Meet Nick Percoco: A Leader in Cybersecurity and Cryptocurrency Safety

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, few individuals have made as substantial an impact as Nick Percoco. As the Chief Security Officer at Kraken, a leading global digital asset exchange, Nick combines extensive expertise with a passion for protecting online systems. He has an illustrious career spanning over 25 years, which has equipped him with invaluable insights into security breaches, malware threats, and the future of information security.

A Journey Through Technology

Nick’s journey into the world of technology began at the tender age of seven when he first learned to code on a Timex Sinclair 1000 in the early 1980s. His passion for technology continued to grow throughout his youth, leading him to explore the Chicago Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) in the late 80s and early 90s, utilizing a Commodore 64 and an Intel 386 PC running Linux along the way. This foundation ignited a lifelong commitment to cybersecurity.

Before stepping into his current role at Kraken, Nick served as the Chief Security Officer at Uptake, an industrial AI company, and held the position of Vice President of Global Services at Rapid7, a comprehensive cybersecurity solutions provider. His dedication to the field has taken him to prominent cybersecurity conferences such as Black Hat, DEF CON, and OWASP, where he has shared his insights with experts and audiences across various sectors, including the Department of Homeland Security, US-CERT, Interpol, and the United States Secret Service.

A Commitment to Community and Education

Nick’s influence stretches beyond his professional roles. He is a key figure in the Chicago hacker community and the founder of THOTCON, an annual hacker conference that celebrates its 12th iteration in 2023. This event fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among cybersecurity aficionados—an initiative that further emphasizes his commitment to advancing the industry.

Throughout his career, Nick has been involved in investigating some of the most significant data breaches in history. In his role at Kraken, he has been dedicated to developing robust strategies and programs aimed at fortifying the exchange against potential threats.

Join the Conversation

Nick is eager to share his vast wealth of experience and insights into the complexities of cybersecurity, particularly in relation to cryptocurrency hacks and breaches. He invites you to engage with him, pose your questions, and explore the challenges and innovations within this dynamic field.

Whether you’re curious about security tips, the future of digital asset protection, or the