CSIDES Unveils Engaging Agenda for 2026 Cybersecurity Community Event in Weston-super-Mare
CSIDES has announced its comprehensive agenda for the highly anticipated 2026 cybersecurity community event, poised to take place at Weston-super-Mare’s iconic Grand Pier on October 9th. Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2025, CSIDES is dedicated to making cybersecurity knowledge more accessible to the general public. The initiative also seeks to inspire a new generation of professionals to consider careers in this critical and fast-evolving field.
With over 25 industry speakers scheduled, the event promises a diverse array of talks, workshops, and interactive activities designed to engage attendees from all backgrounds. The event will open with a thought-provoking session led by Sophia McCall, a renowned threat intelligence manager and award-winning cyber expert. McCall’s presentation will focus on the personal attack surface, a crucial area for individuals seeking to fortify their online security.
Among the array of sessions, Ant Davis, the founder of Risky Creative and a well-known cybersecurity content creator, will lead an insightful discussion on the lessons that security awareness professionals can glean from historical figures known for their manipulative tactics, specifically cult leaders. Another highlight will be Matt Treadwell—also known as “The Cybrarian”—who will creatively reimagine contemporary digital infrastructures as though they were a Victorian-era information network, offering a unique perspective that marries history with modern technology.
The South West Regional Economic and Cyber Crime Unit (SWRECCU) is set to contribute significantly to the event’s agenda by detailing the latest online scams and digital threats, particularly those targeting the local community. Their presentation will include practical advice for residents on protective measures that can be taken to safeguard against these emerging threats. In a bid to make cybersecurity concepts more engaging, the SWRECCU will also host a Cyber Escape Room event designed specifically for those without a technical background, employing gamification techniques to simplify complex topics.
A dedicated ‘Ask Me Anything’ area will be another interactive feature, allowing members of the public to pose questions directly to industry experts and gain insights into the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between professionals and laypeople, fostering a community dialogue around important cybersecurity issues.
Furthermore, a career-focused track is incorporated into the event’s lineup, featuring speakers from various sectors within the cybersecurity industry. These sessions will highlight both traditional and unconventional pathways into cybersecurity careers, showcasing the myriad opportunities available beyond strictly technical roles. This emphasis on diversity within the profession aims to attract attendees from varied backgrounds, reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity.
Hands-on workshops will be a significant part of the day’s activities, offering attendees practical skills and insights. Punk Security will conduct a workshop that provides an introduction to hacking, focusing on common vulnerabilities that security testers often overlook. Additionally, Wayne May from Scam Survivors will delve into the ongoing efforts to combat online scams, offering attendees a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the challenges and solutions in this domain. Another valuable session will be led by Lisa de-Laune, who will guide attendees in creating a robust cyber risk control environment.
For the more immersive experience, cybersecurity training company Immersive will bring a bespoke 90-minute crisis simulation to the Grand Pier. This hands-on opportunity allows participants to experience firsthand the challenges and decisions that arise during a cyber incident, providing a practical approach to understanding cybersecurity responses.
Hazel McPherson, Co-Founder of CSIDES, expressed the organization’s core mission, stating, “CSIDES exists to open up cybersecurity to everyone, not just those already in the room. Bringing it back to Weston-super-Mare is about giving people real, practical ways to stay safe online and showing that a career in cyber is possible, whatever your starting point. It’s inclusive, it’s hands-on, and it’s built with the community at its core.”
Fellow Co-Founder Jess Matthews echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the spirit of community that defines CSIDES. "We are delighted to bring CSIDES back following the success of our inaugural event in October 2025. While a year has passed, our mission remains the same: to create an inclusive, accessible event for everyone who joins us on the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare. It’s the spirit of the community that makes it truly special, and we look forward to welcoming everyone for another inspiring day in this iconic seaside setting."
The 2026 event is proudly sponsored by Tines, 4FOX Security, Consultants Like Us, Punk Security, PPRO, and IASME. In a commendable effort to give back to the local community, CSIDES will also support Weston Hospicecare, with profits from merchandise sales, a raffle, and a unique game of ‘guess the crab’s birthday’ contributing to the hospice’s vital services. This organization provides free care for individuals with life-limiting illnesses and their families across Somerset and North Somerset.
Marking a significant occasion for cyber enthusiasts and professionals alike, CSIDES 2026 promises a day of learning, collaboration, and community engagement at The Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare. Tickets are now available for those eager to participate in this groundbreaking event.