Bsides Cymru 2024

So you want to be a spy - reality is a slap in the face
04-27, 11:30–12:00 (Europe/London), Main Room (Ballroom) - Track 1

Navigate the Spectrum of Intelligence with us, our talk unveils the intricate world of intelligence gathering. Explore the mysterious intricacies of CYBINT, HUMINT, and other intelligence domains, each revealing a piece of the global espionage puzzle. Witness how the integration of TECHINT, SIGINT, FININT, and more, forms a complex tapestry of data analysis and insight. This presentation is a gateway into the secretive realms of intelligence, where each detail and discovery brings you a step closer to understanding the hidden forces that shape our world.


Our presentation delves into the complex world of intelligence gathering and analysis. It covers various types of intelligence, such as TECHINT (Technical Intelligence), SIGINT (Signals Intelligence), FININT (Financial Intelligence), RADINT (Radar Intelligence), OSINT (Open Source Intelligence), CYBINT/DNINT (Cyber/Digital Network Intelligence), IMINT/GEOINT (Imagery/Geospatial Intelligence), MASINT (Measurement and Signature Intelligence), and HUMINT (Human Intelligence). We will journey through All-Source Intelligence, highlighting the specific methodologies and technologies involved, as well as their applications in different contexts. The presentation showcases less known techniques as well as those popularised by Hollywood. We also explore the integration of diverse intelligence types in modern practices and tradecraft as well as the evolution and current trends in intelligence gathering and analysis.

For 15 years, Tony's job has been either trying to break technology or defend it from attack. This he has done everywhere from banks to mass transport systems. He specialises in open source intelligence and social engineering, providing intelligence and understanding, helping clients understand their exposure and providing insight and access for red and purple teams. He also speaks the world over at technology and cybersecurity events about how anything from children's toys to cars, planes and ships can be hacked. He has spoken at PCI events in Europe and Asia, at the ISC2 Congress, ISACA CSX Europe, SANS Awareness Conference, WIRED Smarter, technical conferences such as 44Con and BSides. Most notably, he has spoken to US Congress and the European Central Bank about how the underlying digital theories and systems which modern life relies on, are vulnerable to attack.

Hugo is a Red Team Operator & Developer at Pen Test Partners.