Realsecuritydoctor.com Review

Based on looking at the website, RealSecurityDoctor.com appears to be a platform offering specialized security consulting, training, and resources. The site, run by “Dr.

Rich,” focuses on a no-nonsense, direct approach to security and risk management, challenging conventional wisdom and offering what it claims are “real-world” solutions.

Overall Review Summary:

• Legitimacy: Appears legitimate in terms of offering services, but with an aggressive, highly opinionated, and potentially off-putting tone.
• Transparency: Provides clear pricing for books and membership, and outlines various service offerings. The “Dr. Rich” persona is central.
• Ethical Considerations: While the subject matter of security itself is neutral, the language used e.g., “filthy freeloader,” “bullshit,” “fuckwits” and the aggressive, exclusive stance might not align with principles of respectful discourse and inclusivity often valued in ethical frameworks.
• Product/Service Nature: Primarily offers digital books, online training, coaching, and a subscription-based community portal for security practitioners.
• Security Focus: Aims to redefine security thinking and practice, emphasizing practical application over traditional, perceived-as-flawed methods.

The platform positions itself as a stark contrast to the “bullshit, apathy and idiocy” prevalent in the security industry.

It offers various products, primarily digital books, and services like career diagnostic calls, coaching, training, and a members-only “Surgery” portal.

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The core philosophy revolves around challenging existing security paradigms and providing what the author deems more effective, reality-based approaches.

While the directness might appeal to some, the overtly dismissive and critical language used to describe others in the field could be a significant deterrent for many professionals seeking a more collaborative or nuanced environment.

The exclusive nature of the “client portal,” accessible only to customers, and the explicit labeling of non-customers as “filthy freeloaders” also set a particular tone.

Best Alternatives for Professional Development & Security Resources:

• SANS Institute: Key Features: World-renowned cybersecurity training, certifications, and research. offers a wide range of courses from foundational to advanced, live and on-demand. Average Price: Courses can range from $2,000 to $8,000+. Pros: Highly respected, practical skills, industry-recognized certifications, large community. Cons: Very expensive, time-intensive.
• Coursera: Key Features: Offers online courses, specializations, and professional certificates from top universities and companies in cybersecurity, risk management, and IT. Average Price: Courses can be free to audit, or paid subscriptions $49-$79/month or one-time course fees $299-$999+. Pros: Flexible, affordable options, diverse topics, reputable instructors, global accessibility. Cons: Less hands-on than SANS, not all certifications are industry-standard.
• ISC2: Key Features: Offers highly respected certifications like CISSP, SSCP, and CCSP, focusing on various domains of information security and risk management. Provides training resources and a professional community. Average Price: Exam fees typically $300-$700. training costs vary. Pros: Globally recognized certifications, strong career advancement opportunities, comprehensive knowledge domains. Cons: Exams are rigorous, requires experience for some certifications, study materials can be extensive.
• ISACA: Key Features: Focuses on IT governance, risk, and compliance with certifications like CISM, CISA, CRISC, and CGEIT. Offers training, resources, and a professional community. Average Price: Exam fees typically $500-$700. training costs vary. Pros: Strong emphasis on audit, governance, and risk, highly valued in corporate environments, global network. Cons: Less focused on technical “hands-on” security, certifications can be challenging.
• Cybrary: Key Features: Online platform offering a wide array of cybersecurity courses, labs, and career pathways, often with hands-on practice. covers various specializations. Average Price: Free basic access, paid premium subscriptions $59-$99/month. Pros: Practical, hands-on learning, flexible, covers many entry to mid-level topics, community support. Cons: Content quality can vary, some advanced topics might be less comprehensive.
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Key Features: A voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology that provides guidance on how organizations can better manage and reduce cybersecurity risk. Offers best practices, standards, and guidelines. Price: Free. Pros: Authoritative, comprehensive, widely adopted globally, foundational for many security programs. Cons: Not a direct training platform, requires self-study and application.
• OWASP Foundation: Key Features: Open-source community dedicated to improving software security. Offers free tools, documentation, projects, and guidelines for web application security. Price: Free. Pros: Community-driven, highly practical, essential for application security professionals, constantly updated. Cons: Focused primarily on application security, not a formal training or certification body.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Realsecuritydoctor.com Review & First Look

Upon initial examination, RealSecurityDoctor.com presents a distinctive, highly opinionated, and somewhat confrontational stance on the security industry.

The website’s immediate impression is that of a single individual, “Dr.

