Below the Surface (Audio) - The Supply Chain Security Podcast

Eclypsium
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A lively discussion of the threats affecting supply chain, specifically focused on firmware and low-level code that is a blind spot for many organizations. This podcast will feature guests from the cybersecurity industry discussing the problems surrounding supply chain-related issues and potential solutions. Get the Supply Chain Security Toolkit from Eclypsium here: https://eclypsium.com/go

  1. Attacking Power Grids

    FEB 11

    Attacking Power Grids

    In this episode, the hosts discuss various cybersecurity threats, including Russian cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, the vulnerabilities in firewalls and VPNs, and the implications of AI in cybersecurity. They explore the increasing trend of using Python for malicious purposes and the challenges posed by gaming anti-cheat drivers. The conversation also touches on the escalation of cyber warfare and the confused deputy problem in AI, highlighting the need for better security measures and awareness in the industry. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity Threats 02:52 Russian Cyber Attacks on Poland's Power Grid 10:33 The Flaws in Firewall Security 15:02 AI and the Future of Cybersecurity 22:22 Exploiting Vulnerabilities in Gaming Anti-Cheat Drivers 29:47 Driver Attestation and Security Transparency 35:17 Critical Infrastructure and Cybersecurity Threats 39:50 Linux Malware and Python Exploits 45:47 Firmware Complexity and Security Risks 51:19 Cyber Insurance and Responsibility in Cybersecurity 56:52 Confused Deputy Attack and AI Security Risks

    1h 2m
  2. BIOS Password Cracking, Secure Boot, and Stackwarp

    JAN 27

    BIOS Password Cracking, Secure Boot, and Stackwarp

    In this episode, the hosts discuss various cybersecurity topics, including the challenges of BIOS password cracking, the implications of AMD's Stack Warp vulnerability, and the importance of up-to-date secure boot certificates. They also explore the risks associated with network security appliances, the costs of cybersecurity, and the role of marketing in raising awareness. Additionally, they share insights from an X-ray analysis of USB cables, highlighting the differences between quality and counterfeit products.   BIOS password cracking can be complex and time-consuming. Physical access to hardware can significantly impact security measures. The Stack Warp vulnerability poses serious risks to virtual machines. Secure boot certificates need regular updates to maintain security. Network security appliances can introduce new vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity costs often outweigh the perceived benefits of cloud solutions. Marketing plays a crucial role in raising awareness about cybersecurity issues. X-ray analysis can reveal the quality of electronic components. Understanding the shared responsibility model is essential for IT teams. The balance between security and operational efficiency is a constant challenge.   Chapters 01:59 Introduction to Below the Surface Podcast 04:46 BIOS Password Cracking Techniques 10:14 Exploring AMD's Stack Warp Vulnerability 22:03 Migration Trends in Cloud Computing 23:22 Cost vs. Security in On-Premises Solutions 24:37 Shared Responsibility in Network Security Appliances 27:03 The Risks of Network Security Appliances 28:14 Exploitation of Vulnerabilities in Network Devices 31:18 Challenges in Updating Network Security Appliances 34:59 The Slow Response to Vulnerabilities 39:05 The Complexity of Firmware Updates 45:45 Secure Boot Certificates and Future Vulnerabilities 49:12 Fun Innovations: X-ray Machine in the Office

    1 hr
  3. Beyond the Label: The Truth About Hardware Trust

    JAN 15

    Beyond the Label: The Truth About Hardware Trust

    In this episode of Below the Surface, host Paul Asadoorian is joined by co-hosts Larry Pesci, Joshua Marpet, and Vlad Babkin to delve into the complexities of hardware supply chain security. The discussion is sparked by a presentation from Andrew 'Bunny' Wong at Black Hat Asia, which raised critical questions about how we can trust the silicon in our devices. The conversation explores the challenges of validating hardware components, the potential for backdoors in devices, and the implications of counterfeit components in the supply chain. The hosts share anecdotes and insights about their experiences with hardware security, emphasizing the need for independent testing and the importance of understanding the provenance of hardware components. 00:00 Introduction to Hardware Supply Chain Security 02:53 Understanding Trust in Silicon 05:55 Challenges in Validating Hardware Components 09:01 Historical Context of Hardware Tampering 11:58 The Complexity of Supply Chains 14:55 Operationalizing Hardware Validation 18:01 The Role of Independent Researchers 20:59 Bounties and Community Involvement 23:56 Innovative Techniques for Hardware Analysis 27:06 The Future of Hardware Security 31:57 The Evolution of Computing: From Transistors to Quantum 36:11 Understanding Hardware Trust and Supply Chain Risks 41:52 The Need for Continuous Monitoring and Assurance 55:31 The Future of High Assurance Devices and Backdoors

