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TechTuesday – Shields Activated – The Human Side of Cybersecurity
March 5 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Shields Activated – The Human Side of Cybersecurity
In an era marked by rapid digital transformation and increasing connectivity, cybersecurity has become paramount to safeguarding individuals, businesses, and governments against a rising tide of cyber threats. With the proliferation of internet-connected devices, cloud computing, and online services, the attack surface for cybercriminals has expanded exponentially, posing significant risks to data privacy, financial stability, and national security. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is estimated to have cost the world $8 trillion annually in 2023 – illustrating the staggering economic impact of cyber threats.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2023, cyber risks are ranked among the top global concerns, with cyber-attacks and data breaches cited as the most likely threats to occur over the next decade. The escalating frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks highlight the pressing need for robust cybersecurity measures. The urgency of this matter is underscored by the fact that half of the world’s 5 billion internet users have experienced a cybersecurity incident. Furthermore, over 90% of these breaches can be attributed to human error, indicating the need for cyber literacy.
The human aspect of cybersecurity, though often not prioritized, is crucial. It encompasses the study of human behavior’s impact on security risks. People, being potential victims and the primary defense, can notably lower breach risks through awareness and proactive actions.
This month’s speaker, Claudette McGowan will dive into the human side of cybersecurity, provide insights on mitigating the threats to protect people, businesses, and nations. Claudette is a global information technology leader with more than 20 years of success leading digital transformations, optimizing infrastructure, and designing new approaches that improve service and cybersecurity experiences. Currently, the CEO of Protexxa, a Canadian-based cybersecurity software and services company, she has worked in the technology industry for several organizations such as Deloitte, Metropolitan Police Services, North York General Hospital, Bank of Montreal, and TD Bank.
Join us for what should be an informative presentation and engaging fireside chat with Claudette where in celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, we will also touch on her inspirational journey as an entrepreneur.
Claudette is also the founder of the Black Arts & Innovation Expo, and Chair of the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR), a group of senior business leaders committed to creating platforms that break down systemic barriers within the innovation economy. And recently Claudette co-led the launch of Phoenix Fire & The Firehood, a multi-million-dollar women-focused angel fund and network for women in technology.
Agenda
Pre-presentation networking, 5:00 – 6:00
Main presentation, 6:00 – 7:00
Post-presentation discussion, 7:00 – 7:30
