Encrypted newspaper ads in the 19th century
Elonka Dunin, Klaus Schmeh
DEF CON 32 Main Stage · Day 1 · Main Stage
This talk, delivered by renowned cryptographers Elonka Dunin and Klaus Schmeh, delves into the fascinating world of **19th-century encrypted newspaper advertisements**. Far from being mere historical curiosities, these hidden messages represent a significant, albeit often overlooked, aspect of public and private communication during an era predating modern electronic media. The speakers illuminate how individuals, from lovers to business associates, utilized newspaper classifieds to transmit sensitive or personal information, leveraging simple ciphers to ensure a degree of privacy in plain sight.
AI review
Dunin and Schmeh deliver a substantive and engaging dive into 19th-century encrypted newspaper ads, demonstrating active, high-caliber cryptanalysis on historical ciphers. Their ongoing work on the Collinson Expedition messages and the systematic study of Le Figaro's cryptic classifieds offers genuine novelty and technical depth, presented by unimpeachable experts. While not a modern exploit, it's a foundational exploration of cryptanalysis and the enduring human need for secure communication, offering valuable context for anyone serious about the field.