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EC-Council in News

EC-Council and First Nations Cyber Technologies Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Australia’s Cybersecurity Workforce

Partnership combines global expertise and Indigenous leadership to enhance national capability, workforce inclusion and digital resilience in line with current government priorities Kuala Lumpur, 27 October 2025: EC-Council, creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential and a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, has entered into a strategic partnership with First Nations Cyber Technologies (FNCT), an Indigenous-led Australian enterprise committed to increasing the participation of First Nations people in technology and cybersecurity. The partnership, signed at a ceremony on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur and witnessed by Australia’s Trade & Investment Commissioner Malaysia & Brunei, Mr. Gregory Harvey, represents an important milestone in advancing Australia’s cybersecurity capability. Through this agreement, EC-Council and FNCT will deliver a suite of globally benchmarked certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) and Certified Cybersecurity Technician (CCT) . Professionals will also gain access to EC-Council Learning (ECL) – the world’s largest online cybersecurity library that provides structured, practical programs in ethical hacking, digital forensics, threat intelligence and incident response.The partnership will also bring FireCompass to Australia, EC-Council’s AI-powered continuous penetration testing and red-teaming platform; enabling organisations to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before exploitation and supports proactive cyber defence in alignment with government ransomware reporting and resilience frameworks. The signed partnership establishes a long-term framework to strengthen Australian sovereign capacity, accelerate skills development and integrate inclusion as a central element of the nation’s digital growth. FNCT will lead the implementation of workforce and training programs across Australia, collaborating with education providers, employers and government agencies to align global certification standards with national workforce needs. By combining EC-Council’s global expertise with FNCT’s national mission, the initiative supports the Australian Government’s 2023–2030 Cyber Security Strategy and Cyber Security Action Plan, which outline six national “cyber shields”, including a focus on workforce development, diversity and sovereign resilience. These initiatives also advance the objectives of the APS Data, Digital and Cyber Workforce Plan 2025–30, which call for coordinated action to recruit, train and retain cyber talent, including greater representation from Indigenous Australians. FNCT’s programs also contribute to the First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan supporting the goal of achieving equal digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples by 2026. Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council said: “Australia is central to global cybersecurity progress, and the strength of its workforce will define how effectively the region meets future digital challenges. The partnership with First Nations Cyber Technologies reflects EC-Council’s belief that real progress occurs when international expertise and national leadership work together. This agreement represents a long-term commitment to education, innovation and inclusion that supports Australia’s cybersecurity ambitions.” Daniel Tucker AM, Founder and Chairman of First Nations Cyber Technologies said:“Partnering with EC-Council unlocks world-class opportunities in cybersecurity Indigenous people in Australia. It is an important step in empowering Indigenous professionals and their contributions to Australia’s cyber priorities, ensuring every Australian can play a vital role in securing our digital future. This collaboration supports national priorities and ensures every Australian can play a vital role in protecting and securing our digital future.”This partnership represents a forward-looking model for education, capacity building, research and technology collaboration. It strengthens alignment with national cybersecurity strategies and reinforces Australia’s position as a trusted, resilient and inclusive digital nation. The initiative stands as a practical example of how global expertise and Indigenous leadership can work in step to secure the country’s economic and digital future. About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide highquality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security. An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations. For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org About First Nations Cyber Technologies (FNCT) First Nations Cyber Technologies is an Indigenous-owned Australian organization dedicated to integrating Indigenous talent into the cybersecurity workforce. FNCT develops programs that provide training, skills, and career opportunities in technology, helping Indigenous communities participate in and benefit from Australia’s growing digital economy.

