Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Miami for the HEPN Conference. This was their first time in the US. They normally keep to the UK. HEPN did mention this conference was a success and they would be returning next year. I was fortunate enough to speak to a room of around 250 about LockBit and my ransomware story. Most in attendance were not cybersecurity practitioners, in fact, only one person taught cybersecurity and no one practiced. I spoke to a room of Chief Academic Officers, Deans, University Presidents, and Provosts. Many questions were asked following the presentation and the crowd seemed engaged. I was granted additional time to answer questions, which I was grateful for. It’s nice speaking to a crowd of people unfamiliar with the topic and finding them truly interested. Also, the questions are a little easier to answer, lol.

One of my favorite takeaways from the event, was how they structured the time. They left a few hours open each day for “free time”. This allowed attendees to work, go to the pool, or hit the beach. We are in Miami after all. There were less vendors at the higher ed conference than you typically get at a cyber conference, which is fine. Refreshing actually. Less swag and pomp. It was just a very laidback, friendly environment and I very much enjoyed getting to present for these folks.