Rich,” challenging established norms and offering what he purports to be “real-world” insights.

This approach is evident from the introductory videos section, which explicitly states, “I am not everyone’s cup of tea, and most people are not mine,” setting a clear expectation of the tone to follow.

The site’s design is straightforward, prioritizing text and video content, suggesting a focus on information dissemination rather than elaborate visual aesthetics. De-video.xyz Review

The Problematic Tone and Language

One of the most striking aspects of RealSecurityDoctor.com is its aggressive and dismissive language.

Phrases like “bullshit, apathy and idiocy,” “filthy freeloader,” and “fuckwits” are used to describe conventional industry practices, non-customers, and even those who participate in polls.

While some might find this “brutality” refreshing or authentic, it fundamentally clashes with principles of respectful professional discourse, collaboration, and ethical communication.

In any professional field, especially one as critical as security, fostering an environment of constructive criticism and open dialogue is paramount.

Language that disparages or demeans others can create division, discourage legitimate inquiry, and potentially alienate a significant portion of the audience, regardless of the merit of the underlying ideas. Exmyb.com Review

This kind of rhetoric, while aiming for disruption, often undermines credibility and fosters an unwelcoming atmosphere.

Ethical communication within professional communities emphasizes clarity, respect, and a willingness to engage diverse perspectives, none of which are strongly conveyed by this site’s chosen lexicon.

Website Structure and Content Presentation

The website is structured around several key offerings: a series of introductory videos, a client portal, a collection of books, career diagnostic calls, and training/coaching services, and a subscription-based “Surgery” community.

The content is presented in a linear fashion, encouraging visitors to watch introductory videos in a specific order before delving into other sections.

This guided approach aims to ensure visitors grasp Dr. Rich’s philosophy from the outset. Simpleway.world Review

Each section provides a brief overview of the service or product, often reiterating the overarching theme of challenging conventional security wisdom.

For instance, the books section emphasizes how existing knowledge is “critically, fundamentally flawed,” and how Dr.

Rich’s work aims to correct these perceived errors.

The “Client Portal” and Exclusivity

A central feature promoted on the site is “The Real Security Doctor client portal,” described as a platform for “serious security practitioners.” Access is explicitly tied to becoming a “customer,” even if it’s just by purchasing a single book.

This creates a tiered system where “filthy freeloaders” non-customers are excluded from “the good stuff.” While exclusive communities are common, the language used to differentiate members from non-members reinforces the confrontational tone. Biiworld.com Review

The portal promises dynamic content based on “level of engagement,” implying a progressive access model.

This exclusivity aims to cultivate a dedicated, like-minded group, but it also underscores the site’s insular approach to industry engagement, potentially limiting broader impact and knowledge sharing.

Realsecuritydoctor.com Features

RealSecurityDoctor.com offers a suite of services and products designed to provide what it describes as “real-world” security insights and professional development.

These features collectively form the core value proposition of the platform, catering to individuals seeking to challenge conventional security wisdom and improve their professional capabilities.

Digital Books and Publications

The cornerstone of RealSecurityDoctor.com’s offerings are its digital books, currently numbering three with more in development. Horseyshopping.com Review

Each book addresses a specific aspect of security philosophy and practice:

• The Problem of Security: This book critiques the foundational flaws of conventional security and risk management knowledge, arguing that the industry’s existing body of knowledge is “critically, fundamentally flawed.” It aims to validate the intuitions of practitioners who feel that traditional methods don’t align with “the real world.”
• The Superior Security Practitioner: This publication focuses on professional development beyond technical knowledge. It introduces an “Occupational Competence Model” emphasizing character and resilience, asserting that an individual’s intrinsic qualities are more critical for career longevity than mere technical expertise.
• Real Security Management™: This book presents Dr. Rich’s proprietary model and philosophy for “value-driven organisational protection.” It claims to provide a practical and pragmatic approach to protective decision-making, successfully separating “objective reality” from “subjective fantasy” in conventional security wisdom. It introduces nine new trademarked concepts.
• The Complete Bitter Pill: This upcoming book compiles polls and newsletters, allowing readers to assess their understanding and compare it to others, maintaining the site’s characteristic bluntness.

The sales copy for these books is assertive, promising “new thinking” and a departure from “stale repetition.” They are positioned as essential reads for anyone looking to genuinely improve their security practice.

Career Diagnostic Calls

A significant feature is the “zero-risk, no-obligation Career Diagnostic session.” These calls are not for discussing technical security matters but rather for exploring the individual’s career aspirations and development needs.