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EC-Council Partners with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to Strengthen India’s Cybersecurity Workforce

Hyderabad, October 07, 2025: In response to India’s growing cybersecurity needs, EC-Council ,creator of world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker credential (CEH) has partnered with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to launch a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing cybersecurity awareness, skills, and workforce readiness. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between EC-Council and CII, marking a significant step in uniting global certification expertise with India’s leading industry body to accelerate national cybersecurity readiness. India’s digital economy is expanding at an unprecedented pace, bringing with it heightened risks of cybercrime, digital fraud, and the misuse of emerging technologies. In his Independence Day 2025 address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted cybersecurity as central to the nation’s pursuit of technological self-reliance, calling for secure systems and solutions built through India’s own talent. The initiative between EC-Council and CII advances this vision by preparing professionals with globally benchmarked expertise while building indigenous strength to safeguard the country’s digital ecosystem. Through this partnership, EC-Council and CII will jointly drive initiatives aimed at: Building cybersecurity skills across industry, academia, and government. Creating awareness on emerging cyber threats and resilience strategies. Promoting talent development programs to prepare India’s workforce for global cybersecurity challenges. Supporting the Government of India’s vision of a secure, digital-first economy. This partnership aligns with the Government of India’s efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity framework. The National Cyber Security Policy 2025 ,currently under development, focuses on creating a “safe, secure, trusted, resilient, and vibrant cyberspace” for India. It emphasizes improving cybersecurity audits, fostering innovation, and building a skilled workforce, addressing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Additionally, the Union Budget 2025 has allocated over ₹1,900 crore for cybersecurity initiatives, marking an 18% increase from the previous budget’s allocation. This significant funding boost underscores the government’s commitment to combating digital fraud and addressing the rising threat of cybercrime Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council said, “India’s digital economy is growing rapidly, but with this growth comes an increasing need for skilled cybersecurity professionals. This partnership will help bridge the skills gap and provide critical training to those who might otherwise not have access to cybersecurity education.” The National Cyber Challenge will be a key part of the initiative, offering hackathons and CTF events to engage young talent and provide them with mentorship and hands-on experience in the cybersecurity field. The Scholarship Fund will provide 1,000 underserved individuals with access to CEH certification, a globally recognized credential, empowering them with the expertise needed to pursue successful careers in cybersecurity. Mr. Sougata Roy Choudhury, Executive Director, CII, stated, “In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is no longer optional, it’s a necessity. Recognizing cybersecurity as both a critical need and a major job creator, this collaboration will help curb threats across sectors while empowering India’s workforce with cutting-edge skills. Our partnership with EC-Council will enable businesses, educational institutions, and professionals across India to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge and skills, ensuring that the workforce is prepared to address the evolving threats of tomorrow.” By combining CII’s reach across industries with EC-Council’s globally recognized expertise in ethical hacking and cybersecurity certification, this partnership lays the groundwork for a long-term strategy to strengthen India’s position as a secure and digitally empowered economy. About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security. An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations. For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.orgFor Media Inquiries:[email protected]

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EC-Council Academia Collaborates With Northern Lakes College To Expand Cybersecurity Education and Credentialing in Canada

