
Eric O'Neill
Strengthen cybersecurity defenses with Eric O'Neill, speaker, FBI counterintelligence expert and AI security specialist. Eric works with organizations to combat cyber threats and prevent espionage, delivering actionable strategies for clients including AT&T, FedEx, and Allstate.

Seattle, United States
Enquire Now
Send us your event details
As a sought-after speaker, Eric shares insights on the rise of cyberattacks and AI-generated threats, offering strategies to protect finances and reputations. His engagements include major companies like Acronis, Allstate, AT&T, Bayer, and FedEx, as well as universities and various associations.
Eric began his career in the FBI after graduating from its Intelligence Program. He spent five years as a field operative in a special surveillance group focused on monitoring terrorists and spies. He then transitioned from “ghosting” targets from the shadows to direct undercover work with a singular assignment—with little backup or support: Catch his new boss, Robert Hanssen, a 25-year veteran of the FBI, in the act of espionage with the Russians. Hanssen died in a supermax prison last year at the age of 79.
Eric's experiences are depicted in the film "Breach". The film explores the greatest security breach in US history, highlighting Eric's undercover work within the FBI’s Information Assurance Division. His story is detailed in his book, "Gray Day: My Undercover Mission to Expose America’s First Cyber Spy".
After serving as a national security strategist, Eric founded The Georgetown Group, a leading investigative and security consultancy in Washington, DC. The firm focuses on counterintelligence, economic espionage, cybersecurity, and risk assessment.
In addition to his consultancy work, Eric is a media commentator, with his insights featured on CNN, Fox, NPR, and other outlets. He holds degrees from Auburn University and George Washington University School of Law. His upcoming book, "The Invisible Threat: Secrets from a Spyhunter in an AI World", is set for release in 2025.
Topics, Sessions And Talks
In this session, cybersecurity expert Eric O’Neill delves into the complexities of data protection in today's digital landscape. He highlights the threats posed by foreign espionage, Dark Web cybercrime, and AI-driven deepfakes, emphasising the urgent need for robust security measures. Drawing from his experience as a former FBI spy hunter, Eric shares true stories and strategies, equipping attendees with essential skills to think like a spy hunter and protect their data effectively.
Eric O’Neill, a real-life FBI cybersecurity expert and renowned spy catcher, offers invaluable insights for leadership teams. He emphasises that "luck is for lottery winners" and teaches attendees how to identify and create opportunities. Eric shares strategies for achieving success despite challenges, managing setbacks, and transforming them into triumphs. He also highlights the importance of time as a precious commodity. Attendees will leave equipped with practical tools to enhance their leadership skills.
In a compelling talk, cyber-security expert Eric O’Neill highlights the urgent need for robust cyber practices, especially as new SEC rules on cybersecurity emerge. With cyber theft projected to reach $12 trillion by 2026 and ransomware attacks on the rise, organisations must prioritise data security. Drawing from his extensive experience as an FBI operative, Eric will equip attendees with practical strategies to safeguard their most valuable asset: information.
In this session, cybersecurity expert Eric O’Neill reveals the alarming threats posed by AI-generated deepfakes, including deceptive kidnapping calls and cyber-extortion schemes. With his engaging storytelling and sharp wit, Eric equips attendees with essential strategies to recognise and combat these sophisticated attacks. Participants will learn how to safeguard themselves and their organisations against the growing risks of AI-driven deception and protect their valuable data.
Looking for a custom keynote or workshop designed around your company’s goals and culture? The expert will create a tailored, interactive session that aligns with your objectives, values, and strategic priorities. From leadership and innovation to wellbeing and collaboration, each experience is built from the ground up to deliver measurable impact and lasting change.
Featured Projects
Gray Day: My Undercover Mission To Expose America'S First Cyber Spy
Book
































Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking an expert speaker, facilitator, host or entertainment for your event.
- If you'd like to book one of our expert speakers, email us at hello@peptalk.com, send us a chat message or give us a call, and we’ll help you out.
- We’ll take your event details — topic, audience, budget, date, and location — and create a custom speaker proposal for you within 48 hours.
- If you already have someone in mind, that’s okay too; just let us know their name! Even if they aren't listed publicly on our website, we have a huge network and work with almost everyone.
- Once you've reviewed our speaker propsal and have selected and expert shortlist, we'll double check availability and fees with your chosen expert.
- You're welcome to have a chemistry call with the speaker before making the final decision, too.
- Next, we'll send out contracts to confirm the booking. One of our experienced event producers will liase with both you and the talent on the finer details, and arrange travel if necessary, taking the stress off your plate.
Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. We work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.
We do not accommodate requests for birthday messages or any other personal, non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.
We work with speakers across a variety of fee ranges, giving you the flexibility to choose someone who fits your event's needs. Virtual keynote fees in the UK and Europe typically start at £2,000, while in-person top-tier speakers can reach £25,000. In the US, virtual in-person fees range from $5,000 to over $100,000, depending on the speaker and format, such as after-dinner talks, conference keynotes, Q&As, or podcasts. Comedians generally start at £1,500 or $2,000 for a 20-minute set.
Our goal is to help you find the speaker who best matches your event’s goals and budget. We take the time to understand your event, objectives, and audience to recommend the right fit. The most expensive option isn’t always the best one, and our priority is finding the ideal speaker or expert for your needs; not the highest-priced one.
Reach out for personalised recommendations and detailed information on specific speaker fees. We’re here to offer a tailored service and are always happy to discuss your unique requirements!
There’s no additional cost for our services beyond the speaker fee — simply contact us to find the right speaker for your next business or team event. We can also work with your corporate procurement team to negotiate favourable long-term rates, simply email hello@getapeptalk.com for more information.
Partnering with PepTalk means elevating your events with our curated roster of top motivational speakers, industry experts, delivering punchy keynotes that leave a lasting impact. From talent selection, to contracts and logistics, we handle it all. We have global expert network, with over 3000 speakers from over 33 countries on our line-up.
We also provide a full range of talent, from event hosts and moderators to interviewers and corporate entertainment, ensuring your event’s success from start to finish.
PepTalk workshops are interactive learning experiences for leaders at all levels, blending theory with practical insights from industry experts. These programs, led by experienced facilitators, are designed to drive real mindset changes and equip participants with actionable skills. Workshops can be customised to meet your organisation's specific needs. Explore our workshop examples and contact us today to learn how your team can benefit.
If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, feel free to email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.






