The CISO Platform, celebrating its 15th year, began with a vision to unite cybersecurity leaders beyond mere networking to create tangible community goods. Originating from a Defcon experience where hackers collaborated openly, the platform aimed to emulate this spirit among cybersecurity professionals. Over the years, it has grown to encompass over 40,000 members across 20 countries, producing 500+ checklists, frameworks, and educational initiatives. Key efforts include crisis response planning and product taxonomy development, fostering deep technical education through initiatives like the Security Architecture Conference (SACon). The platform's evolution highlights its commitment to community-driven cybersecurity advancement and mentorship for future CISOs.

-By Bikash Barai, Co-Founder CISOPlatform & FireCompass

Executive Summary:

Community Achievements

• Membership: Over 40,000 members and 5,000+ CISOs across 20 countries.
• Knowledge Creation: Produced 500+ checklists, frameworks, and playbooks.
• Initiatives: Notable projects include crisis response plan development coinciding with RBI guidelines.

Product Comparison Platform

• Objective: Developed a taxonomy and comparison platform for over 500 cybersecurity products.
• Impact: Influential before being overshadowed by commercial alternatives.

Task Force Initiatives

• Diverse Focus: Includes cybersecurity for kids, breach prevention, and AI integration.
• Collaborative Efforts: Volunteers contribute significantly to these initiatives.

Recognition Programs

• Evolution: Transitioned from CISO awards to recognizing top 100 community contributors.
• Purpose: Celebrates and incentivizes active participation within the community.

Specialized Events

• Security Architecture Conference (SACON): Known for in-depth technical sessions, attracting high-profile CISOs.

Fellowship and Support Programs

• Future Leaders: Focuses on mentoring and preparing the next generation of CISOs.
• Start-up Support: Provides assistance to cybersecurity start-ups, although temporarily halted due to COVID-19.

Local Chapters and Global Reach

• Regional Impact: Active local chapters such as Chennai, engaging in community outreach and training.
• Global Participation: Encourages contributions and involvement from cybersecurity professionals worldwide.

Conclusion

• Vision and Future: Aims to continue making impactful contributions to cybersecurity education, collaboration, and community building.