Partnership expands hands-on cybersecurity and cloud security training, preparing students for workforce-ready careers in the digital economy Slave Lake, Alberta, October 14, 2025 : EC-Council, inventor of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential continues to advance its mission of preparing future-ready talent throughEC-Council Academia, an established division dedicated to integrating industry-recognized training into higher education. EC-Council Academia has partnered with Northern Lakes College to bring new cybersecurity courses into the College’s Computer Network Specialist program, strengthening academic pathways into high-demand careers. Through this partnership, EC-Council introduces its hands-on, cloud-based training environments directly into the College’s curriculum, ensuring students can move beyond theory into applied practice. Delivered through secure virtual labs, learners will build critical capabilities in areas such as threat detection, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. This model allows students to gain practical experience in a controlled setting while preparing them with the confidence and competence needed in the workforce. Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council said, “At EC-Council, we see every academic partnership as a chance to turn classrooms into launchpads for tomorrow’s cybersecurity leaders. By working with Northern Lakes College, we are opening pathways where students gain real-world skills, grow confident in their abilities, and step into the workforce ready to protect the digital foundations of our society.” Northern Lakes College has long prepared students to design, build, and maintain small business networks. With EC-Council Academia’s courses now integrated into the program, students will graduate with applied expertise that meets the demands of today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. Josh de Vries, Dean, Business, Academics, Trades & Regional Stewardship, Northern Lakes College said, “Northern Lakes College is pleased to provide learners with the opportunity for, and access to, third-party and industry-recognized certification through EC-Council. Partnering with industry leaders enables the college to ensure our graduates have the relevant skills and knowledge to succeed in the ever-changing information technology workspace.” For more than two decades, EC-Council has set global benchmarks in cybersecurity education. The creation of the CEH credential redefined ethical hacking as a profession and has since been recognized by governments, defense agencies, and Fortune 500 companies worldwide. EC-Council Academia extends this legacy by equipping colleges and universities with the tools, curricula, and resources required to align academic programs with industry needs. Today, more than 2,000 institutions—including over 250 National Centers of Academic Excellence designated by the U.S. National Security Agency deliver EC-Council programs to tens of thousands of students each year. With courseware designed by EC-Council and delivered by Northern Lakes College, the new courses feature cloud-based, vendor-neutral virtual labs equipped with built-in cybersecurity tools and virtual machines. These labs provide students with a secure, controlled environment to apply cybersecurity concepts in real-world scenarios without the need to purchase additional hardware or software. By operating entirely in the cloud, the labs ensure that students’ personal devices and the College’s network remain protected, even as learners engage in advanced exercises such as threat detection, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. Upon completion of the courses, students are encouraged to independently pursue two globally recognized certifications: Certified Secure Computer User (C|SCU) and Certified Cloud Security Engineer (C|CSE), validating their knowledge with credentials trusted across industries worldwide. Applications are open for the January intake of the Computer Network Specialist program. For more information, visit the Northern Lakes College program page or contact [email protected]. About EC-Council Academia EC-Council, the inventor of Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification course and exam, has a mission to provide cybersecurity education and certifications to students across the world to prepare them for their future careers. Founded in 2001, EC-Council offers over 200 different training programs and certifications – ranging from end-user security to highly technical penetration testing to information security management, and many other tactical courses. Recognized under the U.S. Department of Defense 8140 and an ISO/IEC 17024 Accredited Organization, EC-Council holds these and many other distinctions and accreditations by prestigious agencies worldwide – making EC-Council’s certification programs highly desirable and valued within the cybersecurity global communities. The EC-Council Academia partner program supports academic institutions globally to establish cybersecurity ecosystems that benefit students, alumni, faculty, employees, and the local communities at large. These partnerships provide students opportunities to obtain stackable credentials to become more competitive as they enter the workforce. The partnership program also focuses on initiating faculty development, scholarships, and cyber competitions. To date, EC-Council supports over 2,000 education networks and institutions globally. EC-Council Academia works with academic institutions at all levels, including over 250 National Centers of Academic Excellence (N-CAEs) as designated by the National Security Agency, contributing to the certification of tens of thousands of students annually with industry-leading credentials. For more information on EC-Council Academia, please visit https://www.eccouncil.org/academia/canada/ About Northern Lakes College Northern Lakes College (NLC) provides flexible educational opportunities through innovative delivery. With accessibility as a cornerstone value, we provide quality educational programs and services. NLC’s innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) and Supported Distance Teaching (SDT) models include unique online delivery options such as NLC LIVE Online™ and NLC Anytime, Anywhere. SDL provides learners with the flexibility to balance work, home, and education, so that they can continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. Committed to its communities in northern Alberta and to its students, wherever they may be, NLC collaborates with business, industry, and other post-secondary institutions to benefit students and communities. Explore at www.northernlakescollege.ca. For additional information contact: Northern Lakes College @ [email protected]

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EC-Council’s CEH AI Compete Challenge Highlights the Focus on E-Commerce Security

