On this episode of The Secure Family Podcast, host Andy Murphy sits down with former FBI undercover operative and cybersecurity expert Eric O'Neill for a fascinating conversation about how modern scams really work. Eric explains why today's cybercriminals don't think like hackers—they think like spies, using deception, pressure, impersonation, and psychology to target everyday people.

Andy and Eric break down the fake DMV and toll road text scams that hit millions of phones, how criminals gather personal data to make attacks feel believable, and why AI deepfakes are making scams more dangerous than ever. They also share practical ways families can protect themselves, spot red flags before it's too late, and respond quickly if an account or identity is compromised.

If you want to understand the new world of cybercrime in plain English—and learn how to stay one step ahead—this is an episode you don't want to miss.

For more for Eric O'Neill visit: https://ericoneill.net

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00:00 Show Welcome

02:05 Meet Eric ONeill

03:51 Only Spies Not Hackers

05:49 Everyone Is A Target

06:33 Scams And Recon

07:52 Opportunity Vs Targeted

10:10 Deepfakes And Kidnap

13:26 Spotting Red Flags

16:16 Verify Through Channels

18:13 Speaker Tax Form Scam

20:15 Cape Town Con Story

26:45 Scam Fallout and Revenge

28:04 Pressure and Confirmation Bias

29:17 DICED and PAID Frameworks

30:57 Prepare Basics and 2FA

33:40 Assess and Social Media Radar

35:15 Investigate and Verify Everything

36:42 Decide to Act and Next Steps

38:07 Victim Response Checklist

42:04 Rapid Fire Scam Q&A

44:30 Critical Infrastructure Fears

47:08 Where to Find Eric and Newsletter

50:08 Final Thoughts

The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Secure Dad, LLC.

The Secure Dad LLC makes every effort to provide accurate, up-to-date information, but no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content in this podcast or any related materials. Information may change over time, and inadvertent errors or omissions may occur. The Secure Dad LLC is not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from the use of, or reliance on, any information provided.

Spies and Cybercrime with Eric O'Neill