Summary
In this episode, Phillip Wylie interviews Wirefall, a veteran in the pen testing industry, discussing his journey from a curious child to a seasoned professional. They explore the evolution of pen testing tools, the impact of compliance on testing practices, and the importance of community engagement in cybersecurity. Wirefall shares insights on starting a career in pen testing, the significance of the Dallas Hackers Association, and how improv has transformed his approach to public speaking and adaptability in the field. The conversation emphasizes the need for trust, communication, and a supportive community in the cybersecurity landscape.
Takeaways
- We are all born hackers, driven by curiosity.
- The evolution of tools has made pen testing both easier and more complex.
- Compliance often leads to unrealistic pen testing scopes.
- Trust is essential when engaging penetration testers.
- Networking is crucial for career advancement in cybersecurity.
- The Dallas Hackers Association fosters community and learning.
- Improv can enhance adaptability and public speaking skills.
- Community engagement is vital for personal and professional growth.
- Ransomware has shifted the focus back to full-scope testing.
- Be excellent to each other to maintain a positive community.
Sound Bites
- "We are all born hackers."
- "DHA is a cyber circus."
- "It's a journey."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wirefall and Pen Testing Journey
02:10 The Hacker Origin Story
08:34 First Paid Pen Testing Job
11:05 Evolution of Pen Testing Tools
15:31 Compliance and Its Impact on Pen Testing
20:44 Advice for Engaging Pen Testers
25:02 Starting a Career in Pen Testing
27:43 The Dallas Hackers Association
41:30 The Power of Improv in Hacking
52:37 Community and Conduct in Cybersecurity
Resources
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Medal of Honor: Stories of Courage
Rewarded for bravery that goes above and beyond the call of duty, the Medal of Honor is the United States’ top military decoration. The stories we tell are about the heroes who have distinguished themselves by acts of heroism and courage that have saved lives. From Judith Resnik, the second woman in space, to Daniel Daly, one of only 19 people to have received the Medal of Honor twice, these are stories about those who have done the improbable and unexpected, who have sacrificed something in the name of something much bigger than themselves. Every Wednesday on Medal of Honor, uncover what their experiences tell us about the nature of sacrifice, why people put their lives in danger for others, and what happens after you’ve become a hero. Special thanks to series creator Dan McGinn, to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society and Adam Plumpton. Medal of Honor begins on May 28. Subscribe to Pushkin+ to hear ad-free episodes one week early. Find Pushkin+ on the Medal of Honor show page in Apple or at Pushkin.fm. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkin Subscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com