    57 min
  4. Exploring AI in Firmware Analysis

    12/15/2025

    Exploring AI in Firmware Analysis

    Summary In this episode, special guest Matt Brown joins us to discuss the integration of AI in firmware analysis, exploring its benefits and challenges. We delve into the transition from traditional methods to AI-driven approaches, emphasizing the importance of prompt specificity for effective vulnerability discovery. The conversation also covers the role of open-source components, the need for guardrails in AI use, and the implications of AI-generated reports in cybersecurity. Additionally, they touch on man-in-the-middle techniques and the future of AI in firmware development, highlighting the creative monetization of vulnerabilities in IoT devices. Takeaways * AI is revolutionizing firmware analysis and vulnerability discovery. * Specificity in prompts is crucial for effective AI usage. * Open-source components can enhance analysis results significantly. * Guardrails are necessary to prevent AI from executing harmful commands. * AI can assist in code refactoring and documentation generation. * NTP spoofing can reveal vulnerabilities in time-sensitive applications. * AI-generated reports may lead to false positives in vulnerability assessments. * Man-in-the-middle techniques are essential for testing device security. * The future of AI in firmware development is promising but complex. * Understanding the context of vulnerabilities is key to accurate reporting. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Firmware Analysis and AI Tools 01:54 Transitioning from Traditional Tools to AI 04:28 Specific Techniques for Vulnerability Discovery 06:29 Dynamic Analysis vs. Static Analysis 08:30 Using AI for Code Generation and Documentation 11:43 Interacting with Firmware and Devices 15:57 Creating Custom Tools and Skills for AI 18:53 Recent Projects and Use Cases in Firmware Analysis 22:48 Challenges and Risks of Using AI in Security Research 28:36 The Future of AI in Firmware Development 29:43 AI in Code Review and Vulnerability Detection 33:35 Limitations of AI in Understanding Logic 37:54 Challenges with AI-Generated Vulnerability Reports 43:13 Man-in-the-Middle Techniques and Tools 53:24 Exploring IoT Device Vulnerabilities

    1h 1m
  5. Patching, Evil AI, Supply Chain Breaches

    11/24/2025

    Patching, Evil AI, Supply Chain Breaches

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss various cybersecurity topics, including recent vulnerabilities in Fortinet products, the implications of supply chain breaches, the evolving role of AI in cybersecurity, and updates to the OWASP Top 10 list. They emphasize the importance of firmware security and the need for better visibility and standards in the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by defenders in a rapidly changing threat landscape and the necessity for proactive measures to secure systems. Takeaways Fortinet vulnerabilities are critical and require immediate attention. Silent patches can lead to significant security risks. AI is being used by both attackers and defenders in cybersecurity. The OWASP Top 10 has been updated to include software supply chain failures. Firmware security is often overlooked but is essential for device safety. Supply chain breaches can have far-reaching implications for organizations. Visibility into firmware and device security is lacking in the industry. Standards for software security are necessary to protect against vulnerabilities. Defenders need better tools to combat evolving threats. The cybersecurity landscape is becoming increasingly complex and interconnected. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Setup 03:08 Fortinet Vulnerabilities and Exploits 06:05 Public Exploits and Path Traversal Vulnerabilities 09:00 Chaining Vulnerabilities and Risk Assessment 11:50 Authentication and Vulnerability Scoring 15:04 Operational Complexity in Patch Management 17:55 Silent Patches and Their Implications 20:58 Challenges with Network Device Security 24:55 Cyber Insurance and Vulnerability Trends 27:58 The Impact of Silent Patches 30:46 End of Life Devices and Legacy Systems 34:58 Supply Chain Security and Source Code Theft 39:44 AI in Cybersecurity: Opportunities and Threats 47:17 Navigating AI's Guardrails and Malicious Use Cases 49:24 The Dilemma of AI and Harmful Intentions 52:44 The Need for Researcher Access to AI Tools 58:36 OWASP Top 10 Updates and Supply Chain Security 01:05:12 The Challenges of Firmware and Device Security

