Informing About Ethical Hacking with Podcasts

Hacking is widely perceived as something inherently negative and dangerous. "Hacking is always criminal" remains a common belief, reinforced by media coverage of cyberattacks and data breaches. Documentaries, reports, and films further cement this perception. In reality, however, hacking can also serve as a powerful force for good. Many companies employ hackers to carry out entirely legal security work on their behalf. Ethical hacking is well established -- and a growing number of books and IT podcasts explore the topic in depth.

What Is Ethical Hacking?

With the proliferation of smart devices and growing digital connectivity, IT systems face constant threats. An ethical hacker -- also known as a "white hat" -- is a cybersecurity professional specializing in computer and network technology. They use their skills to test an organization's security systems for vulnerabilities on behalf of their employer or client. This often takes place as part of red teaming. By deliberately attacking networks and applications in a controlled manner, ethical hackers uncover weaknesses and help develop effective defenses against real-world attacks. This practice is also known as intrusion testing or penetration testing.

Which IT Podcasts Cover the Topic?

The growing importance of ethical hacking is a direct response to the cybersecurity challenges of our time. Countless books explore the topic and IT security in general, helping to raise public awareness. Far less attention, however, goes to IT podcasts that cover a wide range of subjects -- including ethical hacking. Compared to books (unless available as audiobooks), podcasts offer the clear advantage of being accessible while driving, exercising, or during other activities. Particularly when structured as a dialogue between two or more people, podcasts convey complex topics in an engaging and accessible way. The following podcasts on this subject are especially worth exploring:

Darknet Diaries

Most people have heard that beyond the familiar internet, a so-called darknet exists -- a hidden layer accessible only through specialized browsers. Traffic is encrypted and users remain anonymous, enabling activities such as the trade of illegal goods and services. The Darknet Diaries podcast explores everything that happens in these hidden corners of the web. Through conversations with hackers and insiders, it covers security breaches, covert government operations, and cybercrime. The show leans more toward entertainment than pure technical education.

Security Weekly

As the name suggests, this podcast focuses on security-related IT topics. Among other things, it explores how ethical hacking techniques can help strengthen your own network defenses. A broad team of experts discusses current and practically relevant issues. Listeners gain concentrated expertise that leaves them better equipped -- at least to a meaningful degree -- against online threats. Security Weekly has been running for over ten years and has received multiple awards during that time.

Daniel Miessler

In his eponymous podcast, Daniel Miessler covers topics at the intersection of security, technology, and society on a weekly basis. He goes beyond current developments to examine emerging trends and what may lie ahead. Unlike the other podcasts mentioned here, this one is available only through a paid membership.

Risky.Biz

Launched in 2007, the Risky Business podcast positions itself as essential listening for information security professionals. Each week, it examines a wide range of issues and trends in the cybersecurity space through expert discussions. The content is dynamic and delivered in a conversational tone. This format is less suited for beginners, however -- a solid foundation in IT security is recommended.

Conclusion

The landscape of IT podcasts is broad, and despite all operating in the same subject area, the recommendations above differ considerably in style and depth. Whether you are looking for background knowledge on ethical hacking or broader cybersecurity insights, you are likely to find a format that suits your needs among these options. For additional recommendations, visit the SANS Cybersecurity Podcast Roundup.