Today marks the beginning of GeekWeek 6, the latest edition of the annual cyber security workshop that sees cyber security experts come together and work on common problems facing the industry.
When the Cyber Centre formed, we said that this organization would work side-by-side with the public sector, private industry and international partners to solve Canada’s most complex cyber issues. GeekWeek, now being presented by the Cyber Centre for the second time, shows us doing exactly that.
I am excited that the Cyber Centre is continuing this important initiative, which allows the brightest minds in the field to focus their efforts on cyber security projects that can benefit organizations beyond government.
It’s also important to thank the participants and participating organizations for continuously showing interest in the event. Cyber security is indeed a team sport, and the Cyber Centre truly can’t do this work without you.
And these projects are indeed worthwhile, as they continue being worked on long after GeekWeek ends (take a look at the previous blog post that gives examples showcasing how no project that starts at GeekWeek ends at GeekWeek).
So when GeekWeek 6 finishes and the main projects are wrapped up, the work is far from over. If you take a look at the GeekWeek 6 event page, you’ll see a list of themes outlining what this year’s numerous projects will be based on.
But let’s take that a step further and briefly introduce you to a few specific projects that will be worked on, as well as outline how they can potentially impact the cyber security community:
Develop a National Domain Name System (DNS) to Safeguard the Internet for All Canadians
- This information will be used to develop a national DNS concept in the months following GeekWeek
- A national DNS system has the potential to greatly improve cyber security for all Canadians who browse the internet and better protect their privacy online
Create an active measurement tool against websites and email to ensure compliance with modern internet standards
- This initiative would prevent Canadian websites from being spoofed, therefore reducing the number of cases involving fraud and reputational damage
Provide an easy-to-use system for developers to test the security of their networks
- Providing this type of system allows organizations of all sizes to easily improve their networks’ security
Of course, these are only a few of the projects being worked on, as there are endless more that I’m just as excited about.
Needless to say, I can’t wait to see how GeekWeek 6 turns out. I am excited to learn how the cyber community and the Cyber Centre can use the outcomes of its projects to benefit Canada, Canadians and the overall cyber security landscape.
Scott Jones
Head, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security