Ransomware Rewind

Joe Erle
  • 4.6 (9)
  • TECH NEWS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Our podcast covers major data breaches, digital privacy issues, and the quirks of internet culture with a mix of humor and insight. Why Subscribe? Stay Informed: Get the latest updates on cybersecurity threats, ransomware attacks, and cyber insurance trends. Engaging Content: We break down complex topics with a lighthearted approach, making them easy to understand. Expert Insights: Learn from industry experts and our own experiences in the cybersecurity field. We dive deep into the latest in cybersecurity, cyber insurance, and ransomware. Mike Dowdy is the former president of two hosting companies and has been in the trenches of cyber security for over ten years. He has tribal knowledge on protecting yourself from threats and what to do if you are a victim. Joe S Erle, MBA, CIC, CRM, TRA knows firsthand the devastating effects of not having a cyber security insurance plan. Despite the dry nature of cyber insurance Joe's advice is entertaining, fun, and educational.

  1. 12/09/2025

    Anthrax Response to Cyber IR to Hacking Teslas: Ex-Marine & Cyber Podcaster, Wil Klusovsky, reveals 2026's Deadliest Cyber Threats

    Ever wondered what handling deadly anthrax at the US Capitol has in common with battling ransomware in 2025? What if the next big cyber attack isn't from hackers in a basement—but from quantum computers shattering your encryption overnight? In this unmissable episode of Ransomware Rewind, cybersecurity legend Wil Klusovsky spills insider secrets that could save your business from total chaos. Wil, a 24-year US Marine vet turned cyber strategist (LinkedIn: /wilklu, host of Keyboard Samurai), draws chilling parallels between war and digital battles. From post-9/11 preparedness drills to why most orgs still suck at basics like asset management, he breaks it all down with no-BS advice. Episode Highlights That'll Keep You Up at Night: War-to-Cyber Transition (00:02:01): How Wil's unit cleaned up anthrax and ricin at the Capitol—tying it to cyber incident response: "It's all about preparedness; incidents are inevitable." Evolution of Threats (00:06:01): Remember Snort boxes? We've come far, but pen tests aren't auto-wins anymore thanks to segmentation and CISOs. Yet, humans remain the weak link—Gen Z's privacy-for-convenience trade-off fuels phishing. Human Trust Traps (00:09:25): "People are too trusting." Attackers mosaic tiny data bits from "low-value" targets (e.g., China's IP theft via small breaches) to build massive wins. Pro tip: "If you didn't make the call, don't give info." Real Espionage Stories (00:12:47): Chinese hacks on Alcoa and DuPont (laptop cloning in hotels), backdoors in Cisco hardware, and why state actors like China/Russia are unstoppable. Future Nightmares (00:47:12): Quantum will kill encryption; target nuclear/energy for blackouts or autos for terror (hack Teslas remotely via SiriusXM?). Plus, fun riffs on simulation theory, Skynet vs. Matrix, and chemtrail jokes. Actionable Defenses (00:08:50): Ditch "best practices" buzzwords—focus on zero trust, attack surface reduction, and educating non-tech folks. This episode is rocket fuel for CISOs, IT pros, and anyone dodging 2025's AI-powered phishing beasts. Wil's blend of humor, history, and hard truths makes it a must-listen. Catch it now before the next breach hits—because as Wil says, "You're going to deal with an incident; be ready to move fast." Tune in to Ransomware Rewind for more breakdowns on cyber threats, data breaches, and security solutions. Stay ahead of ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and emerging cyber risks. Guest: Wil Klusovsky, Cybersecurity Podcaster & IT Advisor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilklu/ Links:  https://www.wilklu.me/linktree Keyboard Samarai Pod: https://www.youtube.com/@KeybdSamurai Hosts: Joe Erle — Cyber Group Practice Leader, C3 Insurance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle X/Twitter: https://x.com/joe_erle  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe  Meta/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joeerle Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com or go to www.c3insurance.com/cyber   Mike Dowdy — Voice AI Developer & Entrepreneur LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy   Thanks for listening and don't forget to like and subscribe for more episodes like this! ransomware, cybersecurity, cyber threats, security training, human element in security, cybersecurity strategy, IT risk management, cyber resilience, security program design, business continuity

    59 min

  2. 11/24/2025

    Say This During a Ransomware… or Lose $10M+ in Reputation (CISO Crisis Comms Playbook 20) - EP 18

