The Security Catalyst

As we continue to deal with breaches, compliance, privacy initiatives and awareness… we are still vexed by the nagging concern, “Do we have privacy anymore?”

Tomorrow, I’m moderating the September Security Round Table with a panel of experts, including: Martin McKeay, Rebecca Herold, Andrew Hay, Dr. Anton Chuvakin, Dan York

High Level Approach
Our focus is on exploring and addressing the questions of privacy. As we’re working on our outline, we’re preparing to address questions such as:

• Definition of privacy
• How have the attitudes of government and the populace changed privacy in the last decade?
• Does the average end user understand privacy?
• Online databases
• What can we do today and can we recover the privacy we’ve lost (or never had)?

Your Chance to be Involved
What questions do you have? What do you want us to try to answer tomorrow? Send me your ideas, questions and suggestions to: securitycatalyst@gmail.com
PS: Sorry for the late notice. We’ll have more lead time for October (awareness) and the upcoming programs.

By Tricia Santarcangelo

I walked through the World Trade Center at 8:20 a.m. on September 11, 2001. I had done this almost every day for a year. Despite being married to Mr. Security, I never noticed if there were emergency exits, stairs, or other paths to travel. I walked like a member of the flock the same way every day.

When the second plane hit the towers, Michael begged me to get out of the city. I stayed, not because they told me to, not because I was curious and wanted to watch what was happen, but simply because the only way I knew how to get off the island was blocked by two huge towers that were on fire.

Like many people the events of 9/11 changed me, but not in ways I expected. Now when I go anywhere I note where all the exits are, where the fire extinguishers are, and who is around me. I am amazed by how many people are not aware of what is around them.

I believe we have lost our sense of situational awareness and until we find it again, the practice of information protection will continue to struggle.

So today on the anniversary of the day I became aware I challenge you to look around and take it all in, you might be surprised at what you see. Maybe today is your day to become aware.

– Tricia penned this yesterday as we reflected and remembered and wanted to share it with you. Hopefully we can encourage her to offer us more on her perspective of forming the “security mindset.” — Michael

The Security Catalyst Community has been successful migrated to a new server and a new URL.

Please update your bookmarks and join us at:

http://www.securitycatalyst.org/

Why the migration
This is the first of many planned improvements. At this stage, we have elected an interim board to manage the growth and operation of the community. We’re working to establish our mission, vision and a tactical plan to roll out more functionality in the community.

We would love your input and look forward to continued growth.

Regards,
Michael Santarcangelo
Founder and Chief Security Catalyst

http://www.securitycatalyst.org/index.php

PS: We have about 150 active professionals (of nearly 400 users) improving their careers every week. Thanks for your contributions to a successful community!

Internship Opportunities Available with Dynamic, Growth-Oriented Company
Breaches, compliance, privacy and identity theft are major concerns of corporate and public America. Join this dynamic young company focused on information protection and data security. In addition to working with the Security Catalyst team, you will be mentored by Michael Santarcangelo, a highly energetic entrepreneur and professional speaker.

Apply your education and gain valuable business experience. The Media/Production and Research/Writer positions will each receive a stipend. The Sales position is paid on commission.

Audio Producer / Engineer15 to 20 hours per week

Michael Santarcangelo produces regular podcasts and audio programs for general and client use. This position allows you to develop hands-on skills producing and engineering audio programs on a regular broadcast schedule. The selected producer/engineer will work to develop a production schedule and process and be responsible for working with Michael and other talent to record, produce and distribute informative and engaging programming. Credit as a producer/engineer will be given on published audio programs.

Researcher/Writer 15 - 20 hours per week

New legislation, announcements of breaches, innovative strategies… change in information protection happens quickly. Michael Santarcangelo’s blog analyzes and interprets current information protection issues and advocates for a more secure future. The selected Researcher/Writer will work closely with Michael identifying topics for blogging and other outlets, researching the topics and drafting the piece for Michael’s review. Credit as a contributing researcher/writer will be given on published pieces.

Marketing / Sales20 hours per week

This position requires a hunter/closer of intangible products – someone who thrives on working a database and the telephone to systematically develop prospects and close the business. There will be some list development required however, the majority of time will be spent on warm leads. Value of the products ranges from $5000 to $25,000. 5% commission is paid with a bonus once monthly target is reached.

Interested? Send me an email at securitycatalyst@gmail.com to explore next steps.