Addictions

Lesson Learned: Never Ask Strangers About #DefCon - #Lulz Edition

2011-09-09T16:30:00.000-07:00

I think part of it is definitely a generations thing. There are plenty of younger people who would still sound as clueless as some of the people you talked to but as these people who are growing up with the internet and especially all the hacktivism in the news, eventually the perception will change.

A perfect example, I just saw a story today about a 10yr who was at Defcon, who found iOS and Android security bug. Gizmodo story

There will always be misconceptions and uneducated assumptions by people who have no interest in learning the reality. I think eventually that will change with the generations growing up with more technology. A personal example, I first got access to the internet when I was 17 and I learned how to do a lot of basics with using code via IRC without any realization the application of learning it beyond inserting sounds, going invisible, and bunch of other misc things into IRC chat. So of course when i stopped using IRC I didn't retain that information after not using a computer for months upon entering the military and had no idea that I was already building a foundation for my eventual career in IT.

Most of us who work in IT know how the perception is with family and friends who assume you have the magic pixie dust to fix all their computer problems and how, provided they can retain it, showing them some of the basics demystify using the computer and/or internet.

The biggest obstacle has been and will always be breaking that perception to people who have zero interest in anything computer/IT based. Eventually they will be the minority and it won't be as big of a deal as it still is.

Christian Drug Treatment Program

2011-09-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

A Christian drug treatment program provides spiritual reflection with faith-based rehabilitation by using Biblical principles in helping the patient overcome drug and alcohol addition. These programs use scriptural teachings to center in on healing, where healing of the mind, body, and spirit is the concept. Family counseling is also provided through these programs because the effects of a chemical addiction rebound upon the entire family unit when one family member is suffering. Scripture teaching through a Christian drug treatment center can work to bring hope and healing for a bad situation.

Some counselors offer professional skills that have helped others overcome addictive powers. With proven and tried methods that have brought relief to others suffering from addictions, participating in a Christian drug treatment program is a good decision. A Christian drug treatment center provides education in chemical dependency and takes the patient through a step-by-step program that will bring empowerment. Group activities can enhance faith-based teachings, while the patient learns of the experiences of others within the group.

These treatment centers are often located in peaceful surroundings. With the belief that a peaceful environment will help in bringing peacefulness to a troubled situation, the Christian drug treatment center will focus on the element of nature to help bring an end to chaos through chemical addiction. At the same time, the Christian drug treatment program counselors and ministers can provide teachings from Genesis on the creation of the world and nature to develop a patients faith in God, as Creator of the universe and Savior of the world.

Organizations that practice healing of addictions through God will combine the teachings from faith-based scripture, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit and prayer to minister to each patient. Each patient goes through a step-by-step process, showing positive results before proceeding through to the next step. With individualized attention, each patient is given the attention necessary to successfully complete the Christian drug treatment program. The involvement of the family unit in the Christian drug treatment center provides further encouragement to the patient to put forth necessary effort to bring about liberation from chemical addiction. Through Christ-centered therapy, one will be reminded of, "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him." (Acts 10:38). Faith in God and trust in His healing power are very powerful and should not be forgotten by those who have been healed from addictions, diseases, and other problems.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Treatment

2011-09-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

Fetal alcohol syndrome treatment is needed for a child whose mother has ingested alcohol during the pregnancy. FAS is the leading known preventable cause of mental and physical birth defects in the United States and one in every 750 children is born with enough symptoms to be characterized as having FAS while another forty thousand are typed with fetal alcohol effects. Children who need fetal alcohol syndrome treatment show a number characteristics, some physical and some mental in nature. Sadly, many children who will grow into adults are condemned to bear the price of their mother's poor judgment for their entire lives. FAS is often spotted early after birth because of certain physical abnormalities such as a low birth weight, small head circumference, the inability to gain weight, smaller eye openings, flattened cheekbones and an indistinct philtrum (the groove between nose and upper lip). It should be mentioned that normal children may have one or more of these physical characteristics also so a trained medical professional needs to make the final determination if fetal alcohol syndrome treatment is required.

The mental detriments brought on by FAS are the real tragedy of the mother's poor choices made during pregnancy. Children with FAS will be saddled with many emotional and mental burdens throughout their entire lives including epilepsy, poor coordination, a lack of socialization skills, learning difficulties and behavioral issues. Now while not every FAS child will have every mental struggle mentioned here, there is a clear body of evidence that denotes a lifetime of problems for children with FAS. The term "fetal alcohol syndrome treatment" is a misnomer in some ways, because there hasn't been anything that could really be done for a child in pre birth developmental stages who has ingested alcohol from the mother. However, recent studies from Duke University may be on the verge of a break through treatment for unborn children in the years to come. It appears from preliminary studies with laboratory fish that cholesterol supplements given to these fish embryos appeared to restore normal development in the embryo. But these preliminary studies mean that there will be many years before actual help may be on the way for moms who have chosen to ignore the welfare of their unborn children.

If a child has been born and diagnosed early with some of the characteristics of FAS, then the quicker the child can begin to receive special education and the needed fetal alcohol syndrome treatment from social services, helping the child to be better off later. Remember that the FAS child will have an IQ between 70 and 80, and that alone denotes a lifetime of being on the service side of employment with low wages and often an accompanying low self esteem. Helping to instill in these children early a sense of worth and value through accomplishment is important in combating the many hurdles they will face as they grow into mature adults. Children with FAS will struggle with academics because of attention deficit, poor organizational abilities, memory issues, poor math skills, speech delays, an inability to understand cause and effect and with abstract concepts. Their behavior in school will probably be inappropriate a great deal of the time because of the failure to understand social consequences. One of the outstanding qualities of children needing fetal alcohol syndrome treatment is their boundless enthusiasm and outgoing personalities, yet there are times when they are seen as intrusive, overly talkative and extremely hungry for attention.

Never would a mother ever wish on her children what many FAS children must face as they grow up and mature. Yet just a few drinks during the pregnancy, especially at the wrong time of development will cause an FAS sufferer to probably plateau academically in high school. So many of these students drop out of high school after the ninth or tenth grade and many will never be able to hold a regular job. Fetal alcohol syndrome treatment for these students will be special education classes where basic life skills are taught. These skills will include money management, interpersonal skills and learning safety issues. Vocational school is often a great place for these students to be placed with the hope that some vocational spark might be ignited that will carry them into adulthood.

Child care experts who speak on authority remind parents that the extra care that an FAS child needs is far beyond that of a normal and fully healthy child. Part of the FAS treatment for the parents will come in the form of support groups to encourage love, understanding, energy and a whole lot of extra patience. The power of parents getting together who all face the same challenges cannot be understated. Additionally, there are a number of fetal alcohol syndrome treatment resources from social service agencies which can help families who often must find help for their child apart from the norm. Mom, if you are carrying a heavy burden of guilt over those poor choices made when you were pregnant, it's time to move on because it's over and done. "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4:8) There is forgiveness, grace and all the strength you need in God's love to give your child the care he or she needs.

P0wn-to-Own: Using Out of Office Messages & Social Media

2011-09-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

If you think the recent attacks on companies like RSA & HBGary are one-in-a-million attacks that can't affect your organization, think again.

Today's pen-testing activities against a client revealed that companies still have a lot to learn about what information they freely provide to the public via out of office e-mail messages, voice mailbox messages, and popular social media sites.

Your Mission: Send a Message to the CIO From One of Our Work E-mail Addresses

My client was very paranoid about the recent attacks highlighted in the news, and wanted me to try similar attacks on his company. As a CSO, he has spent countless hours and dollars providing security awareness training to his thousands of employees. My mission (which dictated my potential compensation bonus) was to gain access to an employee's work mailbox and send his boss (the CIO) an e-mail message.

Challenge Accepted

I really expected this engagement to take a few days. It took a few hours.

I immediately did some research via Google and located nearly the entire management team's full names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses. This was easily found from social media sites like LinkedIn, press releases, interviews, etc. Once I accumulated this list, I called every number from a throwaway phone number. It took four phone calls to locate a voicemail box of a male senior member of management that was away on vacation for the next week, and was kind enough to give me their assistant's full name and number to contact in the event of an emergency. In the next 30 minutes, I located another few members of management that were on FMLA, on PTO, or out of the country on company business.

More Recon

Once I had an inventory of potential people profiles to abuse, I quickly located their webmail portal. Sadly, it was easily found at https://webmail.companyname.com. To make matters worse, at the very bottom of the landing page was the phone number to the 24/7 help desk!

The Ruse

I listened to my first victim's voicemail several times until I was confident that I could do a marginally acceptable impression. I then researched the victim on http://www.pipl.com, http://www.linkedin.com (using a bogus profile with 500+ connections), and a few google searches. Using my accumulation of knowledge on my victim, I called the 24/7 help desk. This is a summary of how the conversation went:

HD: "Help desk, how can I help you?"

ME: "Hi, this is John Victim. I can't remember my e-mail password and I'm afraid I'm going to lock myself out again. I'm on vacation and need to be on some conference calls and I can't reach Janet Assistant. Can you help me please?"

HD: "I'd be happy to help you John. For verification purposes, I need you to answer your security question. Your question is 'What year did I graduate grad school?'"

At this point, I quickly scanned John's linkedin profile and found the answer to be 1989.

HD: "Thank you. I am going to give you a temporary password. Once you login to mail, you'll need to select a new password. Your temporary password is 'AQ597KLB'. Can I help you with anything else?"

ME: "No, thank you. I'll send a note to Bill HelpDeskManager letting him know how helpful you were."

(I took a risk here, but noted (according to LinkedIn and the company's management team profile page) that the help desk manager for the company had been employed by Client for almost 7 years.)

HD: "Thank you! Have a great evening."

Mission Accomplished

I logged in to John Victim's email account, and fired off an e-mail to the CIO and cc'd the CSO.

"Hi, This isn't John. This is Chief, and I believe you owe me a bonus... and a coffee."

What Went Wrong?

1) Security awareness training should extend to enforcing a corporate policy on voicemail box and e-mail out-of-office messages. The training should ensure that:

No specific information is given in the message. The voicemail message should say something like "I am unable to take your call, if you need immediate assistance dial x1234". E-mail out-of-office messages should say something similar.Do not indicate your title in the organization, or provide another name and title for assistance.

2) Social Media profiles should be properly secured to ensure that only those that have a need-to-know can see important data points about the employee. Furthermore, employees should resist the urge to provide specific data at all that could assist in a social engineering attack.

