The growing risk to business from unauthorised computer system access and attacks was the focus of a recent industry forum in Newcastle attended by top information and communication technology (ICT) specialists.
Leading technology company Diamond IT, in partnership with Fortinet and NSW Cyber Security Network, hosted the inaugural Cybersecurity Industry Breakfast on 7 June which was aimed at informing and supporting Hunter organisations and ICT leaders to mitigate possible threats.
Diamond IT Managing Director, Rob Buck said ICT is now considered a key driver for business and with digital transformation rapidly changing the landscape, the stakes are high.
“ICT and cybersecurity are no longer part of an organsiation’s backroom operation whether it be a company, non-profit organisation, university or a government,” Rob said.
“Some underestimate the human element involved when managing such a threat and it is crucial for CIOs, CFOs and business leaders responsible for their ICT strategy, to be well informed.”
Since the first case of malicious software (malware) in 1988, Cybercrime is now estimated to cost more than US$400 billion globally. Australia’s high use of technology, including social media, online banking and government services, make the nation an attractive target for cybercrime syndicates.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) identified 47,000 cybersecurity incidents in 2017, representing a 15% annual rise.
The global market for cyber protection is forecast to be worth $170 billion by 2020, with adequate protective measures and strategies among the keynote presentations given by three leading speakers during the cybersecurity forum.
Internationally acclaimed cybersecurity expert, Professor Vijay Varadharajan discussed the impact of recent worldwide cybercrime trends. Based at the University of Newcastle (UoN), Vijay is Director of Advanced Cyber Security Engineering Research Centre (ACSRC) and has addressed international academic and industry symposiums. UoN is among seven NSW universities involved in the recently announced NSW Cyber Security Network project that will invest $2 million in a university-led cybersecurity network designed to protect the public sector and industry against cyberattacks. Newly appointed Director Todd Williams also attended the event.
Fortinet, a global security technology provider and event co-sponsor, was represented by Major Account Manager NSW, Mark Kovacik who explored the cutting edge of cybersecurity technology.
Diamond IT’s Technology Consulting Manager, Glendin Franklin-Browne covered best practice protection strategies.
“Strategic and adequate cybersecurity measures should be major priorities for any business hoping to manage such risk. This forum brought together and helped educate our region’s ICT frontline forces so they can better support their organisations and, indirectly, the wider community.” Rob said.
Diamond IT is hoping to create a regional support network for ICT heads and strategy leaders with plans to hold more informative industry events.
IMAGE | Left to right – Mark Kovacik, Glendin Franklin-Browne, Rob Buck and Prof Vijay Varadharajan during the recent Cybersecurity Indsutry Breakfast on 7 June 2018.
