Understanding the Risks: Is Safe Computing Possible?
Robert D. Cowles, SLAC, Stanford, USA

Each new advance of technology gives the first advantages to the attackers before our knowledge and protective tools catch up. A good example we will look at is wireless network access. Many people see the convenience and don't appreciate the ease with which their personal information can be compromised or their computers attacked while on a wireless network. Similar considerations apply to internet cafes or other places where many people use the same computer.

Even being relatively safe in the current environment means understanding enough about the technology of encryption to take reasonable protective measures; however, we find that even experienced and technically knowledgable people make very basic mistakes. Is it surprising that 70% of the ordinary population will tell someone their password in exchange for a cup of coffee?

Is there a solution so we can finally be safe? This talk discusses new technologies and some risks to be aware of as you rush to take advantage of the additional features and convenience they afford.

Biography

Robert D. Cowles is the Computer Security Officer at a leading US research laboratory. He believes it is important to balance security with the needs of a creative, open environment that allows productive but safe work by international collaborations of scientists. He is currently involved with efforts to create a secure computing environment for computational and data grids within Europe, the Americas and Asia-Pacific.