The latest episode of Redefining CyberSecurity on ITSPmagazine featured a thought-provoking discussion about integrating human factors into secure software development. Host Sean Martin was joined by Dr. Kelsey Fulton, Assistant Professor at the Colorado School of Mines, and Julie Haney, a computer scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The conversation explored how human-centered approaches can strengthen secure software practices and address challenges in the development process.

A Human-Centered Approach to Security

Dr. Fulton shared how her research focuses on the human factors that impact secure software development. Her journey began during her graduate studies at the University of Maryland, where she was introduced to the intersection of human behavior and security in a course that sparked her interest. Her projects, such as investigating the transition from C to Rust programming languages, underscore the complexity of embedding security into the software development lifecycle.

The Current State of Secure Development

One key takeaway from the discussion was the tension between functionality and security in software development. Developers often prioritize getting a product to market quickly, leading to decisions that sideline security considerations. Dr. Fulton noted that while developers typically have good intentions, they often lack the resources, tools, and organizational support necessary to incorporate security effectively.

She highlighted the need for a “security by design” approach, which integrates security practices from the earliest stages of development. Embedding security specialists within development teams can create a cultural shift where security becomes a shared responsibility rather than an afterthought.

Challenges in Adoption and Education

Dr. Fulton’s research reveals significant obstacles to adopting secure practices, including the complexity of tools and the lack of comprehensive education for developers. Even advanced tools like static analyzers and fuzzers are underutilized. A major barrier is developers’ perception that security is not their responsibility, compounded by tight deadlines and organizational pressures.

Additionally, her research into Rust adoption at companies illuminated technical and organizational challenges. Resistance often stems from the cost and complexity of transitioning existing systems, despite Rust’s promise of enhanced security and memory safety.

The Future of Human-Centered Security

Looking ahead, Dr. Fulton emphasized the importance of addressing how developers trust and interact with tools like large language models (LLMs) for code generation. Her team is exploring ways to enhance these tools, ensuring they provide secure code suggestions and help developers recognize vulnerabilities.

The episode concluded with a call to action for organizations to support research in this area and cultivate a security-first culture. Dr. Fulton underscored the potential of collaborative efforts between researchers, developers, and companies to improve security outcomes.

By focusing on human factors and fostering supportive environments, organizations can significantly advance secure software development practices.

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Guests: 

Dr. Kelsey Fulton, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the Colorado School of Mines

Website | https://cs.mines.edu/project/fulton-kelsey/

Julie Haney, Computer scientist and Human-Centered Cybersecurity Program Lead, National Institute of Standards and Technology [@NISTcyber]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-haney-037449119/

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Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

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Resources

Kelsey Fulton Biography: https://kfulton121.github.io/

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In this latest episode of the Imperva Brand Story on ITSP Magazine, Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli sit down with Terry Ray, CTO for Data Security at Imperva. Together, they discuss the pressing challenges and transformative innovations shaping the future of safeguarding information.

Unpacking Data Security Posture Management

Terry Ray introduces Data Security Posture Management (DSPM), comparing it to inspecting a home—where identifying vulnerabilities is just as important as fixing them. He emphasizes that data security requires constant vigilance, urging organizations to develop a deep understanding of their infrastructure while staying agile against emerging threats.

Moving Beyond Compliance to Real Security

The conversation highlights the often-misunderstood relationship between compliance and genuine security. While meeting regulatory requirements is necessary, Terry argues that true data protection requires a broader, risk-based approach, addressing vulnerabilities in both regulated and non-regulated systems to prepare for audits and unforeseen breaches.

The Power of Automation and Machine Learning

Terry underscores Imperva's dedication to leveraging advanced automation, AI, and machine learning technologies to process vast data sets and detect threats proactively. By adopting innovative strategies, companies can transition from reactive to proactive measures in protecting their digital ecosystems.

Fostering Collaboration and Security Awareness

A standout point from the discussion is the importance of collaboration across organizational roles—from compliance officers to database managers and security teams. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and teamwork, businesses can better allocate resources and adapt to evolving security priorities.

