Computer Security Institutes leader responds to Abagnale flap

Here is his statement:

Mr. Murray and Mr. Schmidt are right to worry about sending the wrong signals when it comes to ethics and information security. But a speaking slot at a leading conference like CSI's does not mean the industry is holding them up as an example. Rather, a speaking slot is an opportunity to contribute to the discussions of the security industry, where not everyone is in agreement on all issues.

The debate over what to make of a person's prior criminal record is a case in point. I don't think everyone in the industry agrees that non-computer crimes committed as a teenager, particularly when followed by serving one's time in prison and then by thirty years of service aiding law enforcement, disqualifies a person from having something to say to current security professionals.

In my earlier comment, I didn't mean to suggest that no one objected to his appearance. As noted, two speakers out of approximately 130 dropped out. Another speaker told me he disagreed with our decision, but admitted he enjoyed the speech, and did not think it appropriate to cancel his own speaking appearance.

Also, as always, we did consult with security experts, including former keynote speakers, on the decision to invite Abagnale.

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