Keeping up with cybersecurity can feel like a full-time job on its own, right? You’ve got your daily tasks, the constant alerts, and then there’s the whole world of new threats and tactics to learn about. It’s a lot. But what if you could learn while doing other things? That’s where cybersecurity podcasts come in. They’re a super easy way to get smart about what’s happening in the cyber world, whether you’re stuck in traffic or just chilling at home. We’ve rounded up some of the best cybersecurity podcasts out there for 2026 that you should definitely check out.
Alright, let’s talk about Darknet Diaries. If you’re even remotely curious about the shadowy corners of the internet, this is your jam. Host Jack Rhysider has this uncanny ability to pull you into true stories about hackers, data breaches, and all sorts of cyber shenanigans. It’s like a true crime podcast, but instead of back alleys, we’re exploring the digital underworld.
Rhysider isn’t just some random dude reading a script; he’s got a background in security engineering, which really shines through. He breaks down complex stuff without making you feel like you need a computer science degree. You’ll hear tales of APT groups, ransomware attacks, and sometimes, just plain old human error that leads to massive problems. It’s fascinating stuff, and honestly, pretty addictive. You might find yourself listening to one episode and then suddenly it’s 3 AM and you’ve binged five.
One of the coolest things about Darknet Diaries is how it humanizes these often abstract cybersecurity threats. You get the stories behind the breaches, the motivations of the actors, and the impact on real people. It’s not just about the tech; it’s about the people involved.
Here’s a little taste of what you can expect:
If you’re looking for a podcast that’s both entertaining and educational, and you want to get a feel for the real cyber world, you absolutely have to check out Darknet Diaries. It’s a fantastic way to get hooked on cybersecurity stories, and you might even learn a thing or two about staying safe online. Seriously, give it a listen; you won’t regret it. You can find some of their most popular episodes detailing everything from social engineering tactics to cloud security blunders, like the one about a teen who breached AWS. It’s a wild ride through the hidden corners of the network.
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Alright, let’s talk about “CyberWire Daily.” If you’re someone who likes to stay on top of the cybersecurity world without getting bogged down in endless jargon, this might be your jam. Think of it as your daily dose of cyber news, but without all the fluff that usually comes with it. Host Dave Bittner, who’s been around the digital block a time or two, breaks down what’s happening in the threat landscape. It’s usually around 30 minutes, making it perfect for that morning commute or just a quick listen while you’re grabbing your coffee.
They cover a pretty wide range of topics, from big international cyber defense exercises like Cyber Coalition to more everyday stuff like how secure your web browser actually is. It’s like getting a quick, no-nonsense briefing on the cyber front lines. They don’t just report the news; they give you a bit more context, which is super helpful when things are moving this fast. You’ll hear about everything from LLM research to CISO liability, and even some practical tips on application security. It’s a solid way to get your head around the day’s biggest cyber stories without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, it’s produced by the folks at The CyberWire, who’ve been doing this since 2012, so they know their stuff.
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Alright, let’s talk about Security Now. If you’re looking to get a serious, no-nonsense deep dive into cybersecurity topics, this is your jam. Hosted by Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte, this podcast has been around since, like, the dawn of time in internet years – August 2005, to be exact. Steve Gibson is basically a cybersecurity legend, having been in the programming game for over fifty years. He even invented light pen technology back in the day. You can tell he knows his stuff, and he doesn’t shy away from the nitty-gritty technical details.
They cover everything from the latest security news and vulnerabilities to in-depth discussions on zero-day exploits and emerging threats. It’s not exactly light listening; episodes often clock in around 100 minutes, so you’ll want to set aside some dedicated time. But hey, if you’re serious about understanding what’s really going on in the security world, it’s worth every minute. Plus, they actually put their transcripts up on their website, which is a nice touch for us old-school readers out there.
This podcast is like getting a masterclass from two seasoned pros. They break down complex issues without dumbing them down, which is a rare find.
If you’re trying to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of digital security, you’ll find yourself referencing their insights. It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants to go beyond the headlines and really understand the technical underpinnings of security challenges. You can find their episodes on most podcast apps, and subscribing means you won’t miss a single update on new episodes.
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Alright, let’s talk about Smashing Security. If you’re tired of cybersecurity podcasts that sound like they’re reading from a textbook written by robots, you’re in for a treat. Graham Cluley and Carole Theriault are the dynamic duo behind this show, and they manage to make even the most complex security topics feel like a chat with friends over coffee. They’ve been at this since late 2016, so they’ve seen a thing or two.