Embracing Security's Ever-Changing Nature

The conversation concludes with a powerful reflection on the unpredictable nature of cybersecurity. As new threats and technologies emerge, organizations must remain adaptable, forward-thinking, and prepared for the unexpected to stay ahead in an ever-changing security landscape.

Learn more about Imperva: https://itspm.ag/imperva277117988

Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.

Guest: Terry Ray, SVP Data Security GTM, Field CTO and Imperva Fellow [@Imperva]

On Linkedin | https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-ray/

On Twitter | https://twitter.com/TerryRay_Fellow

Resources

Learn more and catch more stories from Imperva: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/imperva

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In a recent episode of Brand Story, Simon Wijckmans, founder and CEO of c/side, discussed the critical need to secure third-party scripts on websites, a frequently overlooked aspect of cybersecurity. Drawing on his experience with companies like Cloudflare and Vercel, Wijckmans outlined why traditional methods fall short in addressing dynamic threats and how c/side is redefining client-side security.

Third-party scripts—commonly used for analytics, marketing, and chatbots—are vital for website functionality but come with inherent risks. These scripts operate dynamically, allowing malicious actors to inject harmful code under specific conditions, such as targeting particular users or timeframes. Existing security approaches, such as threat feeds or basic web crawlers, fail to detect these threats because they often rely on static assessments. As Wijckmans explained, these limitations result in a false sense of security, leaving businesses exposed to significant risks.

C/side provides a proactive solution by placing itself between users and third-party script providers. This approach enables real-time analysis and monitoring of script behavior. Using advanced tools, including AI-driven analysis, c/side inspects the JavaScript code and flags malicious activity. Unlike other solutions, it offers complete transparency by delivering the full source code of scripts in a readable format, empowering organizations to investigate and address potential vulnerabilities comprehensively.

Wijckmans stressed that client-side script security is an essential yet underrepresented aspect of the supply chain. While most security tools focus on protecting server-side dependencies, the browser remains a critical point where sensitive data is often compromised. C/side not only addresses this gap but also helps organizations meet compliance requirements like those outlined in PCI-DSS, which mandate monitoring client-side scripts executed in browsers.

C/side’s offerings cater to various users, from small businesses using a free tier to enterprises requiring comprehensive solutions. Its tools integrate seamlessly into cybersecurity programs, supporting developers, agencies, and compliance teams. Additionally, c/side enhances performance by optimizing script delivery, ensuring that security does not come at the cost of website functionality.

With its innovative approach, c/side exemplifies how specialized solutions can tackle complex cybersecurity challenges. As Wijckmans highlighted, the modern web can be made safer with accessible, effective tools, leaving no excuse for neglecting client-side security. Through its commitment to transparency, performance, and comprehensive protection, c/side is shaping a safer digital ecosystem for businesses and users alike.

Learn more about c/side: https://itspm.ag/c/side-t0g5

Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.

Guest: Simon Wijckmans, Founder & CEO, c/side [@csideai]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/wijckmans/ 

Resources

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Guests: 

Asaf Dori, Cyber Security Lead, Healthshare NSW

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adori/

Ashwin Pal, Partner – Cyber Security and Privacy Services, RSM Australia

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwin-pal-a1769a5/

Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

At the AISA CyberCon 2024 in Melbourne, Sean Martin sat down with Asaf Dori and Ashwin Pal to explore the often-overlooked areas of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework: response and recovery. Both guests highlighted the critical gaps organizations face in these domains and shared practical insights on addressing them.

Asaf Dori, a cybersecurity professional in healthcare and a researcher at the University of Sydney, underscored the need for governance-driven awareness to improve response and recovery capabilities. His research revealed that while organizations invest heavily in prevention and detection, they frequently neglect robust recovery plans. He emphasized the importance of comprehensive disaster recovery exercises over isolated system-based approaches. By linking governance to practical outcomes, Dori argued that organizations could better align their strategies with business resilience.

Ashwin Pal, a partner at RSM with 26 years of experience in IT security, brought a field perspective, pointing out how recovery strategies often fail to meet business requirements. He discussed the disconnect between IT recovery metrics, such as RPOs and RTOs, and actual business needs. Pal noted that outdated assumptions about recovery timeframes and critical systems frequently result in misaligned priorities. He advocated for direct business engagement to establish recovery strategies that support operational continuity.