The site emphasizes that these are likely “the first genuine conversation about your career” many participants will have had. A key selling point is the refund policy: if Dr.

Rich cannot help the individual, a full refund is provided without argument, and the fee is offset against any subsequent in-person training or coaching purchased within three months. Giftsforlittlehands.com Review

This feature serves as a gateway to personalized coaching and training programs.

Training, Coaching, and Mentoring

RealSecurityDoctor.com delineates clear distinctions between training, coaching, and mentoring, offering all three to clients:

• Training: Aims to provide the necessary knowledge, asserting that the security industry often falls short in this area.
• Coaching: Focuses on developing the skills required to effectively apply acquired knowledge. The analogy of tennis lessons without understanding the rules is used to highlight the importance of foundational knowledge before coaching.
• Mentoring: Dedicated to personal development, offered in “the right situations.”

The site directs potential clients to a separate “courses” page for online training details, but encourages booking a career diagnostic call to determine the most suitable course of action, framing it as a “smart thing to do” to avoid wasted time and money.

The “Surgery” Membership Portal

The “Surgery” is presented as an exclusive, subscription-based community for “serious security people.” It explicitly disdains “cyber” or IT-focused discussions, positioning itself as a haven from what it perceives as superficial industry chatter found on platforms like LinkedIn or Reddit. Membership benefits include:

• Access to live monthly webinars via Zoom.
• Access to a large archive of past webinar recordings.
• Access to a private community forum for interaction with “security people of quality.”
• Access to premium, “Surgery-only” content.
• A 10% discount on online training excluding coaching and in-person events.
• “Direct engagement with Dr. Rich with a slight reduction in snark.”

The membership fee is £59 per month, with price protection for continuous subscribers. Amputechindustry.com Review

Strict rejoining rules a 90-day window for leavers are in place to prevent abuse.

This feature reinforces the exclusivity and community aspect, providing ongoing engagement and access to Dr. Rich’s insights.

Realsecuritydoctor.com Pros & Cons

When evaluating RealSecurityDoctor.com, it’s crucial to look beyond the provocative language and assess the underlying value proposition and potential drawbacks for a professional audience.

Given the tone and approach, the cons significantly outweigh the pros for many, particularly those seeking a balanced, respectful, and collaborative professional environment.

Cons

• Highly Abrasive and Unprofessional Language: The most significant drawback is the consistent use of derogatory and offensive terms such as “bullshit,” “idiocy,” “filthy freeloader,” and “fuckwits.” This language is not merely direct. it is actively hostile and disrespectful. In any professional context, such rhetoric undermines credibility, alienates potential clients, and fosters a toxic environment. It signals an unwillingness to engage in civil discourse or acknowledge differing perspectives constructively. This aggressively negative tone can be off-putting for many professionals seeking a positive and supportive learning or networking experience.
• Exclusivity and Elitism: The website explicitly states that access to “the good stuff” the client portal is reserved for “customers” who are “officially upgraded from ‘filthy freeloader’ status.” This creates a strong sense of elitism and can be seen as demeaning to those who are simply exploring the content. While many platforms offer tiered access, the overt shaming of non-paying visitors is an unprofessional and unwelcoming tactic. This insular approach discourages broader community engagement and collaborative knowledge sharing.
• Sole Authority and Potential for Groupthink: The platform is heavily centered around “Dr. Rich’s” individual philosophy and models, often presented as the definitive “truth” against a flawed industry. While unique perspectives are valuable, an environment where one individual is the sole authority, and dissenting views are implicitly or explicitly dismissed, can lead to groupthink. This discourages critical thinking and the exploration of diverse methodologies, which are essential for true professional growth in a complex field like security.
• Lack of Broad Industry Collaboration: The site’s confrontational stance against the “conventional body of security knowledge” and other industry professionals suggests a lack of interest in broader collaboration. While questioning norms is healthy, outright dismissal of all existing frameworks and the labeling of others as “assholes” or “idiots” limits the potential for engaging with the wider security community. This can be detrimental for practitioners who need to interact with and learn from diverse sources.
• Limited Transparency on Course Content: While the site mentions online training and courses, it explicitly states, “I don’t provide a huge amount of information about my programmes because that is not how I sell them.” This lack of detailed course descriptions or curricula can be a red flag for potential learners who prefer to understand the scope, objectives, and specific topics covered before committing. It forces individuals into a “Career Diagnostic” call, which, while framed as “zero-risk,” still represents a barrier to initial information gathering.
• Focus on Disparagement: A significant portion of the website’s promotional material is dedicated to disparaging the existing security industry and its practitioners. While identifying problems is a good starting point, constantly framing the narrative as “everyone else is wrong, I am right” can become tiresome and less constructive than focusing on the solutions and positive advancements being offered. This negative framing can detract from the actual educational value.
• Unconventional Business Model for Information: The approach of demanding a purchase even a cheap book to gain access to a community or “good stuff” is a direct monetization strategy. While this is not inherently negative, the aggressive language used to enforce it e.g., “pearls before swine” is unusual and potentially off-putting compared to platforms that offer more accessible introductory content.

