Info Sec set to host top cyber-security experts

A GATHERING of leading cyber security experts takes place in Dublin next month.

The Dublin Info Sec 2016 conference will discuss major issues affecting Irish business including cyber fraud and hacking — particularly the danger posed by hackers to senior executives. The average cost of fraud to organisations in Ireland has increased from €498,000 in 2014 to €1.7m, with the incidence of cyber attacks almost doubling since 2012, according to a recent PwC report.

‘Whaling the C-Suite’ is first up on the agenda, exploring how senior executives are making themselves vulnerable to hackers. Amongst those topping the bill at the conference in the RDS is Dr Mary Aiken — the expert on which the US TV series CSI: Cyber was based. Dr Aiken will profile the insider threat for businesses of fraud and allowing access to hackers. She will also host a workshop for executives attending Dublin Info Sec. She is one of the speakers on the theme of ‘Human Factors in Cybersecurity’.

Also on the day, there will be further thought-provoking debate from key industry leaders focusing on the threat to Irish businesses and the State from cyber attacks.

Joseph Carson will detail Estonia’s experience of a concerted cyber attack in 2007 when the country’s banks, ministries, media and parliament all suffered denials-of-service. Could the same happen here and how prepared are we for it?

Other themes include an interview with WikiLeaks journalist Sarah Harrison followed by a panel discussion asking ‘Whistleblower: Champion or Saboteur?’ which promises to be a provocative debate about the actions of WikiLeaks and whistleblowers in general.

The conference, which will be opened by Tanaiste and Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald, promises to be important for key influencers and industry thought-leaders in the area of cyber crime and aimed at ‘C-suite’ and senior business executives.

Conference attendees are eligible for up to 8 CPE credits from the relevant awarding bodies. Tickets for the event, organised by INM, can be purchased online at www. independent.ie/infosec2016.