Chereads / The Devil in The Code / Chapter 33 - The Strategy Session

Chapter 33 - The Strategy Session

As the dim lights flickered back on, illuminating the room filled with eager faces, Samantha stepped to the front. The energy in the air was palpable, a mix of excitement and apprehension as the team gathered to discuss their upcoming mission against ZionTech.

"Alright, everyone, thank you for being here. We have a lot to cover today," Samantha began, her voice steady and authoritative.

"Let's start with our agenda."

1. Team Division

"We will be dividing into two distinct groups: the On-Field Members and the Remotely Operate Members. The on-field team will be responsible for the physical infiltration of ZionTech, while the remote team will provide support from our base here in the Philippines."

On-Field Members:

1.Bobby Mandawe (Physical Infiltration Expert)

2.Jerry Enriquez (Hardware Specialist)

3.Rommel Quiroga (Hardware Specialist)

4.Christy Salazar (Signal Intelligence Specialist)

5.Samantha Dela Cruz (Field Operative/Asset Handler)

Remotely Operate Members:

1.Zark Arnold Morales (Exploit Developer)

2.Roy Riviera (Penetration Tester)

3.Rene Belgica (Malware Developer)

4.Dominic Santillan (Reverse Engineer)

5.Ricardo Del Rosario (Network Specialist)

6.Dezer Banal (Cryptographer)

7.Angelica Valencia (Researcher/Analyst)

8.Hiro Kusanagi (System Administrator)

9.Glaiza Bakido (AI/ML Data Poisoning Expert)

10.Mike Bunagan (AI/ML Security Specialist)

11.Julia Pascua (Botnet Operator)

12.Ericson Valerio (Forensics Specialist)

13.Jojo Enriquez (Financial Specialist)

14.Jobert Ibañez (Supply Chain Attack Specialist)

15.Danilo Ocampo (Social Engineering Specialist)

16.Lawrence Lopez (Recon Specialist)

"Let's take a moment to review who will be in each group," Samantha suggested, pointing to a whiteboard where the names were listed.

"Bobby, Jerry, Thadz, Christy, and I will handle the on-field work. You all will need to stay sharp and adapt quickly to any situation."

Bobby nodded. "I'm ready for whatever comes our way. I'll scout the entry points and ensure we have a clean path in and out."

Jerry chimed in, "And I'll double-check our gear. We need to be prepared for anything—especially if we encounter any unexpected security measures."

Rommel grinned, "I've been working on a few gadgets that could help with that. I'll make sure we're equipped with the latest tech to bypass any security we face."

Christy crossed her arms, "Let's not forget about intel gathering. We need to know where the guards are stationed and when their shifts change. I'll monitor their movements."

2. Goals

Samantha continued, laying out the objectives clearly.

"Our goals for this mission are as follows:

Gather Evidence: Collect any data that proves ZionTech's involvement in illegal activities.

Investigate Corruption: Unearth all information related to corruption within the organization.

Drain Financial Accounts: Access and siphon funds from ZionTech's accounts.

Identify Illegal Biddings: Secure documentation of any unlawful bidding practices that could expose their corrupt dealings."

"These goals are not just checkboxes, team," Samantha emphasized.

"They represent a larger fight against corporate corruption. Each of us has a role to play in bringing this information to light."

Roy, from the remote team, spoke up.

"I'll be ready to assist with the data extraction. Once you've accessed their systems, I can start looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. We can create some serious disruption."

Rene added, "And I'll have malware ready to deploy as soon as we get the green light. If we need to cover our tracks, I can create a diversion in their network."

3. Planning for On-Field Members

"Now, let's discuss the planning for our on-field members. Since ZionTech is based in California, we will need to ensure our approach is discreet and strategic," Samantha outlined, pacing slightly as she spoke.

"Bobby, Jerry, Thadz, Christy, and I will focus on physical entry points and utilize any insider information we have gathered to gain access to restricted areas. We will need to ensure that timing is critical; ideally, we want to enter when there are fewer employees on-site."

"We should also consider the layout of the building," Bobby suggested.

"If anyone has any maps or blueprints of the facility, it would help us plan our entry and exit routes."

Christy nodded. "I'll see what I can dig up. I have some contacts that might be able to provide intel on the building's security layout."

Planning for Remotely Operate Members

"Meanwhile, the remote team, which includes Zark, Roy, Rene, and the rest of you, will set up the digital front. Your role will be to launch initial phishing campaigns and DDoS attacks to divert attention while the on-field team executes their tasks. It's crucial that we coordinate our efforts seamlessly," Samantha instructed.

Zark leaned forward.

"We need to make sure our phishing attempts are well-crafted. If they suspect anything, it could jeopardize the entire mission. I'll work on some convincing templates to send to their employees."

Roy chimed in, "And I can monitor network traffic to see when the DDoS attack is most effective. Timing will be key to ensure the on-site team can operate undetected."

4. Preparations for On-Field Members

"Preparations for the on-field team should include:

Physical Gear: Ensure all equipment is stealthy and doesn't raise suspicion.

Entry Protocols: Review access points, security measures, and backup plans for escape routes.

Timing Coordination: Synchronize watches and establish communication protocols to keep in touch throughout the operation."

"I'll handle the gear checks," Jerry said, pulling out a checklist from his pocket.

"We need to make sure everything is functional and easy to conceal."

Rommel added, "I can work on some makeshift disguises or cover stories. We need to be ready to blend in if we encounter any employees or security staff."

Preparations for Remotely Operate Members

"On the other hand, the remote members need to:

Set Up Tools: Make sure all hacking tools are updated and tested before the operation.

Finalize Malware: Ensure the malware is ready for deployment and can be activated remotely.

Data Monitoring Systems: Establish a system to monitor ZionTech's responses in real-time."

Dezer, the cryptographer, interjected, "I'll ensure our encryption protocols are robust. If we have any data leaks, we need to contain them immediately."

Angelica chimed in, "I'll compile all relevant research on ZionTech, focusing on their recent activities. We need every piece of information we can get to inform our decisions."

5. Time and Day of Execution

"We'll aim for execution next Saturday night at 11 PM PST," Samantha stated, glancing around the room for reactions.

"This should give us the best chance of accessing critical systems without immediate detection."

Dominic raised an eyebrow.

"Is that enough time to prepare? It feels a bit rushed."

"I believe we can make it work," Samantha replied confidently.

"We've trained for this, and we know what's at stake. Every second counts, so let's use our time wisely."

6. Codename Assignment

"For safety purposes, I want each of you to create a unique hacker codename. This way, we maintain anonymity and add an extra layer of security. Make it memorable, but not too obvious," Samantha instructed, her gaze serious.

Glaiza smirked, "I already have mine—AIRebel. Just wait until they see what I can do with AI."

7. Document Preparation for Travel

"Additionally, I will prepare the necessary documents for the on-field members to travel abroad," Samantha continued, her tone serious.

"This will include visas and any required permits to ensure a smooth entry into the U.S."

8. Meeting Adjourned

"Alright, let's take the rest of the day to finalize our plans and preparations. If there are any questions, feel free to reach out. Let's get to work, team," Samantha concluded.

As members began to disperse, a renewed sense of purpose filled the room. The upcoming mission loomed ahead, and the thrill of the challenge invigorated each member of ZeroCrypt.