Realsecuritydoctor.com Alternatives

For professionals seeking to enhance their security knowledge and career prospects in an ethical, inclusive, and professional manner, numerous alternatives offer comprehensive training, community engagement, and reputable resources without the aggressive tone found on RealSecurityDoctor.com. 3athena.com Review

These alternatives typically foster collaborative environments, adhere to professional standards, and provide verified, widely accepted methodologies alongside innovative thinking.

Here are some top-tier alternatives that prioritize quality, respect, and professional development:

• SANS Institute: Widely regarded as the gold standard in cybersecurity training and certifications. SANS offers incredibly deep, hands-on courses covering virtually every aspect of cybersecurity, from offensive and defensive techniques to digital forensics, incident response, and leadership. Their certifications GIAC are highly respected globally. While expensive, the quality of instruction and practical applicability are unparalleled. SANS also hosts numerous free resources, webcasts, and whitepapers.
• ISC2: The leading global organization for information security certifications, most notably the CISSP Certified Information Systems Security Professional. ISC2 certifications are vendor-neutral and focus on broad security knowledge domains, making them highly valuable for career advancement and demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of security principles. They also offer a vast professional network and continuing education opportunities.
• ISACA: Focuses on IT governance, risk, and compliance. ISACA offers highly recognized certifications such as CISM Certified Information Security Manager, CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor, and CRISC Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control. These certifications are crucial for professionals in management, audit, and risk roles, emphasizing strategic oversight and ethical decision-making in enterprise security.
• Offensive Security OffSec: For those specifically interested in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and red teaming, OffSec provides industry-leading certifications like the OSCP Offensive Security Certified Professional. Their “Try Harder” methodology is famous for its rigor and practical, hands-on challenges, ensuring certified individuals possess genuine offensive security skills. The learning environment is challenging but supportive, focusing on practical application.
• Coursera and edX: These online learning platforms partner with top universities and companies to offer a wide range of courses, specializations, and professional certificates in cybersecurity. They provide flexible, accessible learning options, often at a more affordable price point than specialized bootcamps. While self-paced, the content quality is generally high, drawing from academic rigor and industry expertise.
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Not a training provider, but an essential, widely adopted framework published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. It provides a common language and structured approach for organizations to manage and reduce cybersecurity risk. Studying and implementing the NIST CSF is fundamental for any security professional, offering a vendor-neutral, best-practice approach to organizational security. It’s a free, publicly available resource that forms the backbone of many security programs.
• OWASP Foundation: The Open Web Application Security Project is a global, non-profit community dedicated to improving software security. OWASP provides free, open-source resources, tools, and methodologies for web application security. Their projects, such as the OWASP Top 10, are industry standards for identifying and mitigating web application vulnerabilities. Engaging with OWASP is crucial for anyone involved in secure software development or application security testing.

These alternatives provide robust, professionally recognized pathways for security practitioners to develop their skills, expand their knowledge, and connect with a global community, all within a framework of mutual respect and high ethical standards.

How to Cancel Realsecuritydoctor.com Subscription

If you’ve subscribed to the “Surgery” membership on RealSecurityDoctor.com and wish to cancel, the website provides specific instructions based on your geographical location and payment method.

It’s important to understand these details to ensure a smooth cancellation process and to be aware of the site’s rejoining policy. Unobrush.com Review

Cancellation Process Details

The website states two distinct methods for joining the “Surgery,” which correspond to their cancellation methods:

• For UK Subscribers GoCardless Direct Debit: If you joined the Surgery from the UK, your subscription was set up via GoCardless, which uses a Direct Debit system. To cancel, you would typically manage this through your bank or directly within your GoCardless account if you have one. Direct Debits are usually managed by the payer, allowing you to stop payments from your bank account. The website explicitly states, “You can cancel at any time.”
• For Rest of World Subscribers Stripe: If you are outside the UK and joined the Surgery, your subscription was processed via Stripe. Stripe is a widely used payment processor. To cancel a recurring Stripe subscription, you would generally need to access your account or contact the merchant RealSecurityDoctor.com directly. Often, merchants provide a “manage subscription” link within your account area on their website or in your initial subscription confirmation email. If such a link is not readily available, contacting their support directly would be the next step.

