Search Images Maps Play YouTube News Gmail Drive More »
My library | Help | Advanced Book Search | Web History | Sign in

Books

The Art of Deception:

Controlling the Human Element of Security
Front Cover
128 Reviews
John Wiley & Sons, Aug 4, 2011 - Computers - 368 pages
The world's most infamous hacker offers an insider's view of the low-tech threats to high-tech security
Kevin Mitnick's exploits as a cyber-desperado and fugitive form one of the most exhaustive FBI manhunts in history and have spawned dozens of articles, books, films, and documentaries. Since his release from federal prison, in 1998, Mitnick has turned his life around and established himself as one of the most sought-after computer security experts worldwide. Now, in The Art of Deception, the world's most notorious hacker gives new meaning to the old adage, "It takes a thief to catch a thief."
Focusing on the human factors involved with information security, Mitnick explains why all the firewalls and encryption protocols in the world will never be enough to stop a savvy grifter intent on rifling a corporate database or an irate employee determined to crash a system. With the help of many fascinating true stories of successful attacks on business and government, he illustrates just how susceptible even the most locked-down information systems are to a slick con artist impersonating an IRS agent. Narrating from the points of view of both the attacker and the victims, he explains why each attack was so successful and how it could have been prevented in an engaging and highly readable style reminiscent of a true-crime novel. And, perhaps most importantly, Mitnick offers advice for preventing these types of social engineering hacks through security protocols, training programs, and manuals that address the human element of security.
  

What people are saying - Write a review

User ratings

5 stars
36
4 stars
34
3 stars
28
2 stars
12
1 star
7

Review: The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element of Security

User Review  - Nerea Nieto - Goodreads

Good stories and insights, but maybe too long. After a while, the stories turned repetitive after I got the point (do not release information under no circumstance!). Read full review

Review: The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element of Security

User Review  - Brian Lohr - Goodreads

This is a great book for people who are interested in security, hacking, or Kevin Mitnick. It touches on an element of security that is often overlooked (the human element.) The book was very well ... Read full review

All 128 reviews »

Related books

Contents

Foreword
Securitys Weakest Link
When Innocuous Information Isnt
The DirectAttack Just Asking for
Let Me Help You Chapter 6 Can You Help Me? Chapter 7 Phony Sites and Dangerous Attachments
The Reverse Sting
Combining Technology and Social Engineering
Attacks on the EntryLevel Employee
Clever Cons
Industrial Espionage
Information Security Awareness and Training
Recommended Corporate Information Security
Security at a Glance
Sources
Index
Copyright

Common terms and phrases

About the author (2011)

Kevin Mitnick is the founder of Defensive Thinking, an information security firm, and speaks widely on security issues. He has appeared on 60 Minutes and elsewhere in the media, and his exploits have spawned several bestselling books, including The Fugitive Game.

William Simon is the bestselling author of more than twenty books.

Bibliographic information