Cybersecurity Risks, Considerations and Priorities

Cybersecurity is of vital importance for all stakeholders in the Canadian economy. The security and integrity of our networks and our data is of special urgency as we digitize all aspects of our work and personal lives. The Internet of Things and “smart” living environments, while bringing important benefits, significantly expand the cyber “attack surface”, creating new vulnerabilities. In this session, I will give a general overview of the major cybersecurity threat vectors, discuss how cybersecurity risks are changing due to the proliferation of IoT devices and “smart” applications, and consider how Canadians and Canadian organizations can prioritize cybersecurity, particularly as new technologies emerge at a rapid pace.

Charles Finlay founded the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst in 2018 with a vision to build Canada’s leading hub for cybersecurity innovation and collaboration. As founding Executive Director, Charles oversees all aspects of the Catalyst’s program delivery and strategic growth. Charles has been instrumental in developing nationally unique programming in cybersecurity training, commercialization, public education and policy development.
Prior to founding the Catalyst, Charles served as chief of staff and director of policy to the Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Growth. In this role, Charles worked closely with private sector and government leaders to develop and implement the province’s strategy to make Ontario a global leader in technology innovation and commercialization.
Before joining government, Charles practiced law at BMO Capital Markets and Torys LLP, worked as a technology researcher at Forrester Research, and was a freelance business journalist for The Globe and Mail and Canadian Business Magazine.