Abilities & Attributes

Locks are for morons. In our high-tech era, anything worth keeping is guarded by advanced security systems. As a specialist in such systems, you can analyze, install, access, and – when necessary – subvert or disable them. A common vocation among Technocratic operatives and their enemies, this Skill handles networks that turn a sneak-thief’s world upside-down.

In game terms, this Ability lets you set up, maintain, and infiltrate elaborate security installations: video cameras, laser-triggers, pressure-sensitive plates, and so on. Obviously, such tasks demand time and focus, plus the occasional bit of magick or Enlightened procedure. Given the intricate technology involved in security networks, other Abilities in Mage 20, Chapter Six (Computer, Hypertech, Technology, and so forth) often come into play as well; the Security Skill could tell you where to place the cameras, but it won’t help you hack their monitoring network! Appropriate task rolls include Perception + Security (to scope out the system), Intelligence + Security (to install or disable a system), Wits + Security (to spot hidden cameras or tricks), or even Dexterity + Security (to perform the famous Hollywood dodge-the-laser-sensors-with-fancy-moves stunt). For rule systems related to security networks, see the Computer Systems presented in Chapter Two, pp. 116-127.

• Novice: You’ve skimmed some manuals.

•• Practiced: Trained on one side of the law.

••• Skillful: Trained on both sides of the law.

•••• Expert: You’ve designed (or defeated) extensive networks.

••••• Master: Catwoman.

Possessed by

Infiltration Experts, Spies, Technicians, Security Specialists, Special Agents, High-Tech Thieves

Specialties

Computer Systems, Laser Arrays, Cat Burglary, Containment Traps, Video Surveillance Networks

Ratings