Events
PHDays 2: A Recap of Positive Technologies’ 2024 Cybersecurity Extravaganza
Positive Technologies’ Positive Hack Days (PHDays) returned to Moscow in May 2024, once again solidifying its position as a premier global cybersecurity event. Held over four action-packed days at the Luzhniki Sports Complex, PHDays 2, as it was dubbed this year, the event offered a potent mix of technical talks, workshops, exhibitions, and the ever-thrilling Standoff competition. The event also unmasked the top 5 quantum tech cyberthreats. This year’s event witnessed a record number of attendees, industry leaders, and cybersecurity enthusiasts, solidifying its reputation as a must-attend event for anyone invested in the digital security landscape.
A Festival Atmosphere for All
PHDays 2 wasn’t just for seasoned security professionals. The event embraced a “festival for all” approach, catering to a diverse audience. The free public space was a hive of activity, attracting families and students curious about the ever-growing importance of cybersecurity. Interactive exhibits, designed to be engaging and informative, demystified complex security concepts. Visitors could test their digital hygiene skills through gamified experiences and gain a taste of the world of ethical hacking. This focus on public education, according to the company, is a cornerstone of PHDays, fostering awareness and potentially inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity defenders.
Denis Baranov. CEO, Positive Technologies
Expert Zone: Deep Dives and Cutting-Edge Insights
The beating heart of PHDays 2 resided in the ticketed expert zone. Here, industry professionals, researchers, and anyone eager to delve deeper into the technical aspects of cybersecurity found a treasure trove of knowledge. The program boasted a meticulously curated selection of:
Renowned security experts graced the stage, delivering thought-provoking presentations on a vast array of topics. From in-depth vulnerability analyses and exploit development to secure coding practices and cutting-edge incident response strategies, the talks covered a comprehensive spectrum of cybersecurity concerns. This year saw a significant focus on emerging threats such as attacks targeting the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT) landscape and the evolving tactics of ransomware gangs.
Maxim Philippov, Deputy CEO, Positive Technologies
Interactive workshops provided attendees with the opportunity to acquire practical skills in critical areas. Participants could learn penetration testing methodologies, hone their mobile security assessment skills, or even delve into the world of blockchain security. These workshops, led by experienced professionals, offered real-world, hands-on learning experiences that attendees could implement in their professional endeavours.
The undisputed highlight of PHDays 2 was, without a doubt, the Standoff competition. This electrifying event pitted ethical hackers (white hats) against a team of skilled defenders in a simulated cyber warzone. The attackers, armed with their hacking prowess and a thirst for digital conquest, attempted to exploit vulnerabilities and compromise a virtualized environment representing a realistic corporate network.
The defenders, meanwhile, scrambled to fortify their defences, patch vulnerabilities, detect intrusions, and contain the simulated attack. The Standoff unfolded in real-time, offering a thrilling spectacle for attendees and valuable insights into real-world cyberattacks and defence strategies. This year’s Standoff saw a record number of participating teams, showcasing the ever-growing global pool of talented ethical hackers.
PHDays 2: A Catalyst for Progress
The impact of PHDays 2 extends far beyond the four days of the event itself. It serves as a crucial platform for knowledge sharing, community building, identifying new threats, and inspiring the next generation. The talks, workshops, and discussions facilitated a vibrant exchange of knowledge and expertise. Industry leaders shared their experiences and insights, fostering collaboration and accelerating innovation in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
PHDays 2 fostered a vibrant cybersecurity community. Professionals from across the globe networked, built relationships, and explored potential collaborations. This exchange of ideas and perspectives is crucial in tackling the ever-growing challenges of cybersecurity. The Standoff competition served as a valuable platform for identifying emerging threats. By showcasing the tactics and tools used by attackers, PHDays helps defenders stay ahead of the curve and develop effective countermeasures against these evolving threats.
