In today’s interconnected world, even seemingly routine events like conferences and trade shows have become prime targets for cyberattacks. While security teams diligently protect core infrastructure, the unique, often temporary, environment of an event presents distinct vulnerabilities that threat actors are actively exploiting. Attackers see these gatherings as rich opportunities to gain access to sensitive data, deploy malware, or conduct espionage due to the convergence of numerous devices, networks, and high-value individuals.
Despite the growing evidence of these targeted campaigns, many Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) appear to be underprioritizing event security. This oversight can stem from various factors, including a perception that event-related risks are lower than enterprise-level threats, limited budgets, or a lack of clarity on where the responsibility for event security lies within the organization. Consequently, critical security planning often happens too late in the event lifecycle, if at all, leaving organizations exposed.
Neglecting this area can lead to significant repercussions. A successful breach at an event can result in the compromise of confidential information, damage to brand reputation, and even serve as a stepping stone for broader attacks against organizational networks or partners. Proactive measures are essential. Treating events as temporary, high-risk zones requiring dedicated security protocols is paramount. This involves early collaboration between security teams and event planners, implementing robust network security protocols, securing devices, protecting sensitive data, and ensuring physical access controls are in place. Raising awareness among attendees and staff about potential threats is also a vital layer of defense. By shifting focus and allocating appropriate resources, organizations can significantly enhance their posture against event-specific cyber risks. Prioritizing event security is no longer optional; it’s a critical necessity in safeguarding assets and reputation in the modern threat landscape.
Source: https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2025/06/17/cybersecurity-at-live-events/
