Author: 0
-
Case Inference #4 — The Admin Who Blinked Twice
“If you squint hard enough, a Gmail handle becomes a breadcrumb.”— InferenceLog, Vol. 4 Situation: At Cypress Warden Technologies — a place where documentation goes to die — we were tasked with preparing a vulnerability assessment. The only problem? Their head network admin, let’s call him Connor, treated us like we were auditioning for CSI:…
-
Prompting Architectures for Large Language Models: Evolving the Art of Reasoning
Modern prompting strategies reflect an evolving understanding of how large language models (LLMs) can be guided to think, reason, and solve problems more like humans. The shift from static question-answering to dynamic multi-step reasoning is more than a technical innovation — it represents a new layer of cognitive engineering. This article explores a variety of…
-
Prompt Architecture in LLMs
Prompt architecture refers to the structured design of multi-step, modular interactions with large language models (LLMs), where each component or phase contributes to a broader reasoning process or task objective. It represents a shift from the traditional practice of prompt engineering—which focuses on crafting a single, effective input—to building systems of prompts that function together…
-
A Look at Tree-of-Thought Prompting
How do you get an AI to think slowly? Not instinctively, but deliberately — like solving a logic puzzle instead of guessing an answer? This question touches on a fundamental difference in how decisions are made: quickly vs. carefully. Psychologist Daniel Kahneman called these two modes System 1 (fast, automatic) and System 2 (slow, effortful).…
-
Footprinting and Social Engineering: Mapping the Threat Landscape
Before launching an attack, cybercriminals rarely act blindly. Instead, they begin by gathering detailed information about their target—a process known as footprinting. Combined with social engineering, which manipulates human behavior to gain access or information, these techniques form the foundation of many modern cyberattacks. This article explores footprinting and social engineering in depth, explaining the…
-
Programming for Security Professionals: Foundational Skills for the Cyber Domain
In the field of cybersecurity, having a working knowledge of programming is not just helpful—it’s essential. Whether analyzing malware, automating tasks, or scripting vulnerability tests, security professionals benefit from understanding how code works, where flaws arise, and how to remediate or exploit software behavior. This guide introduces basic programming principles and demonstrates key techniques using…
-
Desktop and Server OS Vulnerabilities: Securing Windows and Linux System
Modern organizations rely heavily on desktop and server operating systems (OSs) to support enterprise services, employee productivity, and infrastructure control. However, these platforms—primarily Microsoft Windows and Linux—are frequent targets of cyberattacks due to their widespread adoption and complex codebases. Misconfigurations, outdated software, and overexposed attack surfaces contribute to the persistent risk. This article explores vulnerabilities…
-
Hacking Wireless Networks: Exploits, Tools, and Safeguards
Wireless communication has transformed how people access the Internet and share information. From home routers to expansive city-wide coverage, wireless networks offer convenience and mobility—but also introduce a significant attack surface for threat actors. Understanding wireless technologies, standards, and the tools used by both attackers and defenders is critical in the fight to secure these…
-
Hacking Web Servers: A Cybersecurity Overview
The Digital Shift and Security Consequences The rise of e-commerce and remote work—accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic—has drastically expanded the surface area of the internet. Global e-commerce surged from 14% of retail trade in 2019 to 17% in 2020, while remote communication tools became mission-critical for businesses. At the heart of this digital transformation are…
-
Embedded Operating Systems: Securing the Invisible Infrastructure
In the cybersecurity landscape, attention often centers on servers, desktop systems, and cloud platforms. Yet, a less visible but equally critical layer exists—embedded operating systems (OS). These compact, task-specific software environments run on embedded systems, which are purpose-built computers integrated into larger devices. These systems, often governed by firmware, play an essential role in controlling…
