CYBER ROOT 2025 Digital Magazine by MITA

29.10.25

ADDRESS

BY THE CEO

In his keynote address at the opening of CYBER ROOT 2025, MITA CEO Emanuel Darmanin delivered a powerful call to action: Malta’s cyber resilience depends on leadership, collaboration, and shared responsibility. Cybersecurity is not merely a technical challenge, it is about people, decisive action, and a culture of trust that empowers collective strength.

The keynote brought this to life through a vivid cyber crisis scenario, where preparation, composure, and unity determined the outcome. It illustrated that resilience is not built in a moment of crisis, but through foresight, coordination, and the ability to act together under pressure. Effective crisis management, robust cloud security, real-time threat intelligence, national awareness campaigns, and the engagement of decision-makers, specialists, and cross-functional teams all demonstrate that readiness and teamwork are our most reliable defences.

MITA’s initiatives, including the National Cybersecurity Awards, SOC training, and the CYBER+ALT and CYBER Assess programmes, reflect Malta’s ongoing investment in excellence and innovation. These are not isolated efforts; they form part of a dynamic ecosystem where every decision, partnership, and act of leadership strengthens our digital resilience.

As Malta advances towards Vision 2050, cybersecurity remains a defining pillar, safeguarding progress, inspiring trust, and ensuring that together, we build a secure and confident digital nation.

ADDRESS

BY THE CISO

Welcome to CYBER ROOT 2025—Malta’s annual gathering for the people who build, defend, and govern our digital society. Since its first edition in 2019, CYBER ROOT has grown into a cornerstone of our national cybersecurity calendar, drawing 400+ professionals from the public sector, industry, academia, and civil society to exchange ideas and accelerate practical collaboration.

This year’s conference arrives at a pivotal moment. Threat actors are moving faster, supply chains are more complex, and AI is reshaping both attack surfaces and defences. Our response must be equally dynamic: sharpened detection, resilient-by-design services, confident incident response, and policy that enables innovation while protecting people. CYBER ROOT is where Malta’s cybersecurity community aligns on that mission—through real case studies, frank discussions, and tools you can apply the next working day.

Across the programme you’ll find perspectives from practitioners on the front line, leaders shaping national capabilities, and innovators pushing the state of the art. Expect keynote insights, practitioner deep dives, and interactive sessions designed to turn good intentions into concrete next steps. We want you to leave with three things: a clearer view of what matters, a shortlist of actions to take back to your team, and new relationships you can call on when it counts.

Thank you for being part of this community. Your expertise, curiosity, and willingness to share are what make CYBER ROOT more than a conference—they make it a force for a safer, more resilient digital Malta.

AGENDA

8:00AM REGISTRATION

9:00AM WELCOME NOTE

EMMANUEL DARMANIN - CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MITA

JOYCE DIMECH - PERMANENT SECRETARY FOR THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT

LUCA TAGLIARETTI - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ECCC

9:15AM

FIRESIDE CHAT

JONATHAN CASSAR – CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER, MITA MATTHEW AGIUS MAMO (INTERVIEWER) – CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, DILIGEX

9:30AM

RANSOMWARE: NOW AND IN THE FUTURE

MIKKO HYPPÖNEN – SECURITY EXPERT AND CHIEF RESEARCH OFFICER, SENSOFUSION

AGENDA

ABSTRACT: Over the past decade, ransomware has emerged as the biggest type of cybercrime. Today, the most significant organized online criminal groups are those behind ransomware operations, and there’s no end in sight with new groups continually entering the fray. What will the next decade of ransomware look like?

AGENDA

ABSTRACT: Cyber threats are no longer one-size-fits-all. Today’s sophisticated attackers are tailoring their approaches to exploit the unique vulnerabilities, operational requirements, and business models of different industries. This presentation reveals how threat actors are adapting their tactics across critical sectors and what organisations can learn from cross-industry attack patterns.

Sponsored by CrabNebula, Comply.Land and MVC

12:15PM

TOWARDS A ROBUST EU DIGITAL SHIELD

JOSIANNE CUTAJAR – FORMER MEMBER OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

ABSTRACT: The session will explore policy initiatives and legislation aimed at enhancing the european union’s digital resilience and cybersecurity framework. Advancing protections against cyber threats, securing critical digital infrastructure, fostering skills as well as regulatory measures, are all key to safeguard eu citizens, businesses, and public institutions in an increasingly interconnected digital environment. The importance of cross-sectorial and cross-border cooperation in building a robust digital shield for europe will also be addressed.

