Def Con is the United States largest hacking convention. Def Con 2015 will hold a hacking contest based around IoT. "Things" will be obliterated. (via DefCon)
Though malware and computer breaking viruses are still concerns for tech users, cyber attacks are becoming a large threat. With so much technology relying on the internet, hackers are finding new ways to access them. Internet connected devices, such as phones and tablets, will be put to the test at this year's Def Con, the largest hacker convention in the United States, held August 23 in Las Vegas. This year, the convention will host an Internet of Things (IoT) Village, which provides a place for hackers to discuss, build, and break IoT devices. The goal of the village is to show “how secure (or insecure) IP-enabled embedded systems are. Routers, network storage systems, cameras, HVAC systems, refrigerators, medical devices, smart cars, smart home technology, and TVs – if it is IP-enabled, we're interested,” according to IoTVillage's website.
The event will be organized by Independent Security Evaluators (ISE), who previously ran a router hacking contest called SOHOpelessly Broken at Def Con 2014. Similar to that contest, there will be prizes involved. In order to qualify, participants will have to find previously unknown weak points in popular off-the-shelf internet enabled devices. Then they are expected to report any flaws found to the affected manufacturers before presenting them at the contest, meaning they can register their results with contest organizers prior to the convention.
The IoT Village will also feature an objective-based contest based on a Capture the Flag model. There will also be workshops and talks about IoT device security, defenses, and management. The event is open to non-hackers as well. If you have an interest in technology and security, then the IoT Village and Def Con may be something to look in to.
Def Con started in 1993 by hacker and computer expert Jeff Moss. It was originally meant to be a party for one of his friends who was a member of Platinum Net, a Fido based hacking network in Canada. Plans changed when Moss' friend shut down his network early and left the country. Rather than canceling the event, Moss invited other members of Cyber Crimes International, Hit Net, Tired of Protection, and other security groups. The event grew from there and has been active ever since.
To see more about Def Con - see their website. If you do decide to go, I recommend leaving your phone at home.
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