If you use computers and the Internet, then you have most probably experienced some form of an electronic security breach.

We receive emails that try to entice us into some bogus investment, or a worm disguised as a love letter or other pleasures of the flesh. After all, we are all human, and we all err…

In a three-day workshop organised by TIM Ltd, IT managers acquired a good understanding of attackers’ tactics and strategies in detail, with hands-on experience in finding vulnerabilities and discovering intrusions, and equipping them with a comprehensive incident handling plan, turning the tables on computer attackers.

The training was delivered by Mark Semmler, an experienced IT security expert from Germany. Mark developed a great passion for “Creative Research in IT Security” at an early age, and has been working on this subject since 1990.

Today, because of his vast collection of experiences and expertise, Mr Semmler works as an independent IT security consultant all across Europe. His clients include financial institutions, airports, corporate organisations, and government agencies from all over Europe.

Mr Semmler has been a licensed reviewer of the German seal of privacy for IT-products and privacy protection since August 2005. Among the services offered by Mr Semmler are: security-scans (checking the technical aspects of security by attacking them), security-assessments (checking organisational aspects of security), auditing on ISO 17799 (security checking on international standard), computer-forensic (analysis on intrusions), training for retailer and customers, high-level consulting (first-hand know-how with practical use).

The workshop was held early in April at the Technology In Management Ltd (TIM) training centre. On completion, the participants were presented with a certificate.

For the event, a retrospective exhibition of 15 paintings by Justine Meli Bugeja adorned the walls of the premises.

Due to overwhelming demand, two more sessions have been held recently and an advanced course and more sessions are being planned for the near future.