Amid rising threats to digital marketplaces, August’s CEH AI Compete edition challenged cybersecurity defenders to safeguard e-commerce ecosystems. Tampa, Fla, August 30, 2025: EC-Council, a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH AI) credential, has announced that securing e-commerce platforms will be the theme of its CEH Compete August Challenge. In the August edition, participants were thrust into a simulated attack on a global online retail platform during peak sales season. Attackers targeted payment gateways, inventory management systems, and customer data pipelines, leveraging vulnerabilities in web applications, APIs, and third-party integrations. Participants were tasked with identifying ransomware attacks aimed at supply chain disruption, detecting fraudulent payment injections, and tracing stolen customer data across simulated dark web environments. The scenario was crafted at a multi-vector breach difficulty level, designed to simulate the complexity and speed of real-world attacks on digital marketplaces. Defenders needed to secure interconnected systems under active threat escalation, conduct forensic tracing of exfiltrated financial data, and deploy rapid containment measures across multiple compromised subsystems all while ensuring continuity of customer-facing operations during simulated peak shopping periods. The growing risks to e-commerce are backed by industry data. According to the CEH Threat Report 2024, 47% of cybersecurity professionals identified e-commerce fraud and payment system attacks as among the most impactful cyberattacks. Inci Karamahmutoglu , Turkey) achieved the highest distinction by rapidly detecting fraudulent transactions, isolating compromised inventory systems, and recovering exfiltrated customer records before attackers could escalate their impact. Today’s defenders must move beyond basic transactional security and develop capabilities to safeguard payment channels, inventory management, customer data, and digital trust simultaneously. Securing digital commerce environments demands a level of vigilance, foresight, and technical skill that few organizations can afford to overlook. Through challenges like CEH AI Compete, EC-Council continues to strengthen the global community of cybersecurity professionals ready to defend critical digital infrastructures across industries. For more information about CEH AI Compete or to participate in future challenges, visit https://www.eccouncil.org/train-certify/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh-compete/

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EC-Council Invests Over $20 Million in FireCompass to Scale Offensive Security with Agentic AI

EC-Council Expands $100 Million Innovation Fund with FireCompass Investment to Advance AI-Powered Security Validation, Enterprise Growth, and Global Research Initiatives Tampa, Fla., September 03, 2025: EC-Council, a global leader in cybersecurity education and creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, today announced a landmark investment of more than $20 million in FireCompass, the AI-powered Offensive Security Platform. This strategic move is part of EC-Council’s $100 million Cybersecurity Innovation Commitment, created to accelerate the development of next generation of cybersecurity innovation that redefine how enterprises defend against evolving threats. FireCompass integrates six key capabilities into one unified platform: Attack Surface Management, Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM), Network and Application Pen Testing, Red Teaming, and Penetration Testing as a Service (PTaaS). Recognized by Gartner, Forrester, and GigaOm, FireCompass patented Agentic AI foundation enables real-world adversary emulation by chaining vulnerabilities, moving laterally, and validating risks continuously at machine scale, with near-zero false positives. Cybercrime is projected to surpass $10.5 trillion annually in 2025, according to the White House’s AI Action Plan. Attackers are already leveraging artificial intelligence to outpace human defenders, creating an urgent need for equally intelligent, automated defenses. This investment goes far beyond financial backing. EC-Council is mobilizing its worldwide partner network, alumni base, and enterprise research programs to accelerate FireCompass innovation and global expansion, ensuring enterprises gain access to the most advanced adversarial simulation technologies available today. “With this investment, EC-Council is not only contributing significant capital but will also invest in growth opportunities, research collaborations, and provide access to our vast global ecosystem,” said Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council. “This is about building the future of cybersecurity by combining the power of AI technology with the scale of the world’s most trusted cybersecurity education platform.” FireCompass has uncovered more than 2.5 million real attack paths and exploitable vulnerabilities, and reduced remediation times by an average of 40 percent for its customers. The platform also delivers immediate value in high-stakes environments by validating exposure within 24 hours of CVE disclosure and aligning multi-stage attack emulations to the MITRE ATT&CK® framework. “The AI race in cybersecurity isn’t coming; it’s here. Attackers are already using AI to move faster than human defenders can respond,” said Bikash Barai, Co-founder and CEO of FireCompass. “Our AI-driven platform thinks and acts like a real attacker chaining vulnerabilities, moving laterally, and validating risks continuously at machine scale. It outpaces humans by orders of magnitude. This investment from EC-Council not only accelerates our innovation but also connects us to the strength of their global ecosystem, an incredible boost as we scale worldwide.” FireCompass is already trusted by Fortune 500 companies, defense agencies, and MSSPs in more than 40 countries, continuously validating millions of assets and identifying thousands of exploitable weaknesses each month. With EC-Council’s backing, the platform is expanding rapidly into critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, telecom, and government. Internationally recognized security technologist, author, and Harvard lecturer Bruce Schneier, an advisor to FireCompass, said “FireCompass is tackling one of cybersecurity’s most significant challenges by helping defenders match the speed and persistence of attackers in an ever-evolving landscape”. “Their AI-powered approach to automating multi-stage attacks and penetration testing is a game-changer. In particular, Agentic AI provides a promising solution to an otherwise unsolved problem.” The investment also strengthens EC-Council Global Services (EGS) by integrating FireCompass Agentic AI into offerings like Automated Pen Testing, Red Teaming, and CTEM. This delivers continuous adversarial emulation and executive-level threat intelligence to help organizations stay prepared for tomorrow’s most sophisticated attacks. About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security. An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations. For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org About FireCompass FireCompass is an AI-powered Offensive Security Platform unifying ASM, CTEM, Pen Testing, Red Teaming, and PTaaS into one continuous solution. Powered by patented Agentic AI, FireCompass emulates real adversaries through automated multi-stage attack trees, delivering proof-based evidence with near-zero false positives. Recognized by Gartner, Forrester, IDC, and RSAC, FireCompass secures digital landscapes at machine speed. https://www.firecompass.com