    1h 8m
  6. F5 Breach, Linux Malware, and Hacking Banks

    10/30/2025

    F5 Breach, Linux Malware, and Hacking Banks

    Summary   In this episode of Below the Surface, Paul Asadoorian and Chase Snyder delve into various cybersecurity topics, including the use of Raspberry Pi in cyber attacks, the implications of the F5 breach, and the emergence of Polar Edge malware targeting QNAP devices. They also discuss the innovative Two-Face Rust binary technique, the critical nature of authentication bypass vulnerabilities, and the evolving landscape of air-gapped systems. The conversation highlights the increasing risk posed by old vulnerabilities and the need for improved security measures in the face of advancing cyber threats.   Articles:   https://reporter.deepspecter.com/f5-is-misleading-the-market-the-breach-is-nowhere-near-contained-a766d932c582  https://blog.sekoia.io/polaredge-backdoor-qnap-cve-2023-20118-analysis/ https://www.group-ib.com/blog/unc2891-bank-heist/  https://www.synacktiv.com/en/publications/creating-a-two-face-rust-binary-on-linux  https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000382899/dsa-2025-393-security-update-for-storage-center-dell-storage-manager-vulnerabilities https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/research/25/j/operation-zero-disco-cisco-snmp-vulnerability-exploit.html

    1 hr
  7. Unpacking the F5 Breach, Framework UEFI Shells

    10/21/2025

    Unpacking the F5 Breach, Framework UEFI Shells

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the recent F5 breach, exploring the implications of the attack, the tactics used by threat actors, and the importance of vulnerability disclosure. They delve into the complexities of securing network edge devices, the challenges posed by Linux security, and the need for standardization in security practices. The conversation also touches on the future of firmware security and the necessity for proactive measures in incident response. We also close out the show taking about the recent Framework UEFI shell vulnerability. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to F5 Breach and UEFI Secure Boot Bypass 02:16 Details of the F5 Breach 04:59 Threat Actor Analysis and Implications 07:18 Vulnerability Disclosure and Exploitation Risks 10:17 Security Measures and Key Management 12:57 Proactive Defense Strategies 15:52 The Evolving Threat Landscape 18:41 Challenges in Securing Network Devices 21:10 Linux Security and Customization Issues 25:16 Kernel Customization Challenges 27:08 Security Through Obscurity 29:04 Application Security and Development Practices 33:59 Framework's UEFI Shell Vulnerability 38:22 Interdependency in Technology Ecosystems 41:48 The Need for Transparency in Signed Software

    53 min
  8. Red November, Cisco Vulnerabilities, and Supply Chain Security

    10/08/2025

    Red November, Cisco Vulnerabilities, and Supply Chain Security

    In this episode of Below the Surface, the hosts discuss various cybersecurity topics, including the Red November campaign targeting network edge devices, the implications of the Cisco SNMP vulnerability, and the recent vulnerabilities associated with Cisco ASA devices. They also delve into the hybrid Petya ransomware and its connection to supply chain security, emphasizing the need for better visibility and security measures in network devices. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Cybersecurity Trends 02:09 Red November Campaign: Targeting Network Edge Devices 11:06 The Shift in Attack Vectors: From Windows to Network Edge 14:59 Cisco SNMP Vulnerability: A Legacy Issue 21:21 The Implications of Targeting Network Edge Devices 28:20 Addressing Legacy Issues in Cybersecurity 29:41 Emerging Threats in Cybersecurity 32:19 The Age of Vulnerabilities 33:40 The Importance of Asset Inventory 35:38 Challenges in Device Security 37:22 Visibility and Detection Limitations 39:28 Vendor Responses to Vulnerabilities 41:24 Supply Chain Security Crisis 46:59 Understanding Hybrid Petya 52:11 The Evolution of Attack Techniques

    1h 2m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

A lively discussion of the threats affecting supply chain, specifically focused on firmware and low-level code that is a blind spot for many organizations. This podcast will feature guests from the cybersecurity industry discussing the problems surrounding supply chain-related issues and potential solutions. Get the Supply Chain Security Toolkit from Eclypsium here: https://eclypsium.com/go

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