Be Fearless Podcast EP 1: Jeff Moss, Founder DEF CON and Black Hat

Be Fearless Podcast by SquareX

In the inaugural episode of The Be Fearless Podcast, SquareX Founder and CEO Vivek Ramachandran sits down with Jeff Moss, founder of DEF CON and Black Hat, to discuss everything from the origins of both conferences to how the browser is increasingly becoming a platform of its own, networking advice, and more!
0:10 Introduction
13:59 Growth and Challenges of Organizing Large-Scale Hacking Conferences
20:25 The Story Behind Black Hat
30:01 On DEF CON Trainings
43:55 Would DEF CON ever allow an AI Speaker?
59:27 On security products moving to the cloud
1:06:50 How web attacks on enterprises can occur
1:18:55 Closing Remarks and Jeff's advice for starting your cybersecurity journey
📖 Episode Summary:
Jeff Moss, founder of DEF CON and Black Hat, started his journey in cybersecurity with a hacking bulletin board system (BBS) during his high school and college years. This platform became a precursor to the creation of DEF CON, initially conceived as a farewell party for a networking group. When the original organizer disappeared, Jeff opened the event to everyone, fostering a community of sharing and learning. This inclusivity set DEF CON apart from other exclusive hacking conferences of the time and laid the foundation for a vibrant, open cybersecurity community.
Jeff also discusses the evolution of the term "hacker" and its shift from a positive connotation within the community to a more negative public perception. He underscores the importance of maintaining the original spirit of hacking—curiosity and problem-solving. Reflecting on the role of AI and automation in cybersecurity, Jeff notes that while these technologies can assist with basic tasks, they cannot replace the nuanced understanding and expertise required for high-quality research and presentations.
As one of our advisors, Jeff also talks about SquareX. Being a browser-native solution allows SquareX to be closer to the user's interaction point, represents the next frontier in cybersecurity. Jeff believes that such innovative approaches are crucial for the industry's future.
Towards the end of the podcast, Jeff also highlights the importance of passion, practical experience, and networking for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. He advises against shortcuts and emphasizes the long-term benefits of integrity and reliability. Reflecting on his 30-year career, Moss attributes his longevity to a dedicated team and the constant influx of creative individuals at DEF CON.
🔔 Follow Jeff and Vivek on:
https://defcon.social/@thedarktangent
https://twitter.com/vivekramac
SquareX helps organizations detect, mitigate, and threat hunt web attacks happening against their users in real-time. Find out more about SquareX at https://www.sqrx.com/

Chapter

1. Be Fearless Podcast EP 1: Jeff Moss, Founder DEF CON and Black Hat (00:00:00)

2. Introduction (00:00:10)

3. Growth and Challenges of Organizing Large-Scale Hacking Conferences (00:13:59)

4. The Story Behind Black Hat (00:20:25)

5. On DEF CON Trainings (00:30:01)

6. Would DEF CON ever allow an AI Speaker? (00:43:55)

7. On security products moving to the cloud (00:59:27)

8. How web attacks on enterprises can occur (01:06:50)

9. Closing Remarks and Jeff's advice for starting your cybersecurity journey (01:18:55)