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EC-Council Launches ECSA Grandfathering Program to Recognize Senior Cybersecurity Analysts in the AI Era

Tampa, Fla., 10 September 2025 – EC-Council, the creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (C|EH) and a global leader in cybersecurity education, has announced the launch of the EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA) Grandfathering Program. This special initiative formally recognizes the real-world experience of senior cybersecurity professionals and provides them with direct access to the ECSA credential, full courseware, and exam resources. As organizations accelerate their adoption of AI and automation, the demand for skilled and experienced analysts is intensifying. Security teams are under increasing pressure to identify, respond to, and mitigate threats in environments where traditional training alone cannot keep pace. The ECSA Grandfathering Program bridges this gap by validating the on-the-ground expertise of seasoned practitioners and equipping them with recognition, resources, and responsibility to shape global standards. “With AI reshaping how security operations are conducted, senior analysts are at the core of safeguarding digital ecosystems,” said Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council. “The ECSA Grandfathering Program acknowledges their contributions while providing them with access to resources that strengthen both individual careers and organizational resilience.” Program Highlights The ECSA Grandfathering Program offers two pathways for qualified professionals:Verifier-Endorsed Path: Open to candidates with 3+ years of hands-on experience across at least four of the six ECSA domains, including cyber defense, incident response, security architecture, application security, governance, resilience, and leadership. Certification-Based Path: Designed for professionals with 3+ years of experience and holding recognized industry certifications such as EC-Council’s CEH, CHFI, CND, CTIA, ECIH, or equivalent credentials from providers like CompTIA, ISACA, or ISC². Successful applicants will receive the ECSA certification, along with access to ECSA courseware and exam voucher, enabling them to enhance their credibility and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. Why It Matters The program is more than a credentialing initiative it is a formal recognition of achievement. By joining, senior analysts are positioned to: Gain recognition for their professional impact Strengthen their credibility with a globally respected certification Access valuable resources to upskill and remain competitive Join a global community of professionals shaping cybersecurity standards. Availability Applications for the ECSA Grandfathering Program are now open for a limited time. Interested professionals can learn more and apply at: [Insert Application Link]. About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security. An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations. For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org

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From Human to Cyborg: Cybersecurity Visionary Len Noe Unveils Explosive Documentary ‘I Am Machine’ at Hacker Halted

