BOTTOM LINE

Who was Kevin Mitnick to the industry?

“Kevin’s journey from an infamous hacker to a champion of cybersecurity has inspired countless individuals around the globe,” wrote Dr Magda Chelly, cybersecurity industry veteran and the Managing Director and Chief Information Security Officer of Responsible Cyber.

“His transformation into a White Hat hacker and his contribution to the community as a public speaker, writer, and founder have left an indelible mark on the industry.”

Despite the controversies surrounding his past, this writer can vouch that Mitnick’s legacy in the cybersecurity world is undeniable.

“He used this knowledge for the greater good and to develop hacking demonstrations that educated the business world and everyday people on how to protect themselves,” read his obituary.

“Kevin’s body of work inspired many individuals to pursue a career in cybersecurity – the industry upon which he leaves an indelible mark and an incredible legacy.”

Tributaries pouring in on Twitter hail him as a visionary, constantly pushing himself and his team to strive for excellence in their craft, and his impact on the field will be felt for years to come.

“His dedication towards his craft, his team, and the community at large were traits that made him stand out as a truly extraordinary figure in our field,” Dr Chelly wrote.

As the cybersecurity community mourns the loss of one of its most enigmatic figures, it also celebrates the transformation of a hacker into an influential cybersecurity visionary.

Mitnick’s journey from switching his black hat with a white hat serves as a reminder of the complexities of the human spirit and the power of redemption.

His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to safeguard the digital world and protect against the everevolving threats that lurk in cyberspace.

As he wrote, “My primary goal of hacking was the intellectual curiosity, the seduction of adventure.”