If you had any doubt that security geeks are a breed apart, German researchers (definitely geeks) found evidence a few years ago that the "secret handshake" of experience has been passed down through the evolutionary chain from generations of chimpanzees. That handshake makes subcultures or communities distinct from the mainstream.

For the past few days, I've been honored to "shake hands" with many of you in the security community as we've hashed out a range of issues, from the skills shortage to the Target breach and the balance between privacy and security in the post-Snowden era.

But a secret handshake represents a lot more than conversation and culture. It means we are part of a something larger -- a community. We are connected by the unique lingo, memes, and passions we all share. When those things are acknowledged, we know we are among friends.

That's the kind of environment we intend to create at Dark Reading with our new platform designed to foster high-IQ conversations about the critical security issues of the day. Our aim is to foster a dialogue among practitioners that is both relevant and personal. But it's a goal that can succeed only with your help and active participation.

How will that happen?

First of all, we want you to tell us about the trends you are seeing in security, where you have found success, and what you think about the headlines and analysis from our award-winning news team, as well as the opinions voiced by industry leaders. But because we know it's tough combating threats and protecting sensitive corporate data, we are also planning some lighter fare -- cartoons, contests, slide shows, and flash polls that will put a smile on your face and keep you in good spirits as you face the trials ahead.

Here's how to get started helping us build Dark Reading's security community.

Our secret handshake may be a virtual one, but it's one we hope will help strengthen our community.