Meet Nick Percoco: Insights from a Cybersecurity Expert

Hello, and welcome to my blog! I’m excited to share my journey and expertise in the world of cybersecurity with you. My name is Nick Percoco, and I am currently the Chief Security Officer at Kraken, a leading global digital asset exchange. With over 25 years of experience in technology and security, I have dedicated my career to understanding and mitigating the complex challenges associated with cybersecurity.

A Journey Through Technology

My passion for technology began at a very young age. By the time I was seven, I was already coding on a Timex Sinclair 1000 in the early 1980s. This enthusiasm led me to explore the burgeoning world of bulletin board systems (BBS) in the late 80s and early 90s, first using a Commodore 64 and later transitioning to an Intel 386 PC where I worked with Linux. These early experiences shaped my career path and fueled my interest in security.

A Career of Significance

Before taking the helm at Kraken, I held pivotal roles in various organizations. As Chief Security Officer at Uptake, I focused on advancing industrial AI, and during my time as Vice President of Global Services at Rapid7, I contributed to a comprehensive cybersecurity approach. My insights on security breaches, malware, and mobile security have been shared at prominent conferences, including Black Hat, DEF CON, and OWASP, as well as with key government entities such as the Department of Homeland Security and Interpol.

I am also deeply entrenched in the Chicago hacker community, having founded THOTCON, a hacker conference that is set to celebrate its 12th installment in 2023. Over the past four years at Kraken, I’ve been instrumental in developing programs designed to fortify our defenses against cyberattacks, especially in an era where cryptocurrency exchanges face increasing threats.

Engage with Me

I am eager to engage with you! Whether you have questions about the latest security trends, want insider tips on protecting your digital assets, or are curious about the evolving landscape of cyber threats, I’m here to help.

Feel free to leave your questions in the comments section, and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for being part of this conversation!

Conclusion

I appreciate your interest, and I look forward to an enriching exchange of ideas and insights. Remember, the fight for cybersecurity is continuous, and it requires collaboration and knowledge-sharing among all of us.