3) Identity verification at the help desk level should require multiple levels of verification, ideally at least one question that the employee does not select, and one that the employee creates themselves. Training should be provided to ensure that this data is not easily found on social media sites.

4) Self-service portals that utilize multi-factor authentication (such as a token) are a great way to stop these types of attacks in their tracks.

5) Help desk numbers should not be provided on a public-facing portal!

6) Try to keep employee portals relatively hidden when possible.

Now would be a great time to perform a risk assessment on your organization. Do you have this type of situation covered? What are your obstacles to shoring up your defenses against this type of attack?

If you'll excuse me, someone owes me a coffee...

Chief

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CWE/SANS Top 25 Most Dangerous Software Errors Released

2011-09-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

Between Java, .NET, and Ruby on Rails and probably a host of other frameworks that all have SQL injection proof database access as the preferred method, it's hard to imagine why SQL injection is still the highest form of breach.

Heroin Addiction Treatment

2011-09-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

Because of the nature of the drug, heroin addiction treatment is necessary for the addict who wants to recover. It is a highly addictive drug, and many are gripped in its tight grip and cannot escape on their own. Tragically, many of these addicts have gone from injecting the drug to snorting or smoking it because that way they can get the advantage of increased purity. Some of these people believe that using the substance in these forms will not lead to becoming an addict, but they are seriously misinformed. The substance is processed from morphine, which comes from the seed pod of the Asian poppy plant. When it is processed, it looks like a white or brown powder. Other names for this substance are "smack," "H," "skag," "junk," or "Mexican black tar." Fortunately, there are many places that provide heroin addiction rehab for those who have gotten tangled up in the addictive web of "smack."

One reason why heroin addiction treatment is so essential is that the drug is associated with dangerous health conditions. Many people who use end up getting a fatal overdose. Also associated with the use of this substance are spontaneous abortion, collapsed veins, and infectious diseases. Some of the more common diseases associated with "smack" are HIV and AIDs and hepatitis. These diseases often spread through multiple use of needles or contaminated drug paraphernalia. When a person injects a dose, the effects disappear after a few hours. Therefore, the "high" that the user wants doesn't last very long. This "high" feels like a sense of euphoria with a feeling of warm, flushing skin, dry mouth, and the sense that the arms and legs are very heavy. When the euphoria disappears, the user feels first wakeful and then drowsy. Thinking is clouded because the central nervous system is not functions properly. When a user continues to inject for a long time, other side effects begin to appear. Veins may collapse. This makes it difficult for emergency room personnel to administer life-saving treatments if a user comes into the hospital. An infection may attack the heart lining or the heart valves. Abscesses, cellulitis, and liver disease may also occur. The lung may also suffer by contracting pneumonia and a loss of good respiration. Some of these long-term effects may be helped by heroin addiction rehab, but if the organs are damaged and cannot repair themselves, the long-term effect may be serious.

Another serious problem for drug injectors is that the substances pickede up on the street may not be pure. The users do not know who or how the material has been processed, and sometimes impurities are present in the powder. This can lead to clogging of blood vessels of the lungs, liver, kidneys, or brain. Patches of cells in these vital organs may die as a result. In this case, heroin addiction treatment cannot reverse the problem. In fact, this drug is the cause of the second most common deaths in our country. The deaths attributed to this substance are on the rise. Unfortunately, the more of the substance that users ingest, the more tolerance they build to the medication, and so the more they must use to get the same high. As more is used, the addict becomes even more addicted, and the physical dependence becomes even tighter. And if the user stops giving himself drugs, the withdrawal symptoms can become very severe. That's why an addict must turn himself into a heroin addiction rehab to be able to resume a normal way of life and save himself from sure death. Withdrawal is a real physical effect. After a few hours after the last injection, the person feels cravings, restlessness, muscle and bone pain, sleeplessness, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes, and kicking movements. This lasts between 48 and 72 hours and continues in a lesser effect for about a week. If a person is in poor health, sudden withdrawal can be fatal because the physical effects on the body are so severe.

Most addictive substances affect the mind. That's how they lure people in and why the habit is so hard to break. These medications are basically pain killers that allow people to forget their problems and their worries. But they also change the way a person thinks. People aren't as aware of their surroundings when they are under the influence. This may continue long after the physical effects of the injections have worn off. Heroin addiction treatment has to deal with both the physical effects of the use and the mental effects. A user finds a certain reward in being high, and this focus must be changed to help the user find rewards in more appropriate activities. A good heroin addiction rehab will help the drug user to change lifestyle attitudes and activities that encourage drug use. Otherwise, the affected person will go right back into old habits and go right back to the addictive behavior.

An addict finds that his mental processes are completely opposite of what it once was. He no longer abhors illegal activities, but uses them to acquire more of the substances that he craves. The apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." This is the goal for heroin addiction rehab, to change the thinking and become pure once again. Good heroin addiction treatment will not only address the problems with the body, but also with the mind.

Christian Grief Counseling

2011-09-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

Christian grief counseling includes the idea that a loved one is in Heaven and strategies for conducting life on earth without that person. Depending on the faith of the deceased person and the way in which they passed certain techniques for life management may be necessary for the continuation of a productive life. Bereavement counseling may offer the same types of counsel even if belief in Heaven is absent. Christian counselors may offer counseling to non-Christians in order to share faith with otherwise faithless people. Death is probably the most questionable and debatable issue facing Christians and non-Christians alike. Taking the opportunity to answer questions for a non-believer may lead to faith further on down the road for survivors, however this route should not be aggressively pursued due to the sensitive nature and vulnerability of the situation.

Support can come from many different types of people. Basically counseling can come from anyone who is willing to listen, however specific questions about faith, the afterlife, and end times may be better handled by an educated pastor. This person will have education in biblical studies at least to the Masters level. Education at this level enables a grieving person to receive bereavement counseling from a person with deep compassion for humans as well as provide education concerning what the Bible says about faith, death, and the afterlife. Understanding where a specific person goes after death on Earth is difficult to determine even in the seemingly most faithful people. Deep conversation and trust established while they were on Earth may strengthen a persons confidence in where the deceased party is spending eternity. Other issues that may arise are how the survivors will conduct their lives in order to reach the same destination. Sometimes the death of a loved one opens the doors for Christian grief counseling to change life drastically for survivors. Carefully research the background of anyone offering support or advice. This research includes the persons background of beliefs, ethics, and professionalism. Even though a counselor has been practicing for 30 years, their personality and lifestyle may not match the person needing Christian grief counseling.

The understanding of the grieving process is crucial in tracking progress and noting changes that may need to take place. In some cases the glue that held the family together is the person who has passed. This creates a difficult situation for the survivors. Family support with concentration on how to function as a unit may be more serious than the actual coping initially. Survival most certainly overrides emotional feelings if destruction amongst survivors occurs. Reflection on how the deceased affected daily life may aid in determining a plan for successful living. Understanding the roles and responsibilities this person had will additionally aid in determining the roles that need to be filled. In addition to more successful survival, the family, co-workers, or neighbors may develop a better appreciation of the contribution this person made on everyones lives. Christian grief counseling may not directly help with the problem of survival, but will additionally create confidence in the survivors through self-concept and organizing memories.

Pastoral counselors are the only type of religious counselor that is not affiliated with a specific church. This means church membership, tithing, and a specific set of beliefs are not necessary in order to receive these services. Other types of religious counsel are usually found within a church and require membership in order to make use of. This is difficult for people that are not sure which denomination they are suited for or even if they believe in God at all. Most people increase spiritual curiosities when someone in their life has died. Some pastors offer up free days at a church for counsel in order to serve the community and increase church membership. Though membership is not an obligation, the pastor hopes this will be the outcome. Finding a pastor with sincere motive toward helping people receive quality bereavement counseling is the most honorable effort. Some churches may even offer classes or regular support groups that the public can attend. In most cases these classes are reserved for members and occur on Sunday mornings, but if the need were really there then the company would be warmly welcomed.

Dealing with the loss of a loved on is a delicate place to be in life and can certainly be very lonely as well as scary. Certain changes may be required past the help of Christian grief counseling. This may include financial assistance or budgeting, legal services, moving services, organizational efforts, and employment opportunities as well as bereavement counseling. Though this is a sad and confusing time in any persons life the idea of the new may motivate a person to be their best. With the plethora of people running their own businesses nowadays a person can find someone to do almost anything they need. These contractors should be carefully examined and interviewed due to the sad ethical state of our world, but most are honest hardworking people needing to make some extra money. Some of these people will likewise offer Christian characteristics and create an environment of warmth, security, and trust no matter whether they are moving furniture or delivering a pizza. The point is that asking for help does not necessarily put a grieving person in a vulnerable position but rather open sincere hearts and efforts to show Gods love. In uncertain times it is important to hold tight people that are sincerely interested in the well-being of those that they serve.

Natural Treatments For Anxiety

2011-09-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

Natural treatments for anxiety may be helpful for those that have been diagnosed with extreme symptoms of the condition which usually stem from serious depression. An anxiety treatment is needed when a person has suffered from unusual feelings of loneliness, hopelessness, and sadness for an extended period of time. Those feelings create fear and despair which gives birth to a cyclical return to a depression over and over again. Panic attacks are quite common among those that may need help. Patients who suffer with panic attacks may require some type of therapeutic counseling that can help alleviate symptoms and provide hope for recovery.

Some people who experience severe symptoms may be suffering from immense fears about certain objects or situations. For example, having to ride an elevator or an airplane can exacerbate the condition in a person so seriously as to cause a hysterical reaction. Natural treatments for anxiety that addresses severe fears include discovering a variety of methods than can calm and relax an individual. All symptoms should be treated with some sort of assistance because most types of the condition include extreme fear, even when there is no real danger to the person. The condition also includes emotional distress that interferes with daily life as well as a tendency to avoid situations that bring on an anxious feeling.

Most natural approaches to healing offer a combination of therapy and vitamin supplements that are known to calm or relax. Another anxiety treatment that is commonly recommended is adequate cardiovascular exercise coupled with a calming exercise such as walking. All sufferers seeking natural treatments for anxiety should get enough sleep (8-10 hours) per night. In addition to sleep and exercise, a sufferer should include omitting a few trigger items from a diet. These "trigger" items include caffeine, refined sugar, honey, maple syrup, and dairy products. An anxiety treatment that promotes a healthy lifestyle should help tremendously in curbing a portion of the most serious symptoms. A type of therapy that is more and more popular today also includes aromatherapy which uses plant oils to calm and sooth such as bergamot, cypress, geranium, jasmine, lavender (the most popular), melissa, neroli, rose, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.

