Utrecht, 12 November 2024 - The second edition of trade fair Cybersec Netherlands exceeded all expectations with over 3,000 visitors and a renewed and international programme. Cybersec Netherlands is organised by Koninklijke Jaarbeurs and took place on 6 and 7 November. The trade fair reaffirms its role as the leading cybersecurity event in Europe through both in-depth content and new, interactive ways to experience cybersecurity. Mick den Dijker, exhibition manager: "Cybersec Netherlands 2024 showed growth on all fronts, with an international programme, international partners as well as unique ways visitors could experience the world of cybersecurity for themselves."
Dave Maasland: the open nature of this trade fair is essential
Cybersec Netherlands took place in Utrecht for the second time this year, offering a high-quality international programme where experts and industry leaders shared knowledge and developed strategies. The aim of the trade fair is to make organisations in the Netherlands and beyond more resilient to the increasing threats in the digital domain. Mick den Dijker: "What I am extremely proud of are the hugely positive responses and the willingness of the community to make this event even more valuable and accessible. I am very pleased with the steps we are taking together for a digitally safer climate in the Netherlands and Europe. We want to play a prominent role in this." Renowned cybersecurity expert and speaker Dave Maasland: "What I really want to emphasise is why Cybersec Netherlands is so important. Many cybersecurity conferences are invitation-only and closed in nature. This means that new talent and budding startups often don't have access. That is why it is essential that there is also an open platform, a community where everyone is welcome: the public sector, the private sector, new talent and students."
New experiences: a first for Europe
This year, Cybersec Netherlands introduced several ways for visitors to experience the world of cybersecurity for themselves. For example, Platform Veilig Ondernemen's VR experience gave visitors a realistic insight into cybercrime, while Waker Security's simulation offered insight into managing cyber threats. Also for the first time in Europe was the 'Capture the Flag' competition, where participants could test their cybersecurity skills through challenges and real-time simulations.
Strong collaboration and social impact
Cybersec Netherlands had many partners this year, such as DDA, DTC and Woman 4 Cyber. International organisations also participated, such as the Cyberpeace Institute, which helps companies that do not have money for their own cybersecurity specialists. This shows the event's commitment to a safer digital future for all. New this year was the collaboration with Security Delta (HSD), a Dutch security cluster working to secure our digital world. The aim of this collaboration is to better prepare companies for cybercrime. Mick den Dijker: "It is immensely valuable to connect such a leading authority as the HSD to Cybersec Netherlands. The cooperation emphasises the quality of our trade fair and provides added value for our visitors and participants. Together with HSD, we look back on a successful edition in which together we contributed to a digitally safer Netherlands."
Brenno de Winter announces appeal in bunq case
During Cybersec Netherlands, cybersecurity expert Brenno de Winter announced that he will appeal in the court case against Bunq. The case, which is attracting a lot of attention in the cybersecurity community, revolves around important questions around digital privacy and the role of banks in data protection. With this announcement, De Winter reiterates the urgency of strengthening digital rights and the importance of cybersecurity for citizens and businesses.
The next edition of Cybersec Netherlands will take place at Royal Jaarbeurs on 10 and 11 September 2025. Den Dijker: "With even more innovations and knowledge for professionals who want to arm themselves against the ever-evolving world of cyber threats."
