The Art of Deception

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.

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.

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.

At the heart of Dreadmore Manor lies a gallery of haunted masterpieces. Every canvas a whisper, each sculpture a secret. On every quarter century, four are chosen to compete for its inheritance. This time, Alexandria Blanchet is among them. Invited under the guise of study, Alexandria and her rivals must endure a year of cryptic lessons, arcane trials, and perilous games. Where knowledge is currency, deception is art, and only one can claim the prize. The rules are simple: Use whatever advantage you can. Trust no one. Never forget the paintings are alive. And remember, only one needs to survive the year to claim the keys. But as Alexandria becomes entangled with Sebasti?n, the charming archivist at the local historical society and drawn into a dangerous enticement with Evander, a rival whose secrets run as deep as his gaze...pale blue, like the still light in Monet's Water Lilies. She begins to blur the lines between truth, loyalty, and desire. In a world where magic lingers in brushstrokes and betrayal is just another medium, Alexandria must decide what she's willing to lose to win. Perfect for fans of The Atlas Six and Ninth House, The Art of Deception is a tale of art, ambition, and the dangerous games we play for legacy and for love.

At the heart of Dreadmore Manor lies a gallery of haunted masterpieces. Every canvas a whisper, each sculpture a secret. On every quarter century, four are chosen to compete for its inheritance. This time, Alexandria Blanchet is among them. Invited under the guise of study, Alexandria and her rivals must endure a year of cryptic lessons, arcane trials, and perilous games. Where knowledge is currency, deception is art, and only one can claim the prize. The rules are simple: Use whatever advantage you can. Trust no one. Never forget the paintings are alive. And remember, only one needs to survive the year to claim the keys. But as Alexandria becomes entangled with Sebasti?n, the charming archivist at the local historical society and drawn into a dangerous enticement with Evander, a rival whose secrets run as deep as his gaze...pale blue, like the still light in Monet's Water Lilies. She begins to blur the lines between truth, loyalty, and desire. In a world where magic lingers in brushstrokes and betrayal is just another medium, Alexandria must decide what she's willing to lose to win. Perfect for fans of The Atlas Six and Ninth House, The Art of Deception is a tale of art, ambition, and the dangerous games we play for legacy and for love.