Another popular option is body work or massage therapy. Even shiatsu and yoga work wonders as natural treatments for anxiety, although there are controversies surrounding these forms of therapy, especially for Christians who are concerned about the occultic origins of these techniques. Common supplements include GABA or gamma amino butyric acid which is an amino acid known to play a role in the physiology of the condition. Of course the Bible has a lot to say about the matter of anxiety and fear as well as offering remedies based on the spiritual application of these principles. "Be careful (or anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) Some people that struggle with the complex issue of anxiety have made choices in relationship to scriptural guidance that has revolutionized their lives. Many times combining a practical health care regimen and effective counseling with biblical principles is found to be the perfect combination for a successful anxiety treatment.

From the Field: Sprinting Through An "APT" Casefile - Part II

2011-09-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

How do functional users deal with situations like this where 'security' already has the IT system so locked down that they haven't done anything other than 'keep the lights on' for the last ten years?

Every time there is an 'OMG the sky is falling' type article or 'hack' in the news, security 'audits' things (which is really just them going in and taking away access to various things that they don't think users need, the head of their group has actually said, "Take it away, if the users don't ask for it back then obviously they didn't need it".... some of the things taken away are used once a year at year end.... know how annoying it is to search for something that you know 'should' be there, and was there when you used it last year, but due to security 'audits' is now gone.

I'm just venting, I understand the need for security as much if not more than our IT security group, but we get 'security theater' based on media reactions, while after working here for 10 years I'm still asking, "Can I have a sandbox of the system functionality and tools that we own but haven't turned on in the last 10 years to see if there is anything useful in there." With the answer being, "No. There is stuff in there that 'might' be a problem." Keep in mind I'm asking for a copy of the Vendor provided publicly available DEMO environment, and being told, "No, we don't know what we need to secure, but we know we can't give you access to a DEMO environment".

When the security group knows that they don't know enough to stop bad things, and that the only real 'secure' system is one that isn't connected to the internet and is turned off... you can end up with some messed up 'security policies' ..... I'm sure the TSA would be so proud if they could see us now.... Security Theater (without actual security) at it's finest.

Christian Drug Rehabilitation Centers

2011-09-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

The assistance of Christian drug rehabilitation centers can help addicts and their families recovery from the ravages of substance abuse and rediscover healthy lifestyles and faith in God. Other important priorities can include repairing broken relationships between family members as well as leading the addict back to a life of faith. The focus of treatment will generally move beyond just the patients needs, but also offer healing to the entire family. In many cases, when addictions are present, some form of codependency will be present as well. Loved ones that have sacrificed their own interests in order to meet the growing needs of an addict will also be in need of effective treatment and compassionate healing. For this reason, many Christian drug rehabilitation centers will treat the whole family rather than simply zeroing in on the individual patient's recovery needs. While many secular treatment facilities will incorporate twelve step programs that instruct patients to call upon a vague higher power, Christian facilities will not back away from pointing patients to Jesus Christ as the main source of hope and deliverance. Some of the tools that will be used in the course of treatment at a faith based center will generally include, detox programs, individual counseling, group therapy, prayer groups, Bible studies and a focus on healing through the power of God.

For many addicts who turn to a faith based facility for help, there may be a fear that God has rejected them forever because of their failures and addictions. One of the greatest services that Christian drug rehabilitation centers will offer is a reassurance to patients that if they turn the situation over to God, God will not abandon them. Helping patients and families to leave denial behind and be reconciled with God is one of the key factors that separate faith based and secular recovery programs. For addicts who have a background in faith, the inclusion of Christian beliefs can make a huge difference and may even remove stumbling blocks that can exist under a more secular approach. If a patient feels that an approach to treatment may be violating long held beliefs, this can create a hindrance to recovery. But when a treatment plan reinforces an individual's personal beliefs, these plans can be much more likely to succeed. For many patients, the cycle of drug abuse has been very destructive. Often families will report that the patient has become a completely different person than who they were before the addiction. Rediscovering the strengths and personality traits of a recovering addict can be one of the greatest joys of completing programs at Christian drug rehabilitation centers.

Professional Christian drug rehabilitation centers will generally offer a number of features that constitute the integral parts of their recovery treatment plans. If an addict is able to understand some of the factors in their lives that may have led to an addiction situation, they may feel more motivated to complete treatment and recovery. For this reason, most facilities will offer a variety of educational opportunities to patients. Learning about the negative toll that addictions can take on physical health can be major motivating factors as well. The brain can suffer greatly from the impact of drug abuse. When neurological pathways in the brain are changed, the addict's behavior patterns will usually change as well. In most cases, these behavior patterns are very destructive. Denial can be a major problem for both addicts and their families. One of the most important steps occurs when addicts and loved ones are able to face this denial and reach out for help. A major component of treatment plans at Christian drug rehabilitation centers is a reliance on God. Seeing God as source of deliverance and strength is the cornerstone of a faith based recovery approach. The Bible calls believers to turn burdens over to God. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

Once an addict has submitted themselves to treatment at Christian drug rehabilitation centers, they will usually need to undergo a period of detox. The drugs that were abused by the addict before treatment will have built up in the patient's body. Letting the effects of these harmful chemicals wear off is what detoxification of the body is all about. The withdrawal process can be very difficult. In some cases it can even be life threatening. Individuals who attempt to kick a drug habit on their own will often fail during the detox period. The help of professionals is very important during this time. Once the body is free of the damage that these chemicals can cause, real recovery can begin.

Patients and families at Christian drug rehabilitation centers will often find that they are dealing with a great deal of guilt. The high standards of a previous Christian lifestyle can give an addict a sense of having fallen too far to ever hope that restoration is possible. An understanding of these feelings is one of the benefits of a more faith based approach to recovery can offer. Dealing with the issue of guilt can be a very major part of treatment for families of faith. Rediscovering hope in God and feeling reconnected with other family members can be a major motivating factor for many Christian addicts. With the help of compassionate professionals who understand the personal beliefs of addicts and their families, those struggling with serious addictions can begin a new life that is free from the bondage of drugs.

Treatment For Depression

2011-09-09T15:51:00.000-07:00

Treatment for depression begins with an evaluation and diagnosis of the illness. Many symptoms may manifest in someone who suffers from this mental illness. Some of these symptoms warrant using depression treatments. Anyone experiencing prolonged sadness or hopelessness should seek medical intervention. Anxiety with feelings of doom and loss of energy or motivation may be symptoms of being depressed. Being indecisive on making decisions or slow thinking could also be considered possible symptoms. Intervention may also be warranted if the sufferer feels socially withdrawn or has thoughts about death or suicide.

Seeking professional help is the first step when seeking treatment for depression. Many times this consists of taking prescribed medication. Counseling along with medication usually proves to be very effective. With some individuals, the problem may be due to bipolar disorder or manic disorders. Bipolar disorder or manic depression may include symptoms of excessive irritability or aggressive behavior. Reckless behavior or prolonged feelings of sadness may warrant medical help. Low self esteem and significant changes in sleep patterns deserve attention towards depression treatments.

Life throws us all curve balls sometimes. Perhaps in times past, we found ways to cope with looming sadness on our own. But if symptoms persist and become so huge that they interfere with normal life, the person should seek professional help. There are many sources online that can help when seeking treatment for depression. The sufferer can talk with his doctor about the many anti-depressant drugs that are available today. Many of the newer drugs don't carry the severe side effects of the earlier drugs and are therefore much easier to use without suspending other activities.

Many Christians feel that having a mental illness is sinful. But many people in the Bible suffered sadness and despair. Think of Job. In Job 3:3, Job cries out, "Let the day perish wherein I was born, and the night in which it was said, There is a man child conceived." God didn't reject Job for his feelings of despair, but God talked Job through his sadness. Depression is part of the human experience. Some individuals have family history of these disorders. Sometimes disease and illness may bring on these problems. But the problem only results in sin if the sufferer is content to suffer and doesn't take his problems to the Lord and ignores using the pathways to healthy living available to him. In fact, diet changes are showing promising results involving treatment for depression. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids have helped in treating bipolar disorder. On the Internet, there are many sources available that give information on depression treatments through using natural sources and alternative medicines. Some products online advertise that they raise serotonin levels in the brain. When experiencing symptoms that need intervention, don't delay in seeking help.

Job Seeking Horror Stories: Fresh From the Field

2011-09-09T15:46:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I've dealt with a lot of technical recruiters and come to the realization that they all lie. It does not even seem to be in their best self interest, because they quickly lose credibility.

I've heard it all before too. My favorite experience with a recruiter back in my early days, when I got hired when I submitted my own application and got the interview myself. After I got my offer I told the recruiter I did not need their services, and he proceeded to say he needed his commission. Because he was the one who told me about the job! Even if he did "tell" me about the job, there is a big difference between "I have this job at an undisclosed company and you'd be a good fit" and "There is a technical support job at XYZ company, I sent them your resume and setup an interview".

Now I just scare the recruiters away when I tell them I won't be willing to leave for anything less than 20k over my current salary and it better be an amazing position.

Depression Treatment

2011-09-09T15:41:00.000-07:00

Depression treatment is used to alleviate the physical and mental pain that is associated with this condition. The methods used will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the type of help that the patient will allow. Different types of medical care will be used for those that have the symptoms of no energy, no concentration, irritability without reason, and feelings that interfere with daily activities. A treatment for depression is usually prescribed if the above mentioned symptoms persevere for longer than two weeks, or periodically return on a consistent basis. The most important part of the treatment process is to recognize this condition because recognition is the only way to get help and heal from this emotional illness.

Recognizing this mental illness in order to receive help is characterized by feelings of constant loneliness, hopelessness, and sadness. When these feelings take over and begin to affect a person's life, they may want to consider some type of treatment for depression. Most people never seek help, and therefore suffer needlessly with this emotionally straining and exhausting illness. A depression treatment method can be something as easy as seeking some sort of counseling, or can extend into the need for medication to fix the chemical imbalances.

There are many different ways that a person can seek relief from this condition. Prescription treatment for depression is the most common method of alleviating the symptoms. Antidepressant medication works by balancing chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Depression treatment using antidepressant medication may take up to 4 weeks to begin working, so sufferers are required to exhibit patience before discontinuing medication. This method should be continued for a period of 6 months to truly evaluate the outcome of the medication. It is important to seek medical care in order to know what medications or options are available. Those that are tempted to self diagnose, and self medicate should exercise caution and speak with a physician before doing anything.

