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8 Top IT Security Podcasts for Pros and Students in 2024

March 26, 2023 • Zachary Amos

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There are hundreds of IT security podcasts on the internet today but a few stand out. Whether you’re a student studying computer science or a professional looking for the best podcasts for tech gurus, these security podcasts are worth checking out. We’ve compiled a list of the top eight IT security podcasts actively publishing episodes as of 2024. 

Each of these shows has a specific focus, whether that’s general industry news or stories from the dark web. Make sure to check where each podcast is available – not all of these podcasts are published on every platform. If you’re new to podcasts, browse through the main platforms on Android, Apple, or desktop and find one you like first. 

Additionally, it is worth noting that some of these podcasts may contain swearing or language which may not appeal to some listeners. 

No matter what you’re looking for in a great IT security podcast, start by checking out one of these top eight!

1. CyberWire Daily

Focus: Cybersecurity news

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Pandora, Google Podcasts

One of the best IT security podcasts to start with is CyberWire Daily. This podcast covers cybersecurity news in digestible 30-minute chunks. The length makes this a good podcast for listening to during a commute or on a lunch break. As the title suggests, new episodes come out every day, which makes it a great way to stay in the loop about big news in the industry. CyberWire Daily frequently has interviews with industry leaders in a variety of niches, as well. 

2. Unsupervised Learning

Focus: Discussion and recommendations for books, products and more

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

The Unsupervised Learning podcast is a good show for a mix of IT security news as well as book, product and event discussions for industry professionals. Episodes are all about 20 minutes or less, making it a good podcast to listen to over a cup of coffee or lunch break. This show also takes a unique angle with IT security news by connecting it to larger discussions about the role of cybersecurity in society. It’s a good podcast for industry professionals and students alike. 

3. BarCode

Focus: Light-hearted discussion and advice for security pros

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Pandora, YouTube

Imagine going out to the bar with a bunch of cybersecurity professionals and industry leaders. That’s the idea behind the BarCode podcast. This show features light-hearted, yet insightful discussions between industry leaders on cybersecurity topics and news. Episodes are a bit longer, ranging from 40 minutes to over an hour. New episodes are released roughly every two weeks on all major podcast platforms. There’s virtually no cybersecurity topic the BarCode podcast doesn’t touch on. 

4. Darknet Diaries

Focus: Stories and insights from the dark web

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Patreon

For an atmospheric podcast experience, check out Darknet Diaries. This is widely considered one of the best IT security podcasts online right now. It dives into true stories from the dark web, such as cyber crime investigations, hacktivism and data breaches. The episodes are about an hour long and have the tone typical of true crime podcasts. This isn’t just security news – it’s a gripping look at the dark side of the Internet. 

5. Malicious Life

Focus: Stories from cybersecurity history

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Castbox

If you’re looking for an IT security podcast on the history of the industry, check out Malicious Life. This podcast covers the highlights of the cybersecurity industry over the years, from whistleblowers to ransomware and everything in between. Malicious Life also features commentary from current industry experts, shedding light on details and lessons learned from key events in the industry’s history. 

If you want to learn more about both the past and present of cybersecurity, give Malicious Life a listen. The historical content of this show makes it a great podcast for IT students, giving them context for major events in the industry’s past. 

6. CYBER by VICE News

Focus: Reliable source for cybersecurity news

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

Previously titled Cyber Motherboard, Vice News’s cybersecurity podcast is now known as just CYBER. This IT security podcast covers news and industry trends, such as AI, cyber crime and privacy. One to two half hour episodes are released each week. CYBER is a good podcast for industry professionals and students alike since it offers reliable and current analysis on current events in cybersecurity. It’s the perfect length for morning commutes, lunch breaks or something to listen to while jogging or working out. 

7. Smashing Security

Focus: Humorous discussion on hacking and online privacy

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

Smashing Security is one of the most popular IT security podcasts online today. It’s beloved by fans for the light-hearted, comedic tone it takes. Security may be a serious topic, but Smashing Security handles it in a way that is informative yet still enjoyable and humorous. This is a great podcast for a more relaxing listening experience, such as the commute home after work. Topics touch on current events and typically include discussion on cyber crime, hacking and privacy. 

8. Hacking Humans

Focus: Cybersecurity, social engineering and hacking psychology

Available On: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, Overcast, RSS

Hacking Humans is run by CyberWire, the same publisher for CyberWire Daily. This show is one of the most unique IT security podcasts on this list. Rather than focusing on cybersecurity news in general, Hacking Humans focuses on social engineering and the psychology behind cybersecurity. Topics include things like phishing, scams and other types of social engineering. This is a great podcast for anyone in the industry, highlighting a topic that is only growing in importance year after year. 

Finding the Best IT Security Podcasts for You

There are a lot of great IT security podcasts out there today, but it can be tedious sifting through them all. The eight shows on this list are among the very best online today. They’re a great place to start your search, whether you’re a seasoned industry pro or a student. Consider what you’re hoping to get out of a good IT security podcast – is it news, entertainment or something in between? The focus category for each of the podcasts on this list can help you choose one that lines up with your interests. 

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