The Best Cybersecurity Books for Beginners

In today’s digital age, cyber security has become a critical aspect of our lives. Cyber security refers to the protection of computer systems, networks, applications, and data from cyber threats such as hacking, malware, and phishing attacks. With the rapid advancement of technology, cyber threats have become more sophisticated and prevalent, highlighting the importance of cyber security in today’s society.

Benefits of reading cyber security books

Reading cyber security books is an effective way to enhance knowledge and understanding of cyber security. It provides valuable insights into the latest cyber security trends and equips readers with the necessary skills and strategies to identify potential cyber threats and protect their personal information.

One of the significant benefits of reading cyber security books is that it develops critical thinking skills. By understanding the concepts of cyber security, readers are better equipped to analyze potential threats and take appropriate actions to safeguard their information and systems.

Moreover, reading cyber security books offers extensive knowledge on the latest cyber security trends. It keeps readers up-to-date with emerging threats, new technologies, and innovative solutions that can help them stay ahead of potential cyber-attacks.

How reading cyber security books can benefit businesses

In addition to personal benefits, reading cyber security books can also benefit businesses. It helps in developing a strong security culture within the organization by educating employees on the importance of cyber security and best practices to secure the company’s data and information.

By avoiding data breaches, businesses can save costs associated with repairing the damage caused by cyber-attacks. Investing in cyber security books for employees can save a lot of money that otherwise would have been spent on data recovery, liabilities, and loss of reputation.

Developing robust cyber security practices also helps to build trust between businesses and their customers. By demonstrating effective security measures, businesses can assure their customers that they take data protection seriously, and they can rely on their services and products.

Thoughts on Reading the Best Books to Learn Cyber Security

Reading cyber security books can be an effective way to enhance knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and stay up-to-date with the latest cyber security trends. It is especially beneficial for businesses as it helps in developing a strong security culture and can save costs associated with data breaches. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize cyber security and invest in the right resources, such as cyber security books, to stay protected in today’s digital age.

Best Cyber Security book recommendations

The cyber security textbook listed below are not in any order. Each book has its own areas which carries advantages and relevance to the reader. Let us have a look at 10 of the best books on cyber security.

Exploring the Cult of the Dead Cow: A Professional Explainer

The Cult of the Dead Cow (cDc) is a name that may not be familiar to the average person, but it has played a significant role in shaping the world of hacking and activism. Founded in the late 1980s, the cDc started off as a small group of friends who shared an interest in technology and hacking. Over time, the group evolved and grew, becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of hacking.

The cDc’s early activities and notable members included some of the most talented and innovative hackers of their time. These individuals pushed the boundaries of what was possible with computer technology, developing new tools and techniques that would change the way we think about hacking and cybersecurity.

The mission of the cDc evolved over time, as the group began to focus more on advocacy for online privacy and freedom of speech. They believed that the internet should be a place where people could share their ideas and express themselves freely, without fear of censorship or retaliation.

One of the most notable accomplishments of the cDc was the development of hacking tools and software that were used by hackers and cybersecurity professionals around the world. The cDc’s backdoor Trojan, Back Orifice, was one of the most popular and widely used tools of its kind, allowing hackers to gain access to remote computers and control them from afar.

Despite their many accomplishments, the cDc also faced their fair share of controversies. Criticisms of their tactics and methods were common, as were legal issues related to their hacking activities. There were also accusations of unethical behavior, which some argued went against the group’s mission of promoting greater online freedom and privacy.

Despite these controversies, the cDc’s legacy lives on. Their influence on the hacker community is still felt today, as many hackers continue to draw inspiration from their ideas and values. The cDc’s approach to hacking and activism paved the way for a new generation of hackers who are committed to making the internet a more open and free place for all.

In conclusion, the Cult of the Dead Cow played a significant role in the history of hacking and activism. Their legacy lives on today, as their ideas and values continue to inspire a new generation of hackers and cybersecurity professionals. The cDc will always be remembered as a group that pushed the boundaries of what was possible with technology and fought for greater online freedom and privacy.

