Session Title: Biometric Data & Digital ID: Are We Trading Privacy for Convenience?
Background:
The increasing sophistication and frequency of cyber-attacks pose a growing threat to individuals, businesses, and governments. In Africa, where digital transformation is rapidly accelerating, cybersecurity readiness remains a key challenge. From financial institutions to public services, organizations are grappling with data breaches, ransomware, and other cyber threats. The impact of these incidents can be devastating—leading to financial loss, reputational damage, legal liabilities, and compromised national security.
This session, “Hacked! What Would You Do?” will simulate a real-world cyber-attack scenario, challenging panelists and the audience to think critically about incident response strategies. Through expert guidance, attendees will learn how to detect, mitigate, and recover from cyber incidents while maintaining compliance with data protection regulations.
RATIONALE
- Cyber-attacks are no longer a matter of “if” but “when.”
- Many organizations lack a structured incident response plan.
- The session provides practical insights on navigating a crisis in real time.
- Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of legal, technical, and reputational consequences of cyber-attacks.
- Collaboration between different stakeholders (law enforcement, legal experts, IT professionals, and regulators) is critical in mitigating cyber threats.
SESSION OBJECTIVES
- To provide an interactive and immersive experience of responding to a cyber-attack.
- To analyze the legal, technical, and organizational responses to a data breach.
- To equip participants with knowledge on best practices for cybersecurity incident management.
- To highlight the role of regulatory frameworks in cyber incident response.
- To facilitate a discussion on lessons learned and proactive measures organizations can take.
AGENDA AND SESSION FLOW
3:35 PM – 3:40 PM | Opening Remarks
- Moderator welcomes attendees and introduces the session format.
- Brief context on the importance of cybersecurity preparedness.
3:40 PM – 4:00 PM | Live Cyber-Attack Simulation
A simulated cyber-attack (e.g., ransomware attack on a financial institution) will unfold in stages, requiring real-time responses from the panelists. The simulation will include:
- Phase 1: Attack Detection– How do organizations recognize they are under attack?
- Phase 2: Response & Mitigation– What immediate steps should be taken?
- Phase 3: Communication & Regulatory Compliance– How should organizations notify regulators, clients, and the public?
- Phase 4: Recovery & Lessons Learned– How can businesses recover and strengthen their security posture?
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Expert Panel Discussion
Panelists will discuss their responses to the attack and analyze key aspects such as:
- The role of leadership in cybersecurity crisis management.
- Legal obligations and potential liabilities under African data protection laws.
- The role of law enforcement and regulatory bodies in cybercrime investigations.
- The technical aspects of cyber incident response, including digital forensics and threat intelligence.
- Best practices for building organizational resilience against future attacks.
4:30 PM – 4:45 PM | Audience Q&A and Closing Remarks
- Open floor for questions from the audience.
- Key takeaways from the session.
- Closing remarks by the moderator and next steps for attendees.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
- Increased awareness and preparedness for cyber incidents.
- Actionable strategies that organizations can implement to improve cybersecurity.
- Strengthened multi-stakeholder collaboration on cybersecurity governance.
- Insights into the evolving cybersecurity landscape in Africa.