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Webinar series for Cybersecurity Month

The Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity showcases the expertise of cybersecurity researchers, academics and professionals during its annual Cybersecurity Awareness Month webinar series.  The presentations are scheduled during October and are about 20 minutes, with time for Q&A.

Reserve your seat to meet cybersecurity experts!

2022 schedule 

October 3 at 12.30 pm ADT: "Effect of Networking Evolutions Towards Cyber Security" by Dr. Windhya Rankothge, Postdoctoral Fellow, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity.

Abstract: Computer Networks and Data Communication Technologies have gone through a rapid evolution over the past decade, and thanks to them, we are enjoying super-fast and reliable communications. However recent advanced technologies used in computer networks management and communication channels such as Software Defined Networks and 5G, have introduced several complex cybersecurity challenges for communication. In this webinar, Dr. Rankothge will discuss these security challenges and possible countermeasures, so that we can enjoy fast, reliable as well as secure communications. 

October 4 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Leverage AI in Threat Management" by Dr. Ida Siahaan, Research Director,  Info-Tech Research Group.

Abstract: As adversaries become more advanced with their techniques and tactics, security professionals must draw on effective tools, processes, and emerging technologies in their arsenal to mount a successful defense.  In this presentation we will review the current state of threat management and threat intelligence sharing. We will also discuss AI-based threat management and its benefits, risks, and the solution landscape for cyber-physical threats. 

October 4 at 1.00 pm ADT: "Improving Incident Response with Hands-on Security Team Training" by Mark Gaudet, VP Simulation Technologies, Field Effect.

October 5 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Mitigating Data Poisoning Attacks in Federated Learning" by Dr. Euclides Carlos Pinto Neto, Postdoctoral Fellow, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity. 

Abstract: Nowadays, privacy is a major concern in distributed and federated computation. This motivates the development of new concepts focused on learning a single global statistical model from data stored on several remote systems to minimize the error of local estimators. However, mitigating data poisoning attacks in Federated Learning (FL) is challenging for many reasons. A possible strategy to deal with that is to evaluate each client's knowledge to prevent misleading instances from affecting the learning process.

October 6 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Simulation-enabled research, training and exercises for cyber security and instrumentation and controls" by Marienna MacDonald, Section Head, National Innovation Centre for Cyber Security R&D Division, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.

Abstract: Canadian Nuclear Laboratories conducts research in cyber security for industrial systems.  These systems operate our critical infrastructure such as our nuclear power plants, oil and gas refineries, transportation systems and water treatment plants. The presentation will describe how CNL uses simulation capabilities to create realism in processes, technology, and even physical surroundings, and the kinds of research projects we can conduct that is enabled by these simulations.

October 14 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Combating Adversarial AI" by Sulakshan Vajipayajula, Architect, IBM.

Abstract: Use of AI in Cybersecurity attacks created a challenging threat landscape. Defending against adversarial AI requires sophisticated frameworks addressing evasion, poisoning and stealth cybersecurity attacks that use AI. The talk goes over few examples of AI based attacks and a defensive Cybersecurity approach.

October 17 at 12.30 pm ADT October 19 at 12.30 pm ADT: "Operational Technology Security Global Outlook" by Sheldon Shaw, Director, Cyber Research and Response, Difenda.

Abstract:  Sheldon Shaw will discuss the global state of affairs in Operational Technology (OT), Security skillsets and future job opportunities in the OT market.

October 18 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Threat Intelligence Sharing" by Dr. Leila Rashidi, Postdoctoral Fellow, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity.

Abstract: Threat intelligence refers to the knowledge, skills and information derived based on experiences about cyber incidents and assessment of threats. Sharing the threat intelligence between different companies or organizations has some benefits as well as drawbacks. Although sharing threat intelligence can disclose important information to adversaries, it can result in better protection and mitigation against cyber threats and risks. In this webinar, we review threat intelligence sharing with an emphasis on its advantages. 

October 25 at 12.00 pm ADT: "Switching to a Career in Cybersecurity" by Kwasi Boakye-Boateng, Cybersecurity Researcher, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity.

Abstract:  The demand for cybersecurity professionals still not satiated, leading to about 3.5 million job vacancies worldwide in 2021. Also, a career in cybersecurity domain is a lucrative one to explore. Join me in exploring how one can, with little or strong knowledge, in cyber technology transition into cybersecurity.

October 26 at 12.00 pm ADT: "The Netherlands Approach to Cybersecurity in Supply Chains: the horticulture & agriculture Cyber Resilience Center" by Bert Feskens, Senior Programme Manager, Security Delta (HSD).

Abstract:  What do tulips have to do with cybersecurity? While digitalization creates enormous opportunities for innovation and economies of scale, our digital economy can only be successful if it is secure. Security does not end at the border of one’s organization but affects the whole supply chain. In many sectors there is a huge lack of understanding on what the implications of cybersecurity are. Also, cybersecurity expertise is scarce. A supply-chain approach towards cybersecurity could offer a solution.

October 28 at 12.00 pm ADT: "The IoT Threat Landscape" by Alireza Zohourian, Cybersecurity Researcher, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity.

Abstract:  Internet of Things (IoT) devices have been increasingly being used in different public and private sectors, such as Smart Home, Smart Industry and Smart Healthcare. However, the proliferation, heterogeneity and resourced-constrained nature of these devices have opened several doors to adversaries and created many security and privacy issues. In this presentation, we will examine the IoT environment and its specific characteristics, see how they create many security issues and investigate the ways we can mitigate them.

October 28 at 1.30 pm ADT: "RCMP and Cybercrime in Canada" by S/Sgt. Dawn Morris-Little, National Cybercrime Coordination Centre and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Abstract:  Cybercrime continues to impact Canada with increasing scale and severity. Cybercriminals continue to evolve their tactics to victimize Canada’s business economy, key institutions and the general public. In this presentation you will hear about cybercrime trends in Canada, the role of the RCMP in combatting cybercrime and how the RCMP works with other federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, private industry and academic partners and the public to disrupt cybercrime infrastructure and assets and work towards ultimately pursuing and identifying the criminals behind the scenes.

Past webinars