Episode 136: Magic Cat (Part 1)

Magic Cat (part 1) with security researchers Erlend Leiknes and Harrison Sand 

Darcula is a phishing-as-a-service operation targeting victims globally. Over the past 1.5 years, mnemonic researchers and an international investigative reporting team have been looking into the technology, operations and individuals connected to this crime group.

In this episode, Robby speaks with mnemonic's Erlend Leiknes and Harrison Sand about the findings from their technical investigation, offering a rare look behind the scenes of this global phishing-as-a-service operation utilising the phishing kit Magic Cat.

The research unveils hundreds of thousands of victims spanning the globe, unique technical insight into the software enabling hundreds of criminal subscribers, and a glimpse into the flashy lifestyle of the operators.

This podcast was recorded in April. On May 4th, Norwegian media agency NRK, together with French Le Monde and German BR released the first of their multi-part global investigation into the prominent people behind the phishing operation. The investigation brings them to Thailand, where they attempt to confront Darcula, and learn more about the inner workings of the scam central.

Listen to Part 2 to hear how this story progresses as Robby interviews investigative journalist Martin Gundersen from NRK.

mnemonic's technical blog about Magic Cat.

Inside the Scam Network at NRK.

The Hunt for Darcula at NRK.