What sets Smashing Security apart is its refreshing lack of stuffiness. They cover the week’s biggest security news, but they do it with humor and a knack for explaining things in a way that actually sticks. You’ll hear about everything from the latest data breaches to the weirdest scams, all without getting bogged down in jargon. It’s the perfect podcast for your commute or when you just need a break from the doom and gloom of the cyber world.
They often bring on interesting guests, too, which adds another layer to their already engaging discussions. It’s like getting a behind-the-scenes look at the cybersecurity industry, but with more laughs. If you’re looking to stay informed without feeling like you’re back in a lecture hall, you really can’t go wrong with this one. They even manage to make discussions about things like AI deepfakes and privacy laws surprisingly entertaining. You can catch up on their latest episodes and see what the buzz is all about on their website.
Here’s a taste of what you might encounter:
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Ever wonder how we got here with all this cyber chaos? “Malicious Life” is your go-to for the history lessons you never knew you needed. Ran Levi takes you on a journey through the wild west of cybercrime, digging up stories about the hacks and breaches that shaped our digital world. It’s like a history documentary, but with more hackers and less dusty textbooks.
This podcast isn’t just about rehashing old news; it’s about understanding the why behind the attacks. You’ll hear about everything from the early days of computer viruses to the sophisticated scams of today. It’s a fascinating look at how we got from simple floppy disk viruses to the complex threats we face now. Think of it as a cybersecurity time machine, but way more entertaining than your average history class. You might even pick up a thing or two about how to avoid becoming the next headline.
Here’s a taste of what you can expect:
If you’re curious about the roots of cyber threats and want to understand the evolution of hacking, this is the podcast for you. It’s a great way to get some context for all the security news you hear daily. You can find a whole list of great podcasts, including this one, to get you started on your cybersecurity journey.
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Alright, let’s talk about Risky Business, or as the cool kids call it, Risky.Biz. This isn’t some flashy new kid on the block; it’s been around the cybersecurity block since way back in February 2007. Seriously, it’s one of the veterans, and for good reason. Patrick Gray, the main host, along with a rotating cast of smart folks, dives into the week’s cybersecurity news like a detective cracking a case.
They manage to pack a ton of information into their weekly episodes, usually around an hour long. You’ll get a good mix of news, but they don’t just skim the surface. They’ll often bring in guests who are actually in the trenches, talking about real-world incidents and what we can learn from them. It’s not just about the latest zero-day exploit (though they cover that too); they also look at the bigger picture, like geopolitical stuff that affects cyber threats.
What’s cool is how they balance the serious topics with a bit of personality. You won’t feel like you’re sitting through a dry lecture. It’s informative without being overwhelming, making it a solid choice if you want to stay updated on what’s happening in the wild world of cybersecurity.
Here’s a peek at what you might find:
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Alright, let’s talk about the CISO Series Podcast. If you’re trying to get your head around what it’s really like to be a Chief Information Security Officer, this is a good place to start. It’s not just about the tech; it’s about the people, the strategy, and frankly, the sheer amount of juggling these folks do.
This podcast, hosted by the ever-insightful David Spark alongside veteran CISOs Mike Johnson and Andy Ellis, dives into the nitty-gritty of cybersecurity leadership. They don’t shy away from the tough stuff, like aligning security goals with the rest of the business or figuring out how to work with vendors without everyone getting annoyed. You’ll hear real talk about the challenges CISOs face daily, and they often bring in guests who are actually in the trenches, sharing their experiences.
Think of it as getting a backstage pass to the CISO’s world. They break down complex security concepts into digestible pieces, making it easier for you to understand what’s going on in the wider cybersecurity landscape. It’s a weekly 35-minute show, so it won’t eat up your entire day, but it packs a punch with practical advice and relatable stories. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone looking to bridge the gap between technical security and business objectives.
Here’s a taste of what you can expect:
If you’re in the security field, or even just curious about the decisions being made at the top, you’ll find plenty to chew on here. It’s a great way to stay informed and get a different perspective on the cybersecurity world. You can catch their latest episodes and get a handle on current trends by checking out their weekly news.
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Alright, let’s talk about the Cloud Security Podcast. If you’re even remotely involved with keeping things safe in the cloud – and let’s be honest, who isn’t these days? – then you’ll want to give this one a listen. It’s hosted by Ashish Rajan and Shilpi Bhattacharjee, and they really get into the nitty-gritty of cloud risks and compliance. Think of it as your friendly guide through the sometimes-confusing world of cloud security.
They don’t just skim the surface; they dive into topics like securing multi-cloud environments, container security, and how to actually implement DevSecOps without losing your mind. It’s the kind of show where you might actually learn something useful, like how to avoid those embarrassing cloud misconfigurations that seem to pop up everywhere. Seriously, if you’re managing cloud infrastructure, this podcast is like a safety net for your digital assets.
