In this workshop, Alethe Denis, Senior Security Consultant II at Bishop Fox and DEF CON Black Badge-winning social engineer, shares how to build pretexts that can withstand real-world pressure during physical red team engagements.

Most social engineering discussions focus on what to say. This session focuses on how to create believable stories that hold up when faced with skeptical employees, unexpected questions, or situations that do not go according to plan.

Drawing from her experience in social engineering, physical security assessments, and offensive security operations, Alethe will discuss the mindset and preparation behind creating stronger, more resilient pretexts for real-world engagements.

This workshop is designed for red teamers, social engineers, OSINT practitioners, physical security professionals, and anyone interested in the human side of offensive security.

By the end of this session, attendees will have a better understanding of how experienced social engineers approach pretext building for physical red team engagements and why flexibility matters just as much as preparation.