The public space at PHDays 2 played a vital role in igniting the passion for cybersecurity within young minds. Interactive exhibits and engaging activities not only raised awareness but potentially inspired the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Positive Technologies is also extending the reach and impact of PHDays beyond the physical event. Recordings of talks and presentations are made available online, creating a valuable resource for anyone seeking to expand their cybersecurity knowledge base. Additionally, the Capture the Flag (CTF) competition, held online in the months leading up to PHDays 2, allows aspiring security professionals from around the globe to test their skills in a virtual hacking environment.
Cyber Security
DESC to Highlight Dubai’s Cyber Defense Strategies as GISEC 2025 Government Partner
The Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) is set to participate as the official government cybersecurity partner for the eighth consecutive year in the 14th edition of the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC Global 2025), taking place from May 6-8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Center’s participation in GISEC Global 2025, which gathers over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals representing more than 160 countries, aligns with its strategic objectives aimed at advancing the Dubai Cyber Security Strategy and reinforcing Dubai’s position as one of the world’s digitally safest cities.
This participation reflects the Center’s commitment to safeguarding digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, enhancing cyber resilience, and promoting robust cooperation at both the local and international levels. During the three-day event, DESC will spotlight a number of key initiatives, including the “Dubai Cyber Challenge”, an exclusive competitive simulation designed to enhance the cyber readiness of Dubai government entities, and the “School of Cyber Defense” CTF competition, which attracted registrations from over 300 university students, engaging them in technical challenges and hands-on training. These programs form a key part of DESC’s ongoing efforts to build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity professionals equipped to navigate evolving digital threats.
H.E. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, CEO of the Dubai Electronic Security Center, commented, “DESC’s participation in GISEC Global 2025 reflects our steadfast commitment to securing Dubai’s digital future through proactive cybersecurity measures, innovation-driven initiatives, and an integrated ecosystem that fosters collaboration by building partnerships across public and private sectors. GISEC continues to serve as a dynamic platform where industry leaders, experts, and innovators come together to shape the future of cybersecurity.”
“GISEC 2025 provides a critical platform for strategic engagement with global cybersecurity innovators, allowing us to gain insights into emerging technologies and anticipate future threats. These interactions directly support our efforts to create forward-looking policies, develop advanced cyber solutions, and empower national talent to lead in this field. Through such initiatives, we continue to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for cybersecurity excellence and digital innovation,” Al Shaibani added.
DESC experts will also take part in high-level panel discussions addressing key challenges and emerging trends in the cybersecurity landscape. The Center will also formalize strategic partnerships and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at enhancing cross-sector collaboration and strengthening national efforts to secure the cyber space.
Visitors to GISEC Global 2025 are invited to explore DESC’s initiatives at Stand A80 in Hall 7, where DESC will showcase its latest projects, including future-ready cybersecurity guidelines and certification programs designed to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape and strengthen national capabilities. The stand will also serve as a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with DESC’s experts and explore opportunities for joint collaboration.
Events
OPSWAT Joins GISEC 2025 as Middle East Confronts AI-Driven Cyber Threats
OPSWAT has announced its diamond-level sponsorship of GISEC Global 2025, the Middle East and Africa’s premier cybersecurity event. Scheduled for 6-8 May at Dubai World Trade Centre, the exhibition will be hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council in partnership with the Dubai Electronic Security Center.
This year’s participation underscores OPSWAT’s commitment to strengthening regional cybersecurity resilience as organizations face increasingly sophisticated threats. Attendees will have multiple opportunities to engage with OPSWAT’s cybersecurity experts through interactive demonstrations, thought leadership sessions, and specialized training programs.

Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT
“Our main focus at GISEC Global 2025 will be critical infrastructure, the lynchpin of economic progress and an increasingly popular target for threat actors,” said Sertan Selcuk, Vice President for METAP and CIS, OPSWAT. “Our partnerships will involve devising ways of protecting the interconnected systems and technologies that drive the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Through our demonstrations and discussions at GISEC 2025, OPSWAT experts will show how our solutions directly address the latest cybersecurity challenges, especially the ongoing merger of IT and OT.”