Sponsored by Turing Cyber, EY and ICT Solutions

1:00PM

LUNCH BREAK

2:00PM

FROM MASLOW TO MALWARE: RETHINKING CYBER LEADERSHIP IN THE AGE OF AI

JANE FRANKLAND – CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, KNEWSTART

ABSTRACT: What if your biggest cyber risk wasn’t a hacker – but human nature? In this provocative session, Jane reframes cybersecurity through the lens of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to explore why so many businesses fail at the basics. She’ll unpack how unmet human needs – like safety, trust, and belonging – create blind spots leaders can’t afford to ignore. Whether you’re new to cyber or building your influence, this talk will shift your thinking from quick fixes to long-term foundations – and challenge you to lead from the front.

INNOVATING WITH AI WITHOUT BREAKING TRUST

MONICA VERMA – HACKER, CISO, FOUNDER AND CEO

AGENDA

ABSTRACT: AI is transforming enterprises through anomaly detection, behavioral analytics, and more, yet organizations face unprecedented trust, governance and accountability challenges. In this keynote, Monica Verma, a world-renowned AI and cybersecurity expert and a former CISO, will share how leaders, policy makers and professionals in all sectors need to think about ai risks, threat landscape, and how to build trust, while leveraging AI for business and societal transformation.

NETWORKING COFFEE

- END OF AGENDA -

EMMANUEL DARMANIN

CEO, MITA

Emanuel Darmanin joined MITA in 1994 and since then he has occupied various senior management positions including that of Chief Information Officer. Over the years he had responsibilities for ICT Governance, Service Management, Information Security and Risk Management, Contracting and Supplier Management, and Project Management. Before joining MITA he worked in the public sector and the private sector, enjoying work experiences both locally and abroad. He graduated as an Electrical Engineer from the University of Malta in 1989. In 2000, he gained an MBA from Henley Management College, UK and in 2006 an MA in Creativity and Innovation from the University of Malta.

JOYCE DIMECH

PERMANENT SECRETARY FOR THE MINISTRY FOR HOME AFFAIRS, SECURITY AND EMPLOYMENT

Joyce Dimech is a prominent Maltese civil servant with a long and distinguished career in public administration. She has served in various high-profile roles within the Maltese government, demonstrating strong leadership and a commitment to public service. Her career is marked by her contributions to the development and implementation of policies aimed at improving governance and public sector efficiency in Malta.

SPEAKERS SPEAKERS

Her expertise spans across various areas of public administration, and she is known for her strategic approach to management and her ability to navigate complex bureaucratic environments. Throughout her career, Joyce Dimech has played a key role in shaping Malta's administrative landscape, earning respect and recognition for her dedication to public service and her contributions to the betterment of Maltese society.

Joyce Dimech was appointed Permanent Secretary in 2013 and has held this role in various portfolios. At present she is Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Home Affairs, Security and Employment.

LUCA TAGLIARETTI

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT EU

CYBERSECURITY COMPETENCE CENTRE

Luca Tagliaretti has more than 20 years of experience working with European Institutions and International Organisations, specialising in the domains of digital transformation, cybersecurity, and research and development.

Before joining the ECCC as Executive Director in 2024, he held the roles of Deputy Executive Director and Interim Executive Director of eu-LISA, the European Union Agency for the management of large-scale IT systems. Prior to that he served as head of the Global Technical Centre of the Central Bank Counterfeit Deterrence Group at the European Central Bank.

Luca’s academic achievements include an Engineering Degree from the Polytechnic University of Milan, a Master’s Degree from the School of Management of the Polytechnic of Milan (MIP), and an MBA from Oxford Brookes University. He has completed the Advanced Leadership and Management Programme (OALMP) at Saïd Business School, Oxford University, as well as the Program on Negotiation (PON) at Harvard University.

JONATHAN CASSAR CISO, MITA

As Chief Information Security Officer at MITA, Jonathan Cassar leads the agency’s cybersecurity strategy and governance, overseeing national cyber defense capabilities, threat intelligence and security operations. He is also responsible for the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCC-MT), positioning MITA as a central actor in Malta’s cyber resilience framework. Jonathan brings over 25 years of experience in technology leadership, with a career spanning software development, enterprise architecture, and executive technology management.

