The Art of Deception (PDF)

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.