Cult of the Dead Cow Chapters

Explanation of Cult of the Dead Cow chapters

cDc has organized itself into various chapters, each of which focuses on a specific area of interest. The chapters are made up of members from all over the world who share a common goal. Some of the most well-known cDc chapters include the Ninja Strike Force, the Goolag Scanner, and the Hacktivismo.

Breakdown of Cult of the Dead Cow chapters in different regions

cDc has chapters in various regions around the world, including North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. The group has been able to expand its reach thanks to the internet, which has allowed members from all over the world to connect and collaborate.

Membership

Requirements to become a member of Cult of the Dead Cow

cDc has a strict set of requirements for membership. Prospective members must prove their technical skills, as well as their commitment to the group’s values. They must also be willing to contribute to the group’s activities and projects.

Demographics of Cult of the Dead Cow members

cDc is made up of members from all walks of life, including students, professionals, and activists. The group is known for its diversity and inclusivity, and it has a strong focus on social justice and human rights.

Activities

Explanation of Cult of the Dead Cow activities

cDc is known for its hacking activities, which are aimed at exposing security weaknesses and promoting the use of secure technologies. The group also creates tools that can be used by security researchers, journalists, and activists. In addition, cDc is known for its writing, which often explores the intersection of technology and society.

Examples of notable Cult of the Dead Cow activities

cDc’s most notable activities include the creation of Back Orifice, a remote administration tool that was widely used in the 1990s, and the formation of Hacktivismo, a group that focuses on the use of technology for social justice causes. The group has also been involved in exposing security flaws in various software programs, including Microsoft Windows.

Controversies

Overview of controversies involving Cult of the Dead Cow

cDc has been involved in several controversies over the years, including allegations of illegal hacking and cybercrime. The group has also been accused of promoting the use of hacking tools for malicious purposes.

Discussion of impact of controversies on Cult of the Dead Cow

Despite the controversies, cDc has continued to grow and evolve over the years. The group has worked to distance itself from illegal activities, while still promoting the use of technology for social justice causes. Today, cDc is recognized as one of the most influential hacking groups in history, and it continues to have a significant impact on the world of cybersecurity.

Reviews:

“The author narrates a fast-paced story about how a little-known movement that could trace its roots to the psychedelic rock of the 1960s-one visionary was the son of the Jefferson Airplane’s drummer, while another was a lyricist for the Grateful Dead-would eventually serve as security advisory for the Pentagon, the cybernetics industry, and geopolitical forces around the globe… A quick tale of black hats and white hats, with a lot of gray area in between.”–Kirkus Reviews

“An invaluable resource. The tale of this small but influential group is a hugely important piece of the puzzle for anyone who wants to understand the forces shaping the internet age.”–New York Times Book Review “This dramatic story of how the Internet’s first hackers learned to handle their outsized abilities can help us grapple to control the power of today’s technology titans.”–Bruce Schneier, Harvard fellow and lecturer and author of Click Here to Kill Somebody

The Code Book: The Science of Secrecy from Ancient Egypt to Quantum Cryptography

Secrecy and cryptography have played a crucial role in human history. From the ancient Greeks to modern-day society, societies have used cryptography to secure sensitive information. In today’s world, secrecy and cryptography are more important than ever before. In the book “The Code Book,” author Simon Singh provides a detailed overview of the history and science of cryptography.

Ancient Cryptography:

Cryptographic methods have been used for centuries by various cultures, including the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans. The Caesar cipher, which involves shifting letters to encode messages, is one of the earliest examples of encryption. The scytale, used by the ancient Greeks, was a cylinder with a strip of parchment wound around it, with the message written across the strip. While these techniques were effective, they were not foolproof, and cryptanalytic techniques were developed to break them.

Modern Cryptography:

Modern cryptography has evolved significantly, thanks to advancements in computer technology. Modern cryptographic techniques, such as RSA, DES, and AES, use complex mathematical algorithms to encode information. These algorithms are resistant to various cryptanalytic techniques, making them more secure. Cryptography is essential in various fields, including national security, finance, and technology.

