Most people think cyber security is all about firewalls and hacking. But there is a hidden side of the industry that few talk about. It involves counterterrorism, human trafficking, organised crime, and intelligence work that often remains classified.

In this episode, I speak with Hayley Van Loon, Deputy CEO of Crimestoppers International and former intelligence officer. She shares what it is really like working at the intersection of cyber security and national security. We cover real-world cases, including the disturbing truth behind counterfeit goods and how they fund terrorism and human trafficking.

Hailey explains how collaboration across agencies is critical, what skills are actually needed to succeed in this space, and why emotional resilience matters more than a fancy degree. We also dive into the realities of working in intelligence, the psychological toll of seeing the worst of humanity, and what keeps professionals in this field going.

If you have ever been curious about cyber crime analysis or wanted a career that makes a real impact, this episode will open your eyes to a side of cyber security that rarely gets attention.

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