In today’s computerized world, information security is vital not only for the corporate sector, but for everyone.
Computer users should be aware of the dangers of viruses and more importantly, hackers attempting to steal identities or other private information.
Adrian Crenshaw, technical support provider for the IUS Library, will be speaking at the upcoming DerbyCon International Computer Hackers Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Louisville from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2.
Crenshaw has worked in information technology for the past 12 years in the area of illegal hacking and system penetration.
“I’ve always been interested in computers and computer systems,” Crenshaw said. “I perform penetration testing. This is figuring out the vulnerabilities and weaknesses of programs and systems then figuring out how to fix them.”
Crenshaw has written numerous articles regarding computer hacking, as well as illustrated hacking video tutorials. His website — Irongeek.com — specializes in applying penetration testing and security tools.
He has spoken at national hacking conferences in Las Vegas and Washington, D.C. Crenshaw is known internationally for his work.
“I have quite a following of fans from India,” Crenshaw said. “I found a link to my website in Hindu newspapers and mentioned in numerous books.”
Crenshaw said he recommends users protect themselves from hackers by being cautious of what they download or using pirated software.
“Be careful what you say ‘yes’ to as far as attachments to your e-mails and what you pull off the net,” he said. “Be highly skeptical of ‘free stuff’ also. Don’t just run programs the Internet says to.”
Crenshaw said another important method to avoid being a target involves the way users manage their accounts and passwords.
He said users should apply updates often with up-to-date anti-virus or anti-spyware programs.
“Use separate accounts for different functions,” Crenshaw said. “Use different passwords for each, especially ones which are not easily guessed or closely related to you, such as your pet’s name or birth date, for example.”
Crenshaw is currently working on his master’s in security informatics.
He said he hopes to be employed in the fields of network security, research or teaching.
By JOHN DIDOMENICO
Staff
jdidomen@ius.edu