Cryptanalysis:

Cryptanalysis involves breaking codes and ciphers without the key or password. In the Second World War, the Enigma machine was used to encrypt messages sent by the Germans. However, the British were successful in breaking these codes, thus ensuring victory. Cryptanalysis has significantly evolved since then, with advancements in technology and computer science.

Quantum Cryptography:

Quantum mechanics is the study of the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level. It has provided new methods of encryption that are more complex and secure than modern cryptographic techniques. One such example is quantum key distribution, which involves the use of photons to encrypt information.

Importance of Cryptography

Cryptography has played a vital role in human history and modern society. The field of cryptography is constantly evolving, with new techniques and advancements being made regularly. As society becomes increasingly dependent on the digital world, cryptography will continue to become more important than ever before. The implications of cryptography for privacy, security, and technology cannot be overstated, and its impact will undoubtedly shape the future.

Cryptography is an essential tool for protecting sensitive information, and “The Code Book” provides a comprehensive overview of its history and significance. By exploring the science behind cryptography and the future of quantum cryptography, individuals can better understand how information is kept secure.

While “The Code Book” may be challenging for some readers, it has had a significant impact on cryptography research and has raised public awareness of the importance of this field. As technology advances and new threats emerge, cryptography will continue to play a crucial role in keeping information secure.

Reviews of “The Code Book”

“The Code Book” has received positive reviews from cryptography experts for its thorough coverage of the history of cryptography and its impact on modern society. However, some criticize the book for being too technical and difficult to follow for those without a background in math or science. Despite this, “The Code Book” has had a significant impact on cryptography research and has raised public awareness of the importance of cryptography.

Reviews:

“It would be hard to imagine a clearer or more fascinating presentation. . . . Mr. Singh gives cryptography not only its historical dimension but its human one.” —The New York Times

“Entertaining and satisfying. . . . Offers a fascinating glimpse into the mostly secret competition between codemakers and codebreakers.” —USA Today

“A good read that, bless it, makes the reader feel a bit smarter when it’s done. Singh’s an elegant writer and well-suited to the task of leading the mathematically perplexed through areas designed to be tricky.” —Seattle Weekly

Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World’s Most Wanted Hacker

“Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World’s Most Wanted Hacker” is the autobiography of Kevin Mitnick, a notorious hacker who rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. The book offers a rare glimpse into the world of computer hacking and cyber-security, and provides valuable insights into the vulnerabilities of our digital systems.

Childhood experiences

As a child, Mitnick was fascinated by computers and quickly developed a talent for programming. His first hacking experiences came during his teenage years, when he used his skills to explore the phone system and gain free access to premium services.

Hacking career

Mitnick’s hacking techniques and tactics were based on social engineering, a strategy that involved manipulating people into divulging sensitive information. He used this approach to gain access to computer networks and steal data, often using aliases and fake identities to avoid detection.

Notable hacks and security breaches attributed to Mitnick include stealing the source code for Sun Microsystems’ Solaris operating system, breaking into the National Defense Research Institute, and tapping into the private communication networks of several major corporations.

Legal troubles

Mitnick’s hacking activities eventually caught the attention of the FBI, which launched an investigation that led to his arrest in 1995. He was charged with numerous counts of computer and wire fraud, and spent several years in prison before being released in 2000.

Lessons learned

After his release, Mitnick became a vocal advocate for ethical hacking and cyber-security awareness. He argued that the best way to prevent cyber attacks and data breaches was to understand how they were carried out, and to develop effective countermeasures.

He also stressed the importance of responsible disclosure, where security vulnerabilities are reported to the organizations responsible for fixing them, rather than being publicly exposed for malicious purposes.

Impact of Ghost In The Wires

Ghost In The Wires has had a significant impact on the hacking and cybersecurity communities. The book has shed light on the tactics and techniques used by hackers, and has helped raise awareness about cybersecurity issues. Additionally, Mitnick’s story has inspired many people to pursue careers in cybersecurity. In fact, Mitnick himself has become an advocate for cybersecurity and frequently speaks at conferences and events.

Positive Reviews

Critics have praised Ghost In The Wires for its storytelling and suspense. The book reads like a thriller and is difficult to put down. Additionally, many reviewers have noted that the book offers valuable insight into the world of hacking and cybersecurity.

