Cyber Crime Defenders to be Celebrated

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Outstanding Woman in Cyber At Cyber AwardsSecond Scottish Cyber Awards Announced with Global Sponsors Confirmed

A BOOMING cyber security industry will once again vie for honours – as the Scottish Cyber Awards return after last year’s hugely successful inaugural event.

The growing threat has dominated the news agenda since the first ever awards last November, with the WannaCry ransomware attack and the extent of the hacks during the US Presidential race still being investigated.

Hosted by the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC), the awards will shine a light on innovative work and thinking across Scotland, focusing on the positive aspects of what is becoming a critical industry for Scotland’s economic development.

A wide range of awards will recognise businesses, academics and individuals committed to enhancing Scotland’s world-leading reputation in the fight against cyber-crime.

Mandy Haeburn-Little, Chief Executive of the SBRC, said: “Cyber crime is a reality of modern life – with organisations of all sizes susceptible to criminal hackers

“There is however incredible work happening on our doorstep and that deserves to be celebrated. Scotland could not achieve what it has without a deep talent pool and it is right that these awards will also celebrate the best of all business sizes and the world of academia.”

The event has attracted big name backing, with lead supporter PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) joined by key partners Zonefox and Symantec.

Mandy added: “We’re delighted to have the formidable backing of PwC, which was instrumental in the success of last year’s event, along with support from global leaders Symantec – and one of Scotland’s own cyber success stories in Zonefox.

“After the enthusiastic welcome and response to the first awards, we have been delighted to see that interest continue from all quarters and have just a few remaining award categories open to new sponsors.

John Whitehill, cyber security director for PwC in Scotland, said: “As a founding partner of the Scottish Cyber Awards, we are proud to continue our support in recognising the best national organisations and talent in this important industry.

“The last year has shown a marked increase in the understanding and awareness of cyber security issues across all parts of our population. Sadly, some parts of the profession have reacted to these incidents with sensationalism and hysteria , so it’s important we recognise those who bring practical experience and solutions to this very real problem.

“The rise in award categories means not only will we see more examples of best practice, but increased recognition for those leading the way in teamwork and diversity. I hope this will encourage others to follow. Additionally, I hope to see increased commercialisation of ideas aimed at helping the Scottish cyber security industry grow and be successful.

“I am really looking forward to seeing this year’s entries – last year set the bar high.”

Jamie Graves, CEO at ZoneFox, winner of the coveted accolade of ‘Champion of Champions’ at the 2016 awards, said: “The ZoneFox team is delighted to announce our sponsorship of this year’s Scottish Cyber Awards in collaboration with SBRC.

“Scotland has a strong history of innovation and forward-thinking, so the SBRC’s mission to become an international leader in cyber resilience and seize the opportunities afforded by that innovation is fully aligned with ZoneFox’s vision to become a global leader in cyber security solutions.”

Darren Thomson, Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Symantec EMEA, said:  “Symantec is delighted to have the opportunity to sponsor the Scottish Cyber Security Awards working in conjunction with the SBRC.  We actively look for opportunities to support events that recognise excellence in Cyber Security.Scott Hunter Cyber Security Teacher of the year - Tech PR

“As the world’s leading cyber security company we have a local presence in Scotland and look forward to continue developing our relationship with the SBRC in the coming years.”

Following the significant demand of the 2016 inaugural awards, the ceremony has moved to a larger venue, and will take place at Edinburgh’s Sheraton Hotel on 22nd November.

The award categories include: Best Cyber Start-Up, Best New Cyber Talent, Cyber SME Defender of the Year, International Contribution to Cyber Security, Outstanding Woman in Cyber, Cyber Resilient Community Impact Awards, Leading Light Innovation Award, Cyber Evangelist of the Year, Cyber Security Teacher of the Year and Collaboration with Police Scotland.

Four new categories have been introduced this year, and include: Leading Diversity in Cyber, Outstanding Cyber Team, Best Cyber Education Programme and Best Cyber Breakthrough.

Nominations will open on Thursday 20th July and winners will be decided by an expert panel of cyber specialists from across a number of sectors and will receive one of the specially designed awards.

 Online platform Digit are dedicated to providing tech news, views, opinion for IT & Digital users & consumers, and will be Official Media Partner of the Awards.

 Ray Bugg, Director, Digit, said: “Cyber security is one of the most rapidly evolving sectors in the digital world. The recent high profile attacks on government services, public sector organisations and critical infrastructure are just the tip of the iceberg.

“Recognising the pioneers, innovators and leaders in such a vital part of the digital world is a major step in making sure cyber security gets the recognition it deserves as the threats multiply. We’re delighted to be working with the Scottish Cyber Awards to help promote and showcase the huge range of talent we have here in Scotland.”

The awards will also have a bespoke website that will launch on the 20th July, where you can find full details of the awards, sponsors, buy tickets and apply. Nominations close on Friday 8th September 2017.

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