The new era of AI-powered cybercrime
Aug 3, 2026 · 12m
Summary
This Shortwave episode explores the rising threat of cybercrime, highlighting how AI empowers hackers to launch sophisticated attacks like deepfakes and phishing. Hosts Regina Barber and Emily Kwong discuss the cybersecurity triad and the dual nature of AI, featuring expert Ryan Calamber on defense strategies. They also spotlight initiatives like CybeHer and Cyber.org, which aim to educate youth and address the critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals through K-12 training.
Topics discussed
Intro: Rise of cybercrime and the Ocean's 8 phishing example
Sponsor message from Workday
The CIA triad: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
Who are hackers? From lone wolves to nation-state actors
How AI makes cyberattacks smarter and harder to detect
Government regulation and the AI arms race in cybersecurity
AI agents as new targets for social engineering attacks
The massive shortage in the cybersecurity workforce
Teaching digital hygiene and skepticism to kids
CybeHer camp: Training the next generation of defenders
Outro and resources for further learning
Sponsor messages from Charles Schwab, Capella, and Amazon
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