Global Cybersecurity Forum emphasizes collective action for a safer cyberspace

During the first day of the 2022 Global Cybersecurity Forum, more than 60 of the world’s top cybersecurity minds addressed thousands of attendees from more than 100 countries (GCF).

The international Forum, which was founded by Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority, began with a welcome address from H.R.H Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh Province, who urged global collaboration to combat threats.

The Forum covered the full spectrum of issues, including resilience in the energy supply chain, child protection online, countering cyber conflict, women in cybersecurity, and tackling cybercrime, with perspectives sought from the government, private sector, NGOs, policymakers, and industry specialists.

Dr. Mary Aiken, leading expert in Cyberpsychology, praised the inclusion of child protection online in the Forum’s program, noting that it was an important topic in the discussion of cybersecurity: “The internet was created on the principle that all users are equal.  This is not true.  Some users are more vulnerable than others, and children are particularly vulnerable”. Sanjay Wijeskera, Director Programme Group, UNICEF also noted: ‘a digital space that’s safe for children is safe for everyone.” 

There were also predictions about the future, with cyber advances likely to dramatically change the world. The world-renowned author, scientist, and futurist Dr. Michio Kaku said that Silicon Valley “could become the next rust belt as quantum computers begin to take over”, urging the world to “prepare for the quantum era”.

Speaking about the cybersecurity threats posed to the energy supply chain, Amin H. Nasser, President and CEO, Aramco said: “the danger for us is very clear, present and constant” and called for increased cooperation across borders, industries, and the public, and private sectors to ensure resilience.

Also featured in the day’s line up was H.R.H Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, Saudi Minister of Energy, Dr. Craig Wright, Chief Scientist at nChain and Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. 

On the 10th of November, the Forum will continue with a diverse program of sessions led by Ian Goldin, Professor of Globalization and Development at Oxford University and Former Vice President and Head of Policy at the World Bank. Those who are unable to attend the event in person can watch it live on the Global Cybersecurity Forum YouTube channel.