A persons faith may determine what type of medications they pursue. There are many denominations of Christianity that either forbid or encourage the using of medication as a treatment for depression, but the Bibles does not specify when and how a person is supposed to receive medical help. The assumption of righteousness, whether holier or shallow, should not determine whether or not one uses medication as a depression treatment. God allows His children the freedom to decide. There is a reference in the Bible to using another form of medication for particular ailments. "Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities." (1 Timothy 5:23)

DefCon 19 Presentations [PDF downloads]

2011-09-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

Greetz, everyone.

DefCon 19 has come to a close. For those of you that were there - thanks for going. Yes, it was crowded. Yes, it was a new venue. Yes, things were a little chaotic. But overall, it was very successful in my opinion and I am looking forward to DefCon 20 next year!!

You may want to check out the program guide here and then pick your presentation file that you want to view below:

(Yes, they are virus scanned. I know that embedded frames suck, but I'm tired of fighting with my blogging client and I'm hung over.)

Enjoy, and please consider attending DefCon 20 next year!

Chief

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Treatments For Types Of Depression

2011-09-09T15:34:00.000-07:00

Treatments for depression can include a myriad of medications as well as counseling sessions that can be used in conjunction to discover the root cause of the disease. One factor that seems widely accepted in the scientific community is that it could be linked with an imbalance of a chemical in the brain called serotonin, so depression treatment includes medication that changes that imbalance. Most people can be helped by medication or counseling. Often, effective prescriptions include "talk" therapy along with medication. In talk therapy, the patient and therapist talk about the patient's life experiences, events, relationships, and feelings. Talking about one's most difficult life situations can be very valuable because it often reveals the reasons behind the difficulties, and helps the patient learn to change patterns of behavior that are detrimental to him.

The medical community agrees that this type of mood altering state is a serious medical condition, which can lead to the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, and early treatments for depression are vital. Postpartum states have received some publicity in recent years because it has happened to well-known women who are willing to speak out about it and the depression treatment that they received. That particular type of mood appears to be triggered by chemical/hormonal changes that occur when a woman gives birth, and therapies via antidepressants are usually successful in a few months' time. When prescribing antidepressants, care must be taken in evaluating a patient's whole health picture so that there are not harmful side-affects due to clashes in medications. On the positive side, current antidepressants are less addictive than the first ones that came on the market, which makes most medications safer than before.

It is thought that genes could play a role in severe mood states, so when embarking on treatments for depression, thorough family histories are part of the patient's file. People whose blood relatives have suffered from this mood disorder seem more likely to have it too. However, one shouldn't assume that everyone who has a relative with the disorder will someday require depression treatment as well. The mood disorder can sometimes be pinpointed to catastrophic events in a persons life, but sometimes it strikes without warning and without apparent cause--which at once bolsters the chemical imbalance theory of cause, and supports chemical treatment. In Scripture, the faithful are encouraged to find joy in their lives, and not lose heart. "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Want to Win Free Admission to DefCon 19?

2011-09-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

Def Con 19 is approaching fast. Wouldn't it be cool if you could win free admission to the con, and not have to pony up $150?

Wonder no more. The good folks at toolbox.com let me know that they are having a prize drawing for FREE admission to Def Con 19 in Las Vegas this summer.

To enter, take a few minutes and complete this quick survey on Governance, Risk & Compliance vendors at: https://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix5/p659844308.aspx

Winners will be notified by June 29th, 2011 via e-mail.

Keep your eyes peeled on your inbox to see if you won!

Chief

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From The Field: Protecting Company ASSets Through Intelligence Operations

2011-09-09T15:25:00.000-07:00

I'm the first to speak up and say that not every organization should be spending resources looking outside its walls, but when you do have a reason to do so, this is a great approach! You profile your attackers (and maybe actually enable staff to think like them!), you try to find breached data before someone else tells you about it, and you learn cutting edge tools and techniques (the meta-hacking game).

I love the idea of security talent in multiple organizations collaborating. There's very little reason not to, despite the political machinations and misgivings that trickle into a business through the competitive sales channels and executive teams. Maybe someday there can be a market for industry-specialist security firms that rent out their services to similar companies. This is like a more targeted and thus much more intelligent version of a generic MSSP!

I also love the idea of reversing one's own malware, presumably found in the wild manually, through contacts, and via honeypot tools. What better way to get used to doing something like that *before* a dropdead emergency!

The only scary long-term result? My ye old Shadowrun example where corporate digital espionage runs rampant! :) I don't have a whole lot of faith in people, but I do have a decent amount of faith in the security industry to generally be good, respectful, and helpful to peers.

Marijuana Addiction Treatment

2011-09-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

Virtually every marijuana addiction treatment involves counseling, behavioral therapies, and a support system. Marijuana itself is emotionally and mentally addictive. When a person is addicted they often identify themselves as users, but not abusers. These users will seldom have friends who don't smoke. This person's conversation will tend to center around marijuana. Friends and family realize that this person won't do anything without smoking first. Drug addiction, in general, is complex but treatable. Nearly 25 million people addicted to illegal drugs need programs for recovery. However, many people, who are addicted, admit or recognize that marijuana is also a drug. Even so, more than 150,000 people annually admit they are plagued by this condition. As with all addiction, this addiction is characterized by compulsive behavior, craving, seeking, and using. It's usually pretty simple to tell if someone has a real addiction. When this individual makes the proclamation that they could quit anytime, yet relapse due to an overwhelming compulsion to use marijuana; despite making own firm decision to give up the drug, addiction exists. Although this is a chronic, recurring issue for many, marijuana addiction treatment has a great rate of success when all the basic elements for effective programs are in place. "Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before , as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God." (Galatians 5)

In the 1970's, the scientific community took a long hard look at addiction as a social ill. Research found that people were constantly behaving in ways that were self-destructive and destructive to the relationships with family and friends. Researchers also found that relapse after a personal commitment to give up the detrimental cycle was frequent and unrelenting. Various experimental treatments led to a comprehensive list of marijuana addiction treatment principles that have since been used with great success. The primary activities in any rehabilitation or recovery plan include: 1) detoxification, 2) treatment and, 3) relapse prevention. Detoxification may involve coping with severe withdrawal symptoms. In any case, the plan must recognize and resolve this aspect of the overall program. Furthermore, the prevention of relapse is critical for maintaining program effectiveness. The first lesson learned about program structuring was that the cookie cutter approach to treatment would doom the marijuana addiction treatment to failure. Each and every individual, though similar in many ways, will respond to treatment differently. Additionally, easy access to resources was, and remains, a critical component to people who want to reach out for help. When obtaining treatment is perceived as too cumbersome, lots of addicts will continue on with their behavior for weeks or months before getting up the courage or fortitude to proceed.

People's minds, and psychosocial needs are so different from each other that a marijuana addiction treatment option that works for a whole class of addicts may not be the right choice for an individual. When a person is an addict, there is a history or a reason why they chose that path. In most cases, it was not a conscientious choice to run to marijuana just for the enjoyment of it all; but quite the opposite. The person was attempting to escape from something or someone. As a child, it may make complete sense to escape an abusive parent or a neglectful situation. However, once a person reaches the age of legal adulthood, these same constraints are no longer an actual threat, but a perceived one. Therefore, when a teen begins to use drugs and then continues on through adulthood, the cognitive and behavioral development is often stunted. The impact on the person is that he or she has an inability to move forward in life without dealing with the past demons. This component of marijuana addiction treatment cannot be brushed over or ignored. Assessment of the individual, including their particular circumstances, and then developing an adequate service plan to meet a person's needs is the beginning of effective treatment.

Any plan of action should be carefully set up with both long and short term objectives. As each objective is met, identification of new, deeper, better objectives will take recovery into overdrive. It is important to recognize that one of the underlying causes of any type of addiction, may be a mental disorder. When there are co-existing mental conditions, each disorder must be treated separately, yet integrated in approach. There may be a need for medical, as well as, counseling and other treatment modalities that work in concert with one another for the person's benefit. Addiction recovery is often rife with relapses. Measuring the successful of the behavior modification will include scheduled and intermittent drug screenings. It would be counterproductive to go along as if a person could never relapse. A good marijuana addiction treatment program will need a way to measure the effectiveness of the program. Not "using" is a great score card.

With the high incidence of relapse for people who have been clean only a short period, follow-up even after the formal program has been completed is a very important aspect of a well-rounded, well-executed, and effective marijuana addiction treatment program. Post treatment encompasses a variety of programs with different goals as outlined: 1) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy seeks to deal with recognition, avoidance, and the ability to cope with situations, 2) Multidimensional Family Therapy addresses the influences to actual drug use, 3) Motivational Interviewing is actual one-on-one inspiration for those who are ready and willing to change their behaviors, and 4) Contingency Management encourages abstinence from drugs through positive reinforcement. Most program providers have a minimum length of time that a person should remain in the program, no matter what kind of progress they are making. Recovery from surgery takes time. Recovery from the break-up of a relationship takes time. It only makes sense that recovery from a life of self-abuse takes time as well.

BlackHat & DefCon Tips: 2011 n00b edition

2011-09-09T15:17:00.000-07:00

Every year I post tips that I hope will help regular attendees and newbies alike. This year is no different, however I’ve tried to take into account a few things:

1) I won’t be making BlackHat due to a conflict with a client’s delivery schedule. However I *will* be at DefCon starting on Thursday!

2) Def Con has moved to the Rio from the Riviera - this is a GOOD thing. We’ve been crying to get out of the Riviera for years as the Con has grown to massive and stinky proportions.

So, you’re planning on attending Blackhat and/or DefCon next week in Las Vegas? Excellent! Prepare for an immersive security experience like you’ve never had before.

TIP #1: SECURE THY COMMUNICATIONS, YOUNG PADAWAN

Clear-text POP3/IMAP e-mail credentials are getting plucked out of the air by cough security researchers cough 24/7 at these conferences. DefCon has an entire team monitoring for these, and they are posted on the Wall Of Sheep. Some of these credentials belong to phones that folks configure to use the wireless LANs at both the cons. DO NOT USE THE WIRELESS AT EITHER CON for sensitive communications. If you must, use the tips below.

Easy PRO-TIPS:

1) Don’t use the wireless networks. Yeah, I know I said this earlier, but seriously - don’t. Go cellular if possible. Put some mileage on your 3G and 4G network bills.

