From ‘phishing’ to ‘ransomware’, cyber crimes can take several forms. Each cybercriminal will have a different approach, making it difficult to identify which emails or links are genuine, and which may put your business at risk.
It was reported that during the Covid-19 pandemic, cybercrime increased by 600% - such a staggering statistic indicates the dangers of digital transformation.
According to The Cyber Security Speakers Agency, $1 trillion has been spent worldwide on cyber security products over five years - a statistic that makes it evident that companies must continue to invest in cyber security to ensure the prosperity of their business.
This Cyber Security Awareness Month, take your online safety into your own hands with one of the insightful cybersecurity experts featured below:
Source: Purplesec and The Cyber Security Speakers Agency
What is Cyber Security Awareness Month?
Cyber Security Awareness Month is an annual event that draws attention to the danger hackers pose to businesses and individuals using the internet.
With a focus on education, cyber security awareness speakers use the month to build global resilience against cyber threats, tackling the criminals exploiting digital vulnerabilities as a united force.
Source: Center for Internet Security
When is Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025?
Cyber Security Awareness Month is an American event that takes place in October. From the 1st to the 31st of October 2025, businesses across the world will encourage all employees to take cybercrimes seriously – not just the IT team.
Sarah Armstrong-Smith
Sarah Armstrong-Smith is the Chief Security Advisor for Microsoft. As part of the global technology company, she practices cloud adoption and security strategies, two topics she now discusses as a technology speaker. At events, Sarah supplies top tips for protecting your company against phishing and ransomware attacks, to name a few of her specialities.
Testimonial:
“Thank you for the talk at the Future of Cyber Conference; very useful and informative and stimulated some good points about much needed synergy of technology, security, assurance and governance.”
- Intelligence Manager
Greg van der Gaast
Once named one of the World’s Most Infamous Hackers, Greg van der Gaast now uses his experience in cybercrime as a force for good. He was part of the largest mass hacks of the 90s, the experience of which he shares at events. Greg offers insight into a hacker’s mind, arming audiences with strategies for cybersecurity.
Specialist Topics:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Breaches
- Humanistic Approach to Security Solutions
- Data Protection
- Information Security Leadership
Joe Tidy
A popular Cyber Security Awareness Month Speaker, Joe Tidy is a regular at corporate conferences and events. He is the BBC’s first dedicated cybersecurity correspondent, a role from which he reports on cyber-attacks, data security and the latest hackings. Joe combines star power with industry knowledge to blow audiences away at security conferences.
Testimonial:
“Please can you pass on our thanks to Joe for providing such an insightful and brilliantly delivered presentation to the ISBA members this morning? He was great! I know he’s a journalist and it comes with the territory, but he had clearly done so much prep work and research and considered the audience so well.”
- iSams Pty Ltd
Joanna Shields
Another UK first on our list, Joanna Shields was the first Minister of State for Internet Safety and Security. For three decades, she has pioneered safety in several digital industries, using her engagements and corporate strategies to educate business leaders. From social media to government policies, her specialist topics span all facets of cybersecurity.
Specialist Topics:
- Cybersecurity
- Internet Safety
- The Future of Artificial Intelligence
- Protecting Younger Generations Online
Frank Abagnale
Conman turned cybersecurity expert, Frank Abagnale, uses his personal experience as a fraudster to educate audiences at corporate conferences. The key to avoiding cyber-attacks is to know your enemy, which is what makes Frank so popular at events. Your audience will receive a first-hand account from a globally renowned hacker.
Testimonial:
“Captivated-almost hypnotized that is the best way I can describe how 400 ADP associates reacted to your performance at the Short Hills Hilton. I have heard you speak several times over the years, but never have I seen an audience so totally consumed by your every work.”
- Automatic Data Processing
Robert Hannigan
As the former Director of the Government Communications Headquarters and Director-General of Defence and Intelligence, Robert Hannigan gained extensive knowledge of cybersecurity from his senior roles in politics. He is a security specialist, and so is regularly hired for events to share his industry-leading guidance on cybercrimes and risk management.
Specialist Topics:
- Cyber Security
- Computer Science
- Security & Risk
- Cyber Threat
Jamie Woodruff
Having ethically hacked Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Google, Jamie Woodruff understands the inner workings of cyber-attacks. He reveals the stark reality of internet security; Jamie’s business engagements are shocking enough to cause audiences to “[turn] off their mobile phones”. From artificial intelligence to corporate cybersecurity, he discusses a wide range of topics at events.
Testimonial:
“Jamie scared the pants off the audience, they all left the session turning off their mobile phones. But so far to date he is rated the highest out of our industry speakers.”
- Sapphire
Chris Wylie
Chris Wylie made international news when he revealed the Facebook and Cambridge Analytica data scandal, which involved a catastrophic data breach affecting 87 million Facebook users. Today, Chris offers consultancy services and engagements on the topic, to supply cybersecurity solutions tailored for corporate audiences. This enthralling expert shocks and amazes audiences with his story.
Specialist Topics:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Disruption
- GDPR & Data Privacy
- Cyber Security
- Ethical Hacking
Jonathan Shaw
As the British Army’s first Head of Cyber Security, Jonathan Shaw gained hands-on experience with a weapon unlike any other – hacking. He fronted the sector’s international operations and developed global policies to lead the new era of defence. With a global outlook, Jonathan is a highly qualified specialist in cybersecurity awareness.
Testimonial:
“He was really excellent at yesterday’s conference; thoughtful, insightful and a powerful presenter. He provided real value to our conference.”
- FutureWorld
Stu Hirst
Stu Hirst, a renowned cyber security keynote speaker, epitomises expertise in cyber, information, and cloud security. As Trustpilot's Chief Information Security Officer and a distinguished finalist at the Scottish Cyber Awards, Stu brings a wealth of experience from roles at Capital One, Trainline, Skyscanner, and Photobox. His engaging talks offer deep insights into digital asset protection and hacker defence strategies, making him a sought-after speaker for corporate events.
Book Speakers for Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025
Contact the Champions Speakers agency to book a cybersecurity awareness speaker for your corporate event or industry conference. Simply call a booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or complete our online contact form for more information.
