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Razorwire Cyber Security InsightsReal conversations helping cybersecurity professionals sharpen their insights, strategy & leadership skills. Author: Razorthorn Security
Cybersecurity is evolving and so should you. Razorwire brings the open conversations that give you the edge. Welcome to the Razorwire podcast your resource for practical advice, expert insights, and real-world conversations on cybersecurity, information security (InfoSec), risk management, governance, security leadership, human factors, and industry trends. Our mission is to help you build a stronger cybersecurity career while supporting a dynamic, agile community of professionals committed to continuous improvement. Each episode brings you actionable advice and real experiences from your host, James Rees an information security specialist with over 25 years of experience and from a range of respected guests across the cybersecurity industry. Together, we explore everything from technical strategies and compliance challenges to security culture, communication skills, and leadership development. James Rees is the founder of Razorthorn Security, providing expert consultancy and testing services to a wide range of organisations, including many Fortune 500 companies. His practical, no-nonsense approach helps organisations manage cybersecurity risks effectively while strengthening resilience. The Razorwire podcast is designed for cybersecurity professionals who want to stay ahead, sharpen their skills, and confidently respond to the challenges of today's evolving threat landscape. We believe collaboration is key to stronger security and Razorwire gives you the conversations that help you achieve it. For more information about us, or if you have questions you'd like discussed on the show, email podcast@razorthorn.com or visit www.razorthorn.com. Language: en Genres: News, Tech News, Technology Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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No Honour Amongst Thieves: The Hidden World of Hackers and Cyber Criminals
Episode 90
Tuesday, 10 February, 2026
Is there really honour amongst cybercriminals or is it every hacker for themselves?On this episode of Razorwire, I’m joined by Martin Voelk, a seasoned ethical hacker, to take a look at how the world’s most notorious cybercriminal groups really operate. We trace the journey from early hacking culture to today’s sprawling underworld of digital organised crime. Along the way, we ask: What does "hacker" truly mean and who actually gets caught when the authorities close in?We discuss the blurred lines between white hat and black hat hackers and why some of the most skilled operators never set foot in the countries they target. Martin and I explore the various motivations behind cyber attacks, from ideology to pure profit and debate why classic notions of criminal “honour” simply don’t hold up in this ruthless business. We share stories from both sides of the fence - how cyber gangs operate like corporations, how rivalry and betrayal play out behind the scenes and why it’s never been easier to get started in cybercrime (if you’re not fussy about the law). The episode closes with a stark look at the arms race between attackers and defenders and what it means for the future of cybersecurity.Three key talking pointsFresh Perspectives on Hacker Mentality:Martin breaks down the difference between hackers, researchers and outright criminals, challenging media stereotypes. We examine why understanding attacker psychology isn’t just academic - it’s essential for building better defences.Behind the Scenes of Cybercrime-as-a-Service:Hear how today’s criminal groups mirror legitimate organisations, complete with their own HR, development teams and even “scapegoats” to throw authorities off their trail. Discover what this corporatisation means for detection, attribution and response.The Global Chessboard: Tactics, Rivalries and AI Advances:Learn why the most effective cyber operators operate with impunity from certain countries, protected through corruption and international legal gaps. We unpack how rivalries really play out, the role of AI in hands of both attackers and defenders and what to expect as attack automation accelerates.Tune in and arm yourself with real-world insights that go beyond the headlines - because what you don’t know about the criminal underground could be your biggest risk.AI-Powered Cyber Threats Target Weaker Defences: "Because the hackers are predominantly looking at the weakest targets, does it make sense to hack into the most sophisticated bank in the United States? Or do I rather target a mid-sized bank in Mexico where I already know that they had previous security vulnerabilities?"Martin VoelkListen to this episode on your favourite podcasting platform: https://razorwire.captivate.fm/listenIn this episode, we covered the following topics:The Evolution of Hacking