2) What? You insist on using the wireless networks? Fine. PLEASE do the following:

a) Engage your forcefields! Engage your local firewall with a DENY INCOMING ALL rule.

b) Use ONLY encrypted protocols. IMAPS, POP3S, SMTPS, TLS, SSL, etc. NO CLEAR TEXT. If you need help setting this up, ask the guy next to you (just, well, you know, be careful). No, not that guy. The other guy.

c) If you’re not using your laptop, power-off. If it’s powered on, you had better be watching your local firewall logs, or perusing a tcpdump of your ethernet connection for “interesting” things.

d) Read your logfiles! I’m using Firestarter under Ubuntu Linux and it has a nice reporting panel of attempted probes/attacks.

3) If you have access to an external box somewhere running OpenSSH, you may want to tunnel ALL your traffic. Not some… ALL. Here’s how:

a) Tunnel any application using ssh. Here’s an example on how to tunnel SMTP:

ssh -f -N -L25:host1.yourbox.net:25 user@host1.yourbox.net

You would of course point your mailer at localhost:25, which would forward the mail to your box securely over ssh.

b) Use a SOCKS proxy over ssh to surf. Here’s an example:

ssh -l username -D 8080 -f -C -q -N -p 22 host1.yourbox.net

Now aim your browser at localhost:8080 as a SOCKS proxy. BAM. Set.

Yes, you could probably attempt using an onion router, but your performance won't be too hot. The Con wireless nets are usually pretty full o'bits.

TIP #2: ARRIVE EARLY FOR INTERESTING TALKS - EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO SKIP TALKS

If you have any plans to attend popular talks (like Kaminsky’s), plan on hauling ass to that talk and forming a line by the door at least 30 mins before the talk is scheduled to begin. These talks fill up fast, and due to fire codes you may be denied access to the talk if the room is full. BlackHat isn’t too bad about this, but this happens EVERY year at DC. Hopefully with the relocation to the Rio this won't be a problem. The Con goons have the tough job of keeping everyone safe in these rooms, and they WILL enforce fire code, period. Show them some respect and they’ll show it back. Buy and bring them beers. You will make new friends. No, really - show the goons some respect.

TIP #3: DON’T BE A DOUCHEBAG - THIS ISN’T HIGH SCHOOL - SHOW RESPECT

My favorite thing about these conferences is that they aren’t your father’s conferences. These are geared towards security professionals, noobs, the press, hell - anyone at all. It’s all about information sharing, learning and teaching. If someone asks you a question, take the time to answer it or direct them somewhere that will help. Don’t be a douche and act like they’ve just asked to have a conjugal visit with your sister. On the other end of the spectrum, don’t be afraid to ask questions - but be respectful of the person’s time of whom you are asking. Exchange business cards, twitter handles, or secret handshakes - whatever you need to do to postpone the knowledge transfer if timing isn’t right. Contacts that you make at these conferences can be pure gold in a time of need. Also, if you’re a member of the media - you MUST register as media. If you try and sneak in as an attendee with your hidden cameras and microphones, you will be found and you will be ridiculed to high hell and back. Doubt me? Maybe you should revisit thisunfortunate event from DC 2007. Oh Michelle, what were you thinking?

TIP #4: HAVE FUN - BUT DON’T GO TO TALKS DRUNK

Yes, alcohol is plentiful in Vegas, and it’s especially plentiful at the Cons. Drink and be merry, but don’t over do it. If you’ve had too much, go back to your room and sleep it off. Don’t go into talks and disrupt the event. You will be escorted out, and probably thrown onto the pavement by the goons or your fellow attendees. This happens EVERY FREAKING YEAR.

TIP #5: MIND YOUR ODIFEROUS SHARING

Bathe. Please, for the love of all that is holy and sacred, take a bath and use deodorant. There are some folks that try to go the entire week stretch without bathing for one reason or another, and by day 3 the smell is usually so bad it smells like the carpet in an elementary school classroom. Don’t be afraid to discretely mention in close proximity of a B.O. bomber “wow, it smells like someone slaughtered a cow in here”. Usually they get the hint. Yes, it’s rude - but so is stinking up public space. Everyone's nostrils will thank you.

TIP #6: BRING MONEY

Warning: DefCon is $150 this year. If you attend BlackHat, your waiver slip is only good for $100 - so make sure you bring another $50.

There is always a lot of cool stuff to purchase at both conferences including books, t-shirts, various shwag items, equipment, software, food, etc. Cash is king. Don’t count on your credit cards to be accepted everywhere (even you, American Express!). Don’t keep all your cash on you at once in the event that you drop it or are pick-pocketed (yes it still happens). Try to stow your goods in your room at various intervals, since lugging bags of goodness around to the talks is a pain.

TIP #7: HYDRATE AND EAT

It’s hot in Vegas in July and August. Drink lots of water throughout the day (especially if you’re going outside), and eat every so often. BlackHat will feed you coffee and food in the morning, a lunch in the afternoon, and thats about it unless you go to the cocktail events. There are restaurants at the hotel that you can grab snacks at, but they are pricey. You might want to bring a bag full of snacks and drinks to offset this cost if you’re watching your money. At Def Con, you are on your own. Bring your food/drink, or buy it at the Rio. Prices generally aren’t that bad at Def Con, but the lines are usually long and seating is an afterthought. You’ll see many folks sitting in the hallways eating (which can sometimes be rather unsafe). Pro-tip: there are convenience stores not too far from the strip that offer the same stuff you buy in the hotels for a far cheaper price.

TIP #8: PLAN YOUR DAY IN ADVANCE

Both conferences are jam-packed full of events that start early in the morning and go on to the wee hours. It’s best to plan ahead so that you can go directly from one event to the next. Standing in the hallways gaping at the schedule will just slow you down, and expose you to more of that wonderful “Con Funk”. Pay attention to the maps that are handed out. Watch for signs that talks have moved. Pay attention to both the #Blackhat and #Defcon twitter feeds for updates.

TIP #9: WATCH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Blackhat is pretty good about photography in and out of talks, but be courteous to your fellow attendees. They may not want to be in your pictures. Avoid getting their faces in the pics if you can help it, or ask them if its okay. Def Con is the exact opposite - NO PHOTOGRAPHY. This is enforced by the goons with a passion. This includes cameras, video cameras, cell phones… you name it. Most of the photos that you see from me are taken covertly with my phone and I try to make sure nobody else is in the picture. Be respectful if you’re asked to not take photos. The exception to this is approved media (they will be wearing media badges) - and even they are supposed to “ask”. Starting in 2011 I will probably not be taking any photos at all since some of the folks at the Cons are, how should I say, "popular" as a result of recent news events. I'll leave it at that.

TIP #10: IF YOU SPOT THE MONKEY, LET ME KNOW

I am rather covert at any conference that I attend. I’m not trying to avoid you all, I’m just usually really busy attending private meetings, attending talks that I want to hear, or I’m typing away at my laptop posting updates for you all. If you do happen to figure out that the person you’re looking at is me, kindly introduce yourself and ask - if you’re right, I’ll certainly tell you and congratulate you on your detective work. :-) If you’ve read through the blog over the last 8 years, you’ll know the clues to look for.

Be safe, have fun, and let me know how you enjoyed (or didn’t enjoy) the cons. Certain organizers of the cons read this blog, and take your comments very seriously.

Best,

Chief

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Lung Cancer Treatment Centers

2011-09-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

Lung cancer treatment is often needed because someone has smoked, or has been exposed to smoke during his or her lifetime. The majority of people affected by lung cancer are those who smoked for many years. However, others who have worked in smoke-filled environments or lived with a smoker may also be affected due to the harmful exposure to second-hand smoke. When cancer is detected, the doctor often will refer the patient to lung cancer treatment centers. With early detection and treating the disease, many people overcome it.

This disease can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the severity of it, and the stages that it is in. Those people who are in the early stages of the disease will have more options at lung cancer treatment centers than those for whom the disease has gone undetected. Some treatments may include medicinal prescriptions, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. The farther along the disease is the more aggressive the lung cancer treatment center will need to be with the patient. The most important initial objective for treating the patient is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, as well as to stop it from spreading to other organs. Therefore, patients will want to get assurance that they are being treated appropriately for what their condition demands.

People affected by this disease will find hope in that there are many options available for being treated. Furthermore, with the advancing medical technology, the survival and overcoming rates are higher than they have ever been. When considering what lung cancer treatment options are most appropriate, the patient may want to do some investigating of their own, as well as getting more than one opinion. If there are not lung cancer treatment centers in close proximity, the family should check into the nearest locations to see if being treated there is good for the patient. People also can talk with others who have been through similar ordeals, not only to get ideas for being treated, but also to get recommendations for the best place to go and the best doctors to work with.

Finding out that someone has lung cancer can be devastating news. However, being treated as quickly and as thoroughly as possible will help maximize recovery potential. Lastly, it is important not to overlook the greatest source of healing which is God, "who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:3).

Treatments For Carpal Tunnel

2011-09-09T15:07:00.000-07:00

Carpal tunnel treatment described by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders involves resting the affected hand and wrist for at least two weeks, avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms, and immobilizing the wrist in a splint to avoid further damage from twisting or bending. Like other inflammatory problems, aspirin or ibuprofen are recommended for pain, and ice packs are good treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome. Once the symptoms have abated, stretching and strengthening exercises are recommended. This problem has been around as long as humans have overused their muscles, so it certainly isn't anything new. Symptoms usually start with pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm, an indication that carpal tunnel treatment should begin. Then tingling in the fingers may occur, and weakness that makes gripping and other manual tasks difficult if not impossible. The stricture of the nerve is sometimes simply a matter of physiology--in some people the tunnel is simply too small. However, it does seem to be more common in people who do repetitive tasks with their hands.

This area in the wrist is formed by carpal bones arranged in a semicircle with the fourth side open forming the tunnel through which the nerve travels. Compression of a key nerve in the wrist is what causes carpal tunnel syndrome. This term has been used for this condition since the 1930s. The only proven permanent carpal tunnel treatment, according to physicians involved with this disability, is surgery. In 1947, the first surgery was tried to remedy the problem. The surgery released the nerve from its stricture in the wrist. This procedure wasn't changed until 1990, when the endoscopic procedure was introduced. Some herbal treatments for carpal tunnel being offered today are probably not too different from those used by our ancient ancestors with their limited medical knowledge. The medical community, by and large, rejects herbal remedies like topical creams and Vitamin B-6.