What makes it stand out is the way they break down complex issues into understandable stories. They cover everything from the latest threats targeting cloud platforms to practical advice on meeting compliance standards. You’ll get fresh perspectives on building and managing secure cloud setups, which is pretty handy when you consider how often cloud services change.
Here’s a taste of what you might hear about:
It’s easy to think of the cloud as this magical, secure place, but it’s really just a bunch of servers that someone has to manage. This podcast helps you remember that and gives you the tools to do it right.
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Ever feel like you’re one click away from disaster? Well, you probably are, and that’s exactly what the “Hacking Humans” podcast is all about. These folks, Dave Bittner and Joe Carrigan, are basically digital detectives who love to dissect how cybercriminals pull off their sneaky tricks. They don’t just talk about phishing emails; they get into the nitty-gritty of why you might fall for them. Think of it as a masterclass in not getting duped online, delivered with a healthy dose of “wow, they really did that?!”
They cover everything from sophisticated scams that target businesses to the simple, yet effective, ways bad actors try to get your personal info. It’s a constant reminder that the weakest link in security isn’t always the technology, but often the person using it. You’ll hear about real-world examples that are both terrifying and strangely fascinating. Seriously, after listening, you’ll start looking at every email and text message with a bit more suspicion – and that’s a good thing.
Here’s a taste of what you can expect:
If you’ve ever wondered how those Nigerian prince emails actually work or why you can’t trust that urgent message from your “boss,” this is the podcast for you. It’s a fun, albeit slightly alarming, way to boost your own cybersecurity awareness.
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Alright, let’s talk about the “Infosec And Osint Show.” If you’re someone who likes to dig into the nitty-gritty of how information security and open-source intelligence (OSINT) actually work, this is a show you’ll want to add to your rotation. It’s not about flashy hacks or dramatic breaches; instead, it’s more about the practical side of things, the tools, and the techniques that professionals use every day.
Think of it as getting a backstage pass to the world of cybersecurity investigation. You’ll hear from folks who are actually doing the work, sharing their insights on how they gather information, analyze threats, and stay ahead of the curve. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone looking to get a clearer picture of the cybersecurity landscape beyond the headlines.
What makes it stand out is its focus on practical application. You won’t just hear about theoretical concepts; you’ll get real-world examples and discussions that can actually help you understand how these fields operate. It’s a bit more niche than some of the other podcasts out there, but if you’re into the details, you’ll find it incredibly rewarding.
Here’s a taste of what you can expect:
This podcast is great for those who want to understand the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind cybersecurity investigations, rather than just the ‘what’. It’s a solid listen for analysts, researchers, and anyone curious about the detective work involved in digital security.
Dive into the “Infosec And Osint Show” for fascinating discussions. We break down complex topics into easy-to-understand ideas, perfect for anyone curious about the digital world!
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Alright, you’ve made it through our list of the top 10 cybersecurity podcasts for 2026. Hopefully, your ears are buzzing with new knowledge and maybe a few good laughs from the more humorous ones. Remember, staying safe online isn’t just about firewalls and passwords; it’s about knowing what’s out there. So, go ahead, download a few of these, and let them be your digital companions on your commute or while you’re doing those dishes you’ve been avoiding. Your future, slightly-less-clueless self will thank you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go listen to one about phishing scams… just in case.
Listening to cybersecurity podcasts is a super easy way to stay updated on all the new cyber stuff happening. You can learn about the latest tricks hackers use and how to protect yourself, all while you’re doing other things like driving or working out. It’s like getting smart without having to sit in a classroom!
Absolutely! Many podcasts on this list are great for people just starting out. They often explain tricky computer terms in simple ways and tell interesting stories that make learning fun. You won’t feel lost, even if you’re new to the world of cybersecurity.
Yes, most of them do! Podcasts like CyberWire Daily give you daily updates on what’s happening right now. Others, like Security Now, talk about the biggest news from the past week. You’ll always be in the loop about the latest cyber dangers.
Definitely! Many podcasts share practical advice you can actually use to make yourself safer online. Some even talk about how companies can protect themselves better. It’s not just about stories; it’s about learning how to be more secure.
Yes, there are! Some podcasts focus on just cloud security, which is about keeping things safe on the internet. Others might talk more about privacy or how hackers work. You can find shows that match what you’re most interested in learning about.
Podcasts are awesome for learning extra stuff and staying current, but they’re not a full replacement for school or official training. Think of them as a helpful buddy that helps you understand and remember what you learn elsewhere. They’re perfect for keeping your knowledge fresh!
