By Sarah Thaler
Black Hat is one of the largest security conferences on the planet, which makes it a great target for attackers. Consider Black Hat a hostile environment where everyone is trying to hack you. Better safe than sorry! 🙂
Tip 1: Turn Off Device Connectivity
The #1 tip is TURN OFF WIFI, BLUETOOTH, MOBILE DATA, NFC, LOCATION, ETC. Basically, if it makes a connection to the Internet or another device, turn it off.
Tip 2: Update Those Devices
Update your devices before you travel – phones, tablets, computers, watches,etc.
Tip 3: Keep The Devices OFF
Whenever you are able, turn your phone off completely when at the conference or in the hotel. People have been known to set up fake cell phone ‘towers’. If you must have it on, please adhere to the above steps. Phone calls and SMS messages can be made with mobile data turned off. Treat all conversations and SMS messages while at the conference as public just in case.
Tip 4: Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi
Public and/or unknown WiFi should never be used. There are people at the conference with pineapples and similar WiFi devices in their backpacks using man-in-the-middle to intercept your data. This is the easiest way to compromise you. Do not connect to them or trust them.
Tip 5: If You Must Connect, Be Brief
If you must connect to the Internet, use a VPN. When connected, log in briefly and then get off. Delete all saved SSIDS on your devices and turn off automatic connections.
Tip 6: Protect the Credit Card!
You also want to protect your credit card, mag stripe, RFID, and NFC devices you have on you. This can include all your credit cards and anything with a magstripe in your wallet/purse/backpack/laptop bag. Contactless payment cards are especially vulnerable. Invest in a security credit card sleeve. Charge to your room or use cash.
Tip 7: Be Aware of Social Engineering
Don’t fall for social engineering. With this being a trade show your natural reaction is to expose information upon meeting people. Be mindful of what people are asking and how much information you are giving away. If people start asking about personal information it may be time to drive the conversation elsewhere. Follow your gut, if it doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t.
Tip 8: Same Rules at the Airport
Since most folks will get to Black Hat via Las Vegas airport, the above guidelines are best followed while at the airport as well. Attackers will use what’s easiest and airports are extremely easy targets since folks will let their guard down to connect to some free Internet.
By staying vigilant and following these security tips, you can better protect yourself and your devices while attending Black Hat. Stay safe and enjoy the conference!
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