Due to the growing reliance on the Internet, Wi-Fi, and computer networks, cybersecurity is becoming an increasingly important field. Professionals in this industry have the responsibility to protect computer systems from theft and damage to hardware, software, and data. The Cyber Security Capital managing director recently discovered that despite the #MeToo movement, sexual harassment in the cybersecurity industry is a prevalent problem and one that does not seem to be getting any better.
As the managing director heard the details from several women recounting incidents of harassment, she noticed that victims in the cybersecurity industry are often hesitant to speak up. Many victims of harassment believe that if they do so, they will damage their careers or become the target of further abuse. Unfortunately, the managing director thinks they may be right in their assumptions and plans to do something about it.
The Cybersecurity Conference and Its Culture
The Intercept, an award-winning news organization that investigates and exposes corruption, interviewed 24 women in the cybersecurity industry. The interviews revealed a disturbing conference culture of binge drinking, sexual harassment, and male dominance. While many other industries are taking measures to empower women and eliminate sexual harassment from the workplace, time seems to have come to a complete standstill in cybersecurity. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to say that cybersecurity seems to be operating in the dark ages.
Cybersecurity conferences have been reported to have the climate of a drunken party where women are not only subjected to constant requests for dates, but the interviews revealed inappropriate comments, groping, and assault. However, simply avoiding or eliminating the conferences are not options because they are necessary to the trade. Cybersecurity conferences are used for:
- Networking
- Recognizing national security vulnerabilities
- Training and education
- Finding new talent
New complaints surface every conference season, but women in this industry are still sensing an indifference to their complaints. However, some are hopeful that the #MeToo movement’s growing legitimization of sexual harassment accounts will urge conference organizers to address the harassment occurring at their events.
The Code
To create a safe environment in the cybersecurity industry, the creation of a code of conduct and its focus will start on educational events. The code’s purpose is to set a standard for expected behavior for event attendees, speakers, sponsors, partners, facility staff, and organizers. The code of conduct will provide a detailed framework focused on:
- Defining what constitutes unacceptable behavior
- The process of reporting sexual harassment
- The repercussions for unacceptable conduct
- Timeline for resolution
Although the managing director has the support of many in her endeavor, she plans to gain approval from chief information security officers, event organizers, and major certification and membership bodies.
Philadelphia Sexual Harassment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Fight for Victims of Sexual Harassment in the Cyber Security Industry
If you have experienced sexual harassment at work, call the Philadelphia sexual harassment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Our lawyers can offer the experienced, confidential assistance necessary to bring you a healing resolution and the justice you deserve. Please call 215-569-1999 or contact us online for a free consultation. We are in Philadelphia, and we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding areas, including Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and throughout the state of New Jersey.
