Source URL: https://www.cinder.co/blog-posts/north-korean-engineers-in-our-application-pile
Source: Hacker News
Title: 80% of applicants with experience matching our stack were North Koreans
Feedly Summary: Comments
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text discusses the alarming trend of suspected North Korean engineers applying for jobs at US tech companies, posing security risks and legal challenges. The company Cinder, founded by former CIA operatives, shares insights on how to identify and manage such applicants due to their unique expertise and experience in cybersecurity and human rights issues related to North Korea.
Detailed Description:
The provided text highlights a critical security concern for US tech companies, revealing that North Korean engineers are applying for remote positions under deceptive pretenses. Here are the key points discussed:
– **Emergence of a New Threat**:
– North Korean applicants have begun to appear in the U.S. tech job market, often posing as remote workers.
– These applicants are suspected to be working on behalf of the North Korean government to generate revenue for the regime.
– **Implications of Employment**:
– Hiring North Korean workers could violate U.S. sanctions against the North Korean government, potentially leading to legal ramifications for companies that unknowingly employ them.
– **Cinder’s Unique Position**:
– Cinder, co-founded by ex-CIA operatives, leverages its intelligence background to monitor and manage these risks effectively.
– The company aims to build better safety protocols around hiring practices to safeguard against foreign infiltration.
– **Application Patterns Observed**:
– Applications typically lack a verifiable online presence outside job platforms; profiles are crafted with false identities.
– Applicants demonstrate minimal English skills despite holding advanced technical qualifications.
– Red flags during interviews include scripted responses and the absence of substantial work histories.
– **Steps Taken by Cinder**:
– Implemented thorough vetting processes, including internet searches and social media screenings to identify suspicious candidates.
– Engaged security partners to confirm patterns of fraudulent applications resembling North Korean tactics.
– **Cinder’s Current Actions**:
– Continues to encounter suspected North Korean applicants and shares critical information with associated security teams to enhance awareness and preventive measures.
– The company encourages other tech firms experiencing similar issues to reach out for advice and solutions.
This situation presents significant implications for security and compliance professionals within the tech industry, underscoring the necessity for vigilance and robust applicant verification processes to mitigate potential risks associated with hostile foreign entities infiltrating the workforce.