Allow Some Deny All - Hacking, Coffee, Community

You've decided to attend a hacker con - congratulations! Whether you're a 1337 master hacker, 10X engineer, or curious about the culture after watching the DEF CON documentary or HACKERS, stepping up to your first event can be both thrilling and daunting. This guide aims to help you navigate losing your hacker con virginity with grace and confidence. What Is a Hacker Con? Hacker conferences/conventions, known as hacker cons, are events where cybersecurity professionals, enthusiasts, and hobbyists gather to exchange knowledge, explore the latest exploits and developments, and network with like-minded individuals. Famous examples include DEF CON , Black Hat , BSides , GrrCON , CactusCon , SAINTCON , CypherCon , etc.  Before the Con: Preparation 1. Choose the Right Event Not all cons are created equally! Some cater to niche interests, offering in-depth sessions on topics like reverse engineering, blue/red/purple teams, and artificial intelligence, while others have a b...

Our  [Cybersecurity/Infosec/Hacking] industry presents a paradox as intriguing as it is exasperating. On one hand, it's vital and dynamic, promising the bleeding edge of technology and security. On the other, it's marred by widespread layoffs, entry-level roles adorned by 'CISSP Required', and a mix of burnout, substance abuse, and low salaries. Ample opportunity, yet ever increasingly competitive. Niche requirements alongside expectations of broad and far-reaching knowledge. Academic institutions, training providers, and educational personalities hawking their warez as get-rich-quick schemes.  The only ones getting rich are them, and it's off the back of your wallet. For the many aspiring to join the industry, this brings significant challenges and frustration. Having polled LinkedIn, Twitter, Mastodon , and Discord these were the sentiments and overarching themes I identified. Job Market & Industry Challenges Fiercely competitive, with frequent layoffs and l...