A key theme was the role of effective governance in fostering collaboration between IT and business stakeholders. Both speakers agreed that engaging business leaders through tabletop exercises is an essential starting point. Simulating ransomware scenarios, for instance, often exposes gaps in recovery plans, such as inaccessible continuity documents during a crisis. Such exercises, they suggested, empower CISOs to secure executive buy-in for strategic improvements.

The discussion also touched on the competitive advantages of robust cybersecurity practices. Dori noted that in some industries, such as energy, cybersecurity maturity is increasingly viewed as a differentiator in securing contracts. Pal echoed this, citing examples where certifications like ISO have become prerequisites in supply chain partnerships.

By reframing cybersecurity as a business enabler rather than a cost center, organizations can align their response and recovery strategies with broader operational goals. This shift requires CISOs and risk officers to lead conversations that translate technical requirements into business outcomes, emphasizing trust, resilience, and customer retention.

This dialogue provides actionable insights for leaders aiming to close the response and recovery gap and position cybersecurity as a strategic asset.

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Threatlocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

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Resources

Learn more and catch more stories from Australian Cyber Conference 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

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Guest: Ravi Nayyar, PhD Scholar, The University Of Sydney

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/stillromancingwithlife/

At AISA AU Cyber Con | https://melbourne2024.cyberconference.com.au/speakers/ravi-nayyar-uyhe3

Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

The discussion begins with a unique and lighthearted analogy: comparing cybersecurity professionals to superheroes. Marco draws parallels to characters like “The Avengers” and “Deadpool,” describing them as defenders of our digital world. Ravi builds on this playful yet thought-provoking metaphor, likening the fight against cybercriminals to epic battles against villains, highlighting the high stakes of cybersecurity in critical systems.

The Cyber Zoo: Ravi Nayyar’s Research Focus

Ravi introduces his research, focusing on the regulation of cyber resilience within critical infrastructure, particularly the software supply chain. Using the metaphor of a “zoo,” he paints a vivid picture of the cybersecurity ecosystem, where diverse stakeholders—government bodies, infrastructure operators, and software vendors—must coexist and collaborate. His work delves into how companies can be held accountable for their cyber practices, aiming to secure national and global systems.

The Role of Humans in Cybersecurity

At the heart of cybersecurity, Ravi emphasizes, is the human element. His research highlights the need for incentivizing all players—critical infrastructure operators, software developers, and even end users—to embed secure practices into their operations. It's not just about rules and frameworks but about fostering a culture of responsibility and collaboration in an interconnected world.

The Case for Stronger Cyber Laws

Ravi critiques the historically relaxed approach to regulating software security, particularly for critical systems, and advocates for stronger, standardized laws. He compares cybersecurity frameworks to those used for medical devices, which are rigorously regulated for public safety. By adopting similar models, critical software could be held to higher standards, reducing risks to national security.

Global Cooperation and the Fight Against Regulatory Arbitrage

The discussion shifts to the need for international collaboration in cybersecurity. Ravi underscores the risk of regulatory arbitrage, where companies exploit weaker laws in certain regions to save costs. He proposes global coalitions and standardization bodies as potential solutions to ensure consistent and robust security practices worldwide.

Incentivizing Secure Practices

Delving into the practical side of regulation, Ravi discusses ways to incentivize companies to adopt secure practices. From procurement policies favoring vendors with strong cybersecurity commitments to the potential for class action lawsuits, the conversation explores the multifaceted strategies needed to hold organizations accountable and foster a safer digital ecosystem.

Closing Thoughts: Collaboration for a Safer Digital World

Sean, Marco, and Ravi wrap up the episode by emphasizing the critical need for cross-sector collaboration—between academia, industry, media, and government—to tackle the evolving challenges of cybersecurity. By raising public awareness and encouraging proactive measures, they highlight the importance of a unified effort to secure our digital infrastructure.

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Threatlocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

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Resources

The theory of saving the world: Intervention requests and critical infrastructure: https://melbourne2024.cyberconference.com.au/sessions/session-eI6eYNrifl

Learn more and catch more stories from Australian Cyber Conference 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

Be sure to share and subscribe!

