The rapid evolution of technology, particularly the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges to cybersecurity. This was the central theme of a lively and insightful panel discussion featuring Hikvision cybersecurity expert Chuck Davis, held at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025.
Supported by Hikvision, under the banner of "Empowering People for a Safer Digital Future" the panel explored the multifaceted landscape of cybersecurity, from foundational issues of education and finance to the complex implications of AI, attracting a diverse audience eager to gain insights from industry leaders.
Who Was There and Why?
Moderated expertly by Shaun Reardon, Principal Cyber Security Consultant at DNV AS, the panel brought together a diverse group of experts, each offering unique perspectives on the current state and future trajectory of cybersecurity. The panel featured:
- Chuck Davis, VP of Information Security at Hikvision: With over 25 years of experience, Davis provided a pragmatic view of the challenges businesses face today, emphasizing the importance of understanding how to become good "cyber citizens."
- Irene Kaggwa, GIGA Program Manager at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU): Leading the Giga project aimed at connecting all schools to the Internet by 2030, Kaggwa brought a crucial educational lens, highlighting the need to connect schools globally and the challenges associated with it.
- Javvad Malik, Lead Security Awareness Advocate, KnowBe4: Malik emphasized the critical need for robust security measures across all sectors, particularly in finance, and the importance of education and awareness at all levels. He stressed the need for a balanced approach to technology adoption, acknowledging that security sometimes requires "friction."
- Juan Soler, AI Security Engineer, NeuralTrust: With a PhD in natural language processing and experience as a senior data scientist at PepsiCo, Soler offered a forward-looking perspective, exploring the transformative potential of AI in cybersecurity while acknowledging the inherent risks.
These experts were chosen for their deep knowledge and contributions to the field, making them ideal to address the critical issues facing cybersecurity today.
What Was Discussed?
The conversation was far-reaching, delving into the core issues that underpin our digital safety. The panelists explored how the lack of adequate cybersecurity education leaves individuals and organizations vulnerable to increasingly sophisticated attacks. They discussed the financial implications of data breaches, the significant costs associated with recovery, and the long-term damage to reputation.
Perhaps most compelling was the discussion surrounding AI. The panel acknowledged that AI can be a powerful tool in enhancing cybersecurity, enabling proactive threat detection and automated incident response. However, they also cautioned that AI can be weaponized by malicious actors, creating new and unforeseen attack vectors.
Key topics included:
- The challenges of bringing cybersecurity awareness to developing countries.
- The role of AI in cybersecurity, including its potential for targeted content and network monitoring, as well as its inherent risks.
- The importance of education and awareness at all levels, from basic cyber hygiene to advanced security practices.
- The need for a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, including technical defenses and user education.
- The Giga project, and the need to connect schools globally.
Why These Issues Are Important
The issues discussed are crucial as the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly. With more countries gaining access to Ai, the risk of cyber threats increases. Educating people about cybersecurity is essential to protect personal and organizational data. The panelists stressed that cybersecurity is not just about technology but also about creating a culture of awareness and responsibility.
Solutions Discussed
Several solutions were proposed during the panel. Irene Kagwa mentioned the importance of mapping out schools geographically to plan infrastructure effectively and secure funding for connectivity. Hikvision’s Chuck Davis emphasized the need for a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, including technical defenses and educating users about potential threats. The role of AI in providing targeted content and monitoring network traffic was also discussed as a way to enhance cybersecurity measures.
The Future of Cybersecurity
Looking ahead, the panelists agreed that the future of cybersecurity lies in continuous education, leveraging AI, and fostering a culture of openness and resilience. As technology advances, so do the methods used by cybercriminals. Therefore, staying informed and adaptable is key to maintaining a secure digital environment. The ever-evolving nature of cyber threats necessitates a collaborative approach, with stakeholders across industries sharing information and best practices.
Conclusion
The ISE 2025 cybersecurity panel served as a timely reminder that cybersecurity is not just a technological challenge; it is a human challenge. Empowering people with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the digital landscape safely is paramount. As AI continues to reshape our world, the conversation around cybersecurity must continue to evolve, ensuring that we are prepared for the challenges and equipped to harness the opportunities that lie ahead.
The panel concluded with a call for continued dialogue and engagement, inviting attendees and the wider community to share their thoughts and contribute to the ongoing discussion of cybersecurity.
FURTHER READING:
Watch the full panel discussion on YouTube: Empowering People for a Safer Digital Future| Cybersecurity Panel at ISE 2025
Hikvision has published a series of whitepapers on the Hikvision Cybersecurity web page, exploring threats, governance, training and best practice recommendations.