5th December 2024, Kathmandu
The Kathmandu University Networking and Cybersecurity Club (KUNCC), in collaboration with the Kathmandu University Computer Club (KUCC), proudly hosted “SecurityPal Presents: We Shield Cyber”—a groundbreaking pre-event for IT Meet 2024. Powered by title sponsor SecurityPal, this initiative celebrated cybersecurity innovation, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, offering students, professionals, and enthusiasts a platform to explore emerging trends and solutions in cybersecurity.
SecurityPal Presents WE SHIELD CYBER
The event emphasized the importance of creating a secure digital ecosystem while offering participants a rare opportunity for hands-on experiences and engaging discussions with industry experts.
Grand Opening: Cybersecurity Insights and Leadership
The event kicked off with an inspiring opening ceremony led by Professor Dr. Manish Pokharel. In his address, Dr. Pokharel shed light on the escalating challenges in cybersecurity and the need to equip students with practical knowledge to counter cyberattacks. His message resonated with attendees, reinforcing the importance of hands-on training in this rapidly evolving field.
Special guest Chiranjibi Adhikari, General Secretary of the Federation of Computer Association Nepal and a renowned cybersecurity expert, shared his insights on the outcomes of the program: “Participants will gain a deep understanding of ethical hacking techniques, learn to identify vulnerabilities in web servers and systems, and apply their knowledge to perform live attacks. This program takes a practical, results-driven approach to cybersecurity education.”
Capture The Flag (CTF): A Thrilling Competition
The Capture the Flag (CTF) challenge was the highlight of the event, bringing together talented individuals from across Nepal to test their cybersecurity prowess.
Two-Phase Format:
Online Qualifiers (November 22–23):
Participants showcased their skills by identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities, with the top 20 teams advancing to the finals.
Physical Main Event:
Held on-site, the final round featured intense real-time problem-solving, culminating in the victory of these top three teams:
Knight_
r00tr00t
good_guys
The CTF competition exemplified the spirit of healthy competition, nurturing emerging cybersecurity talent in Nepal.
Conference Highlights: Expert-Led Sessions
On December 1, We Shield Cyber hosted an engaging conference, featuring prominent speakers who delivered thought-provoking sessions on critical topics in cybersecurity:
Bandana Sharma (Head of Information Security, Nepal Bank Ltd.):
“Cyber Resilience in Financial Organizations: A Crucial Shield in Modern Pandemics” emphasized the importance of integrating cyber resilience into risk management strategies.
Veshraj Ghimire (Senior Cybersecurity Engineer, Vairav Technology):
In “The Dark Side of Open Source: Security Risks in Popular Projects,” Veshraj explored vulnerabilities in open-source software and shared strategies for securing dependencies.
Sobit Shahi Thakuri:
“Information Security and Its Contemporary Cases” provided real-world insights into preventative cybersecurity measures.
Samip Aryal (Independent Cybersecurity Researcher):
“My Journey and Experiences in Bug Bounty” offered an inspiring look into his bug bounty successes, including achievements in Meta’s programs.
Nirmal Dahal (Co-founder, Cryptogen Nepal):
In “Introduction to Hardware Hacking – Where to Begin,” Nirmal emphasized the untapped potential of hardware security in Nepal.
These sessions gave participants actionable insights and strategies while fostering meaningful interactions with industry leaders.
Impact and Partnerships
The success of “We Shield Cyber” was made possible by the unwavering support of SecurityPal and contributions from various sponsors and community partners. Their efforts ensured the event’s vibrant atmosphere, enabling the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to learn, compete, and innovate.
Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the event showcased the exceptional talent and resilience of Nepal’s cybersecurity community while highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in the digital age.
SecurityPal Presents: We Shield Cyber set a high benchmark as a prelude to IT Meet 2024, blending competition, innovation, and education. This event marked a significant milestone in Nepal’s journey toward building a secure digital future by empowering participants with practical skills and fostering a sense of community.
The collective efforts of speakers, participants, and organizers underscored the importance of cultivating a strong cybersecurity ecosystem, which will ensure that Nepal remains prepared for the challenges of an increasingly digital world.
For more: SecurityPal Presents WE SHIELD CYBER