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Guest: Akash Mittal, Chair, Australian Information Security Association (AISA)

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/akashgmittal/

Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

Throughout the conference, one theme stood out above all: the power of community. Akash reflected on how CyberCon fosters a collective effort to strengthen Australia’s cyber resilience by uniting government, academia, and industry under one roof. From keynote presentations to impromptu hallway conversations, the conference showcased how innovation and human connection go hand in hand to address global cybersecurity challenges.

The Block Party and Beyond

One of the most talked-about moments was the renowned Block Party, a celebration that blurred the line between networking and friendship. Marco described it as a unique experience that left a lasting impression on attendees. Beyond the lively gatherings, the conference also stood out for its ability to create a space where meaningful connections and ideas flourished—whether on the exhibition floor, during panel discussions, or at informal meetups.

Looking Ahead: The Future of CyberCon

As the conference came to a close, Akash shared an exciting vision for what lies ahead. With an ethos of continuous improvement, the organizing team is committed to delivering even more impactful experiences in the years to come. Feedback from attendees will play a vital role in shaping future events, ensuring CyberCon remains at the forefront of the cybersecurity community.

Highlights from the Exhibition Hall

The buzzing exhibition hall served as the heart of CyberCon 2024, brimming with energy and engagement. Sean and Marco noted how sponsors and vendors played a pivotal role, sparking conversations about cutting-edge solutions and driving collaboration across sectors. The hall wasn’t just about showcasing products—it became a space for dialogue, exploration, and innovation.

A Legacy of Success

CyberCon 2024 was more than just a cybersecurity conference—it was a celebration of the community that makes progress possible. The dedication of volunteers and the meticulous planning behind the scenes ensured the event’s success. As Akash noted, the conference continues to evolve as a space where quality content and genuine connections take center stage.

Closing Thoughts: A United Community

As Sean, Marco, and Akash wrapped up their time at the Australian Cyber Conference 2024, they reflected on what made the event truly special: its people. The conversations, collaborations, and shared sense of purpose have set the stage for a brighter, more connected future in cybersecurity. Melbourne’s vibrant energy was the perfect backdrop for a conference that reminded us all that innovation is strongest when it’s rooted in community.

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Threatlocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

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Resources

Learn more and catch more stories from Australian Cyber Conference 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

Be sure to share and subscribe!

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Guest: Steve Wylie, Vice President, Cybersecurity Market at Informa Tech [@InformaTechHQ] and General Manager at Black Hat [@BlackHatEvents]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/swylie650/

On Twitter | https://twitter.com/swylie650

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Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

London as the Backdrop for Innovation and Culture

The conversation kicked off with reflections on London’s vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity. Marco captured it perfectly, noting the city’s knack for staying on the cutting edge of fashion, music, and movement. Sean chimed in, describing the city as a destination where “cool kids” converge. It’s this ever-evolving energy that makes London the ideal host for forward-thinking gatherings like Black Hat.

Sean and Marco’s admiration for the city wasn’t just about its aesthetics but also its role in shaping global conversations. London is a place where the local meets the global, a theme that would resonate throughout their discussion.

Black Hat’s Expanding Global Reach

Sean and Marco highlighted the global nature of the cybersecurity community, emphasizing Black Hat’s international presence. Marco pointed out how the event has grown beyond its Las Vegas origins, with thriving editions in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. This expansion reflects not only a growing need for cybersecurity collaboration but also the importance of tailoring conversations to regional contexts.

Sean observed how each edition of Black Hat carries a unique flavor, shaped by local cultures and challenges. He praised the effort to include regional experts on review boards, ensuring that the content resonates with specific audiences. From Riyadh to Toronto, this approach has made Black Hat a truly global force.

Celebrating Local Voices in Global Conversations

One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the importance of amplifying local voices in global discussions. Marco commended Black Hat’s dedication to fostering a sense of ownership among local cybersecurity communities. Sean agreed, noting how local insights enrich the broader, boundaryless research presented at these events.

