Cybersecurity can be defined as the ways in which an organization protects itself against unauthorized access or unauthorized use of the organization’s network, private data, or assets. When organizations suffer data breaches and compromised systems at the hands of threat actors, they often look for ways to improve their cybersecurity posture, and cyber security books are a great way to do this.
Now, in particular, is the time to read up on all things cybersecurity, since Fortune reported a 105% increase in ransomware attacks in 2021.
Although organizations are being targeted more frequently by threat actors, all hope is not lost. Cyber security experts like Kevin Mitnick and his Global Ghost Team help organizations defend against attacks through professional services including:
- Penetration Testing
- Social Engineering
- Vulnerability Assessments
- Security Training
- Red Team Operations
- Digital Forensics
- Incident Response
- Expert Testimony
Kevin Mitnick is the founder of Mitnick Security and has gained notoriety for his role in helping the cybersecurity industry grow to meet the needs of today’s organizations. He has documented all things cybersecurity in the form of several books.
Here, we’ll discuss the five best cybersecurity books to demystify the industry.
#1: Ghost in the Wires by Kevin Mitnick
Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World's Most Wanted Hacker is a thrilling memoir by Kevin Mitnick that walks the reader through Kevin’s transformation from a young, curious prankster to the Free Kevin movement to who he is today.
Through his eyes, we see how his curiosity and love of technology made hacking more than just about technological feats — it was an old-fashioned confidence game that required guile and deception to prove he could take on organizations and win.
Besides sharing his adventures in this book, Kevin also breaks down cybersecurity, social engineering, and gives a “big picture” account of the industry from multiple perspectives. This book is a best-seller and an “Editors’ Pick” on Amazon.
#2: The Art of Invisibility by Kevin Mitnick
Ranked the best cybersecurity book by Computing for Geeks, Kevin Mitnick’s fourth book, The Art of Invisibility: The World’s Most Famous Hacker Teaches You How to Be Safe in the Age of Big Brother and Big Data, is a useful read for anyone looking for cyber security advice. Using his experiences, Kevin walks us through tactics that can be used to protect yourself and maximize your online anonymity.
#3: The Hacker Playbook by Peter Kim
The Hacker Playbook: Practical Guide to Penetration Testing is a guide to penetration testing, which tackles issues that many organizations face during the testing process. This book thoroughly explores the cybersecurity world from the eyes of a professional.
#4: The Art of Deception by Kevin Mitnick
With an in-depth look at social engineering, The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element of Security is an engaging approach to understanding why Kevin’s cyber attacks on businesses were successful. He breaks down the illusion that businesses can be fully protected from cybercrime one real-life story at a time. Kevin also offers his advice on how to help your organization protect itself by discussing security protocols, training programs, and more.
#5: The Art of Intrusion by Kevin Mitnick
Seen as an encore to The Art of Deception, The Art of Intrusion: The Real Stories Behind the Exploits of Hackers, Intruders and Deceivers takes a deep dive into the minds of hackers during social engineering attacks. By combining education with entertainment, you’ll learn how to detect and defend against cyber crimes while enjoying these thrilling and suspenseful real-life stories, told by Kevin Mitnick himself.
One Book Isn’t Enough
When looking at the best-selling books by Kevin Mitnick, it’s no wonder that it took so many to truly cover his story, especially since it isn’t over yet.
Kevin’s books take a realistic approach to the topic of cybersecurity by drawing you in and teaching the ins and outs of the industry at the same time. If you’re ready to learn more, the best cybersecurity books to prepare your organization.