Rejoining Policy After Cancellation

It’s crucial to note RealSecurityDoctor.com’s strict rejoining policy. The website states: “If you leave or fail a payment, you’ll need to rejoin at whatever the current rate will be. Can’t say fairer than that. I operate a 90-day window on leavers to avoid abuse of the service.”

This means:

• No Price Protection: If you cancel, you lose the “protected from price rises for the life of your subscription” benefit. Should you decide to rejoin later, you will be subject to the current membership rate, which may be higher.
• 90-Day Waiting Period: There is a “90-day window” during which you cannot immediately rejoin after canceling. This policy is explicitly stated as being in place “to avoid abuse of the service.” This means if you cancel, you must wait three months before being able to re-subscribe, even if you change your mind.

Therefore, before canceling, ensure you are fully committed to discontinuing the service, considering both the potential price increase upon rejoining and the mandatory waiting period.

It’s always advisable to check the specific terms and conditions provided at the time of your subscription for any additional details regarding cancellation. Friendlycup.org Review

Realsecuritydoctor.com Pricing

RealSecurityDoctor.com offers various products and services, each with its own pricing structure.

The website provides clear pricing for its digital books and the “Surgery” membership, while other services like coaching and training require a preliminary diagnostic call to determine costs.

Digital Books Pricing

The core products of RealSecurityDoctor.com are its digital books, which are available for individual purchase. The prices are not directly listed on the main homepage text, but links to specific purchase pages Thrivecart for the first three books, and Educa for “The Complete Bitter Pill” are provided. Typically, digital books of this nature are priced in the range of £10-£50 approximately $12-$60 USD, depending on their length and perceived value. The website also mentions looking out for a “package deal option in the checkout to get all three” books, suggesting a discounted bundle price for multiple purchases. For example, similar specialized e-books from independent authors often fall within this range, with the benefit of immediate digital delivery.

• The Problem of Security: Available as a PDF.
• The Superior Security Practitioner: Digital format.
• Real Security Management™: Digital format.
• The Complete Bitter Pill: Available for purchase on a separate platform educa.realsecuritydoctor.com.

Career Diagnostic Calls Pricing

The “zero-risk, no-obligation Career Diagnostic session” is priced. While the exact fee isn’t listed on the main page, the “zero-risk” guarantee implies that if the session does not lead to a collaborative working relationship, the fee is fully refunded. If it does, the fee is credited towards the cost of subsequent in-person training or coaching bought within three months. Such diagnostic or introductory consultations for specialized coaching services often range from £50-£200 approximately $60-$250 USD, depending on the duration and the perceived expertise of the consultant. The emphasis on “zero-risk” suggests a customer-friendly approach to this initial engagement.

The “Surgery” Membership Pricing

The “Surgery” membership, the site’s community portal, has a clear monthly subscription fee: Reliaquest.com Review

• £59 per month including any applicable taxes.

This price is protected from future increases for the life of the subscription, provided the member maintains continuous payments.

If a member cancels and later wishes to rejoin, they will be subject to the current rate at that time, which may be higher.

This pricing model encourages long-term commitment and values consistent engagement with the community and its resources.

For comparison, professional online communities or specialized forums often charge similar monthly fees, ranging from $50-$100, depending on the exclusivity and content offered.

Training, Coaching, and Mentoring Pricing

For in-depth training, coaching, and mentoring programs, the website does not provide upfront pricing. Instead, it directs interested individuals to: Armourfeel.com Review

• Book a Career Diagnostic call: This call is positioned as the smart first step, where the specific needs of the individual will be assessed, and suitable programs and their associated costs will be discussed.
• Visit the “courses” page: While a general link to the courses page is provided, the homepage text reiterates that “I don’t provide a huge amount of information about my programmes because that is not how I sell them.” This implies a highly customized pricing model for these more extensive services, which is common for bespoke professional development and coaching programs. Such programs can range from hundreds to thousands of pounds/dollars depending on the duration, intensity, and one-on-one engagement.

In summary, RealSecurityDoctor.com utilizes a mixed pricing strategy: clear upfront costs for books and the monthly membership, and a consultative, personalized approach for higher-value training and coaching services.