Atlanta, GA, October 1, 2025: EC-Council a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and creator of world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, announced today that renowned ethical hacker and cybersecurity futurist Len Noe will premiere his groundbreaking documentary ‘I Am Machine’ at Hacker Halted 2025, the global cybersecurity conference taking place October 1-2 at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center. The screening, scheduled for October 2, will give attendees one of the first opportunities to experience the film, which explores the convergence of human identity and machine augmentation through the lens of cybersecurity, ethics, and personal transformation. The 2025 conference is anchored around the theme Order from Chaos, following last year’s Cyber Dystopia. While 2024 highlighted the consequences of unchecked threats and the darker realities of digital exposure, this year’s theme emphasizes the importance of creating clarity, resilience, and structure in a rapidly evolving landscape. As attacks grow more sophisticated and unpredictable, Order from Chaos calls on security leaders to transform disruption into opportunity and build systems that secure the future amidst mounting complexity. Within this context, I Am Machine resonates deeply. Len Noe’s personal journey into human-machine augmentation challenges conventional perspectives on identity and technology, offering a powerful narrative on how integration between people and machines is reshaping the nature of defense itself. Immediately following the screening, Len Noe will deliver a keynote address diving deeper into these themes, providing unique insight into what this transformation means for the future of digital security. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with him in an exclusive Q&A session and book signing. “I Am Machine is a fascinating story,” said Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council. “It gives us a glimpse into the future and compels us to rethink what it means to be secure, ethical, and human in a world where technology is increasingly becoming an extension of ourselves.” The agenda for Hacker Halted 2025 reflects the diversity and urgency of today’s cybersecurity challenges, featuring some of the industry’s most compelling voices. In addition to Len Noe’s keynote, attendees will hear from leaders such as Rahul Bhor, Corey Hlavacek, Chuck Easttom, Omkar Joshi, Pallavi Deshmukh, Dr. Gregory Carpenter, Roberto Zegarra, Jim West, Donald Ikhtiari, Steve Carter, Sergey Chubarov, Mauro Eldritch, and Alexis Collier. Their presence reflects the breadth of expertise and insight that has come to define Hacker Halted as a cornerstone of the cybersecurity calendar. Beyond the speaker program, the conference features the prestigious Global CISO Forum, advanced technical workshops, and opportunities for professionals to pursue EC-Council’s world-renowned certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) ,Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) ,Certified Network Defender (CND) ,Certified Cloud Security Engineer (CCSE) ,Certified Penetration Testing Professional with AI (CPENT AI) The event is supported by industry leaders such as IBM, Microsoft, Cisco, and Palo Alto Networks, ensuring Hacker Halted continues to advance the global cybersecurity conversation. The event is supported by industry leaders such as IBM, Microsoft, Cisco, and Palo Alto Networks, ensuring Hacker Halted continues to advance the global cybersecurity conversation. Tickets, agenda details, and registration are available at www.hackerhalted.com. For media inquiries, please contact LaTanya O’Kelly at [email protected] or 678-431-6462. About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security.        An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations.        For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org About Hacker Halted Hacker Halted is EC-Council’s flagship global conference series dedicated to advancing the state of cybersecurity worldwide. Hosted annually in Atlanta, Hacker Halted brings together security practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge threats, share groundbreaking research, and showcase the latest tools and techniques. Featuring hands-on hacking villages, Capture the Flag competitions, and expert-led sessions, the conference provides a collaborative environment where professionals learn, compete, and connect with peers to strengthen collective defense.

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EC-Council Grants Free Access for Military and Veterans to Hacker Halted & Global CISO Forum 2025