The duo discussed the balance between global trends, like AI and supply chain security, and region-specific concerns, such as policy-driven discussions in Europe or industrial focus in Canada. This nuanced approach ensures that every Black Hat event feels relevant, impactful, and inclusive.

Sean and Marco’s Chemistry: Informal Yet Insightful

Beyond the topics, the conversation was marked by the easy rapport between Sean and Marco. They navigated seamlessly from cybersecurity strategy to the lighter moments, like teasing each other about wardrobe choices for London’s chilly December weather. Marco’s love for local cuisine even sparked a playful detour into Italian titles for hardware hacking sessions.

It’s this blend of professional insight and personal charm that makes their discussions so engaging. Whether they’re debating the merits of AI sessions or reminiscing about hallway chats at past events, Sean and Marco bring an authenticity that keeps listeners coming back.

Looking Ahead

As the conversation wrapped up, Sean and Marco hinted at their plans to keep “Chats on the Road” moving forward. While they may not make it to every event, their commitment to bringing the community’s stories to light remains steadfast. Whether you’re attending Black Hat in person or following along from afar, Sean and Marco ensure that the spirit of innovation and collaboration is accessible to all.

Stay tuned as they continue to explore the intersections of technology, culture, and community, one conversation at a time.

Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!

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This Episode’s Sponsors

HITRUST: https://itspm.ag/itsphitweb

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Resources

Learn more about Black Hat Europe 2024: https://www.blackhat.com/eu-24/

Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverage

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To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcast

To see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:
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Guest: EJ Wise, Founder & Principal, WiseLaw

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiselaw3/

Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

Against the energetic backdrop of Melbourne's CyberCon, hosted by ISA, the conversation dives into the global nature of technology's influence. The trio reflects on pressing topics such as privacy, cybersecurity, and the shifting landscape of cyber law, all while situated in one of Australia’s most tech-forward cities.

EJ Wise’s Journey and Perspective
EJ Wise shared her remarkable career path, starting as a member of the U.S. Air Force JAG Corps and later founding her boutique law firm in Australia in 2018. Her firsthand experience sheds light on Australia’s relatively recent introduction of comprehensive cyber laws and the ongoing need to bridge the gap between technological innovation and legislative action.

Educating Consumers: A Shared Responsibility
A key focus of the conversation was consumer awareness. EJ highlighted the critical need for industries to take responsibility for educating the public, much like banks have historically done with financial literacy. The discussion also touched on embedding technological literacy into early education, ensuring children grow up with a clear understanding of privacy and digital security.

Technology and Ethics in Tension
The group examined the ethical challenges posed by advancing technologies, especially regarding surveillance and data privacy. From facial recognition in retail spaces to the increasing capabilities of modern devices to monitor user behavior, the conversation drew thought-provoking parallels between these innovations and the history of advertising practices.

The ethical implications of such technologies go far beyond convenience, raising questions about transparency, consent, and societal norms in the digital age.

Legal Frameworks and Industry Responsibility
Marco and Sean explored the evolving role of legal frameworks in holding industry players accountable for consumer safety and privacy. EJ’s insights provided a grounded perspective on how regulatory environments are adapting—or struggling to adapt—to these challenges.

The discussion underscored a growing trend: companies must not only comply with existing laws but also anticipate and mitigate the societal impacts of their technologies.

Encouraging Dialogue and Reflection
Throughout the episode, the importance of open dialogue and introspection emerged as a recurring theme. By examining how technology shapes society and law, the discussion encouraged listeners to reflect on their digital habits and the privacy trade-offs they make in their daily lives.

Conclusion
While the conversation didn’t provide all the answers, it illuminated the complexities of the interplay between technology, law, and society. EJ, Marco, and Sean left listeners with an invitation to remain curious, question norms, and consider their role in shaping a more ethically aware digital future.

This episode captures the spirit of CyberCon 2024—sparking ideas, inspiring debate, and reinforcing the need for thoughtful engagement with the challenges of our hybrid analog-digital society.

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Threatlocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

____________________________

Resources

Learn more and catch more stories from Australian Cyber Conference 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

Be sure to share and subscribe!

