In the heart of the scorching Nevada desert, every August heralds an event that beckons hackers, law enforcement officers, and cybersecurity consultants from all around the world: Hacker Summer Camp. This unique gathering is a convergence of minds, an exchange of knowledge, and a celebration of the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. This year, I was fortunate enough to pack my bags, and feel that desert air in my hair, and embark on an exhilarating journey to attend DEF CON 31.
Six years had passed since I had last ventured into this electrifying realm. Back then, I was a wide-eyed second-year cybersecurity student, attending DEF CON 25 for the very first time. I was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the event and the wealth of knowledge that surrounded me. Fast forward to the present, and I was returning to DEF CON as an experienced Cybersecurity Consultant, armed with a newfound perspective.
In the words of Jeff Moss, the founder of DEF CON: “If you expect the con to come to you, you may be disappointed, but if you take a little initiative and explore areas you may not be familiar with, and talk to people, your Con experience could be completely different than what you expected.” Indeed, at DEF CON, the unexpected often turns out to be the most rewarding.
LineCon: The official prelude to DEF CON
An essential part of the DEF CON experience begins before you even step inside the venue. It’s a phenomenon affectionately known as ‘LineCon’. While the world of technology may be filled with digital advances, DEF CON remains a cash-only event. This means that, traditionally, attendees had to brave the lines before the sun rose or even after a long night to secure their event ticket.
Things have evolved somewhat since the onset of Covid-19, with the introduction of short window of online ticket pre-booking. However, the line is still very much a part of the DEF CON ritual. Here, you’ll get your first taste of the unique DEF CON culture, a blend of camaraderie, anticipation, and perhaps just a touch of sleep deprivation.
Meet the Goons: Your guide through DEF CON
In these early morning queues, you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the most iconic characters of DEF CON, the Goons. Easily recognisable in their vibrant red shirts, these individuals may seem eccentric, but they play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the event.
While waiting, you’ll be entertained by Goons who’ve mastered the art of turning lines into lively social gatherings. Expect impromptu games, inflatable beach balls floating around, and a sense of community that begins to form long before you enter the conference doors.
The DEF CON experience unveiled
Once inside the DEF CON venue, you’ll find yourself immersed in an electrifying atmosphere. With over 30,000 attendees each year, it’s a bustling hub of activity and innovation. However, it’s essential to prepare for the realities of such a large-scale event, especially during the peak of summer in Las Vegas. As you might imagine, not everyone is going to smell like roses in the desert heat.
To navigate this unique gathering successfully, you’ll want to pay close attention to DEF CON 101. This talk is a must-attend, particularly if it’s your first time at the conference. It’s here that you’ll discover the unspoken rules that ensure everyone’s enjoyment. The ‘3-2-1 rule’ takes centre stage: aim for at least three hours of sleep, two meals a day, and the non-negotiable – one shower a day.
Talks attended at DEF CON
At DEF CON 31, I had the privilege of attending several captivating talks that delved into the intriguing world of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. Two of these talks stood out as particularly noteworthy.
- “Look Ma I’m the CEO! Real-time Video & Audio Deep Fake!” by Gal Zror
Gal Zror’s presentation was a proof of concept that took us deep into the realm of deep fakes. With the rise of this technology, it’s essential to understand how it works and the tools available to create convincing video and audio deep fakes. The talk shed light on the potential risks and challenges associated with this emerging technology.
- “The Tetra – Tour De Force – Jailbreaking Digital Radios and Base Stations for Fun and Secrets” by Midnight Blue
Midnight Blue’s talk was a tour de force indeed. Exploring the world of digital radios and base stations, the presentation showcased how these devices could be jailbroken and it was a fascinating journey into the inner workings of digital communication systems along with proofs of concept.
Exploring the villages
Beyond the talks, DEF CON offers a diverse range of villages. I ventured into these vibrant communities to explore, learn, and connect.
Cryptography and Privacy Village
Here, I delved into the intricacies of cryptography, privacy, and the latest developments in secure communication. It’s a hub of knowledge for those interested in safeguarding digital privacy.
Packet Hacking Village
This village provided an opportunity to sharpen skills in network and packet analysis.
Car Hacking Village
The world of automotive security came alive in this village. I observed experts tackling the security challenges of modern vehicles.
Physical Security Village
My journey through the Physical Security Village led me to explore the art of lock picking. It was a hands-on experience that offered valuable insights into physical security vulnerabilities.
Supporting the community: Visiting vendors
DEF CON also provided a platform to support organisations close to my heart. I visited various vendors, including:
Women in Security and Privacy:
Empowering and promoting women in the cybersecurity field, this vendor’s mission resonated with me.
OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) and Black Hills Information Security:
Exploring the latest in web application security and cybersecurity tools was an enlightening experience.
Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF):
As a strong advocate for digital rights and online freedoms, I couldn’t miss the opportunity to connect with EFF.
An unforgettable experience
DEF CON is a colossal and all-encompassing conference, from the early morning talks to the nighttime parties, and even the unexpected moments like the bomb scare this year. It’s a whirlwind of knowledge, networking, and excitement that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
One thing to keep in mind for anyone planning to attend is that it’s impossible to experience everything in one visit. Careful planning and prioritising are key to making the most of your DEF CON journey. And rest assured, it will leave you eager to return for more adventures in the world of cybersecurity.
A grateful note of thanks to BH Consulting
Before I wrap up this journey through DEF CON 31, I want to express my sincere gratitude to BH Consulting. They not only provided me with the opportunity to attend this exceptional event but have consistently supported my growth in the cybersecurity industry.
Anne-Marie O’Donnell is a Senior Cybersecurity Consultant with BH Consulting
About the Author: Anne-Marie O'Donnell