RealSecurityDoctor.com vs. Traditional Security Training Providers

When evaluating RealSecurityDoctor.com, it’s insightful to compare its approach with that of traditional, established security training providers.

The fundamental differences lie in philosophy, content delivery, community engagement, and overall tone.

Philosophy and Approach

• RealSecurityDoctor.com: Adopts an iconoclastic, “no-bullshit” philosophy. It fundamentally critiques and dismisses the “conventional body of security knowledge” as flawed and ineffective in the “real world.” The approach is highly personalized around “Dr. Rich’s” models and philosophy, emphasizing a direct, often confrontational, challenge to industry norms. It purports to offer “new thinking” that is distinct from what has “not worked before.”
• Traditional Security Training Providers e.g., SANS, ISC2, ISACA: Generally operate within established, peer-reviewed, and globally recognized frameworks e.g., NIST, ISO 27001. While they evolve their content and methodologies, their core approach is built on accumulating and disseminating validated best practices, theoretical foundations, and practical applications. They aim to equip professionals with skills and knowledge that are widely accepted and applicable across various organizational contexts. Their focus is on building a robust, comprehensive understanding of security principles rather than explicitly discrediting existing paradigms.

Content Delivery and Structure

• RealSecurityDoctor.com: Primarily delivers content through digital books, introductory videos, and a subscription-based “Surgery” portal for discussions and webinars. Training and coaching are offered, but detailed course information is intentionally withheld, requiring a “Career Diagnostic” call. This creates a somewhat opaque and exclusive learning path where the specific content and structure of programs are revealed only after initial engagement.
• Traditional Security Training Providers: Employ highly structured curricula with clear learning objectives, detailed course outlines, and often extensive lab exercises. They offer a diverse range of formats: live classroom training, on-demand online courses, virtual labs, and self-study materials. Certifications often require rigorous exams based on a defined body of knowledge. Content is typically peer-reviewed, regularly updated, and designed for broad applicability. Transparency regarding course content and learning outcomes is a hallmark.

Community and Networking

• RealSecurityDoctor.com: Fosters an exclusive community “The Surgery” for paying customers, explicitly designed to be free from “bullshit” and “cyber assholes.” It values a like-minded group of “serious security people” who resonate with Dr. Rich’s critical stance. The language used e.g., “filthy freeloader” creates a strong in-group/out-group dynamic, potentially limiting diverse perspectives.
• Traditional Security Training Providers: Promote large, inclusive professional networks. Organizations like ISC2 and ISACA have global memberships, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mentorship among thousands of professionals from diverse backgrounds. Conferences, local chapters, and online forums encourage open dialogue and networking without the explicit exclusion or derogation of those with different views. The emphasis is on collective advancement of the profession.

Tone and Professionalism

• RealSecurityDoctor.com: Characterized by an aggressive, blunt, and often offensive tone. It employs strong, dismissive language to describe the industry and those outside its exclusive circle. While this might appeal to some as “authentic” or “brutal honesty,” it often comes across as unprofessional, disrespectful, and divisive in a professional context.
• Traditional Security Training Providers: Maintain a professional, respectful, and academic tone. Their communications focus on factual information, best practices, and constructive discussions. While they acknowledge challenges in the industry, their critique is typically framed within a context of problem-solving and improvement, rather than outright derision. They prioritize clarity, objectivity, and a collaborative spirit.

Certification and Recognition

• RealSecurityDoctor.com: Does not offer formal, widely recognized industry certifications. Its value proposition lies in its unique philosophy and bespoke coaching/training. While it introduces “new trademarked concepts,” these do not carry the broad industry recognition of traditional certifications.
• Traditional Security Training Providers: Offer globally recognized and highly respected certifications e.g., CISSP, CISM, OSCP. These certifications serve as benchmarks for knowledge and expertise, often required or preferred for various roles in the security industry. They provide a clear pathway for career progression and validation of skills across organizations.

In essence, RealSecurityDoctor.com positions itself as a disruptive alternative for those disillusioned with mainstream security education.

However, its abrasive tone, exclusive nature, and lack of widely recognized credentials stand in stark contrast to the comprehensive, collaborative, and professionally accredited offerings of traditional security training providers. Asreahan.com Review

Professionals must weigh whether the perceived “real-world” insights offered by RealSecurityDoctor.com justify its divisive rhetoric and less conventional approach to professional development.

