Third-party cybersecurity breaches are rapidly becoming one of the most serious threats facing organizations today. Attackers exploit vendor vulnerabilities, bypassing traditional defenses and compromising critical systems, often undetected. In this episode, we explore practical approaches for uncovering hidden vendor risks, utilizing AI-driven insights and advanced threat detection to proactively manage and mitigate supply chain cyber threats.

We also challenge common myths in vendor risk management, highlighting why traditional methods are falling short. You'll discover innovative and provocative strategies for strengthening third-party cybersecurity—from groundbreaking legal frameworks to cutting-edge automation tools. Join us as we provide realistic, actionable insights designed to keep your vendor ecosystems secure, resilient, and ahead of emerging cyber threats.

In this episode of the Bare Metal Cyber podcast, we explore the cybersecurity challenges facing Extended Reality—everything from hijacked avatars to biometric surveillance, and deepfake impersonations to XR-based social engineering. As these immersive technologies become part of everyday life, we unpack the very real threats hiding behind virtual smiles and spatial data.

We’ll walk you through the evolving XR ecosystem, show you how attackers are already exploiting it, and highlight the urgent need for stronger defenses, smarter design, and ethical boundaries. This isn't just the future of tech—it's the new frontline in cybersecurity.

In this episode of BareMetalCyber, we explore the dark side of artificial intelligence and reveal how solo hackers are turning publicly available AI tools into dangerous digital weapons. From bypassing safety layers with clever prompts to launching devastatingly effective phishing and deepfake campaigns, we dive into how these attackers manipulate technology once considered purely beneficial.

We also discuss the challenges facing traditional cybersecurity measures and examine innovative solutions that blend AI defenses with human vigilance. Join us as we unravel the complexities of AI-enabled cyber threats and discover strategies for building resilience against this rapidly evolving digital menace.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the future of identity management and why passwordless authentication is gaining traction. Passwords have long been a security liability, fueling phishing attacks, credential breaches, and user frustration. By replacing them with biometrics, security keys, and adaptive authentication, organizations can enhance security while improving user experience. But going passwordless isn’t just about convenience—it’s about eliminating one of the biggest attack vectors in cybersecurity. We break down how this shift strengthens multi-factor authentication, reduces credential theft, and even helps organizations meet regulatory compliance.

Of course, passwordless authentication comes with its own challenges. We explore the complexities of implementation, privacy concerns around biometrics, and the risks tied to device dependency. I also look beyond passwordless to the next frontier of identity management, from decentralized identity to post-quantum authentication. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional, business leader, or just someone interested in how we secure digital identities, this episode unpacks the key issues, benefits, and potential roadblocks in the journey beyond passwords.

In this episode, we dive deep into the growing cyber threats targeting Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA environments—critical infrastructure that keeps power grids running, water flowing, and manufacturing plants operational. These systems, originally designed for reliability rather than security, are now prime targets for ransomware groups, nation-state actors, and supply chain attacks. From legacy vulnerabilities and weak network segmentation to insecure communication protocols, we break down why ICS environments are so exposed and how attackers exploit these weaknesses to cause real-world disruption.

But it’s not all doom and gloom—we also explore actionable strategies to defend against these threats without compromising operational stability. You’ll hear about network segmentation, encrypted communication protocols, endpoint protection, and the role of AI-driven threat detection in securing ICS systems. Whether you’re in cybersecurity, industrial operations, or risk management, this episode will give you the insights you need to understand the challenges and solutions for protecting critical infrastructure in an era of escalating cyber risks. Tune in now and stay ahead of the threats shaping the future of industrial security.

In this episode, I take you through the world of Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response—Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response—breaking down how it transforms security operations from reactive chaos to streamlined efficiency. We’ll explore how Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response integrates disparate security tools, automates repetitive tasks, and orchestrates fast, effective incident responses. From managing overwhelming alert volumes to using AI for smarter threat detection, Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response is reshaping how cybersecurity teams operate. Whether it’s automating phishing responses, strengthening threat intelligence, or accelerating vulnerability management, this episode dives deep into the practical applications that make Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response an essential part of modern cybersecurity.

Beyond the fundamentals, we’ll discuss the best practices for Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response implementation, the importance of customization, and how organizations can strike the right balance between automation and human oversight. We’ll also take a look at what’s ahead—how AI is making Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response even more adaptive, how it’s expanding into cloud and IoT security, and how collaborative, open-source approaches are shaping the future of cybersecurity automation. If you’re looking for ways to optimize your security operations and reduce the noise, this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s talk about how cybersecurity can move at machine speed.

In this episode, I take a deep dive into the future of identity management and why passwordless authentication is gaining traction. Passwords have long been a security liability, fueling phishing attacks, credential breaches, and user frustration. By replacing them with biometrics, security keys, and adaptive authentication, organizations can enhance security while improving user experience. But going passwordless isn’t just about convenience—it’s about eliminating one of the biggest attack vectors in cybersecurity. I break down how this shift strengthens multi-factor authentication, reduces credential theft, and even helps organizations meet regulatory compliance.

Of course, passwordless authentication comes with its own challenges. I explore the complexities of implementation, privacy concerns around biometrics, and the risks tied to device dependency. I also look beyond passwordless to the next frontier of identity management, from decentralized identity to post-quantum authentication. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional, business leader, or just someone interested in how we secure digital identities, this episode unpacks the key issues, benefits, and potential roadblocks in the journey beyond passwords.

In this podcast episode, I explore the persistent cybersecurity issue involving U.S. government officials using personal communication methods—like private emails and encrypted messaging apps—for official business. Drawing from notable examples across multiple administrations, from Bush-era email scandals and Obama's private server controversy to recent messaging app incidents under Trump, I highlight the systemic nature of these vulnerabilities. My analysis emphasizes that this issue is not partisan but reflects enduring gaps in cybersecurity practices and awareness.

I also discuss the underlying causes of this ongoing challenge and provide actionable recommendations from a cybersecurity professional’s perspective. These recommendations include targeted cybersecurity training, improved communication infrastructure, strict enforcement of security protocols, and a necessary shift in organizational culture to prioritize secure communication. Join me as we move beyond politics and address how government agencies can better protect sensitive national security information in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.