2025

IIA Winnipeg Chapter

Fall Lunch and Learn (Virtual)

Presentation: Advanced Phishing: The Vital Role of Security Awareness Training and Human Risk Management

Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Time: 12:00pm to 1:00pm CT

This presentation provides a comprehensive examination of advanced phishing threats and the critical importance of human-centered cybersecurity defenses. Beginning with an exploration of phishing fundamentals and current threat statistics showing that 85-95% of successful cyberattacks involve human error, the session delves into the psychological mechanisms that make phishing attacks effective, including trust manipulation, urgency tactics, and social engineering techniques.

The presentation covers various phishing vectors including traditional email phishing, spear phishing, QR code phishing, calendar invite phishing, and attacks through collaboration tools. Through practical examples and case studies featuring real incidents from organizations like the University of Winnipeg, Pembina Trails School Division, and Mount Carmel Clinic, attendees learn to identify red flags and understand the significant financial, reputational, and operational impacts of successful attacks.

Key prevention strategies are outlined, including sender verification, multi-factor authentication, software updates, and password management. The session emphasizes organizational protection through comprehensive Human Risk Management programs, regular employee training, phishing simulations, and incident response planning. Special attention is given to empowering cybersecurity champions within organizations and implementing effective security awareness programs with measurable goals and cultural integration.

The presentation concludes with practical forensics exercises and interactive Q&A, providing attendees with actionable insights to strengthen their organization's human firewall against evolving phishing threats.

SPEAKER

Hernan Popper is a recognized cybersecurity expert and entrepreneur with over three decades of experience in leading teams and organizations. As the founder of POPP3R Cybersecurity, he specializes in translating complex security concepts into actionable strategies for organizations seeking effective protection.

Areas of Expertise:

• Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO)
• Human Risk Management
• Cybersecurity Education

Hernan's approach is characterized by its clarity and practicality. He excels in developing tailored cybersecurity solutions that align with each organization's unique operational needs, emphasizing real-world applicability over theoretical concepts.

His diverse career spans roles such as Director of Innovation at Western Canada Lottery Corporation, Portfolio Manager/Senior Service Planner at MTS Allstream, and Business Development Manager at Comsat Argentina (Lockheed Martin Global Telecom). This breadth of experience informs his comprehensive understanding of technology, innovation, and international business landscapes.

Hernan's mission is to transform cybersecurity from a daunting challenge into an achievable risk management strategy. He is dedicated to providing organizations with the clarity and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape effectively.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the IIA Winnipeg chapter at chapter33@iiachaptercommunications.org