RealSecurityDoctor.com: Ethical Considerations

When reviewing RealSecurityDoctor.com, several ethical considerations arise, primarily stemming from its highly aggressive tone, exclusive language, and critical stance towards the broader security industry.

While the core subject of security itself is ethically neutral, the manner in which the content is presented and the community is managed raises questions about professional conduct, inclusivity, and respectful discourse.

Professionalism and Respectful Communication

A significant ethical concern is the site’s pervasive use of demeaning and unprofessional language.

Terms like “bullshit,” “apathy,” “idiocy,” “filthy freeloader,” “cyber assholes,” and “fuckwits” are scattered throughout the homepage. Leaseterminator.com Review

While some might argue this is merely a “direct” or “brutal” communication style, in a professional context, it crosses the line into disrespect and disparagement.

Ethical Implications:

• Undermining Professionalism: Such language can erode the perception of professionalism within the security industry. Ethical conduct in any profession demands respectful communication, even when disagreeing.
• Creating a Hostile Environment: For those who might genuinely seek to learn or contribute, encountering such language can be off-putting and create an unwelcoming, even hostile, environment. This is particularly true for newcomers or individuals from diverse backgrounds who may interpret such aggression as a barrier to entry.
• Discouraging Constructive Dialogue: When critics or non-customers are labeled pejoratively, it shuts down opportunities for constructive dialogue, feedback, and collaboration. Ethical discourse thrives on open exchange, not on belittling those with differing views.

Exclusivity and Inclusivity

The website’s explicit division between “customers” “serious security practitioners” and “filthy freeloaders” non-customers raises questions about inclusivity.

While paid content and exclusive communities are common, the pejorative labeling of those outside the paying circle is ethically questionable.

• Creating Artificial Barriers: By framing non-customers in a negative light, the site potentially creates an artificial barrier to initial engagement and exploration. Ethical practices typically encourage broad access to foundational information and welcome diverse perspectives.
• Promoting Elitism: The strong emphasis on being part of an “in-group” of “serious security people” can foster an elitist culture. While specialization is natural, an exclusive attitude that demeans outsiders can be detrimental to the overall health and growth of the security profession, which benefits from broad participation and knowledge sharing.
• Impact on Newcomers: Newcomers to the security field, or those still learning, might feel intimidated or unwelcome by such an exclusive and aggressive tone, potentially discouraging their entry or continued development in the industry.

Transparency and Information Access

The site’s stated policy of not providing “a huge amount of information about my programmes because that is not how I sell them” raises concerns about transparency. Truemealsandchews.com Review

While a personalized diagnostic call is offered, potential clients are asked to commit to this step without full details of what the subsequent training or coaching entails.

• Information Asymmetry: This approach creates information asymmetry, where the seller Dr. Rich holds more critical information than the potential buyer. Ethical sales practices typically involve providing sufficient detail to allow customers to make informed decisions before committing to a consultation.
• Trust and Confidence: A lack of upfront transparency, particularly when combined with an aggressive tone, can erode trust. Customers may question why information is being withheld and whether the value proposition is genuinely robust.

Criticality vs. Constructive Feedback

While challenging conventional wisdom can be beneficial and drive innovation, the method employed by RealSecurityDoctor.com often veers from constructive criticism into wholesale condemnation.

Describing the entire industry’s body of knowledge as “broken, smouldering bullshit” is a sweeping generalization that lacks nuance.

• Undermining the Industry: Constantly disparaging the efforts of thousands of professionals can undermine the perceived value and credibility of the entire security industry.
• Discouraging Collaboration: This approach implicitly discourages collaboration with, and learning from, the vast majority of practitioners and institutions that are actively working to improve security. Ethical practice often involves recognizing the collective effort and building upon existing foundations, even while striving for improvements.

In conclusion, while RealSecurityDoctor.com aims to provide valuable insights and solutions in security, its chosen communication style, emphasis on exclusivity, and limited upfront transparency raise significant ethical concerns regarding professionalism, inclusivity, and respectful engagement within the security community.

For those seeking an ethical and collaborative environment, these aspects are likely to be major deterrents.

FAQ

What is RealSecurityDoctor.com?

RealSecurityDoctor.com is a platform run by an individual named “Dr.

Rich” that offers digital books, online training, coaching, and a subscription-based community portal focused on challenging conventional security and risk management practices.

Who is “Dr. Rich” from RealSecurityDoctor.com?

“Dr.