    CISOs, CEOs & Business Owners: What To Say (and NOT Say) When Ransomware Hits – Or You'll Lose Millions in Reputation 90% of companies survive the hack… but die from the crisis communications disaster that follows. Kevin Dinino (Head of Communications at top cybersecurity PR firm KCD PR) reveals the exact playbook that saved Fortune 500 companies during real breaches — and the fatal mistakes that tanked others. You'll learn: ✅ The 48-hour rule that saves reputations (and stock prices) ✅ 3 statements that instantly destroy trust & trigger lawsuits ✅ CEO media-training crash course you can run in one afternoon ✅ Why cyber insurers now reject claims without a comms plan ✅ How deepfakes + AI leaks are rewriting breach PR in 2025 ✅ Step-by-step ransomware crisis comms playbook + templates   Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 00:04 – Ransomware Rewind 06:45 – The 48-hour reputation rule 12:30 – Real breach war stories 19:20 – Executive media training 27:40 – Deepfakes & AI crisis nightmare 34:15 – Your 2025 ransomware PR playbook 👤 Guest: Kevin Dinino – Head of Communications, KCD PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindininokcdpr/ Website: https://www.kcdpr.com 🎤 Hosts: Joe Erle – Cyber Insurance Practice Leader, C3 Insurance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle  X/Twitter: https://x.com/joe_erle  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe  Instagram: https://instagram.com/itscyberjoe  Need cyber insurance help? → joe@c3insurance.com  Mike Dowdy – Voice AI Developer & Tech Entrepreneur LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cyber-insiders/id1540640713 👉 Subscribe so you're ready BEFORE the ransom demand lands. #Ransomware #CrisisCommunications #CyberBreach #ReputationManagement #CyberInsurance #CISOTips #DataBreach #PublicRelations #ExecutiveMediaTraining #Deepfakes #Cybersecurity2025 ransomware crisis communication, cyber breach PR, what to say during ransomware attack, CEO media training, cyber insurance requirements 2025, deepfake crisis, KCD PR, Kevin Dinino, Joe Erle, Ransomware Rewind

    44 min

  3. 11/19/2025

    ChatGPT Is Helping Hackers Own You – Author Nick Oles' No-BS Defense Plan | How to Catch A Phish EP17

    What happens when a brutal ransomware attack flips your entire career upside down—and launches you into the front lines of the biggest cyber war of our time? In this explosive episode, cybersecurity advisor Nick Oles (Entoo Security) pulls back the curtain on his wild origin story: the day ransomware hit him personally, ignited an obsession, and ultimately birthed his must-read book, How to Catch a Phish. Nick doesn't hold back. We dive deep into: How phishing has mutated into a terrifyingly sophisticated beast in 2025 Why remote and hybrid work handed attackers the keys to the kingdom The AI arms race: how bad guys are weaponizing ChatGPT & Co. to craft undetectable attacks… and how the good guys are fighting back even harder Real-world war stories that will make you rethink every email you've ever opened Dead-simple, no-BS tactics you can implement TODAY to bulletproof yourself and your team Whether you're a seasoned CISO or someone who just wants to stop being low-hanging fruit, this conversation is pure rocket fuel—packed with eye-opening insights, laugh-out-loud moments, and immediately actionable defenses. Hit play now and turn your "it won't happen to me" into "try me." 🔗 Guest Nick Oles Cybersecurity Advisor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-o-8b5b6349 Website: https://www.entoosecurity.com/ Support Nick by purchasing his book here on Amazon 🎙 Hosts Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance  X: /joe_erle https://x.com/joe_erle TikTok: /itscyberjoe https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe  Instagram: /itscyberjoe https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/  Meta: /joeerle https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/  LinkedIn: /joeerle https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle/  Questions about cyber insurance? 📩 Email: joe@c3insurance.com or request a quote at www.c3insurance.com/cyber Mike Dowdy, Voice AI Developer & Entrepreneur  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy/   cybersecurity, phishing, how to catch a phish, nick oles, entoo security, ransomware rewind, cyber insurance, cyber insurance podcast, cyber threats, cybersecurity podcast, cybersecurity training, phishing awareness, ciso, cybersecurity for small business, cyber risk, ransomware, cyber attacks, incident response,, remote work security, AI cybersecurity, joe erle, c3 insurance, mike dowdy, cyber podcast, cyber security expert interview

    52 min

  4. 11/04/2025

    AI Powered Attacks and How to Stop them with IT Solutions Director of Cybersecurity - EP 16

