In Depth

Five Mistakes Security Pros Would Make Again

Whether it's getting fired for standing up for what's right or making a network configuration mistake that leads to better security, there are some mistakes worth making. Five security pros offer personal examples.

By Bill Brenner, Senior Editor

Page 3

"I learned more about that particular network and our rules structure than I would have just working on them.

"Everyone in security makes mistakes. It is the one true way we learn to succeed in our field. Constantly testing and pushing the limits will break something. I prefer to be the breaker."

4. KIDNAPPING THE WRONG GUY
Mistake maker: Douglas McGaughey
Position: Security consultant
Location: Washington D.C.
The incident: Kidnapped the wrong person during a counter-terrorism operation

"I used to manage a counter-terrorism training team and one time, after conducting a lengthy target evaluation and feeling confident in our plan, we initiated it. We kidnapped the individual, who liked to take early-morning jogs. We hustled him into our waiting van and then identified ourselves.

"Long story short: It was the wrong guy. We came to find out that our intended victim had an overnight guest up from some assignment in Central America.

"But we came out smelling like a rose. The guy we kidnapped was so impressed with our stealth, speed and capabilities, and disappointed with himself for letting his guard down so quickly after leaving his last "high-paced" assignment that he offered to give a speech to our students [about his experiences]. His speech hit home and we lucked out big time.

"I wouldn't change anything, as it taught us some valuable lessons and the audience learned something."

5. RISKING THE JOB FOR WHAT'S RIGHT
Mistake maker: Doc Farmer
Position: Senior security specialist
Location: Virginia
The incident: Losing jobs for taking a stand

"I've lost a job or two by sticking to my principles and telling the truth to management who didn't want to hear the truth (not even diplomatically). When they've taken risks that put the entire organization at risk and asked me to sign off on them, I've refused. And I've been sent packing because of it.

"But even with that, I don't regret the decision. I have to be able to look myself in the mirror when I shave my head every morning, after all, and I'd rather be unemployed and honorable than being an employed liar."