Truth About Computer Security Hysteria

[Editor's note: This column will make sense if you've seen Symantec's latest ad campaign. We've only seen it in print up to this point. Let us know if you find a good URL...]

The continuing saga of the men in yellow

John:

Bill, what is this requisition for 3 parachutes all about???

Bill:

Oh yeah, that's for the new security folks.

John:

The new security folks?? What are you talking about??

Bill:

You know, last month we hired this group of guys in yellow suits to keep a watch over our computer assets.

John:

You mean the guys that were annoying the boss when he tired to use the executive washroom by insisting they accompany him if he had his PDA with him??

Bill:

Them's the folks!

John:

I still don't understand why they need parachutes!

Bill:

Well, you see, our offices are located on the 30th floor, and they require parachutes for the guards who stand on the window ledge once they go above 20 stories.

John:

Did you say "stand on the window ledge"??? Are you joking??

Bill:

Hey, look for yourself. See? Two guys, with yellow suits, dark glasses and a gruff pose.

John:

Right! Next thing you know, we'll have guys wandering around the cafeteria dressed in space suits....

Bill:

Nah, we use Sun for our servers....