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Driving European Cybersecurity Consensus: The Urgency of Collective Defense in an AI-Driven Era

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Europe's cybersecurity posture is under unprecedented scrutiny. With cloud breaches doubling, AI-driven threats escalating, rising geopolitical tensions, and intricate regulatory debates, now more than ever the current situation necessitates a unified and proactive approach to digital defense.

Recent reports highlight a surge in cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure across Europe. State-sponsored actors and coordinated cyber groups are exploiting vulnerabilities in sectors such as energy, finance, mobility, and healthcare, aiming to disrupt services and compromise sensitive data. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into cyber warfare tactics has further amplified the complexity with the UK’s Cabinet Minister sounding alarm bells on the ‘weaponization of AI’ in recent years, while VCs across Europe report greater shift towards AI & Defence Tech startups in light of EU’s €800bn plan to boost defence.

Riveting conversations addressing these transformations and challenges will unfold at GITEX CYBER VALLEY EUROPE, Germany’s largest tech, startup and digital investment event taking place from 21-23 May, at Messe Berlin. The event brings together national cybersecurity agency heads, policymakers, and global tech leaders to debate, define, and develop actionable strategies for the oncoming decade of AI and tech domination.

The complexity of modern cyber threats transcends the defensive capabilities of individual organizations. A collaborative approach, integrating insights from various sectors and disciplines, is essential. GITEX CYBER VALLEY EUROPE sets the stage for the most profound dialogues and invaluable perspectives crucial in decoding the dynamic cyber landscape. Some of the key topics of discussion include:

The Great EU AI Debate & Its Impact on Cybersecurity

While AI is revolutionizing cybersecurity defenses, it’s also arming adversaries with deepfake deception, AI-generated phishing, and automated warfare. As the regulatory debates widen and innovators demand more freedom, the conferences dive into the impact of AI regulations on cybersecurity, the deep AI chasms where security measures fall short, and the role of responsible AI in ensuring a balance between privacy and greater security.

Network and Information Security Directive (NIS) Securing SMEs

For Europe’s 26 million SMEs, the transition from NIS 1 to NIS 2 represents a major compliance and security challenge. With new obligations on incident reporting, supply chain security, and risk management, small and medium enterprises must rethink their cybersecurity strategies or risk being left vulnerable.

Operational Resilience & DORA

The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is a game-changer for financial institutions, forcing them to adopt stricter security frameworks to prevent cyber-induced economic instability. But how ready is Europe’s financial sector for this shift?

At GITEX CYBER VALLEY EUROPE, cross-sector CISOs, policymakers, and operational risk experts will discuss the implications of DORA, the preparedness of European financial institutions and the transitioning role of CISOs from tech guardians to strategic change-makers.

OT Security, AI & ML in Critical Networks

The convergence of IT and operational technology (OT) is exposing critical infrastructure to AI-powered cyberattacks. Energy, transportation, and healthcare systems now face a new era of cyber-physical threats, making AI and machine learning-driven security solutions indispensable.

These conversations reinforce the EU's commitment to creating a secure digital environment. However, compliance requires organizations to adapt swiftly, invest in robust cybersecurity measures and foster a culture of continuous vigilance.

The World’s Foremost Cybersecurity Stakeholders & Supremos Take Centerstage

GITEX CYBER VALLEY EUROPE offers an opportunity to hear key decision-makers confront the most pressing questions for cyber economies worldwide. Among 60+ powerhouse names on the cybersecurity stage, the line-up includes:

  • Massimo Mercati, Head of the ESA Security Office, Italy, oversees the protection of Europe's critical satellite infrastructure, ensuring the security of space-based assets.
  • Brig. Gen. Dr. Volker Pötzsch, Chief of Division Cyber/IT and AI Management at the German Federal Ministry of Defence, leads initiatives to strengthen military cybersecurity and digital resilience in Europe's largest economy.
  • Ejona Preci, Global CISO at Lindal Group, Germany, recognized as a Global 40 Under 40 honoree, spearheads cybersecurity for a world leader in aerosol packaging technology.
  • Ioannis Alexakis, Director General of the National Cybersecurity Authority, Greece, directs the nation's cybersecurity strategy and resilience efforts.
  • Albert Vartic, Upstream OT Cybersecurity Officer at OMV Petrom Romania, safeguards Romania’s largest energy company and the leading oil and gas producer in Southeast Europe.
  • Lorenzo D’Ambrosi, CISO at Rothschild & Co, Switzerland, manages cybersecurity for one of the world’s most prestigious financial institutions, overseeing assets exceeding $33 billion globally.
  • Ugo Vignolo Lutati, Group CISO at Prada Group, Italy, ensures the cybersecurity of one of the largest luxury fashion conglomerates.
  • Miguel De Bruycker, Managing Director General at the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium, leads the National Authority for Cybersecurity in Belgium and is the founder of pioneering cybersecurity initiatives.

Dive Deep into the Hacker Mindset

Beyond discussions, the event offers immersive experiences where top ethical hackers and penetration testers will demonstrate real threats. Witness firsthand how AI-powered attacks, deepfake deceptions, and Open Source Intelligent Tracking (OSINT) are employed to manipulate both technology and human behavior.

The Year’s Most Thought-Provoking Cyber Conferences

GITEX CYBER VALLEY EUROPE is where cybersecurity challenges will not only be discussed but also where solutions will be actively shaped. Be there to:

  • Gain Insights: Learn from leaders shaping cybersecurity strategies across diverse sectors.
  • Network: Connect with peers, experts, and innovators to share knowledge and collaborate on solutions.
  • Get Ahead: Understand emerging threats and the latest regulatory developments to proactively enhance your organization's security posture.

For more details, explore https://www.gitex-europe.com/home

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