Hacker Halted 2025 and the Global CISO Forum will feature keynotes from global cybersecurity leaders, live hacking villages, Capture the Flag competitions, executive roundtables, and a vendor expo, with military and veteran attendees also gaining access to EC-Council’s pre-conference training programs, including CEH, CCISO, CHFI, CND, CCSE, and CPENT AI. Atlanta, GA, August 22, 2025: EC-Council, a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, today announced a landmark initiative to support the military community. Active-duty service members, military spouses, and veterans will receive complimentary admission to EC-Council’s premier events: Hacker Halted and the Global CISO Forum 2025, taking place October 1–2, 2025, at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Expanding Access to Cybersecurity’s Premier Conferences This initiative ensures that members of the military community can fully participate in two of the most respected global gatherings in the cybersecurity field. Complimentary access includes: Keynote and breakout sessions led by international cybersecurity leaders Hands-on hacking villages and Capture the Flag competitions Full access to the vendor expo floor featuring next-generation security solutions Entry to the signature Hacker Halted Happy Hour networking reception These opportunities provide not only advanced technical insights but also direct engagement with executives, researchers, and practitioners shaping the global cybersecurity landscape. Training Discounts on Globally Recognized Certifications In addition to complimentary conference access, military and veteran attendees will receive 25% off EC-Council’s world-class pre-conference training programs, including: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) Certified Network Defender (CND) Certified Cloud Security Engineer (CCSE) Certified Penetration Testing Professional with AI (CPENT AI) These certifications endorsed by defense agencies, Fortune 100 companies, and governments worldwide are regarded as the gold standard for preparing professionals to defend against evolving cyber threats. Recognizing the Military as a Cybersecurity Force Multiplier Military and veteran professionals bring discipline, mission-critical thinking, and operational expertise that align directly with the demands of cyber defense. By opening access to its flagship events and training, EC-Council is accelerating the transition of service members into civilian cybersecurity roles while addressing the global talent gap. “Cybersecurity is national security, and the military community represents one of the strongest pipelines of future defenders,” said Jay Bavisi, Group President, EC-Council. “By equipping military professionals and veterans with cutting-edge skills and connecting them to global industry leaders, we are preparing the next wave of cybersecurity defenders. This initiative is about more than access it’s about empowering those who have served to lead in safeguarding the digital future.” Hacker Halted & Global CISO Forum: Platforms for Innovation and Leadership Hacker Halted is EC-Council’s flagship global conference, uniting researchers, practitioners, and innovators to address the most advanced cyber threats and showcase groundbreaking solutions. Featuring live hacking villages, Capture the Flag competitions, and expert-led sessions, the event serves as a collaborative environment where the global cybersecurity community strengthens collective defense. Held in parallel, the Global CISO Forum is an exclusive executive gathering for Chief Information Security Officers, senior leaders, and government officials. The Forum provides a trusted platform for candid discussion on governance, risk, and emerging threats while enabling decision-makers to shape the strategic direction of global cybersecurity leadership. Registration Information Registration is now open at Hacker Halted and Global CISO Forum Military attendees may use the codes: GOVMILVIP for complimentary admission GOVMILVIP25 for discounted training. **Registrants without a .mil or .gov email may be asked to verify eligibility. For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact:Amber PedroncelliSales Operations & Conference Director, North [email protected] | +1(505) 922-2895 [email protected] About EC-Council EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security.        An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations.        For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org About Hacker Halted Hacker Halted is EC-Council’s flagship global conference series dedicated to advancing cybersecurity worldwide. Hosted annually in Atlanta, the event convenes security practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge threats, share groundbreaking research, and showcase the latest tools and techniques. About the Global CISO Forum The Global CISO Forum is an executive event hosted annually alongside Hacker Halted in Atlanta. Bringing together CISOs, senior cybersecurity leaders, and government officials, the Forum provides an exclusive platform for strategic discussion on governance, risk, and emerging threats, empowering leaders to shape the future of cybersecurity.

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Multi-Stage Cyberattack Response Skills Sharpened in EC-Council’s CEH Compete

