Unmasking Secrets: Jonna Mendez on Disguise, Gender Dynamics, and the Intersection of Espionage and Fraud Prevention
In a captivating discussion, former CIA Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez shared insights on her remarkable journey in the intelligence field and the art of concealment during her keynote at the 35th Annual Global Fraud Conference in Las Vegas. Breaking records, her memoir, “In True Face: A Woman’s Life in the CIA, Unmasked,” sold out in under an hour, highlighting her impact as a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry. Mendez recounted her rise from a low-level secretary to chief of disguise, where she skillfully crafted costumes that allowed spies to navigate hostile environments undetected. Drawing parallels between her experiences and the anti-fraud community, she emphasized the unique challenges faced by women in both fields. Mendez’s engaging storytelling and dedication to empowering fellow fraud fighters resonated deeply with the audience, as she encouraged them to embrace their roles and push boundaries, proving that flexibility and innovation are key in both espionage and fraud prevention.