For example, Wired Magazine called the book “a fascinating and instructive tale of life as a fugitive in the digital age.” Similarly, The New York Times referred to the book as “a gripping story…that offers a window onto the evolution of hacking.”

Reviews:

“Intriguing, insightful and extremely educational into the mind of one who truly mastered the art of social engineering with the use of a computer and modern day technologies. I strongly believe that one can learn a great deal about protecting themselves once they understand how another one perpetrates the crime.”–Frank W. Abagnale, author of Catch Me if You Can

“A gripping story…. Fascinating and filled with insights.”–Jesse Singal, Boston Globe
Praise for Ghost in the Wires

NATIONAL BESTSELLER

“Mr. Mitnick portrays himself as worth rooting for, a savvy master rodent in a cat-and-mouse game, grinning past his whiskers as he stole the cheese from under the nose of the helpless fat cats.”–Steven Levy, Wall Street Journal

“Ghost in the Wires reads like a contemporary über-geeky thriller…. For those interested in computer history, Ghost in the Wires is a nostalgia trip to the quaint old days before hacking (and hackers) turned so malicious and financially motivated.”–J.D. Biersdorfer, New York Times Book Review

The Art of Invisibility

Cybersecurity is an ever-present concern in today’s digital world. With the increasing amount of personal and sensitive data that is stored and shared online, the need for effective cybersecurity measures has never been more important. One resource that has gained recognition for its insights and practical advice on cybersecurity is The Art of Invisibility book by Kevin Mitnick.

Importance of Cybersecurity

The need for cybersecurity has become vital in recent times as businesses and individuals face unprecedented levels of cybercrime activity. Cybersecurity breaches have the potential to compromise sensitive data, disrupt business operations, and cause significant financial losses. Examples of such breaches include WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017, which affected over 300,000 computers in 150 countries and resulted in millions of dollars in losses.

The Art of Invisibility

Published in 2017, The Art of Invisibility is a cybersecurity book that provides practical advice on how to protect personal and business data from cyber threats. The book covers a wide range of topics, starting with the basics of computer security and moving on to more advanced techniques like encryption and online anonymity. The author provides strategies on how to implement these techniques in everyday life and business settings, making the book a valuable resource for both individuals and organizations.

Benefits of Reading The Art of Invisibility

One of the biggest benefits of reading The Art of Invisibility is the increased understanding of cybersecurity threats and how to protect against them. By following the techniques outlined in the book, readers can take proactive measures to safeguard their personal and business data. Moreover, the book empowers individuals and businesses to take control of their cybersecurity, rather than relying solely on outside experts. This self-reliance can ultimately save money and help avoid the negative consequences of cyber attacks.

The Art of Invisibility Chapters

Chapter 1: How To Be Invisible Online

Our digital footprint is essentially the trail of data we leave behind when we use the internet. This can include our search history, social media activity, and even our online purchases. To minimize our digital footprint, we can take a number of steps including using a VPN, avoiding social media, and using privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo. It’s also important to use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly delete old accounts.

Chapter 2: Secure Communications

Encryption is the process of encoding messages so that only the intended recipient can read them. In today’s world, it’s important that we use encrypted communication methods to protect our personal information and sensitive data. This can include using encrypted email services like ProtonMail, messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp, and even using a virtual phone number to protect your physical phone number.

Chapter 3: Privacy in Public

The rise of facial recognition technology has made it easier than ever for companies and governments to track our movements in public places. To protect our privacy, we can take steps such as wearing hats or sunglasses, using a VPN when using public Wi-Fi, and avoiding sharing personal information with strangers.

Chapter 4: Protecting Your Data

Data breaches have become all too common in recent years, so it’s important that we take steps to protect our personal information and financial data. This can include using antivirus software, avoiding clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown files, and regularly backing up your data to the cloud or an external hard drive.

