The Backdoor Threat to Linux & Massive Social Security Number Heist

In episode 325, Tom and Kevin discuss a significant backdoor threat that nearly compromised Linux systems globally, stemming from an infiltration into an open-source project called XZ Utils by attackers who gained commit access and inserted a backdoor. The episode further delves into a cybersecurity incident where hackers stole 340,000 social security numbers from a government consulting firm, emphasizing the implications and broader concerns related to data security in government contractors and the inefficacy of response mechanisms. Additionally, the hosts explore the negative influences of marketing in the cybersecurity industry, particularly following significant security breaches.

00:00 Introduction
00:57 The Linux Backdoor Scare
04:16 The Problem with Sales and Marketing in InfoSec
07:55 The Government Consulting Firm Breach: 340,000 Social Security Numbers Stolen
12:42 The Alarm Registration Dilemma: A Personal Anecdote
15:07 Closing Thoughts: The Need for Accountability
15:22 Episode Wrap-Up

Show notes and links mentioned during the episode:
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[WoodyJohnson-rv]

That man does deserve credit for finding the issue and reporting it, However it was found because it is OSS. otherwise the slight reduction of performance would have been blamed on something else.