Rich” is the persona and likely the author behind RealSecurityDoctor.com, presenting himself as an expert who has identified fundamental flaws in traditional security knowledge and offers “real-world” solutions.

What kind of services does RealSecurityDoctor.com offer?

RealSecurityDoctor.com offers several services including digital books e.g., “The Problem of Security,” “The Superior Security Practitioner,” “Real Security Management™”, career diagnostic calls, online training, coaching, mentoring, and a monthly subscription-based community called “The Surgery.”

Is RealSecurityDoctor.com a legitimate website?

Yes, RealSecurityDoctor.com appears to be a legitimate website offering distinct services and products.

However, its aggressive tone and exclusive language may not appeal to all users.

What is “The Surgery” on RealSecurityDoctor.com?

“The Surgery” is a private, monthly subscription-based community portal on RealSecurityDoctor.com for “serious security practitioners.” It includes access to live webinars, recorded archives, a community forum, and premium content, with a 10% discount on online training.

How much does “The Surgery” membership cost?

The “Surgery” membership costs £59 per month including any applicable taxes. This price is protected from future increases for continuous subscribers.

Can I get a free trial of RealSecurityDoctor.com’s services?

The website does not explicitly offer a free trial for its services or “The Surgery” membership.

However, it does offer a “zero-risk, no-obligation Career Diagnostic session” where the fee can be refunded if no further collaboration occurs.

What are the main criticisms of RealSecurityDoctor.com?

The main criticisms revolve around its highly abrasive and unprofessional language, its emphasis on exclusivity and elitism, the potential for groupthink due to a single authority, and a perceived lack of transparency regarding detailed course content upfront.

Are the books offered by RealSecurityDoctor.com digital or physical?

The books currently offered by RealSecurityDoctor.com, such as “The Problem of Security,” are in PDF digital format.

How do I cancel my “Surgery” subscription on RealSecurityDoctor.com?

If you are in the UK, you cancel via GoCardless Direct Debit. If you are outside the UK, you cancel via Stripe.

The website states that you can cancel at any time, but be aware of the 90-day rejoining policy.

What is the rejoining policy for “The Surgery” if I cancel?

If you cancel your “Surgery” subscription, you will lose your price protection and will need to rejoin at the current rate.

Additionally, there is a 90-day waiting period before you can re-subscribe to avoid “abuse of the service.”

Does RealSecurityDoctor.com offer certifications?

No, RealSecurityDoctor.com does not offer formal, widely recognized industry certifications like CISSP or CISM.

Its value proposition is based on its unique philosophy and bespoke training/coaching.

What is the purpose of the “Career Diagnostic calls”?

The “Career Diagnostic calls” are initial, zero-risk, no-obligation sessions designed to help individuals determine their career aspirations and development needs in security, potentially leading to personalized training or coaching.

How does RealSecurityDoctor.com differ from traditional security training?

RealSecurityDoctor.com differs by its iconoclastic philosophy that critiques existing industry knowledge, its highly personalized and often abrasive tone, its exclusive community, and its focus on “Dr.

Rich’s” unique models rather than widely accepted frameworks.

Are there any ethical concerns with RealSecurityDoctor.com?

Yes, ethical concerns include the use of unprofessional and demeaning language, the creation of an exclusive and potentially elitist environment, and a lack of upfront transparency regarding detailed course content, which can undermine professional conduct and inclusivity.

Can I get a refund for the Career Diagnostic call?

Yes, RealSecurityDoctor.com explicitly states that if “Dr.

Rich” cannot help you after the Career Diagnostic call, you will receive a full refund without argument, making it a “zero-risk” engagement.

What topics are covered in RealSecurityDoctor.com’s books?

The books cover topics such as the inherent flaws in conventional security and risk management, an occupational competence model for security practitioners emphasizing character, and a model for value-driven organizational protection with new concepts.

Does RealSecurityDoctor.com provide in-person training?

The website mentions that the fee for a Career Diagnostic call can be offset against “in-person training” purchased within three months, indicating that in-person training might be offered, though details are not readily available on the main page.

How does RealSecurityDoctor.com handle customer support?

The website indicates that direct engagement with “Dr.

Rich” is available for “Surgery” members, albeit with a “slight reduction in snark.” For other inquiries, the process would likely involve contacting them via the provided channels, such as booking a diagnostic call.

What kind of community can I expect in “The Surgery”?

“The Surgery” is described as a community for “serious security people” where discussions are intended to be more thoughtful and free from “bullshit” or “cyber assholes,” implying a focused, no-nonsense environment with direct interaction.