Cryptography--the practice and study of hiding information--is
a technology that we depend on for the safety of our computer
accounts as well as our bank accounts. We are all familiar
with the representative lock icon presented to us in our web
browsers, but do you know how it actually works? Travis
Cardwell, a software architect with LINC Media, Inc. and
mathematics fanatic, will give an introduction to how
cryptography works. Topics will include terminology, popular
algorithms, snake oil, applications, passwords, and attacks.
Software covered will include GPG and TrueCrypt, as well as
cryptographic software included in various operating systems.
There will also be a demonstration of IronKey, “the world’s
most secure flash drive,” which is now available in Japan.
Related links:
http://www.gnupg.org/
http://www.truecrypt.org/
http://www.biosjp.com/ironkey.html
LINC Media, Inc.
http://www.lincmedia.co.jp/
Between meetings, you can keep up with what is happening with TPC by participating in the club newsgroups and mailing lists This is a handy way to stay informed, look for information, or share your knowledge and tips.