On November 6th, 2024, some of the ITS Dublin students attended the Irish Reporting and Information Security Service (IRISS) Conference at Aviva Stadium. Champlain College Abroad aspires to offer students a unique global learning experience. As a part of that mission, the abroad staff paid for a group of students to attend the IRISS conference. The conference provided valuable insights into the latest trends and challenges in cybersecurity, featuring expert speakers.
The entrance included company tables with representatives, offering students the chance to network with industry professionals and explore potential career opportunities. Throughout the day, students attended various sessions covering topics like cybercrime, digital forensics, and the future of information security.
My favorite talk of the IRISS Conference was Cybercrime: A Group Effort by Detective Superintendent Michael Mullen from the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB). Mullen’s passion for protecting young people drives his work in cybercrime. His team of 84 members nationwide focuses on cyber forensics, investigations, and international partnerships. Mullen discussed the challenges the Garda faces in tackling cybercrime in Ireland. There’s been a recent rise in gangs employing tech experts for criminal activities, with the financial and health sectors being the most vulnerable. International jurisdiction issues, such as differing laws and complications with evidence transfer, add to the difficulties. The most interesting part for me was Mullen’s discussion on digital space, particularly the DPP vs Patrick Quirke (2023) case, which emphasized the need to specify digital devices in search warrants. As a digital forensics minor, I often explore how digital forensics can aid in prosecuting lawbreakers, making this case particularly relevant.
Mullen’s talk at the IRISS Conference highlighted the dynamic nature of cybersecurity and the importance of continuous learning in the field. His dedication to protecting society, especially the younger generation, is truly inspiring.
Champlain College students, including myself, utilized the conference as an opportunity to make new professional connections in a global business environment. I was able to talk to a member of the FTI Consulting Dublin branch, which was particularly exciting because I am interning with their New York office next summer. We exchanged emails, and later that day, we connected on LinkedIn. Opportunities like this are only possible because of Champlain College’s commitment to promoting the study abroad experience. For students of Champlain College, such opportunities are invaluable in bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world application. The opportunity to engage with professionals and peers at events like the IRISS Conference is evidence of the Dublin staff’s commitment to providing a comprehensive, global education.
