Secure Talk Podcast

Cybersecurity is complicated; weird acronyms, massive risks and arcane skills. How do we teach or learn about cybersecurity in human ways?

In this episode of SecureTalk, host Justin Beals is joined by cybersecurity researcher Luca Viganò to discuss his innovative approach to demystifying cybersecurity concepts using fairy tales. Luca shares his passion for making cybersecurity accessible to both experts and the general public by employing storytelling techniques. Key topics include multifactor authentication, explained through 'Cinderella' and password security inspired by 'Alibaba and the 40 Thieves.' Luca's insights are based on his acclaimed article 'Cyber Security of Fairy Tales.' This episode provides a fresh perspective on engaging non-expert stakeholders and underlines the importance of a social-technical approach to cybersecurity.

00:00 Introduction to SecureTalk
00:34 Host's Background and Passion for Storytelling
03:07 Introducing Luca Vigano
04:49 Luca's Journey in Cybersecurity
06:47 The Power of Storytelling in Teaching Security
08:10 Fairy Tales and Cybersecurity
18:43 Cinderella and Multi-Factor Authentication
34:06 Alibaba and the 40 Thieves: Lessons in Security
40:30 Show vs. Tell in Security Education
44:39 Future Work and Conclusion

Article: Luca Viganò, The cybersecurity of fairy tales, Journal of Cybersecurity, Volume 10, Issue 1, 2024, tyae005, https://doi.org/10.1093/cybsec/tyae005

What is Secure Talk Podcast?

Secure Talk reviews the latest threats, tips, and trends on security, innovation, and compliance.

Host Justin Beals interviews leading privacy, security and technology executives to discuss best practices related to IT security, data protection and compliance. Based in Seattle, he previously served as the CTO of NextStep and Koru, which won the 2018 Most Impactful Startup award from Wharton People Analytics. He is the creator of the patented Training, Tracking & Placement System and the author of “Aligning curriculum and evidencing learning effectiveness using semantic mapping of learning assets,” published in the International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJet). Justin earned a BA from Fort Lewis College.