Insights from a Cybersecurity Veteran: An AMA with Nick Percoco

Welcome to our blog! Today, we have a unique opportunity to delve into the intricate world of cybersecurity with a true expert in the field, Nick Percoco. With over 25 years of experience in security and technology, Nick serves as the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Kraken, a leading global digital asset exchange. He is also the founder of SpiderLabs at Trustwave and the creator of THOTCON, a prominent hacker conference in Chicago.

Nick has a rich history in cybersecurity, having previously held the position of CSO at Uptake, an industrial AI company. His extensive experience includes a role as the Vice President of Global Services at Rapid7, a comprehensive cybersecurity firm. Throughout his career, Nick has shared valuable insights into critical topics such as security breaches, malware, mobile security, and the latest trends in information security at well-known conferences like Black Hat, DEF CON, and OWASP. He has also provided guidance to esteemed organizations, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), US-CERT, Interpol, and the United States Secret Service.

From a young age, Nick was immersed in technology, coding on a Timex Sinclair 1000 when he was just seven years old. His passion for the field continued to grow as he explored the Chicagoland BBS scene in the late ’80s and early ’90s, utilizing a Commodore 64 and later a Linux-based Intel 386 PC.

As an active member of the Chicago hacker community for decades, Nick has organized THOTCON, which is set to host its 12th conference in 2023. His expertise has also led him to investigate some of the most significant data breaches recorded, and in recent years, he has developed robust programs at Kraken aimed at safeguarding the cryptocurrency exchange from ongoing threats.

In this blog post, we invite you to engage with Nick’s wealth of knowledge. Whether you’re interested in cryptocurrency hacks, security best practices, or overarching trends in cybersecurity, Nick is ready to share his insights. Join us as we dive into the thrilling world of cybersecurity and explore the challenges and innovations shaping the industry today.

Feel free to share your questions in the comments below, and let’s unravel the complexities of cybersecurity together!