Deviant Ollam, Physical Penetration Specialist
This week on Ira's Everything Bagel Podcast, host Ira Sternberg sits down with Deviant Ollam, a renowned physical penetration specialist known for breaking into buildings, gated communities, and “impenetrable” server rooms to test their security. In this unlocked episode, Deviant Ollam shares his journey into the world of security, the intricacies of his profession, and valuable insights into the importance of both physical and psychological security.
From Curiosity to Career: Deviant Ollam’s Journey
Becoming a Physical Penetration Specialist
Deviant Ollam’s fascination with security began at a young age. Over the years, this curiosity evolved into a career as a physical penetration specialist. His primary role involves testing the security of companies and organizations by attempting to breach their defenses. Ollam explains that his goal is often to get caught, providing valuable feedback on the effectiveness of existing security measures. His work highlights how vulnerable many systems are, despite appearing secure.
The Importance of Locks in Society
Symbolic and Functional Roles of Locks
In this episode, Deviant Ollam discusses the dual roles that locks play in society. On one hand, locks serve a symbolic purpose, sending a message that certain areas are off-limits. On the other hand, they provide a tangible layer of security, protecting valuable assets and ensuring privacy. Ollam emphasizes that while locks are essential, they are not infallible and should be part of a comprehensive security strategy.
Low-Tech Security Solutions
When Simplicity Wins
Deviant Ollam advocates for low-tech security solutions, noting that sometimes simplicity is the most effective approach. High-tech systems can be vulnerable to sophisticated attacks, whereas basic, low-tech measures can often provide robust protection. Ollam shares practical advice on inexpensive and effective security tools, such as the best item to use for securing a hotel room.
The Difference Between Being Secure and Feeling Secure
Psychological Aspects of Security
A key topic in this episode is the distinction between being secure and feeling secure. Deviant Ollam explores how psychological factors influence perceptions of safety. He argues that true security involves both physical measures and a sense of well-being, emphasizing that individuals and organizations must address both aspects to achieve comprehensive protection.
Books and Resources by Deviant Ollam
Practical Lock Picking and Keys to the Kingdom
Deviant Ollam is the author of several influential books on security, including Practical Lock Picking and Keys to the Kingdom. These titles are among Syngress Publishing's best-selling pen testing books and are essential resources for anyone interested in physical security and lockpicking. For more information on his books and other resources, visit his official website.
Lockpick Village and Security Training
Workshops and Conferences
Deviant Ollam has made significant contributions to the security community by founding Lockpick Village workshop areas at multiple annual security conferences. He has conducted physical security training sessions for prestigious events and institutions such as Black Hat, the SANS Institute, DEF CON, the FBI, NSA, DARPA, and military academies like West Point. These workshops provide hands-on experience and education in lockpicking and physical security, helping to raise awareness and improve practices in the field.
Professional Roles and Affiliations
The CORE Group and TOOOL
While paying the bills as a physical penetration specialist with The CORE Group, Deviant Ollam also serves as the Director of Education for Red Team Alliance. Additionally, he is a member of the Board of Directors of the US division of TOOOL, The Open Organisation Of Lockpickers. These roles allow him to contribute to the advancement of security practices and educate the next generation of security professionals.
Connecting with Deviant Ollam
Stay Updated and Engaged
For fans and followers who wish to stay updated on Deviant Ollam’s latest projects and insights, you can connect with him through various platforms. Follow Deviant Ollam on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Additionally, you can explore his work and contributions to the security field on his GitHub.
Personal Life and Interests
Balancing Work and Hobbies
Outside of his professional life, Deviant Ollam enjoys a range of hobbies and interests. He is known for his passion for fast cars and loud moments of lead acceleration. In contrast, he also appreciates the quieter moments, often enjoying podcasts in his spare time. His personal anecdotes provide a glimpse into the life of a security expert who balances intense professional responsibilities with a rich personal life.
Insights from the Field
Stories and Experiences
Throughout the podcast, Deviant Ollam shares fascinating stories from his career, including his interactions with notable figures such as Sean Connery and cinematographer Janusz Kamiński. These experiences highlight the unique challenges and rewards of working in the field of physical security. Ollam’s stories provide valuable insights into the world of security testing and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation.
Educational Contributions
Teaching and Mentorship
As the Director of Education for Red Team Alliance, Deviant Ollam is dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of security professionals. His workshops and training sessions cover a wide range of topics, from basic lockpicking to advanced penetration testing techniques. Ollam’s commitment to education helps to elevate the standards of the security industry and foster a community of knowledgeable and skilled practitioners.
The Future of Security
Evolving Threats and Solutions
In the face of evolving threats, Deviant Ollam emphasizes the need for adaptive and proactive security measures. He discusses the future of physical security and the ongoing challenges that organizations face in protecting their assets. Ollam’s insights underscore the importance of staying informed and vigilant in a rapidly changing security landscape.
Deviant Ollam Podcast Episode Conclusion
This episode of Ira's Everything Bagel Podcast provides an in-depth look at the life and career of Deviant Ollam, a leading figure in the field of physical security. From his early curiosity about locks to his current role as a security expert and educator, Ollam’s journey is marked by dedication, innovation, and a passion for making the world a safer place. Tune in to hear Deviant Ollam discuss his experiences, share practical security tips, and offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of physical penetration testing.
For more engaging and insightful conversations, don’t forget to subscribe to Ira's Everything Bagel Podcast. Stay connected with Deviant Ollam and explore his work through the links provided.
🔗 Useful Links:
- Explore his contributions on GitHub.
- Follow Deviant Ollam on Twitter for the latest updates.
- Connect with Deviant Ollam on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content.
- Watch Deviant Ollam’s videos on YouTube.
FAQS ABout Deviant Ollam
Who is Deviant Ollam?
Deviant Ollam is a renowned expert in physical security, lockpicking, and covert entry. He is known for his educational contributions in the field, including writing books such as "Practical Lock Picking" and "Keys to the Kingdom." He frequently speaks at security conferences and runs training sessions on various aspects of physical security.
What is Deviant Ollam's real name?
Deviant Ollam's real name is not widely publicized, and he is primarily known in professional and public spheres by his pseudonym.
What is the name of Deviant Ollam's company?
Deviant Ollam is associated with two main companies: The CORE Group and Red Team Alliance. These organizations specialize in security training and penetration testing.
What is the Deviant Ollam store?
Deviant Ollam's store offers a variety of tools and resources related to lockpicking and physical security. It includes lockpicking tools, educational materials, and access to training sessions provided by his affiliated organizations.
Is Deviant Ollam married?
There is no publicly available information regarding Deviant Ollam's marital status. He tends to keep his personal life private, focusing more on his professional endeavors in the field of physical security.
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