Reviews:

Praise for The Art of Invisibility

“How would it feel to find out that your neighbor and friend has secretly observed you in your own home for years? The place that should be most private to you was not, and the intruder’s devices themselves weren’t something you’d ever have thought to look for. This kind of behavior is the opposite of giving normal people freedom and security, of valuing and respecting them as humans–and it’s happening more and more. The answer to peeping eyes and cyber theft is to move society toward greater cyber-security and it all starts with essential education about being private and invisible in our daily lives. Kevin’s book is the must read in this new world.”–Steve Wozniak, cofounder, Apple Inc.

“The FBI’s most-wanted hacker.”–Wired

“Who better than Mitnick — internationally wanted hacker turned Fortune 500 security consultant — to teach you how to keep your data safe from spear phishing, computer worms, and Fancy Bears?”—Esquire

Social Engineering: The Science of Human Hacking

Social Engineering: Human Hacking’s science shows the craftsmen’s side—why can you hack into anything when you can just beg for access?

In this book, renowned specialist Christopher Hadnagy explains the most frequently used techniques which fool even the most robust security personnel, and shows you how these techniques are employed in the past. Undetectable through firewals and virus software social engineering is based on human fault in order to access sensitive spaces.

The way we decide as human beings influences everything from feeling to safety. Hackers have been looking since the beginning for ways of making use of these decision-making processes and having you do action that does not serve your interests. In this new Second Edition, tales, anecdotes and scientific studies have been updated with the latest ways for sharing choices.

There is no hackable software, no hardware upgrades, no Code that can lock information permanently if a person is a “system” at issue. Nets and systems can also be hacked but can also be secured. The key weapon of malevolent social engineering is human nature and emotion, and this book shows you how to identify, foresee and resist such manipulation by placing you in a suitcase.

Reviews:

Fascinating book covering psychology, science, body language and street smarts

“I came to this book having listened to some podcasts and read a few blogs and books on social engineering, including all of Kevin Mitnick’s books. This book is a real eye opener and is very methodical in its treatment of the topic. Everything in the book seems genuine and rooted in the real experience of the author. I’ve no doubt that if you put into practice just a small number of his techniques, you would be successful. Its got practical uses also outside of the area of penetration testing too – such as for getting a better understanding of how to more effectively deal with high pressure situations.” – Harvey Green (Amazon Verified Purchase)

Perfect read for wannabe social engineers, and those working in SE already

“This is a great introduction to social engineering, or reminder for those already working in the field. The examples and real life stories help bring the points raised to life. I can’t recommend this book enough. “ – Steve Mair (Amazon Verified Purchase)

Fascinating book covering psychology, science, body language and street smarts

“ I came to this book having listened to some podcasts and read a few blogs and books on social engineering, including all of Kevin Mitnick’s books. This book is a real eye opener and is very methodical in its treatment of the topic. Everything in the book seems genuine and rooted in the real experience of the author. I’ve no doubt that if you put into practice just a small number of his techniques, you would be successful. Its got practical uses also outside of the area of penetration testing too – such as for getting a better understanding of how to more effectively deal with high pressure situations. “ – Harvey Green (Amazon Verified Purchase).

The Hacker Playbook 3: Practical Guide to Penetration Testing

The Hacker Playbook 3 (THP3) will push your offensive game back to the pro level for the third season. You may position yourself in the heart of the action for victory with a combination of fresh methods, assaults, exploits, tips and tricks.

This book mainly aims at answering queries as to why things are still broken. How do we continue to see enormous security violations in big businesses and governments with all the varied safety products, secure code reviews, in-depth defensive and penetration test requirements? The fundamental issue we have to ask is: are all the guarantees that we put in place? It’s all about The Hacker Playbook 3 – Red Team Edition.

We all know penetration tests today, but what’s a Red Team exactly? Red teams mimic sophisticated attacks in the actual world to see how successfully defence teams in your company react if you are violated. You discover answers to questions like, do you provide the appropriate tools, skills and people to identify and mitigate these threats in your incident response teams? How long would these chores take and is it sufficient? You, as a Red Teamer, come here to test the entire security software correctly and validate it.

