China's technological advancements, the implications of its five-year plans, challenges in intelligence gathering, and the dynamics of military-civil fusion. The discussion also touches on the importance of due diligence for businesses engaging with Chinese companies and the role of Chinese students in U.S. education.

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    45 m
  • Is Mass Surveillance Helping or Hindering Intelligence?
    Jan 7 2026

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the implications of surveillance technology and AI on intelligence, journalism, and civil liberties. They explore the dual nature of surveillance as both a tool for security and a potential threat to privacy. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by misinformation, the importance of expertise in navigating these issues, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of surveillance technology. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of journalism and the role of AI in shaping public perception and trust.

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    55 m
  • Mastering the Art of Disappearing Online
    Dec 11 2025

    In this episode of Needlestack, hosts AJ Nash and Robert Vamosi delve into the complexities of disappearing online, drawing insights from their experiences and the book 'The Art of Invisibility' by Kevin Mitnick. They discuss practical steps for maintaining anonymity, the role of technology in obfuscation, and the challenges of creating and sustaining multiple identities. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on privacy and the importance of understanding personal risks in a digital world. Through engaging anecdotes and expert insights, the hosts provide a comprehensive overview of the art of invisibility in today's interconnected society.

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    50 m
  • The Rise of Citizen OSINT, and What to Do About It
    Nov 26 2025

    In this episode, hosts Robert Vamosi and AJ Nash engage with Neil Ysart, a seasoned expert in cyber investigations and open source intelligence (OSINT). They discuss the Coalition of Cyber Investigators, its role in promoting OSINT, and the importance of establishing standards in the field. The conversation delves into the challenges and risks associated with OSINT, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and the potential dangers of unregulated citizen intelligence efforts. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to advocate for the development of global standards in OSINT.

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    43 m