A nerve test is done to confirm the diagnosis and carpal tunnel treatment begins soon after the diagnosis is confirmed. Then a decision must be made about how to release the pressure on the nerve. The goal of treatments is to leave the patient pain free and with full use of the affected hand. Research is currently being done at the National Institutes of Health to evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions as preventive treatment among construction workers. Scientists are also studying alternative treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, such as acupuncture. Ultimately, God is the protector of our health, and sometimes He allows difficulties to come our way. But He never excuses us from looking toward our spiritual health. Proverbs 3:7,8 says, "Be not wise in thine own eyes; fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones." When we seek physical health, our first responsibility is to examine our spiritual health.

Natural Cancer Treatments

2011-09-09T15:03:00.000-07:00

Cancer treatments have gone from simply those which are prescribed or performed by a doctor, to natural alternatives investigated by the patient. Natural cancer treatments sometimes use supplements such as herbs to help treat this deadly disease. Why would a person want use an alternative treatment as opposed to the medications observed by a doctor? Perhaps it could be due to their beliefs, or maybe they have such an advanced case of cancer that they can no longer tolerate or take chemotherapy, or other conventional methods. Whatever the reason, there are patients who have made claims that had they not tried an all natural approach, they probably would not have survived the disease with conventional treatments alone.

Certain people believe that approaching any illness with vitamins and herbs is best because these substances make the body healthy. They believe that a healthy body is has more control over fighting off and destroying various diseases forever. Some cancer patients also say that natural cancer treatments help to control the side effects of modern medicine used in fighting this illness. Along with herbal treatments, cancer treatments can also include things such as diet change to help detoxify and cleanse the system, and more. Whether a patient uses natural resources or conventional prescribed medications, the battle does not stop there.

One of the main things for patients of all terminal diseases to remember is to not give up. Cancer treatments are not all physical. Addressing the spiritual side of an illness and most importantly, having faith in God, will go a long way in promoting health. Natural cancer treatments should be accompanied by a devout faith and trust in the Lord. God can heal all things. If it is in His will, a cancerous body can quickly become well. Whether it is in His will or not, is not for us to know. When facing cancer treatments, patients will need to have a deep peace in the soul to cope with everything that having this illness presents.

It is up to God as to whether a cancer patient is healed or not. Even if He chooses not to heal them, God should bring great comfort to patient who believes in Him and His word. For even in the face of death, God will bless those who are faithful, because He will have a crown of life waiting for them, after this life on earth is over. "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death." (Revelation 2:11) If this life should end, it does not mean that everything is over. It is just the beginning for those who believe.

Chemical Dependency Treatment

2011-09-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

Chemical dependency treatment provides medical and psychological help for individuals suffering from drug or alcohol abuse. This is a very important resource for people who are experiencing the pain and agony of addiction. Many drug addiction treatment programs exist throughout the country and the world, offering different options for individuals with different problems. It is important for the individual to find the program that will best fit their needs, in order to find relief.

There are many different types of substances that people can easily become addicted to. Alcohol dependency is one of the most common addictions, plaguing people of all races, nationalities, and walks of life. Abuse of illegal drugs is another serious addiction that many people around the world suffer from, making it necessary to receive chemical dependency treatment. Some of these illegal drugs include cocaine, heroin, marijuana, methamphetamine, and many more. Prescription medications for pain may also be the drug of choice for an individual. All of these substances, whether legal or illegal, can be very harmful to the mind and body of the individual, making it of utmost importance to seek drug addiction treatment.

It is up to the individual suffering from dependency to want to seek therapy and rehabilitation. No one can push addicts into seeking chemical dependency treatment without their consent. However, parents of minors struggling with drug addiction may be able to get a court order for drug addiction treatment on their behalf. No one wants to see their loved ones suffer from the effects of chemical dependency or drug addiction. This is a very painful and scary situation that can cause serious consequences, such as jail or death.

For anyone with family members or friends suffering from drug addiction, it is vital to seek information and pray about how to get them freed from the pain of this. This may include seeking information from local drug addiction treatment centers, the Internet, or the local library. Gathering as much information about chemical dependency treatment as possible to present to the individual can make it easier to convince them to seek help. It is important to think about what can be done to help friends and relative. This can be a great opportunity to be a shining light in someone's life that has been darkened by the world of drugs, giving them the answers of hope. "But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble." (Proverbs 4:18-19)

Alcoholism Addiction Center

2011-09-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Alcohol treatment programs are offered in almost every city or small town due to the amount of addictions that happen throughout a location. Seeking help for alcoholism at an addiction treatment center can be one of the best things that you do for yourself and for your family. However, since these kinds of treatment programs are everywhere, it is good to find on that is best suited for your needs. However, the first step is admitting that you need help to stop abusing alcohol. Sometimes this is the hardest thing to admit. But when you finally do, it is worth it.

Before you begin to look for an appropriate program for you, it is important to consider whether you truly need alcoholism addiction treatment. This means honestly assessing where your alcohol problem may lie. If you have had a problem with it in the past, then you already know that you are in need of looking for an appropriate program center to deal with your issues. However, if you have not had past problems with alcohol, then it is worth considering whether you really need to enter a formal program. If you find yourself getting drunk all the time and you do not feel like you have any control over it, you are most likely a prime candidate for entering a rehabilitation program. Realizing this is of the utmost importance. Alcoholism is a dangerous illness that requires assistance for healing.

Next is the process of looking for the right alcohol treatment program for you. It is good to look for alcoholism addiction treatment that is Christian-based because they will use biblical principles to help you walk away from alcoholism. This kind of rehab program will help you see the importance of the Lord in your life and how he can make the change if you let Him fill you up. Undergoing healing is a hard process, but if you have taken the first step, then you are already on your way.

Finally, you can look on the Internet for a suitable alcohol treatment programs. They will be able to give you lists of alcoholism addiction treatment centers that are in your neighborhood. Good job on taking the first step. Never forget that the Lord is completely in control and will give you all the strength that you need for facing and dealing with alcoholism. He will show you alternatives to turning to liquor when times get tough. Turn to him in the greatest times of need and he will give you freedom. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13)

Security Pr0n: XSS-Harvest [Video!]

2011-09-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

Any key entered will be sent covertly to the server.

I've always been concerned about that. Sometimes an application will interrupt my work and ask for a password without properly capturing the keyboard. After I type the password and hit enter, I'll see that the prompt is still up. I always frantically search every window I've got open in order to find out where the password went, but a lot of times it just disappears. I'm left wondering if it disappeared in Xorg (bc no application had valid focus), or went out in a browser window.

From the Field: Sprinting Through An "APT" Casefile - Part I

2011-09-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

Over the last year, I have been up to my eyeballs in "APT" cases. I barely finish the case I'm on before the next one comes my way. I've turned away more work in the last 3 months than in the last 3 years (I'm sure the partners that I've referred the work to don't mind).

The information security industry amuses me with their talent for creating acronyms, and APT ("Advanced Persistent Threat") has been no different. In a nutshell, the activities that compose an APT have been around a long time - however, they are just recently getting the "buzz" in the media thanks to some recent high profile attacks, such as the pillaging of RSA's systems or the mysterious break-ins at many United States defense contractors - some of which have been publicized, and perhaps some which have not.

Twitter user @imaguid has a much better acronym for APT, and I think it aptly describes the situation: "APT should really be called STFU - Standard Techniques Failed Us". Think about it. :-)

PROLOGUE

As an investigator, I focus on three parts of the APT equation:

The methods and processes leveraged by the attackerThe persistence of the attack, or its ability over a period of time to covertly (or sometimes not so covertly) gather confidential informationThe information gathered by the attacker, establishing the intended targets of the attack, the means to exfiltrate the data out of the victim's resources, and then figuring out how the stolen information will be used (and by whom!)

No two APTs have to be exactly alike, and from my experience I have yet to find two that ARE exactly alike. Why is that?

Simply put, there are many types of APT attacks, and within those types, there are just as many disparate components that can be leveraged as part of the overall attack. Think of it like this - the attacker is a mechanic, and depending on which type of vehicle he's working on, he may use a variety of different tools from the same tool box. Mechanics can use wrenches, screwdrivers, socket drivers, drills, etc. Attackers can use phishing/spear-phishing, 0-day PDF vulnerabilities, malware kits, social engineering kits, backdoors, etc.

SPRINTING THROUGH THE CASE

Day 1: Company, Inc. noticed something strange one night. Actually, it was the sharp eye of a service desk technician working the late shift. He was sifting through the logs of Company's mail system working a problem for a customer when he noticed a suspicious pattern. Every C-level executive of Company had been receiving strangely titled e-mails at the exact same time from the same sender over the past few weeks. The executives get a lot of spam, but these e-mails weren't being caught. What bothered the technician further was that all the emails had a PDF attachment - the exact same attachment. He immediately sent his concerns in an email to Company's security team, and opened a service ticket to track this issue.

Day 2: Security follows up on the technician's e-mail, and pulls the strange e-mails from the mail repository. The e-mails are written in the company standard lingo, appear to be legit - except for one problem. The sender's name was a person from Company's PR department, but an examination of the SMTP headers showed that the e-mail was sent from a mail server in Russia. Security then learned that only one executive had opened the attachment in the e-mail - Company's CFO. Three days had elapsed since the attachment was opened. Security confiscated the CFO's laptop and performed a forensic investigation on the laptop.

Day 3: The forensic examination process found a treasure trove of artifacts that included:

The installation of a keyloggerThe installation and execution of a backdoor through running tools as AT jobs in the Windows Scheduler (appear running as user "SYSTEM")The installation of a well known hacker's toolkit (poison ivy), and tools such as wiam.exe, pwdump.exe, mapi.exe, and rar.exe that were renamed w.exe, p.exe, m.exe and r.exeThe presence of cover-up tools and secure delete tools such as sdelete.exe (s.exe)

Day 4: Further analysis of the laptop revealed that the attacker was quietly dumping the CFO's exchange mailbox to text files, compressing and encrypting them into a single package, and then exfiltrating through the installed backdoor to a compromised web server in Brazil.

In Part II, I'll discuss why this particular attacker was successful, and what Company could have done to prevent the attack.

Chief

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DefCon 19 Talks: Steal Everything, Kill Everyone, Cause Total Financial Ruin

2011-09-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

@pand0ra - We need to meet up at DC20 next year. I need to better manage my time at these cons. :)

@frank - It is very rewarding work, especially when you present your results to the client and they initiate positive changes in their environments based on your recommendations. It's a great feeling!

Substance Abuse Prevention

2011-09-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

Today, parents are asking for substance abuse prevention information to help teens avoid the pitfalls that lies in wait for the unaware in our culture. The beginning of keeping kids clear of these pitfalls is for the parents to act in responsible ways. That includes adults who stay away from illegal substances so that these children will not be tempted to follow in their footsteps. Another important step is for parents to give offspring clear instructions and guidance on how to avoid becoming a statistic as an abuser. This means spending time with the youngsters, showing them how to live appropriately. Teens will not ask for substance abuse help unless they have adults who show the way. Parents should have a talk about illegal drugs when children are in early elementary school because these youngsters may already be confronted with this temptation.

