Explore the intricacies of problem-solving in information security through this 41-minute Black Hat conference talk. Delve into the cognitive processes behind solving complex problems, learn how to improve problem-solving skills, and understand the role of expertise and bias in the process. Examine real-world examples from puzzle competitions, including multi-stage challenges and unexpected solutions. Discover important attributes for effective problem-solving and gain insights from case studies. Apply these lessons to enhance your ability to tackle technical issues, develop security strategies, and investigate threats in the InfoSec field.
Breaking Brains, Solving Problems - Lessons Learned from 2 Years of Setting Puzzles for InfoSec Pros
Overview
Syllabus
Intro
Puzzle competition
Problem spaces and strategies
Testing and measuring problem-solving ability
The role of expertise in problem-solving
The role of bias in problem-solving
Improvement strategies
Problem isomorphs
Problem-solving by analog
Background and origin story
The first puzzle
The perfect puzzle
Example 1: The birthday (2019)
Assumptions and clues
Example 2: Finding location (multi-stage)
Unexpected answers and collaboration
Unexpected solutions
Straw poll
Applied learning and benefits
Important attributes for problem-solving
Case study: SandGrox
Lessons learnt
References
Taught by
Black Hat
