Enigma Cipher Device Still Holds Secrets for Cyber Pros

Dark Reading

by Becky Bracken

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Enigma cipher machine, a historical marvel of cryptography, continues to captivate cybersecurity professionals as it offers valuable lessons for modern security challenges. Originally developed by German engineer Arthur Scherbius in 1918, the Enigma machine was later adopted by the Nazis for encrypting sensitive communications during World War II. Despite its complexity and initial success, the device ultimately failed due to overconfidence, design flaws, and human error—lessons that remain highly relevant today. The article highlights how the Enigma's hubris and engineering oversights led to its downfall. The Nazis trusted their technology too much, neglecting to test it against potential adversaries (a practice known as "red teaming" in modern cybersecurity). Additionally, frontline users, often inexperienced soldiers, introduced vulnerabilities through laziness or distractions. This overreliance on untested systems and undertrained personnel mirrors issues faced by organizations today, emphasizing the importance of proactive testing and user training. Marc Sachs, a senior vice president at the Center for Internet Security and an Enigma collector, notes that while many machines were destroyed, new discoveries continue to emerge. Sachs plans to discuss these historical insights at the RSAC 2026 conference, drawing parallels between the Enigma's failures and contemporary cybersecurity challenges like supply chain risks and material scarcity. The Enigma story also underscores the power of historical perspective in addressing modern threats. By studying past mistakes, cybersecurity professionals can better understand vulnerabilities and develop more robust defenses. The device’s legacy serves as a reminder that even the most advanced technology is no match for over

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Originally published on Dark Reading on 2/23/2026