Jonathan has been instrumental in aligning MITA’s cybersecurity posture with European cybersecurity regulatory framework. He has authored strategic guidance on MITA’s obligations under these directives, advocating for ISO 27001-certified cybersecurity practices and ISO 22301-aligned business continuity planning. His leadership has also shaped national policy input, including feedback on the transposition of EU cybersecurity legislation.

SPEAKERS

Jonathan is a key contributor to Malta’s national cyber defense initiatives, diligently leading the National Cyber Security Coordination Committee (NCSC), coordinating the inter-agency collaboration across government, law enforcement, and financial sectors.

MATTHEW AGIUS MAMO CEO, DILIGEX

Matthew Agius Mamo serves as CEO at Diligex, a Governance, Risk and Compliance setup specializing in providing an ongoing relationship to businesses through advisory assistance, managed service support, as well as through its platforms in AML/CFT, Regulatory Compliance, International Due Diligence and Cybersecurity. He has been key in the setting up of, and supporting, AML/CFT governance structures within various obliged entities over the past years.

Matthew is a public policy professional with specialization in European affairs, having read for B. Euro Studies (Hons.) and M.A. Public Policy at the University of Malta. He also holds an International Diploma in Anti-Money Laundering from the International Compliance Association, of which he is a member, and a National Award in Quality Assurance from the NCFHE. He formerly formed part of the FIAU AML/CFT Consultants Forum.

He has formerly served on the European Commission EQF Advisory Group on behalf of Malta, as well as having been active in policy-making fora such as MCESD, MEUSAC Core Group, and the Active Labour Market Policy Counselling and Action Committee. Prior to Diligex, he served as COO at a recognized constituted body and CEO of a private enterprise group within the education and hospitality sector and was active in national youth organizations for numerous years.

MIKKO HYPPÖNEN

GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY EXPERT AND CHIEF RESEARCH OFFICER, SENSOFUSION

SPEAKERS

Mikko Hypponen is a global technology expert and bestselling author. He has researched security since 1991 and currently serves as Chief Research Officer at Sensofusion. Mikko has published his research in The New York Times, Wired, and Scientific American. He has spoken at TED and has lectured at Oxford, Harvard, and MIT.

HOLLY FOXCROFT

CYBERSECURITY LEADER AND DIVERSITY CHAMPION

Holly Foxcroft is highly respected as one of the most influential women in Cyber Security and Diversity Champion. A senior cyber security practitioner and industry thought leader, she is admired for her vast industry knowledge and experience.

With an incredibly successful career behind her, Holly is passionate about sharing her insights and renowned for speaking on topics such as cyber security, Responsible AI, neurodiversity, Cyber Security Culture and Online behaviour. Starting her professional career by serving in the Royal Navy in 2008, starting in electronic warfare before transitioning in to cyber security.

Holly is also extremely passionate to further support to education sector to improve cyber security posture, develop education material to support digital citizenship and empower the next generation in considering a career in cyber security.

Holly holds a first class BSc (Hons) in Criminology and Cybercrime at the University of Portsmouth and has most recently been working towards her MRes researching the impact and influence of neurodiversity in to cyber security posture.

An empowering female professional, Holly works as a senior cyber security practitioner and Head of Neurodiversity consulting and Research and Consulting at Stott and May Consulting. She sits as a Governor for the global council for responsible AI and Non-executive Board Member at The Cyber Express. Keen to provide support and guidance to businesses, governing bodies, education systems, and charities, Holly also works as a Neurodiversity Consultant to help employers understand Autism, and how to actively recruit and retain autistic candidates to build a universally inclusive organisational culture.

On a mission to ensure that neurodiversity is a key consideration across organisations in a wide range of fields, Holly’s work has positively transformed the industry over recent years.

SPEAKERS

ZOE TILSITER

PRINCIPAL CYBERSECURITY ANALYST AND EMEA HEAD OF CONSULTANCY, DARKTRACE

Zoe Tilsiter is a Principal Cyber Security Analyst at Darktrace, and heads up Darktrace’s Analyst Consultancy function for the region of EMEA, engaging with strategic accounts to maximize the value of their AI-driven cybersecurity technology. She is also a member of Darktrace’s Threat Research team, utilizing data to produce sectoral intelligence on emerging and existing vulnerabilities, TTPs, and threat actors.