There are other ways to heighten substance abuse prevention for children and teens. One is to be careful about how drugs are used in the home. For example, if adults are offered drinks each time someone visits the home, teens will learn that social activities are accompanied by drinking. People need to show how to have fun without using some type of extra accompaniment. If a parent uses legal medication too quickly, such as at the first sign of pain or nervousness, the child will learn that drugs are a panacea for all kinds of minor problems. These children will then use medications in the same way. Adults who use sleeping pills all the time may also be teaching their young ones to medicate themselves needlessly. Children need to expect that every person has times when it is difficult to sleep and is a natural part of life. Each time a parent uses some type of drug or medication, he needs to ask himself what he is teaching in his home. Otherwise, he may need substance abuse help for someone other than himself.

Another harmful habit is smoking, especially in the child's presence. When parents smoke, they make cigarettes easily available for underage people, and statistics show that children who grow up in households where at least one parent smokes will have a much greater chance of developing the same habit when they grow up. Some adults take a cavalier attitude about drugs and medications, joking about them, making fun of getting drunk, and sparking other careless conversations with other adults and with underage people also. Teens listen to adults talk and learn from those conversations, but not always the lessons that adults want them to learn. Substance abuse prevention means always handling topics about drugs, drinking, smoking, and illegal activities in an appropriate and serious manner. This can be one of the most effective ways to provide substance abuse help. The tone of the conversation makes a big difference in what lesson is learned.

Each family develops its own set of values. If a family's values are not taught, the children will still pick up values on their own. It is important that family members talk about these issues before they become a problem. The Bible tells us to teach values in our household. Deuteronomy 6:7 says, "And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Substance abuse prevention is a full-time job for a parent, a consistent teaching that gives young ones confidence to live above the need for "helps" to get by. An important part of this teaching is to show teens and even younger kids how to stand up to peer pressure so that they don't succumb to a moment of temptation that may ruin their lives. Substance abuse help is available, but how much more wonderful if a child survives through his growing up years without needing that assistance. But if a parent is going to show how to stand up to peer pressure, he must do the same. Many adults succumb to peer pressure just as much as their youngsters do, giving in to the temptation to drink too much if others are doing the same.

One way of helping a child who needs substance abuse help is to assist them in building their self esteem. Many people, younger and older, take drugs or other substances because they do not feel good about themselves. They use the medications to cover up feelings of inadequacy or hopelessness. The news media many times covers stories of people who do terrible things under the influence of something, but the real problem is not the illegal substances, but the damaged psyche inside. A strong parent discusses with his children how to handle strong feelings in ways that are appropriate and healthy. Each person will have times when he feels the need to reach for something to ease emotional pain, but this is not a good habit to develop. Instead, adults need to explain to teens how to handle these emotions by getting involved in helping services such as homeless shelters or visiting nursing home so that the focus is taken off themselves and put upon someone in need. In fact, adults can get involved with their young ones in charitable activities, sports, the arts, or other areas that interest the child. This is a great way to provide substance abuse prevention.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program

2011-09-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

The need for an alcohol addiction treatment program can be very serious for anyone who is dealing with a dependence on this powerful substance. Alcoholic products are available in abundance in today's society. For any one who is addicted to this substance, finding ways to avoid temptation can seem impossible. But the ramifications of neglecting to deal with this serious problem will not only destroy the life of the addict but of family and loved ones as well. While a moderate amount of social drinking may not constitute a serious problem with alcohol, addiction to the drug can be very dangerous and destructive. Some of the signs that someone might be addicted to this drug could include a preoccupation with obtaining the substance. Ignoring loved ones or rearranging priorities around opportunities to drink can also be important indicators. As this illness begins to take its toll, the drinker may loose all ability to control their intake of alcoholic beverages. Those on the outside may not understand the reasons that an individual is addicted to alcohol. Brain chemistry can be strongly impacted by this drug and can, over time, create a need and compulsion to drink. Reaching out for the professional help of an alcohol addiction treatment program can be an importance step toward recovery.

Some alcoholics deny the problem because they do not drink every day. In truth, binge drinking on the weekends followed by several days of sobriety can indicate a serious problem. It is also not necessary to imbibe hard liqueur to be considered an alcoholic. Many individuals believe that if they steer clear of hard liqueur and only indulge in wine or beer, they do not have a problem. But drinking large quantities of wine or beer may also necessitate the need for an alcohol addiction treatment program. Another myth that pertains to alcoholism is the belief that addicts are only those who abuse drugs that are illegal. This is not true. The harmful effects of a dependence on alcoholic products can wreak just as much havoc on the life of the abuser as any other kind of drug abuse.

Overcoming addictions without professional help can be very difficult. An alcohol addiction treatment program can help the addict avoid the painful withdrawal symptoms that occur when an alcoholic suddenly stops drinking. These symptoms can vary from person to person. For some, sweating and a form of shakiness may constitute the worst of the withdrawal experience. However, other recovering addicts may experience a manifestation called delirium tremors or DT's. These addicts may exhibit anxiousness, a confused state of mind, or hallucinations. Professional medical help from an alcohol addiction treatment program may be needed for someone who suffers from such severe withdrawal symptoms. Without treatment, other medical problems may occur.

A professional alcohol addiction treatment program may also prescribe any of a number of medications that can help a patient deal with painful withdrawal symptoms. These medications may include such drugs as acamprosate, naltrexone or disulfiram. Drugs in this category are designed to reduce cravings for alcohol and also to cut back on the drug's ability to intoxicate. Some medications are prescribed to be taken orally while others are administered by injection. There can be side effects that are associated with these drugs. The medications may also not effective for some patients. Additional options are medications that are designed to foster an aversion to alcoholic beverages. Such drugs will cause some very distasteful reactions when mixed with the drug. The recovering addict may experience vomiting and nausea or they may exhibit a flushing sensation along with severe headaches it the patient chooses to drink while on the drug. It is important to only take such medications under the supervision of a physician. Taking too large a dose of these drugs can result in severe health problems. The Bible points believers toward a hope in the mercy of God. "Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee." (Psalm 33:22)

One of the important services that may be provided by an alcohol addiction treatment program can be that of providing educational resources to both the addict and their families. Understanding some of the causes that may have led to the current addiction issues can be very useful. A careful examination of the reasons behind the alcoholic behavior may be necessary. If the patient drinks as a way of dealing with unpleasant emotions such as depression, loneliness or anxiety, this could be an indicator of a serious problem. Is there a family history of alcohol abuse? This could mean that the individual is at a higher risk of becoming an alcoholic. For young people, the peer pressure to drink can be very strong. An understanding of the ravages of alcoholism from an early age can be very important.

Families who believe that a loved one may be in need of help from an alcohol addiction treatment program can consult with professionals for advice. There are a number of signs that loved ones can look for when trying to determine if an individual has a drinking problem. Is the individual drinking too much and on a fairly regular basis? Is drinking a major priority in the individual's life? Are there signs of impaired judgment? Are major personality changes obvious? Is the individual taking more risks that involve the consumption of alcoholic beverages? Once a number of these signs are present, an intervention from professionals in the recovery field may be called for.

Drug Abuse Treatment Centers

2011-09-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

Drug abuse treatment centers are medical facilities that provide care for people suffering from chemical dependency. Having access to this type of facility can give addicts the opportunity to get clean and regain control of their lives. Unfortunately, many people get in a downward spiral of drug addiction for various reasons and think there is no way they can overcome their addictions, but this is a lie. If people seek drug addiction treatment and determine in their hearts and minds that they want to get clean, there is hope. The many facilities and organizations that offer hope and help throughout the country and world can make this a reality. Professionals who work at drug abuse treatment centers are the angels who help direct addicts in overcoming the stumbling block of addiction. They can help customize treatment to fit the needs of each person who walks through the doors.

People don't realize that substance abuse can happen at any stage of life. A child can be born into a family of users, grow up and learn the behavior of their parents. They can get addicted as they go through childhood and pick up the patterns of the need for a high. Some people might become addicted because of employment problems, finances, or tough marriages. When drug use becomes an addiction, the need for drug addiction treatment is inevitable. Young people, those in their twenties, middle aged adults, and seniors can seek and benefit from drug abuse treatment centers. No matter the age, race, nationality, or lifestyle a person leads, addictions can take control. If someone has fallen into the clutches of drugs or alcohol, they must not lose hope because help is available.

It is important for the addict to not feel ashamed for falling into the trap of substance abuse. There are people who have made it their life's work and ambition to help others who suffer from addictions to chemical substances. These professionals working within drug addiction treatment facilities are there to offer hope, but so is God. Psalm 86:15 states, "But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth." No matter how long it takes, God will help anyone overcome the trap of drug abuse. He will lead a person in quest for drug abuse treatment centers and programs, if the addict will open their mind and heart to let God and others help.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

2011-09-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

A mesothelioma treatment option can include radiation, chemotherapy or surgery, but it can also include innovative treatments such as photodynamic therapy immunotherapy, gene therapy, or alternative medicine. Mesothelioma is another word for asbestos lung cancer, and it's a disease that causes deadly tumors to develop in the chest and lung cavity. It is a rare type of cancer, but has received greater attention by the medical profession and drug makers in recent years, so the procedures to deal with this cancer have become more varied. While early detection is important for lengthening life, it is difficult to diagnose in its early stages, so it usually doesn't begin until the disease is well established. In addition to the form of this cancer that occurs in the lung and chest cavity, there is another form of the disease that occurs in the peritoneal membrane that lines the abdomen, and pericardial mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining surrounding the heart. All types of mesothelioma eventually become acute and medical and surgical options must be chosen.

One of the diagnostic procedures before mesothelioma treatment can begin is fine needle aspiration of the extra fluid that forms in the chest cavity, both to relieve the pressure caused by the extra fluid, and to microscopically examine the fluid for a diagnosis. That is not the only tool for diagnosing the disease. Tissue samples are also obtained for biopsy. Once a definitive diagnosis is made, solutions can be discussed. Malignant mesothelioma is rare, and men are three to five times more likely to seek mesothelioma treatment option. About half of the patients whose doctors find and treat the cancer early will survive two years or more. The average survival time for all stages of the disease is about one year.

