What we’re about
This Meetup is part of the Pacific Hackers Association (PHA) nonprofit organization. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization fosters success in aligning veterans and underserved communities with hands-on mentorship, technical training, guidance, best practices, and job placement assistance for people seeking careers in the Cyber Security industry.
We talk about white hat hacking and cybersecurity in our group. Our focus is grassroots hacking culture, techniques, hands-on exploitation, cyber defense, digital rights, and civil liberties. We welcome everybody without a technical background in IT, the security industry, or a college degree to attend our meetings. We encourage everyone to join us and help us build an active group with events and projects for the community.
Upcoming events (4)
See all- 2024-03-30 - Start/Hack Your Cybersecurity Career + Home Labs + Lightning TalkHacker Dojo, Mountain View, CA
Lightning Talk - Security AI-washer or Security AI-loather? You are fired anyway!
Abstract:
This session attempts to determine if what a Security Architect does in his work can be done by AI.It will include ideas on adopting the same approach for other security pros and even other knowledge workers.
Bio:
Over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, including data center, Web apps, and cloud security in several market segments, including telecom, financial, energy, health, etc.Talk #1 - Beginner's Blueprint: Start/Hack Your Cybersecurity Career.
Abstract:
Join us for an exciting exploration into the art of hacking your way into the cybersecurity industry and starting your career.Uncover the strategic shortcuts, mindset shifts, skills needed, and actionable steps that transform ambition into tangible professional achievements.
This talk is your roadmap to navigate the fast lane to success(landing your first job), providing insights, anecdotes, and proven strategies to kickstart your career journey. Get ready to hack your way in just six months (if you are serious) !
Embark on a transformative journey with this talk designed for individuals aspiring to kickstart their cybersecurity careers. Perfect for those with the passion but unsure where to begin, this session offers valuable insights and practical guidance, providing a clear roadmap for newcomers to the cybersecurity realm. Discover the essential starting points and gain clarity on the crucial elements needed to embark on a successful cybersecurity career.
Bio:
Pavel is born in Bulgaria, but he lives in the states since 2018.During his life he was working for IBM && CISCO in the IT field and in few startups as a Product Designer.
Recently he made the transition to the cybersecurity world and is currently working for Nokia as a Information Security Analyst.
Graduated "Cybersecurity Risk Management" in University of Washington in a NSA backed up program.
Holds Certificates by SANS, CompTIA, EC-Council, TryHackMe, Palo Alto Networks and others.
Talk #2 - The Four Tiers of Homelabs: My Approach to Learn Cybersecurity
Abstract:
I struggle with answering the question, "How do I get a job in cybersecurity?" because there's no secret formula for preparing for your first security job. Recommendations often include obtaining entry-level certifications, playing capture the flags, or going back to school. The journey into cybersecurity varies for everyone, and there's no right or wrong answer. In my case, I prefer a practical approach: homelabs.In this talk, I'll share my unique approach to learning security engineering using homelabs and project-based learning, leading to landing my dream job as a Security Engineer.
Reflecting on my career, I assembled the pieces that allowed me to build a holistic understanding of cybersecurity. The four tiers of homelabs for learning cybersecurity is a methodology I developed to introduce beginners to the concepts, skills, and tools needed for proficiency in cybersecurity, from basic awareness of the different Linux distributions to advanced topics like cryptography and cloud security.
Divided into four steps, I provide practical examples of projects I implemented to gain experience and learn the security concepts, tools and platforms used by companies in real-life scenarios, all within my homelab.
Bio:
Lenin Alevski is a Full Stack Engineer and generalist with a lot of passion for Information Security. Currently working as a Security Engineer at Google. Lenin specializes in building and maintaining Distributed Systems, Application Security and Cloud Security in general. Lenin loves to play CTFs, contributing to open-source and writing about security and privacy on his personal blog https://www.alevsk.com. - HacktheBay With Pacific HackersGitHub, San Francisco, CA
NOTE: Host (GitHub) requires the attendees' full name and email address to pre-register. The host has assured that this data will not be used for marketing or other purposes. Kindly use the below link to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hackthebay-with-pacific-hackers-2024-tickets-868874205137
Are you going to be in San Francisco during BSidesSF and RSA? Do you have plans for Monday? If not, we have something prepared for you.
Pacific Hackers is bringing "HackTheBay" for a few hours of awesomeness. Check out our newly created CTF. We are going to have a panel discussion and some talks and workshops.
Space is limited, so sign up before everyone else.
Agenda:
2:00: Door Opens
2:30 – 3:00: Open Remarks + CTF Introduction
3:00 – 4:00: Panel Discussion
4:00 – 6:00: Talks/WorkshopsThe schedule is subject to change. For more information, visit us at www.hackthebay.org