    In this episode of Ransomware Rewind, Joe and Mike sit down with Andrew Klucsarits, Director and IT Security and Risk Manager at IT Solutions to talk Cybersecurity including modern ransomware trends and operational security for enterprise business. They analyze high-impact supply-chain attacks (including discussion of the Dragon Force incident and vendor risks tied to tools like ConnectWise).  In addition, they outline how adversaries exploit human and vendor weaknesses through social engineering exploits.  Lastly, they provide pragmatic guidance for building resilient defenses using data-driven security programs and third-party risk assessments.  Disaster recovery planning and AI risk mitigation is also covered in this info-packed episode. Guest: Andrew Klucsarits LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewklucsarits/ Hosts: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance X / /joe_erle Tiktok / / itscyberjoe Insta / / itscyberjoe Meta / / joeerle LinkedIn / / joeerle Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com Mike Dowdy, Voice AI Developer & Entrepreneur LinkedIn / / mikedowdy Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe.   ransomware, supply chain attack, Dragon Force, ConnectWise, third party risk, third party vendor security, disaster recovery, backup strategy, AI security, social engineering, incident response, cybersecurity podcast, data driven security, vendor risk assessment, ransomware recovery, cyber resilience

    49 min

  5. 10/06/2025

    Revolutionizing Data Privacy w/ CEO Kevin O'Neil - Ransomware Rewind Podcast

    Kevin O'Neill, founder and CEO of CYVA Research Corporation dives deep into the current challenges surrounding data privacy and control, advocating for a paradigm shift towards self-protecting and self-governing data systems. He shares his vision for a more secure digital future where individuals have control over their personal information, irrespective of the device or platform.   00:00 Introduction to Data Control 01:33 The Evolution of Data Protection 02:03 Ralph Nader and Data Safety 02:58 Welcome to the Podcast 05:15 Privacy and Data Ownership 07:32 The Role of Public Cloud 14:09 Concerns Over Data Consolidation 23:01 Whistleblowing and Corporate Ethics 24:51 Confronting the Colonel 26:14 The Birth of a New Data Control Concept 27:09 Introducing the Personal Information Agent 28:22 Business Applications and Trustworthiness 30:49 The Data Broker Industry and Privacy Concerns 32:35 Challenges in Implementing Privacy Solutions 33:52 Quantum Computing and Security 35:19 The Need for Better Data Management Tools 42:25 Frustrations with Venture Capital and Big Tech 42:53 The Role of Hospitals and Privacy 44:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action   Guest: Kevin O'Neil Website / http://www.cyva.com/ LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-o-neil-cissp-b121849/ Hosts: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance X / https://x.com/joe_erle Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/ Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/ LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle/ Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/ Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy/ Thanks again for listening to the show - Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

    47 min

  6. 09/17/2025

    Penta Privacy Lock: David Ritter - Avoiding Fines from Privacy Regulations

    In this episode of the Ransomware Rewind podcast, we interviewed David Ritter, CEO and co-founder of Penta Privacy Lock. David elaborates on the complexities of privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA amidst recent significant data breaches. He discusses the importance of privacy compliance in addition to robust cybersecurity measures and introduces Privacy Lock as a tool for mitigating the fallout from privacy breaches. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:49 Recent Ransomware and Privacy Breaches 01:36 Regulations and Privacy Laws Overview 03:37 Challenges in Privacy Compliance 05:20 Blockchain and Privacy Compliance 07:05 Privacy Lock and Mitigating Breach Fallout 11:04 Costs and Fines for Privacy Breaches 16:29 Healthcare Data Privacy 28:33 Consumer Privacy Rights and Future Trends 32:46 Conclusion and Contact Information Guest: David Ritter Website / https://www.myprivacylock.io LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidritter1984boulder Host: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance  X / https://x.com/joe_erle Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/ Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/ LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle/ Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/ Co-Host: Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions & AI Consultant  LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy/ Thanks again for listening to the show - Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe!

    36 min

  7. 08/27/2025

    Crisis, communication, and trust: Navigating Cybersecurity Breaches with Chris Hood - EP 13

