Meet Nick Percoco: A Veteran in Cybersecurity and Cryptocurrency Protection

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, expertise is crucial. Today, we’re excited to introduce Nick Percoco, a leading figure in the field, who currently serves as the Chief Security Officer at Kraken, a prominent global digital asset exchange. Nick’s extensive career spans over 25 years and includes significant contributions to cybersecurity strategy and technology.

A Deep Dive into Nick’s Journey

Before stepping into his role at Kraken, Nick held key positions in various organizations. He was the Chief Security Officer at Uptake, a company focused on industrial Artificial Intelligence, where he shaped security protocols that safeguarded sensitive data. Additionally, he served as the Vice President of Global Services at Rapid7, a well-known cybersecurity firm, thereby gaining a wealth of experience in all things security-related.

Nick’s contributions to the industry extend beyond his professional roles. He has shared his insights into security breaches, malware, and emerging trends at renowned conferences such as Black Hat, DEF CON, and OWASP. His audience has included private entities and governmental organizations, including the Department of Homeland Security, US-CERT, Interpol, and the United States Secret Service.

Early Days in Technology

Nick’s journey into technology began at a young age. He learned to code at just seven years old on a Timex Sinclair 1000 in the early 1980s. His passion for technology only grew as he navigated through the vibrant Chicago BBS scene in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, initially using a Commodore 64 and later an Intel 386 PC running Linux. This early exposure undoubtedly laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in cybersecurity.

Cultivating the Hacker Community

For several decades, Nick has been an active participant in the Chicago hacker community. He is the founder of THOTCON, a hacker conference that aims to bring together the brightest minds in technology and security. With its 12th edition scheduled for 2023, THOTCON continues to be a hub for innovative discussions and collaboration among cybersecurity enthusiasts.

In recent years, Nick has been instrumental in developing robust security programs at Kraken, ensuring that the cryptocurrency exchange remains resilient against an array of cyber threats. His deep understanding of security and technology positions him as a valuable resource for anyone interested in these fields.