iCSS was delighted to host the 17th IFIP International Symposium on Human Aspects of Information Security & Assurance (HAISA 2023), which took place on 4-6 July 2023. This symposium, the seventeenth in the series, brought together leading figures from academia and industry to present and discuss the latest advances in information security from research and commercial perspectives.
The keynote, Preparing for Tomorrow’s Threats: Strengthening Cyber Resilience through a People-First Approach, was given by Dr Sanjana Mehta. Dr Mehta supports (ISC)²’s global advocacy strategy while also operating as the lead advocate in advancing the organization’s public policy and thought leadership goals in the United Kingdom.
This year, iCSS in partnership with HAISA introduced scholarships for groups and regions traditionally underrepresented at HAISA and in the fields of Cyber Security, Privacy, Cyber Psychology, and related areas of research. This enabled us to provide registration to students who may not otherwise have been able to attend. We reached out to some of the scholarship recipients to hear what they had to say. Here’s what some of the recipients had to say about the conference.
Marvin, from University of Bristol in the UK, said: ‘I had a truly wonderful time at the HAISA conference. The scholarship enabled me to participate in captivating talks and engage with a diverse community of individuals who share a common interest in the human aspects of information security. It was amazing to discover a research community that is passionate about this field, and I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the fascinating work being conducted at other universities. I am genuinely grateful for the new connections I have established, and I am eagerly anticipating potential collaborations in the future. Additionally, I am hoping to submit a paper for the upcoming conferences.’
Oshada, from ESOFT Metro Campus in Sri Lanka, said: ‘Attending HAISA 2023 has been an exceptional experience. The symposium has successfully brought together leading experts and professionals from both academia and industry, fostering insightful discussions on the latest advancements in information security. Despite attending the conference online, the virtual platform has been seamless and conducive to networking and knowledge sharing. The organizers have done an excellent job in creating an interactive environment that fosters meaningful connections and encourages active participation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, speakers, and fellow participants for making HAISA 2023 a resounding success. This symposium has undoubtedly provided valuable insights and has inspired me to further contribute to the field of information security.’
Sarah, from University of Oxford in the UK, said: ‘Attending the HAISA conference was an incredible experience, made possible by the generous scholarship from HAISA and iCSS. Their support allowed me to delve into the dynamic world of cybersecurity, gaining insights into current research and interventions while connecting with experts in field. This scholarship not only funded my attendance but also strengthened my belief in the transformative impact of organisations dedicated to nurturing talent, driving innovation, and supporting early career researchers.’
iCSS also sponsored two Best Paper Awards, Best Overall Paper and Best Student Paper. Marcus Gerdin, Åke Grönlund and Ella Kolkowska won Best Overall Paper for What goes around comes around; effects of unclear questionnaire items in information security research. Elham Rostami and Fredrik Karlsson won Best Student Paper for A qualitative content analysis of actionable advice in Swedish public agencies’ information security policies. We would like to congratulate all the winners on their brilliant papers.
Dr Jason Nurse, iCSS Public Engagement Lead and Local Organising Chair, said: ‘It was an honour to host this year’s HAISA event. It’s one of the few conferences that priorities the human aspect of cyber security and aims to advance the field in a significant way. This year we welcomed attendees from all over the world, we engaged in critical research discussions, and even had a chance to tour the beautiful Canterbury Cathedral.’
To hear more about upcoming conferences and events hosted by iCSS, subscribe to our newsletter by emailing cyber-info@kent.ac.uk.