    In this episode, we sit down with Chris Hood, a seasoned customer experience expert, to discuss the critical steps management should take in the event of a cybersecurity breach. Chris offers valuable insights into building and maintaining customer trust, effective communication during crises, and leveraging AI to enhance cybersecurity. Perfect for business leaders, technology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of cybersecurity and customer experience. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and real-world examples. 00:00 Introduction to the Ransomware Rewind Podcast 00:03 Meet Chris Hood: Customer Experience Expert 00:57 Understanding the Human Side of Cybersecurity 04:06 The Importance of Customer Trust During a Breach 05:36 Challenges in Rebuilding Trust Post-Incident 08:09 Examples of Good and Bad Customer Experiences 13:24 The Role of Call Centers in Customer Experience 18:07 Leveraging AI in Cybersecurity 20:07 The Concept of Zero-Factor Authentication 23:13 Password Security and Best Practices 26:08 Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity 26:46 Cybersecurity Summer Camp Experience 27:34 Proud Parent Moments and Financial Challenges 27:57 Where to Buy the Books 28:22 Target Audience for the Books 29:47 Favorite Stories from the Books 32:40 Advice for Leaders After a Breach 34:25 Importance of Backups in Cybersecurity 39:57 Good Customer Experience Examples 44:53 The Cost of Customer Churn 45:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosts: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance X / https://x.com/joe_erle Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/ Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/ LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle/ Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/ Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy/ Chris Hood Website / https://chrishood.com Insta / https://www.instagram.com/chrishood.ig/?hl=en LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishood

    44 min

  8. 08/21/2025

    AI Will Reshape Warfare | Dr. Zero Trust's Insights on Cybersecurity & The Digital Future - EP 12

    Dr Chase Cunningham AKA Dr. Zero Trust goes after the "Big Cyber" and the US government telling truths about BS and mishandling sensitive and top secret data. Join us on this episode of the Ransomware Rewind podcast as we dive deep into the world of Zero Trust and current cyber events with Dr. Chase Cunningham, also known as Dr. Zero Trust. From his extensive background working with the government and armed forces Dr. Cunningham provides expert analysis on the complex landscape of digital security. We also discuss the implications of AI, the future of warfare, and the critical role of encrypted messaging apps like Signal in today's environment. Additionally, he shares his thoughts on cyber insurance, the importance of operational security at all levels, and provides a sneak peek into his latest books, 'Variable' and 'Buy the Breach.' Whether you're a cybersecurity professional or a curious listener, this episode is packed with crucial information and engaging discussion. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Zero Trust 00:33 Weekend Plans and Government Work 01:41 Signal Gate Scandal 03:40 Security Clearances and Hypocrisy 06:35 Classified Information and Signal 09:24 Social Engineering Risks 13:28 Government Backdoors in Messaging Apps 16:24 Dr. Zero Trust's Books 21:17 Discussing Favorite Actresses 21:34 Making Money from Breaches 22:57 Case Studies on Breaches 23:33 The Value of Cyber Insurance 24:56 Suspicious Investments and Breaches 25:58 Consulting and Pro Bono Work 26:54 Incident Response Stories 28:44 Future of AI and Robotics 31:24 Challenges in Quantum Computing 34:01 Final Thoughts and Sign Off   Host: Joe Erle, Cyber Group Practice Leader at C3 Insurance  X / https://x.com/joe_erle Tiktok / https://www.tiktok.com/@itscyberjoe Insta / https://www.instagram.com/itscyberjoe/ Meta / https://www.facebook.com/joeerle/ LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeerle/ Questions about cyber insurance? Email joe@c3insurance.com Get the 14 Steps to protect your data here: https://c3insurance.com/secure-your-companys-data/   Cohost: Mike Dowdy, Cloud Solutions Consultant  LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedowdy/   Guest: Dr. Chase Cunningham Chief Strategy Officer, Author  LinkedIn / https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-chase-cunningham/ Email / chase@drzerotrust.com Website / www.drzerotrust.com    Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@drzerotrust  Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drzerotrust/id1570251081 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5YrSai2Q9UGATh8GXgzA5K  Pre-order his lates book on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/hDRcQpV  Thx for joining us.  Life, Subscribe, and share to help up make an impact in protecting businesses and individuals from hackers.

    40 min
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4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Our podcast covers major data breaches, digital privacy issues, and the quirks of internet culture with a mix of humor and insight. Why Subscribe? Stay Informed: Get the latest updates on cybersecurity threats, ransomware attacks, and cyber insurance trends. Engaging Content: We break down complex topics with a lighthearted approach, making them easy to understand. Expert Insights: Learn from industry experts and our own experiences in the cybersecurity field. We dive deep into the latest in cybersecurity, cyber insurance, and ransomware. Mike Dowdy is the former president of two hosting companies and has been in the trenches of cyber security for over ten years. He has tribal knowledge on protecting yourself from threats and what to do if you are a victim. Joe S Erle, MBA, CIC, CRM, TRA knows firsthand the devastating effects of not having a cyber security insurance plan. Despite the dry nature of cyber insurance Joe's advice is entertaining, fun, and educational.

Information

  • Creator
    Joe Erle
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Ransomware Rewind