Cryptography: Cracking Codes

by Robert Curley (Editor)

While cracking a code might seem like something few of us would encounter in our daily lives, it is actually far more prevalent than we may realize. Anyone who has had personal information taken because of a hacked email account can understand the need for cryptography and the importance of encryption—essentially the need to code information to keep it safe. This detailed volume examines the logic and science behind various ciphers, their real world uses, how codes can be broken, and the use of technology in this oft-overlooked field.

80 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Mangzilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

P. 65 incorrect definition of (+) operator. Described as logical SUM (OR), the parenthetical definition is given is actually equal to logical multiply (AND). It should have been a logical exclusive or (XOR) in order for the shift register algorithm example to work.

It’s a pretty good introduction for young adult readers. It gives some mathematical information without getting bogged down in details.

[PoligirlReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fine overview, and I appreciated how Curley explained that encryption goes beyond spying, and is used for everyday commerce as well. One star removed for the section on William and Elizebeth Friedman. He managed to include a big old picture of William, and nothing for Elizebeth. Lame. Beyond that oversight, it was good and the glossary at the end was helpful as well.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read as a writing reference. The material was very interesting, but could have benefited from being dumbed down a little more for lay readers; I had to look up multiple mathematical terms that weren't included in the glossary, and couldn't always follow the examples (especially when it got to the DES/ADS chapter).