As a cybersecurity student or someone just entering the industry, the rapid evolution of digital threats and security solutions may seem overwhelming. However, understanding the tools and technologies shaping the field can give you a head start in your career. We invite students and fresh graduates to join us at Chillisoft’s Auckland office where we’ll explore recent cybersecurity trends and the latest data from New Zealand. We’ll also share our thoughts on what the future of cybersecurity might look like and spotlight potential career pathways. To top things off, those in attendance will also score some ESET gear and get the opportunity to register for ESET certification, giving you an edge as you start your career in cybersecurity.
ESET Next Defend - Empowering Tomorrow's Defenders
AN EVENT FOR CYBERSECURITY STUDENTS & INDUSTRY NEWCOMERS
31st January 2025
2:00pm – 5:00pm
@ The Chillisoft Offices – LVL 1, 192 Grafton Rd, Auckland.
Overview
Cybersecurity is more than just preventing attacks—it’s about understanding the tools, strategies, and local factors that influence digital defense. Stay connected with the latest developments in New Zealand’s threat landscape, and be ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with the skills and knowledge you gain today. More info will be included as we progress closer to the event date.
AGENDA
2:00pm Welcome Note
2:15pm Career Pathways
2:30pm NZ Cyber Research & Data
3:00pm Into the future
3:30pm ESET Demo
4:00pm Q&A
4:20pm Networking & Nibbles
SPEAKERS
Brad Collins - ESET Enterprise and MSP Business Manager
Brad Collins is the Enterprise and MSP Business Manager for ESET, focusing on our MSP partners and customers with our Complete, Enterprise and Elite products with the goal of allowing our MSPs to increase the security of their customers in an easy and cost effective manner. Brad has worked in IT Companies and MSPs for just over 20 years including growing one of those companies from 6 to 55 staff and is applying his wealth of real world experience in customer expectations and security solutions in this role to discuss the wider ESET product stack with MSPs.
Maddie Liebenberg - ESET Consumer Executive
Madie passionately brings Chillisoft’s valued customers and partners technical support. Coupled with a flair for creativity, marketing and event management, Madie plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless experiences and fostering new connections as well as building rapport with our long-time supporters, ensuring they feel valued and heard every step of the way. Making it a priority to remain informed and educated, she ensures that Chillisoft partners and customers are always up-to-date with pertinent information they need,. Ready to assist and inform through multiple channels, Madie helps enhance the overall experience of customers and partners. Only a year in the industry, she has quickly adapted to her role and remains enthusiastic about the next exhibit to add to her role with a friendly and approachable manner.
Dr David Gadnyx - Chillisoft Marketing Manager
David’s journey began in entry IT roles before delving into broadcasting, marketing and event management. David’s long-standing interest in tech, combined with his experience designing marketing strategies and managing multi-channel campaigns, allows him to create highly effective brand experiences. His PhD in Marketing, specializing in Attitude Inoculation, provides a strong foundation for understanding how to build consumer loyalty in competitive industries. David has managed a diverse range of projects, from large-scale conferences, automotive shows and music events to technical workshops, niche events and humble shows.
TOPICS
Looking ahead: Career opportunities & emerging trends
With the digital security landscape constantly evolving, staying up-to-date with industry trends and local threats is essential for anyone entering the field. Whether through Threat Intelligence or practical tools like ESET’s Mobile Licensing and G-Suite Protection, having a broad understanding of the latest cybersecurity solutions is key to becoming a well-rounded professional. In New Zealand, opportunities in cybersecurity are expanding rapidly, with job openings in Managed Detection and Response, Threat Intelligence, and Vulnerability Management on the rise. Understanding how to implement and manage these solutions can set you apart as you enter the workforce.
New Zealand’s Threat Landscape: A local and global comparison
Understanding the cybersecurity landscape in New Zealand is crucial for anyone aspiring to work in the field. Recent data from ESET’s Threat Intelligence compares the threat activity here with global trends, giving valuable insight into how local organizations stack up against international threats. While New Zealand may face fewer large-scale attacks compared to some regions, ransomware, vulnerability exploits, and phishing remain significant concerns.
Local breach trends highlight the importance of vulnerability and patch management—a critical area for any cybersecurity professional. Companies across New Zealand faced breaches due to outdated software and unpatched systems, leading to data losses and disruptions. Solutions like ESET’s Vulnerability & Patch Management module are designed to help organizations address these issues, providing an excellent case study for students interested in risk management and compliance.
The growing importance of Digital Life Protection
Beyond traditional security measures, the rise of Consumer Digital Life Protection (CDLP) reflects a broader shift towards protecting all aspects of the modern digital lifestyle. As consumers rely more on services like VPNs, password managers, and identity protection, demand for these solutions has grown. According to a recent survey, 75% of households are expected to adopt CDLP technologies over the next few years.
For students, this shift represents an opportunity to explore new areas in cybersecurity. The need for professionals skilled in protecting both enterprise systems and personal data is growing, making it essential to learn about tools like VPN security and password management—technologies that are already reshaping the consumer and business landscapes.
The growing importance of Digital Life Protection
ESET’s recently launched Secure Authentication Cloud and ESET Rollback are just two of the innovations redefining cybersecurity defense for businesses. As complexities of requirements rise, many of the new tools are designed to simplify management, increase efficiency, and offer robust protection against evolving threats. For instance, Secure Authentication Cloud not only safeguards online resources but also extends multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect local logins, offering enhanced security to companies large and small. Cybersecurity solutions from all brands are constantly evolving to meet new threats and legal requirements. As we progress forward, new laws, standards and insurance requirements are also aspects of cybersecurity to consider. For those looking into cyber-insurance as a career path or area of study, tools like ESET’s Protect Elite and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) are essential. They meet the rigorous security requirements that insurers demand, helping companies maintain compliance while staying safe from vulnerabilities.
IT. starts at Home
Over the past year, technological advancements, particularly in AI, have introduced a wide range of new capabilities. While there’s no need for alarm, it’s important to stay informed and vigilant, as these innovations are also being exploited by bad actors to create increasingly sophisticated threats. Even petty criminals are digitizing, with pick-pockets adopting digital scanners, fake ID’s desiring digital identity theft and breaking and entering becoming a means to gain real prizes – digital assets!
Even the most skilled and high level cybersecurity professionals must champion home security. In cybersecurity, it’s beneficial to work together as we all champion educating the community. While cybersecurity is highly technical, from human error to unintended bad behavior, the vast majority of breaches are preventable. By helping others understand the importance of staying protected online, you not only reduce the risk of people falling victim to breaches, attacks, and scams, but you also help strengthen the broader digital ecosystem. Cybersecurity isn’t just about safeguarding businesses and institutions; it starts at home, with individuals taking proactive steps to ensure their devices and data are secure. Through this collective effort, we can create a more resilient and secure online environment for everyone.
ESET's HOME SECURITY
Check out ESET’s Home security offerings.
EET Home Security Essential
ESET Home Security Premium
ESET Home Security Ultimate