The challenge explored multi-stage cyberattack escalation across complex network layers. Tampa, Fla, Aug  12, 2025: EC-Council, a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH AI) credential, challenged cybersecurity professionals to confront advanced adversary movement with its July CEH Compete challenge, “Operation Deep Breach: Hack, Escalate, Pivot.” The July edition’s simulation tested participants with a scenario where attackers gained initial access to a low-level server and progressively escalated privileges, bypassed internal defenses, and pivoted laterally toward highly sensitive classified systems. Participants were tasked with detecting stealth movements, identifying escalation chains, exploiting misconfigurations, and neutralizing backdoor access across segmented network environments. Modern cyberattacks are no longer confined to breaching the perimeter. According to the CEH Threat Report 2024, 61% of cybersecurity professionals said lateral movement is the hardest stage of a cyberattack to detect. In today’s interconnected digital infrastructure, attackers often leverage small footholds to traverse vast internal networks. The ability to detect, disrupt, and recover from these multi-stage attacks determines an organization’s true cyber resilience. Real-world scenarios often involve chaining vulnerabilities, abusing implicit trust between systems, and exfiltrating data through non-traditional pathways and complexities that were rigorously reflected in July’s CEH Compete challenge. Following rigorous competition, Simon Cooper, England achieved the top score, demonstrating mastery of advanced pivot detection, privilege escalation mitigation, and real-time incident response under pressure. As attackers increasingly chain exploits across systems to access crown-jewel data, cybersecurity professionals must develop skills that go beyond perimeter security  including deep network forensics, privilege auditing, and proactive incident containment. CEH Compete continues to offer a practical arena where these skills can be honed before they are needed in real-world crises. For more information about CEH Compete and future opportunities, visit https://www.eccouncil.org/train-certify/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh-compete/

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Database Defense Highlighted in EC-Council’s June CEH Compete Challenge

The June Edition of CEH Compete challenged defenders to secure critical databases under active threat. Tampa, Fla, July 21, 2025: EC-Council, a global leader in cybersecurity education and training, and creator of the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, spotlighted database security as the central focus of its June CEH Compete Challenge . As databases continue to serve as the heart of critical business operations, their compromise remains one of the most damaging threats facing organizations today.Participants confronted a simulated breach targeting the core database servers of a global enterprise. Attackers exploited weak access controls, injected malicious queries through SQL injection vulnerabilities, and leveraged misconfigured backup systems to access and exfiltrate sensitive financial and customer data. Defenders were tasked with detecting infiltration attempts in real time, audit user privileges, identify obscure injection points, and patch critical weaknesses all while ensuring the operational continuity of essential business systems. The June scenario was constructed at an advanced attack simulation difficulty level, replicating the evolving tactics attackers use to compromise structured data environments. Beyond identifying vulnerabilities, participants were required to neutralize privilege escalation paths, manage data integrity under partial breach conditions, and perform dynamic forensic analysis under simulated legal and regulatory pressures. The exercise emphasized that securing databases is not solely about perimeter defenses, it is about controlling access, validating inputs, auditing behavior patterns, and preparing for targeted, sophisticated exploitation attempts. According to the CEH Threat Report 2024, 53% of cybersecurity breaches involved databases as one of the initial points of compromise. The June edition of CEH Compete challenge reflected this harsh reality, demonstrating how a single overlooked misconfiguration could escalate into catastrophic data loss and reputational damage. Emerging victorious, Heitor Magnani from Brazil, Karthik T from India, Arnau Yepes from Spain demonstrated outstanding technical skill, rapidly identifying and remediating database vulnerabilities under simulated attack pressure. Their success highlights the need for cybersecurity talent capable of thinking beyond traditional endpoint security, focusing on the deep systems where organizational risk often concentrates. As organizations accelerate digital transformation initiatives, securing databases has become a cornerstone of risk management. Challenges like Data Fortress Breach highlight the urgent need for cybersecurity teams to master both preventive hardening and reactive defense strategies against data-centric threats. It is a call to action for cybersecurity defenders to prioritize deep system security in a rapidly evolving landscape. For more information about CEH Compete or to participate in upcoming challenges, visit https://www.eccouncil.org/train-certify/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh-compete/ About EC-Council: EC-Council is the creator of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) program and a leader in cybersecurity education. Founded in 2001, EC-Council’s mission is to provide high-quality training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals to keep organizations safe from cyber threats. EC-Council offers over 200 certifications and degrees in various cybersecurity domains, including forensics, security analysis, threat intelligence, and information security. An ISO/IEC 17024 accredited organization, EC-Council has certified over 350,000 professionals worldwide, with clients ranging from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies. EC-Council is the gold standard in cybersecurity certification, trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army, Navy, Air Force, and leading global corporations. For more information, visit: www.eccouncil.org

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