At 19, you are an independent Computer Security and Digital Intelligence Consultant with an authoritative knowledge on the subject. Why did hacking interest you at such a young age?

Initially it was certainly the forbidden aspect of Computer Security that got me into it. The forbidden fruit always attracts. However, once I actually got into Computer Security, it is just a very exciting field. It gives you the power to be able to do what normal people cannot.

When did you first hack into a website? Was it ethical hacking or you just did it for fun?

The first website that I hacked was that of a leading Indian computer magazine. As I said, it was the forbidden side to Computer Security that made me hack into a website.

Would you call hacking an art that requires certain professional and personal skills? If so, what are these qualities?

I think a good computer security professional must possess the following basic traits:
1. Must know at least one programming language i.e. C++
2. Must become a networking guru.
3. Must learn at least the basics of Unix.
4. Needs to develop the “Hacking” attitude i.e. needs to start thinking like a criminal.

How would you define a ‘real hacker’ as distinct from a ‘cracker’?

A hacker is a good guy, who fights cyber crime and protects systems. While the cracker is the bad guy, who does not have ethics and creates viruses, steals data and creates havoc on the Internet. Hence, hackers are the guys who fight crackers.

How does the mind of a hacker work?

Hackers are always trying to find new ways of breaking or reverse engineering their own software and their own operating system. A hacker’s mind is almost analogous to that of a criminal. He is always thinking like a criminal and devising new and shorter methods of breaking codes.

How competitive is this profession because it’s said that “the thinking time of other hackers is precious” as you must solve problems and give solutions away so that hackers can solve new problems instead of reinterpreting the old ones?

The underground community is very competitive. Computer criminal groups are extremely jealous of one another and do not usually share information. The various groups are always at war against one another and trying to break the maximum codes.
You were consulted by a classified intelligence agency for breaking an encrypted message that was believed to be sent by one of Osama bin Laden’s men. Tell us about this experience.
I have done a number of projects for intelligence agencies. I have done a few projects like the India, Pakistan cyber war, the China-Japan and also the China-US cyber terrorism war. I do keep working for numerous agencies for time to time. Computer forensic work is definitely very exciting!

How does it feel when the best in IT consult you for expert advice?

It is definitely a very good feeling when big corporations and experts from across the globe consider you to be one of the best in the industry. But I believe that there is always something more that one can learn. Especially in the computer security industry (which is a very dynamic one), one is always learning something new.

Have you ever thought of penning down fiction with hacking as the central theme?

This question almost read my mind. I am certainly actually in the process of finalizing a script for a spy thriller novel. Let’s see when I can actually pen down such a novel.

What books do you like to read and what music do you listen to?

Reading books and listening to music are definitely my favorite hobbies. My favourite authors are Sidney Sheldon, John Grisham, Dan Brown and others. As far as music is concerned, I listen to all genres.

Finally, as a successful IT professional at 19, what do you have to say to the people of your generation?

Never be afraid to dream big. Real big.

Interviewed By Satarupa Ray