Chris Kubecka de Medina, Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Defenders: Ethics in Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies

At Purdue University, Ms. Kubecka will discuss how technologists, especially the next generation of digital defenders, can be empowered to consider ethics in cybersecurity, privacy, and emerging technologies, and how they can use their power for good in tech. About the speaker: Ms. Chris Kubecka is a globally recognized cybersecurity expert with over two decades of experience, known for her pivotal role in digital defense and her commitment to ethical technology practices. She has established a formidable reputation for protecting both national and international cybersecurity interests, often at the highest levels of government and industry.Ms. Kubecka's career began with a strong technical foundation, rapidly advancing into leadership roles that demand both tactical acumen and strategic foresight. Her expertise spans cyber warfare, digital intelligence, artificial intelligence, and the development of robust cybersecurity frameworks, including those addressing the challenges of post-quantum computing.A thought leader in cybersecurity, Ms. Kubecka frequently contributes to international conferences, policy discussions, and academic forums. She is the author of several influential books, including Hack The World With OSINT, and has published numerous research papers on platforms like ResearchGate. Her work often explores the ethical implications of emerging technologies and the critical role of privacy in cybersecurity.Ms. Kubecka serves as the CEO and Founder of HypaSec NL, Senior Cybersecurity Advisor for Elemental Concept, and Chief Hacktress for Unit6 Technologies. Her significant contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous awards, including The Order of Thor. She is also a former Distinguished Chair for the Middle East Institute's Cyber Security and Emerging Technology Program.Throughout her career, Ms. Kubecka has led critical operations that highlight the intersection of cybersecurity and human rights. During the conflict in Ukraine, she used her expertise to facilitate the evacuation of civilians, applying digital intelligence to support these missions. In Venezuela, her investigations uncovered the weaponization of government-backed applications, such as the Ven App and Patrica App, which are used for surveillance and repression of dissent. Her research revealed how these apps are being exploited to target citizens, leading to arrests, disappearances, and even deaths, underscoring the dire consequences of unethical technology use.Ms. Kubecka's background as a USAF aviator and former member of the USAF Space Command highlights her extensive commitment to defense in both the physical and digital realms. Her journey began at a young age, with her early technical skills leading to her first major hacking achievement at age ten.