The close of the year is always a good time to reflect on the progress we have made and think about the goals and ambitions we hold for the future. It’s a time to make resolutions and to take stock of al that came before, a n inventory of the previous twelve months and an audit of our successes, our shortcomings, and our constructive observation about what we can and will do better in the future.
Progress can take many forms, and while it’s not always linear, at ICCA, we like to think that we are progressing toward a future that includes a more equitable and accessible environment for all. That said, progress does come with a cost, and there are those who would seek to cause harm via the tools and technologies that bring about that progress. As the world continues to evolve and become ever more interconnected, the issues of cybersecurity and privacy will become increasingly concerning to users of the internet – which includes just about everyone. With much of our lives lived online, it’s nearly impossible to avoid the perils that come with existing on the internet, whether we’re shopping online or making complex financial transactions.
Staying Ahead of the Curve on Online Security
As the leading resource, knowledge hub, and connector of communities for associations around the world, ICCA is committed to upholding the strictest safety policies when it comes to cybersecurity and data protection online. With regard to our own internal practices, the ICCA Research Team, a cohort of dedicated professionals responsible for the upkeep of not only our Business Intelligence database but our day-to-day technology infrastructure, always ensures our member information remains safe and secure from the cyber threats that have grown in frequency and severity over the past few years. We understand that our member’s security and peace of mind is extremely valuable, and we have always striven to keep proprietary information well-protected.
When it comes to online security, the technology involved in protecting our online data has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years – just as online threats have also increased. Technology lie AI and blockchain is still developing, but its importance to security can’t be understated.
Blockchain & AI: Transforming Online Spaces
Blockchain, a technology that essentially distributes records among many different digital locations in order to decentralise ownership and thereby increase transparency and reduce the possibility of tampering, is becoming more commonplace among many of members of the meetings and events industry. Sectors including healthcare and suppliers can utilise blockchain to ensure greater transparency and security in their operations, reducing the opportunity for online tampering and theft. It is a burgeoning technology that still requires more public buy-in, but the possibility to ensure security when signing contracts and exchanging sensitive information will be a huge benefit to associations.
Artificial intelligence, another developing technology that stands to transform the way we do business in the near future, is a huge boon to online security. By monitoring unusual behaviours and traffic patterns, AI technology is able to detect potential threats and react before they are able to cause additional damage. AI is able to authenticate users and prevent potential malware and phishing from harming organisations more securely. AI is also able to forecast threats and automate many of the processes required to monitor potential issues. This kind of fraud detection prevents “hacking” incidents before they even begin, eliminating the threat.
A drawback to this kind of usage is that AI largely functions as a prediction technology, which can inadvertently reinforce existing stereotypes due to the data on which it’s trained, potentially leading to inconsistencies and inaccurate identification of threats.
Leadingthe Way in AI & Data Protection
A key topic of the 63rd ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi was the expansion of artificial intelligence into our everyday lives. More and more, we are relying on this type of emerging technology for tasks big and small, including cybersecurity. The presence of artificial intelligence in daily scenarios indicates a shift from science fiction to reality, suggesting a future with increased human-robot interaction. However, the use of AI requires human judgment to ensure that decisions align with our values and ethics, underscoring the human element in widespread AI adoption and usage.
When it comes to real-world application of security policies and practices that truly impact our day-to-day lives, the GDPR has been a powerful framework that’s moved the needle on online privacy and security. Designed to protect individuals’ personal data and give more control over online presence, it presents challenges for organisations in terms of compliance but also boosts transparency and better data management. By adhering to GDPR, organizations can build stronger relationships with members and clients, avoid fines, and align with global privacy standards.
ICCA values the relationship we have with each of our members, and we take information security very seriously. As technology continues to develop and encroach on our daily lives, we recognise the incredible importance of maintaining strict adherence to guidelines and rules regarding online security and will continue to do so in the future.