February 13 Phone phreaking: piracy before the Internet
This week on cybersecurity from the editors of Cybercrime Magazine
– Watch the Cybercrime Magazine video
Sausalito, California – February 13, 2024
For a generation of today’s young people raised with smartphones, multi-megabit downloads, and digital home phones before them, the idea that the telephone system was once primitive enough to be manipulated with a plastic whistle is to both strange and enticing.
But it is exactly what happened in the 1970swhen the natural curiosity for the evolution of telephone networks gave birth to a generation of curious people “phone attacks” who spent a lot of time and energy poking and prodding the machines to see what was going on behind that rotating handset.
They were the forerunners of today’s hackers, sharing tips and tactics not through closed, cryptic message groups but through printed newsletters distributed by mail.
A new video essay published by Cybercrime Magazine tells the story.
The 4 minute and 30 second video is based on a history written by David Braue, who is also the narrator.
Cybercrime Magazine is the front page for cybersecurity. Access one of our sections to read the latest news:
- SCAM. The latest schemes, frauds and social engineering attacks launched against consumers around the world.
- NEWS. Comprehensive coverage of cyberattacks and data breaches, plus the latest privacy and security articles.
- TO HACK. Another organization is hacked every day. We tell you who, what, where, when and why.
- RESUME. Cybersecurity venture deals track the latest investment activity from various sources across the globe.
- Mergers and Acquisitions. Cybersecurity mergers and acquisitions, including big tech, pure-play cybersecurity, product providers, and professional services.
- BLOG. What’s happening at Cybercrime Magazine. Plus the stories that don’t make headlines (but maybe they should).
- PRESS. Real-time cybersecurity industry news and press releases from Business Wire editors.
- PODCAST. New daily episodes on the Cybercrime Magazine podcast feature victims, law enforcement, vendors, and cybersecurity experts.
- RADIO. Tune in to WCYB Digital Radio on Cybercrime.Radio, the first and only 24-hour Internet radio station dedicated to cybersecurity.
Contact us to send tips, feedback and suggestions, as well as for sponsorship opportunities and custom media productions.