Review:

Fantastic Book. Tips & Tricks. VM for practice

At the time I bought THP2 and I loved it. A friend who bought THP3 left it to me and seeing all the new material that it incorporates, I also bought it. Although I have already read it, it is just to buy my copy of the book. I recommend it for everyone who starts or even has some experience and if you like this series of books, I would also recommend the Sparc Flow books. I hope there is a THP4 and that it was focused on how to defend our Microsoft infrastructure, what events to monitor, solutions to consider to fight against redteam, etc. (Okay, there is a lot of information on Google but … what would Peter Kim do? This book, unlike the rest I have read, includes virtual machines to do the practices and is a great success. –  Fco. Jabier C. (Amazon Verified Purchase).

Good for beginners

Very detailed – Adam (Amazon Verified Purchase).

So far so good

I’ve been reading the book for a while and just finished the discovery section. So far I’m pleased with the content of the book, it can sometimes be a little light on description and instructions, but overall it’s very informative and the tools that are described within are very useful. It’s one of the better books I’ve read about pen testing, I’d give it a 4.5/5 and definitely recommend it to people who have a decent understanding of computers and security but are light on practical knowledge and experience of pen testing. –  John Smith (Amazon Verified Purchase).

Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to Hacking

In penetration testing, Georgia Weidman, a security researcher and coach, offers you a study of essential skills which each aspiring expert requires. This book is easy to start with and helps you explore Kali Linux, an operating system which has pre-loaded helpful computer security tools such as Metasploit and Wireshark. You will get knowledge on a goal collection, social engineering, network traffic capture, vulnerability analysis, exploit development and more. Even sophisticated issues, such as mobile security devices and anti-viral software, are discussed in handy examples.

Reviews:

A concise and approachable introduction to pentesting

This is probably the best introduction to pentesting book out there, and in the absence of a guide aligned with Offensive Security’s notorious and esteemed OSCP certification, it is also the best option for anyone preparing for that course. Admittedly some of the links no longer work, but workarounds for them are easy to find if you have a search online, which is probably a skill you should be getting comfortable with if you’re going down this road anyway. Weidman has mentioned on her Twitter feed that she’s currently researching new vulnerabilities and material for the second edition, but I wouldn’t expect to see that in the near future. Check out her free videos on Cybrary as well – her Advanced Penetration Testing course closely mirrors the layout of this book. –  T Tennyson (Amazon Verified Purchase).

Essential reading to learn Pentesting

I decided to learn Pentesting/Ethical Hacking as a retirement project and this is the only book that actually starts at the begining, and explains in detail how to setup a testing lab on a single machine, so you can actually do some REAL testing. I’m also impressed that the book sticks to it’s title and is about Pentesting and doesn’t waste hundreds of pages on Coding which is how other Pentesting books fill far too many pages. I have several other Pentesting books but this way ahead of them all. –  artuk (Amazon Verified Purchase).

An eye-opening read showing how easy it can be to get into pentesting

“A very informative read which filled in some gaps in my security knowledge, having worked on the “other side” as a firewall engineer.Some of the assets required for the exercises in the book were no longer available in their original locations. However, I saw a tweet from the author in 2018 saying to just email her and she would send a link over. I did this and Georgia responded within 3 hours, which was impressive. I believe she is working on an updated version of the book, which I will buy as soon as it is out. ” – Marc McLaughlin (Amazon Verified Purchase).

Metasploit: The Penetration Tester’s Guide

“Metasploit Framework’s Best Guide.” —HD Moore, Metasploit’s Founder The Metasploit Framework quickly and very painlessly detects, exploits and shares vulnerabilities. But although Metasploit is widely used by security pros, it is difficult for the first time to comprehend the programme. Metasploit: This is filled by Penetration Tester’s guide, which famous hacker teaches you how to use the framework and to interact with Metasploit’s lively community.

You will understand the conventions, interfaces and module systems of the Framework when you start simulated assaults once you have established your base for penetrating testing. You will continue to use advanced technology such as network recognition and listing, customer-side attacks, wireless attacks and targeted assaults on social engineering.

