Global cyber security experts are set to converge in the Cayman Islands next week for the third annual Security BSides Cayman Islands conference, which will take a closer look at growing technology threats and how to handle them.

The conference comes at a time when Cayman has been grappling with a spike in cyber attacks and WhatsApp scams.

John Hammond, a cybersecurity researcher, educator and content creator, will be one of the keynote speakers at the event. – Photo: Supplied

The conference, which takes place from 29-31 Oct. at the Kimpton Seafire Resort, is expected to attract 250 participants and features prominent international speakers alongside local experts.

“With support from local and international sponsors, this year’s event will deliver valuable insights and solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Cayman community, while staying connected to the global cybersecurity landscape,” James McGarvey, co-organiser of the conference, told the Cayman Compass via email.

The keynote presenters at the event include John Hammond, a cybersecurity researcher, educator and content creator at Huntress’s Threat Operations team, and Juliet Okafor, a cybersecurity professional who has worked with Fortune 500 companies throughout the United States.

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RCIPS Head of Cyber Crime Investigation John Watson will also be presenting a discussion called ‘The anatomy of a cyber crime investigation’ about cyber security in the Cayman Islands and its impact on criminal investigations.

“I want to encourage students and young people in particular, that have an interest in IT, or even more specifically, cyber security as a career, to attend the event and hear from the some of the most influential industry leaders in the world on their areas of expertise,” Watson said via an RCIPS Facebook post.

McGarvey said BSides is dedicated to expanding the conversation around information security, giving a platform to anyone involved or aspiring to be involved in the various domains of cyber security.

“As a non-profit organization, BSides aims to build a close-knit community of professionals, students, and enthusiasts, fostering both learning and collaboration. What sets BSides apart is its focus on creating direct connections between speakers and participants,” he added.

He said by prioritising interaction, BSides events offer an “unparalleled opportunity for networking, meaningful discussions, and engagement with cutting-edge ideas in the field”.

BSides is offering a limited number of tickets free of charge to persons interested in attending the conference.

Parents and young people interested in finding out more are encouraged to check out the website for a full schedule and speaker information.

For more on the conference, email [email protected].