Sneak had thought that Easter eggs were hidden bits of frivolous functionality, but apparently they are a form of seasonal confectionary as well. Perhaps Sneak needs to get out more. Anyway, the promoters of the upcoming InfoSec security show recently demonstrated how easy it is to gather the personal info of commuters passing through London's Victoria Station. Vague offers of chocolate Easter eggs were sufficient to prise name, address, date of birth, mother’s maiden name and pet’s name from 80 percent of lamb-like passers by. The questions were, of course, designed to elicit feelings of childlike innocence: “Have you ever fed Easter eggs to your pets?” [Yes: 89%] “And what is your pet’s name” [Fido, etc] “And what is Fido’s current credit limit?” etc, etc.
After each interview, the victim was told the real reason for the probing. “I work in finance,” said one hapless pin-stripe type. "I cannot believe I gave all that information away.” Oddly enough, Sneak has absolutely no trouble believing it.

19 Apr 2006