Learn how to:

Uncontrolled, misconfigured and unpatched systems are found and exploited. Recognize your objective and locate important information Bypass anti-virus technology and bypass safety measures Integration of Metasploit with Nmap, NeXpose and Nessus to automate discovery Use the Meterpreter shell to perform further network attacks Utilities, third-party programmes and plug-ins are automatically installed Learn how to create your own modules and scripts for your own Meterpreter. You’ll even touch on zero-day research exploitation, create a fuzzer, put existing vulnerabilities into the framework and learn how to hide your tracks. Metspaid: The Penetration Tester Guide takes you here and beyond, be it to safeguard your own networks or test anyone else.

Reviews:

“It’s a great book to get people started, has examples to walk through, and includes more advanced topics for experienced users.”
— Dark Reading

Perfect for someone who is just starting out in security. This book has the honor of being named “the best guide to the Metasploit framework” by Metasploit founder H.D. Moore himself. Not only does the book provide a great crash course into using the powerful Metasploit framework, but it’s also useful for doing vulnerability research.
–Britt Kemp, Bishop Fox Labs

Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition [With CDROM]

Hacking is the skill of solving a creativity challenge, be it finding an unorthodox solution to a tough problem or using troubleshooting. Many call themselves hackers, but very few have the necessary solid technical basis to push the limit genuinely.

The author, Jon Erickson, shows how esoteric hacking techniques truly function, rather than just teach how to operate current exploits. Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd edition presents the foundations of C programming from a hacker’s point of view to convey the art and science of hacking in a way accessible to everyone.

Use it to follow the examples in the book by filling gaps in your knowledge and exploring hacking techniques yourself. Get your hands dirty debug code, overflow buffers, hijack network traffic, overcome safeguards, take advantage of cryptographic faults, and maybe even develop new vulnerabilities. You will learn in this book how:

• C, assembly language, and shell scripting programme computers
• Corrupt system memory to use buffer overflows and strings in arbitrary code
• Register the processor and the system memory with a debugger to learn more about what happens.
• Intelligent common safety measures such as inexecutable stacks and detecting systems for incursion
• Use a port binding or connect-back code to contact a remote server and change the logging behaviour of a server to disguise your presence
• Redirect network traffic, disguise open ports and hijack TCP access
• Encrypted wireless communications via FMS attack, and by employing a password probability matrix accelerate raw force attacks

Hackers always push the limits, examine the unknown and their work evolves. Hacking: the art of exploitation, the second edition, gives you a full understanding of the programming, machine architecture, network connections and existing hacking techniques, even if you don’t already understand what to programme. Combine this knowledge with the Linux environment and your own imagination is all you need.

Review:

“A security professional’s paradise, burrowing down to the code level of dozens of different loopholes and explaining the underlying logic behind the attacks.”
–Wired

Excellent introduction

The techniques themselves and the systems at which they are targeted are (largely) long gone, but it is a great introduction to the basic techniques. For those worried about the fact that the CD is out of date, I found it was straightforward to get hold online and upload the required software (VirtualBox and the book code) at no cost. – J. Reffin (Amazon Verified Purchase).

Cyber Security Policy Guidebook

Cyber security policy guidebook details and discerns, in a simple language, current issues related to organisational cyber security policies globally, drawing on many experiences from academia, industry and public service – and provides readers with an educational background on history and current approaches to cyber security. It contains detailed explanations as well as the advantages and disadvantages of several topics and records policy choices for clarity solely with regard to policy. The Guidebook also explores the organisational problems of implementation and provides readers with positive and adverse effect descriptions of some policy options.

Detailed chapters are within which:

Explain what cyber security and cyber security policies are all about. Discuss how cyber security policy objectives are to be defined Train the reader on cyber security decision making procedures To describe cybersecurity policy concerns a new framework and nomenclature Show how the United States government addresses cyber security policy problems The cyber security policy guidebook offers students, academics, and technicians the essential information to make educated judgments on cyber security policies, in terms of the layman’s terminology and illustrations that assist clarify complicated issues.

Review:

“This very readable and organized guidebook equips readers with a consistent methodology for turning their answers to those questions into cyber security policy.”  (Computing Reviews, 24 April 2013)

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