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Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverage

To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit: https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcast

To see and hear more Redefining Society stories on ITSPmagazine, visit:
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Guests: 

Benji Zorella, eLearning Instructional Designer, CyberCX

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjiz/

Rebecca Caldwell, Phishing Content Specialist, Phriendly Phishing

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/bec-j-caldwell/

Hosts: 

Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast

On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

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Episode Notes

Kicking off the episode, Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli highlight the uniquely local flavor of the conference. With Benji and Bec calling Melbourne home, the guests reflect on the value of attending such a prominent event in their backyard while drawing on their experiences as hosts of their own cybersecurity podcast.

Unmasking Phishing in the Digital Age

Phishing takes center stage as Benji and Bec share stories and insights about the dangers lurking behind cleverly crafted scams. Sean Martin draws a clever comparison between traditional fishing methods and the digital phishing tactics cybercriminals use today—hooking victims by exploiting their trust and curiosity.

Benji drives the conversation deeper, explaining how a person's digital footprint—especially in an age of AI-driven tools like deepfakes—can be weaponized for deception. The guests underscore the importance of remaining vigilant and minimizing the personal information we leave online, turning our digital habits into our best line of defense.

Cybersecurity Education: The First Line of Defense

Shifting gears, the group emphasizes the need to move beyond relying solely on tech-driven safeguards and focus on building a culture of cybersecurity awareness within organizations. Bec Caldwell shares actionable strategies, likening cybersecurity education to learning how to drive—starting small and gradually building confidence in spotting risks. Empowering employees to question suspicious contexts fosters not just better security, but a collaborative culture of accountability.

AI: Friend or Foe?

The role of AI emerges as a hot topic, sparking a discussion about its dual impact on cybersecurity. While AI enables sophisticated phishing attacks, it also holds the potential to strengthen defenses. The panel imagines AI tools evolving to provide real-time security nudges, similar to how cars alert drivers to potential hazards. It’s a balancing act, as AI must be wielded thoughtfully to enhance—not replace—human vigilance.

The Human Factor in Cybersecurity

Throughout the conversation, one message resonates: the enduring power of human intuition. Benji recounts a gripping story of a CEO who thwarted a highly advanced phishing attempt with a simple, old-school phone verification. This moment reinforces the idea that while tech can improve security measures, the human touch remains irreplaceable.

Future-Proofing Cybersecurity

As the episode winds down, the group reflects on thought-provoking audience questions from the conference. From AI’s impact on CISO responsibilities to how generational shifts in digital communication shape cybersecurity strategies, the guests underscore the need for adaptability as both technology and society evolve.

A Final Call to Action

Marco Ciappelli and Sean Martin wrap up with a clear takeaway for their listeners: stay curious, ask questions, and embrace skepticism online. The key to navigating today’s cyber landscape is a mix of awareness, education, and the occasional gut check—because even in a tech-driven world, the human element is our greatest asset.

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This Episode’s Sponsors

Threatlocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

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Resources

Bytes with Bec and Benji podcast: https://www.phriendlyphishing.com/resources/podcasts

Learn more and catch more stories from Australian Cyber Conference 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

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This engaging Brand Story episode comes to you from AISA CyberCon 2024, in Melbourne, where Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli explore with Jade Wilkie how ThreatLocker empowers organizations to achieve Zero Trust security and Essential Eight compliance through innovative tools and real-time adaptability. Learn how industry insights from the conference are shaping the future of cybersecurity solutions while keeping human-centric strategies at the forefront.

Learn more about ThreatLocker: https://itspm.ag/threatlocker-r974

Note: This story contains promotional content. Learn more.

Guests: 

Jade Wilkie, Account Executive APAC, ThreatLocker [@ThreatLocker]

On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-wilkie-salesprofessional/

Resources

Essential Eight: https://itspm.ag/threatq55q

Zero Trust World: https://itspmagazine.com/zero-trust-world-2025-cybersecurity-and-zero-trust-event-coverage-orlando-florida

Learn more and catch more stories from ThreatLocker: https://www.itspmagazine.com/directory/threatlocker

View all of our AISA Cyber Con 2024 coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/australian-cyber-conference-melbourne-2024-cybersecurity-event-coverage-in-australia

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