Chamber’s cyber security lead to speak at Europe’s biggest conference

The lead on cyber crime at East Midlands Chamber will be among the speakers at Europe’s biggest security conference next week.

Business Crime Manager Andy Watterson will be talking about cyber security at a time when the wannacry ransomware attack that crippled the NHS is still fresh in people’s minds.

He will tell his audience at IFSEC International 2017 that computer users are the first and last line of defence when it comes to protecting a business from a cyber attack.

And he will be issuing a stern reminder to delegates that when the pan-EU General Data Protection regulations come into force next year the consequences of getting it wrong will be considerably worse than today.

He said: “I’ll be talking about the importance of a well-trained workforce in dealing with cyber security.

“A great emphasis is being placed on the technological safeguards when it comes to cyber security but businesses really need to consider the people who are using that technology and ensure that they are aware of the need to use it properly.

“They need to be aware of the threats that are out there and know how to head them off. Wannacry highlighted how easily viruses can beat firewalls and anti-virus protection and the devastating effect they can have once they get through security protocols.”

He added: “I’ll also be referencing GDPR, which becomes law on 25 May next year, but only in so much as to remind businesses of the huge financial implications of getting it wrong and allowing a data breach.

“The impending changes to data protection laws provide a timely opportunity for businesses to review the way they handle data, and the governance structure within the organisation, to ensure that their policies are fit for purpose.”

Andy’s presentation at IFSEC International 2017 will be called Your First and Last Line of Defence and will explain how making workers aware of the threats will help to prevent their spread.

IFSEC International is Europe’s biggest expo and conference on fire and security and an estimated 30,000 people are expected through the doors of London’s Excel conference centre during the three-day (20-22 June) event.

Andy will be speaking to delegates in the Panasonic Security Management Theatre on the final day of the conference.