The company will showcase its innovative solutions through two unique exhibits. The CIP Mobile Lab, operated by OP/X Labs, will provide live demonstrations of industry-leading technologies designed to protect critical infrastructure. Visitors can gain practical insights into securing vital operational systems against modern cyber threats.
Complementing this will be OPSWAT’s Nuclear Plant Model Reactor display, illustrating the company’s specialized capabilities in securing highly sensitive environments. The exhibit will demonstrate real-world applications of OPSWAT’s technology through an interconnected display with the mobile lab.
OPSWAT’s experts will present across multiple stages during the three-day event:
- On the opening day, security professionals can attend a live hacking demonstration on the Dark Stage, revealing current vulnerabilities in today’s threat landscape.
- Day two features two significant presentations. Founder and CEO Benny Czarny will deliver a keynote address titled “Breaking the Firewall: Revolutionizing Cyber Defense for a Connected World” on the Government Stage. His session will challenge conventional security paradigms and propose innovative approaches to counter AI-driven threats and encrypted attacks.
- Simultaneously, Director of Products and Solutions Kris Voorspoels will participate in a Critical Infrastructure Stage panel discussion examining security challenges in the regional oil and gas sector’s Industrial IoT (IIoT) ecosystem. The session will explore security implications of connected devices in petrochemical operations and strategies for protecting this vital economic sector.
Supporting the UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy’s capacity-building objectives, OPSWAT Academy will offer complimentary certification courses throughout the event. Professionals can earn credentials in File Security (OFSA), Secure Storage (OSSA), Email Security (OESA), Web Traffic Protection (OWPA), and Data Transfer Security (ODSA).
At GISEC Global 2025, OPSWAT will exhibit from Stand C55, Hall 7.
Cyber Security
Kuwait Renews Cyber First Initiative to Strengthen Digital Defenses for Vision 2035
In a time of accelerating digital transformation, the 3rd Cyber First Kuwait Edition took center stage at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait, bringing together over 300 technology leaders, cybersecurity professionals, and policymakers to address the country’s evolving digital threat landscape and cybersecurity vision. Organized by Events First Group, the conference supports the new Kuwait Vision 2035 and the nation’s ambitious National Cybersecurity Strategy.
The summit will feature keynote presentations, expert panel discussions, real-world case studies, and an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge solutions. Topics will span AI-powered threat detection, OT/ICS infrastructure security, cloud resilience, Zero Trust frameworks, and national-level collaboration between public and private sectors.
Abdullah Al Shaheen, Director of Public Relations and Media Department at National cybersecurity center said, “This edition of the Cyber First Conference, held under the patronage of the National Cybersecurity Center serves as a platform for business leaders, professionals to come together and exchange experiences, share best practices, and explore the latest developments for security and protection against the rapidly evolving cyber threats and attacks. These challenges require us to remain informed and constantly evolving.”
“The National Cybersecurity Center in the State of Kuwait is working to build an effective system to protect the cyberspace by collaborating with both local and international entities in the field of cybersecurity. This is to create a safe digital environment, while maintaining the trust of technology operators and users. We hope this conference will serve as a gateway to more important meetings and events that focus on cybersecurity,” he added.
“Cyber First Kuwait is a national dialogue and strategic catalyst,” said Shyam Reddy, Partnerships Director. “With Vision 2035 and the National Cybersecurity Strategy serving as our guiding frameworks, this summit brings together government and enterprise to create actionable pathways toward a digitally secure and resilient Kuwait.”
The conference featured keynotes, panels, one-on-one networking sessions, a cybersecurity hackathon, and the Kuwait Cybersecurity Awards, recognizing trailblazers across innovation, leadership, and operational excellence. The event hosted over 300 delegates, including CISOs, risk management leaders, OT and cloud architects, regulators, leading solution providers, more than 20 sponsors, 15 media partners, and 10 ministries.
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