Mesothelioma treatment may include surgery, which removes part of the chest or abdominal lining and the surrounding tissue. Another option is chemotherapy, which may be administered orally by pills or through a needle into a vein or muscle. Several of the chemicals used in this procedure have proven mildly successful, with high responsiveness lasting only two to eight months. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells and tumors. An innovative procedure currently in use is one that exposes cancer cells to a certain frequency of light after treatment with photosensitive drugs, which eliminates the cancer cells. Immunotherapy is one where the immune system is enhanced to fight the cancer cells. Gene therapy has had some success in ridding the body of cells that induce tumor formation. Many people turn to alternative medicine as their mesothelioma treatment option. Acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, therapeutic massage, and Far Eastern medicine are among those treatments considered alternative therapy. Patients use this alone or in conjunction with conventional medicine. However, this mesothelioma treatment isn't used in hospitals, and are not usually covered by insurance companies. Of course the most important direction anyone can take when confronted with cancer is to go to the Healer. Psalm 103:2-3 says, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all they diseases." He is the one we can turn to from the beginning to the end of our illness.

Monitoring Baggage Handling With Bagcam! (From Last Hope)

2011-09-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

I didn't make it to this Last Hope conference, but after reviewing several of the talks, I was compelled to share this with all of you.

Ever wonder exactly how TSA or the airlines managed to destroy your luggage or what security measures are actually in place once your checked luggage disappears from view? After having yet another bag destroyed while flying several months ago, Algormor decided to build Bagcam to find out what happens once the airlines have control of your luggage.

Bagcam is a small suitcase containing a mini-DVR and pinhole camera. This presentation will cover the construction of Bagcam, potential future enhancements to Bagcam, and issues to consider should you decide to build your own Bagcam. In addition, various security measures currently in place for commercial passenger flights and the efficacy of these measures will be discussed.

Finally, select footage will be presented from flights through Washington DC's Reagan National Airport (DCA); Ted Stevens Airport in Anchorage, AK (ANC); Sky Harbor in Phoenix, AZ (PHX); Chicago's O'Hare (ORD); and other airports.

View the video here and prepare to be aghast/entertained/mildly amused.

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Teen Alcohol Treatments

2011-09-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

A teen drug treatment program will teach teenage individuals about ending their addiction to drugs and other substances. These programs can be found through a variety of referral services that specialize in partnering youths that are either court ordered to attend a program, or by voluntary enrollment. Preferably, a teen alcohol treatment program would like the youth to voluntarily attend. This type of voluntary enrollment shows that the teen has admitted they have an addiction, and are seeking help. Addiction occurs when people surrender to a substance or activity, which gradually takes control of their life and eventually destroys them if they do not recover.

These services, especially for alcohol abuse, will provide the youth with counseling and a way to understand why they have developed this habit or addiction in the first place, in order to begin the process of recovery. A teen drug treatment program will also offer counseling. Those that are addicted to any substance must first go through a withdrawal period in order to reap the benefits of recovery. They need to get the substance completely out of their system in order to begin the recovery process. Drug recovery methods may be slightly different than the methods of the teen alcohol treatment program.

Both programs offer the teenager counselors who are compassionate and intelligent people striving toward the common goal of helping them recover. The use of medication in a teen drug treatment program is questionable and dependent upon the parent or guardian's permission. There has been a history of medication being used in these programs with this type of drug therapy being used to counteract the effects of the addictive substance. The person will feel ill if the alcohol or drug is taken while they are taking the medication. For drug treatment, the substance is called Naloxone, while, in a teen alcohol treatment program, the substance is called Antabuse. These drugs do not cure the addition, but they do make the addiction extremely uncomfortable.

Christians are encouraged to seek out the help of a faith based organizations that will assist in overcoming addictions. A faith based teen drug treatment program will focus on Christ as the provider of strength, not the self-discipline and will of the teen addict. God alone can give the addict strength to overcome the temptation and addiction. Seeing His grace and help first hand can grow faith to unbelievable heights and will allow the addict to help others with the addiction as well. "Thou I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt receive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me." (Psalm 138:7). A teen alcohol treatment program can be the first step in helping people overcome addictions, but God has more power than therapy, medications, and counseling can provide.

The Class Action Lawsuit Against Sony That You May Have Missed

2011-09-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure the bank safe simile is valid on a number of levels in modern banking.

For one, the amount of cash in a single bank vault is the merest fraction of the total deposits. In a data breach, there is no similar limit; once you're in, you generally have access to all records in the db/table.

For two, the bank is insured through blanket bond coverage or self-insurance; a loss of cash won't affect the balance in depositors' accounts.

But most importantly, there are no future ramifications for depositors if cash gets stolen. Assuming that their particular cash is taken (unrealistic), the theft is bad for them, sure. However, the loss is immediate, its ramifications completely and totally known at the moment of disclosure. In the case of a data breach, the situation is reversed. There is usually no immediate down-side. It is only in the future, as their information is bought and sold on the black market, that phishing schemes, credit card fraud, and identity theft occur and cause problems... or maybe not! The uncertainty sucks.

Protect Location Information For Your iPhone/iPad Backups

2011-09-09T14:09:00.001-07:00

OM*G! (censored for sensitive ears)
Question is, do I tell my friends, or only their wives? ;)

Are there any other mobile trackers, say android, or WinMobiles?

From The Field: Protecting Company ASSets Through Intelligence Operations

2011-08-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

The Secret is Out: Guest Appearance on TV!

2011-08-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

LOL!

The "h" in Liprah fooled me at first glance too, but now it's embarrassing to have missed it!

Nice security by obscurity.

So, what does the XXX mean? There was a striptease on the video???

Want to Win Free Admission to DefCon 19?

2011-08-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

Def Con 19 is approaching fast. Wouldn't it be cool if you could win free admission to the con, and not have to pony up $150?

Wonder no more. The good folks at toolbox.com let me know that they are having a prize drawing for FREE admission to Def Con 19 in Las Vegas this summer.

To enter, take a few minutes and complete this quick survey on Governance, Risk & Compliance vendors at: https://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix5/p659844308.aspx

Winners will be notified by June 29th, 2011 via e-mail.

Keep your eyes peeled on your inbox to see if you won!

Chief

DID YOU KNOW?

You can read all of SecurityMonkey's case files!
Find them here.

You can also read all of SecurityMonkey's
'Banana Cupboard' stories here.

You may not get a lot done for a few hours... or even days.

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Alternative Alcohol Treatments

2011-08-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

The most common alternative alcohol treatment today is the 12 step program that was developed over a period of years by two individuals, a businessman and a doctor who were both serious alcohol abusers. The 12 step alternative alcoholism treatment is a program that was based on the inventors' experiences, and also incorporates a spiritual psychology Christian attribute. The 12 step program has developed and proliferated, and is now used as a basic model of recovery for a wide variety of addictions. There are several reasons for the success of the 12 step plan.

Those who attend the regular meetings are helped in three ways. The first way the 12 step alternative alcohol treatment program helps others begins with the fact that it is acknowledged as spiritual in nature, and the first step is concerned with the acceptance and recognition of the individual being powerless over alcohol. This has the effect of encouraging the alcoholic to change. It encourages the individual, who has already given their power and surrender to the substance, to surrender instead to a higher power, God. The second step is that the recovering individual is influenced and supported by the fellowship of others in a similar position.

The second reason the programs works so well is the group atmosphere in which meetings take place. The sense of identification in a 12 step alternative alcohol treatment program found among fellow members, form a very positive basis for continuing sobriety. In addition to this, alternative alcoholism treatment programs offer a sponsorship, where an individual with a long period of sobriety takes the role of sponsor with a newly recovering addict. Providing the new member with a health example, as well as advice and support, the sponsor facilitates success within the program, as well as offers someone to talk to in a moment of relapse or crisis.

The third reason is that the program offers a change of environment and lifestyle. Most addicts have consistent, habitual ways of acting out their addiction. Frequenting particular bars and socializing with a set of equally sick companions make it very difficult for them to cease their addiction. Being part of an alternative alcoholism treatment program fellowship allows new avenues for friendship and different recreational patterns, the bowling alley and coffee mornings, replace the bar. Additionally, these programs are free. Anyone struggling with addiction is encouraged to take advantage of them to recover from alcoholism. "For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard." (Psalm 22:24)

Alcohol Treatment Centers

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An alcohol treatment center can be a huge blessing to people who struggle with an addiction to alcohol. This self-destructive behavior can turn the tamest person into a violent one. It can destroy marriages and families if not treated and alcoholism can even lead to death. With alcohol treatment, there is hope, though. There are facilities that can be found across the country and most major cities have more than one option. There are many different approaches to treating substance abuse, and when patients are investigating the different agencies and methods, there is sure to be a treatment plan that will speak to specific issues found.

Not every individual with a substance abuse problem will respond positively to all methods of recovery. Alcohol treatment plans can include a number of methods that lead to healing. First, many centers utilize the environment with recovery plans. Some facilities are located in rural, scenic areas away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Patients can find an alcohol treatment center in the middle of the snowy mountains or on warm, tropical beaches. Many alcoholics find a new, relaxing environment highly therapeutic as they receive treatment. Others find that the location makes no difference. If possible or important, patients should look for help that includes environmental features that will be therapeutic.

Another method of recovery used in treating alcoholism is one-on-one counseling. Often the root of alcoholism isn't the drink itself, but some feeling or memory that is being repressed by the drug. Counselors at an alcohol treatment center can help patients uncover suppressed memories or hurtful past events. Once the root is exposed, alcoholics can begin to deal with the issues apart from self-medicating with the substance of choice. For some alcoholics, though, the root of the problem comes out more among a group. This is why another method recovery is group therapy. Sometimes being among other struggling alcoholics can be encouraging.

Beyond counseling, there are diverse approaches to treating individuals who have substance abuse issues. Other methods of alcohol treatment can include hypnotherapy, spiritual counseling and even physical fitness. Each alcohol treatment center is different and many offer the successful 12-step programs. Overall, it is important to find a facility that will meet the complex physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the alcoholic.

When selecting a facility for addictions, look to professional medical doctors for recommendations. Also, talk with leaders of Alcoholics Anonymous programs locally to see if they recommend a particular program. Most importantly, alcoholics should look to God for healing. "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies." (Psalm 103:2-4) Christians will want to make sure that the program will allow them to express their faith in an open manner, relying upon God for complete restoration.

Security Pr0n: XSS-Harvest [Video!]

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Any key entered will be sent covertly to the server.

BlackHat & DefCon Tips: 2011 n00b edition

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