The evolution of transhumanism in cybersecurity
The fascinating intersection of transhumanism and cybersecurity is breaking new ground in the tech world, as highlighted in my podcast episode 103, “Cyborg,” featuring Len Noe. In our conversation, we explore the idea of humans integrating technological components into their bodies—transforming into what we commonly refer to as “cyborgs.” This revolutionary concept is based on the belief that humans can overcome their physical limitations through technology.
Transhumanism is the idea that humans can and should evolve beyond their current physical and mental constraints using technological advancements. With rapid progress in AI, cybernetics, and biotechnology, transhumanism is no longer confined to science fiction – it’s becoming an emerging reality. Len, a technical evangelist at CyberArk and a self-proclaimed transhumanist hacker, embodies this evolution. As the world’s first transhumanist hacker, he uses implant technology to push the boundaries of security.
“I decided that, you know, I had to change everything,” Len shares, reflecting on his personal journey from black hat hacker to ethical hacker.
Intricacies of embedded technology
“I started with wearables,” Len recalls, explaining how he first explored contactless tech. The move from NFC rings to permanent implants marked a key milestone in his transhumanist journey. “From there, my father being the man that he is, I’ve had a 386,” Len says, reflecting on his early tech experiences.
As our conversation moves forward—sharing stories about hacker summer camps and unique tech bars—the discussion naturally shifts to the practical use of embedded technology. Len shares his own experiences with implanted tech, using multiple devices that enhance security and offer personal convenience.
These embedded devices often operate through induction, relying on external sources for power. “They get their power from the receivers, not the devices themselves,” Len explains. While efficient for some uses, this method has its limits, driving Len’s current work on a single-board computer designed for implantation—a project aimed at taking human-machine integration to new levels.
Ethical and security implications
While the idea of integrating technology into the human body sounds exciting, it brings up important ethical and security concerns. Transhumanism challenges traditional ideas about human abilities and raises new questions about privacy, autonomy, and individual rights. Len and I discuss how personalized technology could open new risks for cyberattacks.
“Even if you have your Wi-Fi disabled, it will turn back on and connect to the predefined SSID and password,” Len warns, showing how implanted tech could be vulnerable. The reality of cybernetic enhancements means we need to rethink security protocols and ethical standards.
A big question is whether society is ready to accept people with augmented abilities or if fear and misunderstanding will create resistance. “Once these enhancements become superior, there will be a desire to adopt this technology,” Len predicts, suggesting that bio-engineered upgrades could become popular rather than feared.
Pioneering the path forward
The path of transhumanism is driven by curiosity, experimentation, and, importantly, ethical reflection. Len’s transformation, motivated by a desire for personal growth and discovery, mirrors a larger trend in how humanity might evolve.
As implant technology advances, it challenges us to reconsider what it means to be secure and even what it means to be human. As the lines between man and machine continue to blur, we are invited to think about our place in this changing digital landscape.
Transhumanism is not just a technological shift, it’s a philosophical one. Through stories like Len’s, we gain a deeper understanding of the transhumanist view and the significant effects it could have on the future of technology, cybersecurity, and human identity.
