From ZX Spectrum to Google: The Hilarious Journey of VirusTotal’s Founding Father
Discover how Bernardo Quintero’s obsession with computers led to the creation of VirusTotal, a cornerstone in threat intelligence. Infected offers a candid look at how this passion project caught Google’s eye, transforming cybersecurity. Perfect for first-time entrepreneurs and security pros alike, it’s a must-read for tech enthusiasts.

Hot Take:
If you thought a ZX Spectrum was just a relic from the Stone Age of computing, think again! Bernardo Quintero’s journey from a small-town tinkerer to selling VirusTotal to Google is the ultimate underdog story. It’s like Silicon Valley meets The Little Engine That Could, with a side of cybersecurity flair. Grab some popcorn; this tale has more twists and turns than a hacker’s roadmap!
Key Points:
- Bernardo Quintero’s book, “Infected,” chronicles the creation of VirusTotal and its acquisition by Google.
- VirusTotal started as a personal project in Málaga, Spain, and evolved into a global malware scanning service.
- The book highlights the colorful journey of VirusTotal, including competitive acquisition offers from CrowdStrike and Google.
- Despite its rich backstory, “Infected” leaves out details of VirusTotal’s integration into Google’s ecosystem.
- The book is a must-read for cybersecurity enthusiasts, offering insight into the industry’s human side and entrepreneurial spirit.
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