What if AI-powered security could eliminate human errors in cybersecurity? Meet the founder making it happen.

In this episode of Hackers to Founders, I sit down with Patrick Ben Thomas, the founder of NullZec and its advanced malware development division, Shadow Mask. Patrick shares his journey from early cybersecurity research to building a solution designed to eliminate human errors and prevent malware from spreading. We discuss how his team integrates sandboxing, zero-trust architecture, and in-house malware analysis to isolate and detect threats before they reach end users. He also dives into the offensive research behind Shadow Mask, where they develop real-world exploits to strengthen defenses. Tune in to learn how Patrick is blending adversary simulation with next-gen defense strategies to reshape cybersecurity.

People

• Patrick Ben Thomas (Guest, Founder of NullZec & Shadow Mask)
• Kevin Mitnick (Famous hacker, cybersecurity expert)

Companies & Organizations

• NullZec (Parent company founded by Patrick Ben Thomas)
• Shadow Mask (Malware development & adversary simulation division under NullSec)

Products & Technologies

• HackRF (Software-defined radio device used for security research)
• BladeRF (Full-duplex SDR used for radio frequency security research)
• Proxmark 3 (RFID/NFC security tool for cloning and emulation)
• Flipper Zero (Multi-tool for hardware and RF hacking)
• NFC Kill (Device used to destroy NFC-enabled cards by electromagnetic pulse)

Cybersecurity Events & Conferences

• DEFCON (Hacker conference)
• Black Hat (Cybersecurity conference)
• BSides (Security conference, mentioned as besides)
• RSA Conference (Cybersecurity event)

Cybersecurity Services & Platforms

• VirusTotal (Malware analysis service, mentioned as insufficient for zero-day threats)