For nearly two decades, security technologist Bruce Schneier has maintained a quirky, consistent online tradition: Friday Squid Blogging. On February 20, 2026, he continued the practice with a post featuring a squid cartoon, inviting readers to use the space to discuss current security news he hadn’t yet covered. This weekly ritual, which began in 2007, has develop into a recognizable fixture in the cybersecurity community and beyond, offering a lighthearted break alongside serious discussions of digital safety.
Schneier, a fellow at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet &. Society at Harvard University, is well-known for his writings on cryptography, security, and privacy. His blog, Schneier on Security, is a widely-read resource for experts and the public alike. The Friday Squid Blogging posts, while seemingly whimsical, serve as a unique engagement tool, fostering a community around his work and providing a platform for broader conversations about information security. The tradition began nineteen years prior to the February 2026 post, with only a few exceptions over the years, according to Schneier’s own account from January 3, 2025.
The Enduring Appeal of Friday Squid Blogging
The origins of the Friday Squid Blogging tradition are somewhat mysterious, but it quickly gained a following. The posts consistently feature something related to squid – images, news articles, videos, or simply a thought about the cephalopods. The seemingly random nature of the topic is part of its charm, creating a contrast with the often-serious subject matter of Schneier’s blog. This juxtaposition allows for a more relaxed and open discussion, encouraging readers to share their thoughts on a variety of topics.
As Schneier notes in his February 20th post, the squid blog is also a space for discussing security stories he hasn’t had time to address directly. This provides a valuable outlet for readers to bring important issues to his attention and engage in peer-to-peer discussion. The post generated five comments as of February 21, 2026, demonstrating continued engagement with the tradition.
Squid and Security: An Unlikely Pairing
The connection between squid and security might seem tenuous, but Schneier has never explicitly explained the reasoning behind the theme. Some speculate it’s simply a personal interest, while others suggest it’s a deliberate attempt to create a memorable and unusual brand for his blog. Regardless of the reason, the association has proven remarkably durable. The posts often serve as a reminder that even in the complex world of cybersecurity, there’s room for humor and unexpected connections.
Beyond the cartoon shared on February 20th, previous Friday Squid Blogging posts have covered a range of topics. On August 29, 2025, a post detailed a first-person account of accidentally catching Humboldt squid while fishing, as reported by Cyber Private Investigations. This illustrates the diverse range of content that falls under the “squid” umbrella, highlighting the open-ended nature of the blog’s theme.
Blog Moderation Policy
Schneier maintains a clear blog moderation policy, outlining the rules for commenting on his posts, including the Friday Squid Blogging series. This policy ensures a respectful and productive environment for discussion, allowing readers to engage with each other and with Schneier himself in a constructive manner.
The enduring popularity of Friday Squid Blogging speaks to the power of consistency and community building. Schneier’s willingness to embrace a quirky tradition has created a unique space for discussion and engagement, solidifying his position as a leading voice in the cybersecurity world. The tradition continues to provide a regular, lighthearted touchpoint for his audience, while simultaneously serving as a platform for important conversations about digital security.
Looking ahead, readers can expect another Friday Squid Blogging post next week, continuing the nearly two-decade-long tradition. Schneier’s blog remains a valuable resource for staying informed about the latest developments in cybersecurity, and the Friday Squid Blogging series offers a unique and engaging way to participate in the conversation.
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