Meet Nick Percoco: A Cybersecurity Innovator and Advocate for Digital Safety

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and cybersecurity, Nick Percoco stands out as a prominent figure. As the Chief Security Officer at Kraken, a leading global digital asset exchange, Nick has dedicated over 25 years to enhancing security and protecting against digital threats.

A Journey Through Cybersecurity

Nick’s journey into the realm of technology began at a tender age—he started coding at just seven years old on a Timex Sinclair 1000. Growing up immersed in the Chicago hacker scene, he was actively involved with local Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) in the late 1980s and early 1990s, using technology ranging from a Commodore 64 to an Intel 386 PC running Linux.

Before his significant role at Kraken, Nick served as the Chief Security Officer at Uptake, an industrial AI firm, and held the position of Vice President of Global Services at Rapid7, a comprehensive cybersecurity solutions provider. Throughout his career, he has shared his expertise on topics such as security breaches, malware, mobile security, and the latest trends in information security at esteemed conferences including Black Hat, DEF CON, and OWASP. His insights have also reached high-profile audiences, including organizations like the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT), Interpol, and the United States Secret Service.

Building a Safer Digital Future

Currently, at Kraken, Nick leads the Security, IT, and Engineering departments, focusing on developing robust programs to safeguard the cryptocurrency exchange from potential attacks. As the founder of THOTCON, a respected hacker conference in Chicago, he has played an integral role in fostering community and knowledge sharing within the cybersecurity field, with the event set to celebrate its 12th edition in 2023.

Engaging with the Community

Nick is passionate about sharing his experiences and insights with others who are keen to learn more about cybersecurity, cryptocurrency hacks, and preventative measures. He has recently welcomed the opportunity to engage with individuals curious about his journey and the various aspects of cybersecurity.

Feel free to reach out with any questions regarding his wealth of experience, or delve into discussions about the industry’s future and current challenges. Nick is enthusiastic about fostering insightful conversations and providing guidance to those interested in or affected by the digital security landscape.