Zoe’s experience has led her to support cybersecurity efforts for multiple large-scale, high-profile events around the world, including in Qatar and Paris.

Zoe holds an MPA in Digital Technologies & Policy from University College London.

NICOLE WONG

PRINCIPAL ANALYST CONSULTANT AND EMEA THREAT OPERATIONS PILLAR LEAD, DARKTRACE

Nicole Wong is a Principal Analyst Consultant and EMEA Threat Operations Pillar Lead at Darktrace. She leads high profile investigations across IT and OT, multi-disciplinary threat research projects and she consults with global security teams on driving the proactive use of AI for cyber threat analysis.

Prior to joining Darktrace, Nicole served in the UK’s National Health Service and supported the technical delivery of new security initiatives, including designing the cybersecurity requirements of NHSE’s Digital Technology Assessment Criteria.

Nicole applies her diverse experience from cognitive research and working in clinical environments to break down technical barriers in security, participating in public speaking events and podcasts to support talent diversity in cyber

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Nicole applies her diverse experience from cognitive research and working in clinical requirements of NHSE’s Digital Technology Assessment Criteria.

Nicole holds certifications in GIAC Response and Industrial Defense (GRID) and SSCP.

JOSIANNE CUTAJAR FORMER MEMBER OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Josianne Cutajar is an advisor with extensive legal, political and public affairs experience. Cutajar studied law at the University of Malta, with her latest graduation being as a Masters of European and Comparative Law.

At the age of 22, she was elected as a member of her hometown’s Local Council, and, subsequently, as the youngest-ever Maltese Member of the European Parliament (2019-2024). During such a mandate, she was an active member of the Committee for Industry, Technology, Research and Energy (ITRE), the Committee for Transport and Tourism (TRAN) as well as the Committee on Regional Development (REGI).

As a Member of the European Parliament, Josianne Cutajar contributed directly to several key digital legislation and policies, including the historic EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, Europe’s Digital Decade Policy Programme and the Interoperable Europe Act.

Recently, she has also been appointed as a member of Business and Professional Women’s United Nations Standing Committee, focusing on the contribution towards the Sustainability Development Agenda as well as tackling online harm.

JANE

FRANKLAND CEO, KNEWSTART

SPEAKERS

A thought leader in cybersecurity and technology, celebrated for her impactful collaborations with top brands and governments. She made history by founding the first female-owned global hacking firm in the 1990s, paving the way for women's representation in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her work has played a pivotal role in launching ground-breaking initiatives such as CREST, Cyber Essentials, and Women4Cyber, demonstrating her leadership and pioneering efforts in advancing security and promoting diversity.

With prestigious accolades to her name and a successful career including her role as Managing Director at Accenture, Jane is not only a seasoned professional but also an author of the bestselling book "IN Security" and associated movement which has empowered more than 442 women through scholarships worth $800,000. Her insights have reached millions through renowned media outlets like The Sunday Times, BBC, The Guardian, and Forbes. As a sought-after speaker at global events, including the EU Commission and UN Women, Jane continues to inspire aspirations across the tech community.

Presently, as the CEO of KnewStart, Jane harnesses her expertise as an influencer and advisor to promote innovation and inclusivity, ensuring that her remarkable journey leaves a lasting impact in the field of cybersecurity.

MONICA VERMA HACKER, CISO, FOUNDER AND CEO

Monica Verma is a leading spokesperson on Artificial Intelligence, Leadership and Cybersecurity. She is a committed and passionate technology and security leader, a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and an engaging keynote speaker with ca. 20 years of experience in the tech and cybersecurity industries. She is an award winning leader, 2019 Best Security Advisor, 2022 Top 50 Women in Tech and 2023 Top #3 CISO in EMEA, she is a renowned keynote speaker and a storyteller, aswell as is a board Certified Qualified Technology Expert (QTE), and former board member of Cloud Security Alliance (CSA).

In addition to her leadership, founder and Chief Information Security Officer roles, due to her strong passion for the industry, the people and the businesses, she is also a founder and CEO of Cyber Foyer and MonicaTalksCyber, and has been providing valuable information to the audience and the community worldwide, in an easily digestible and engaging format without jargons.

She has built a huge Cyber, AI and leadership following and community from 0 to ca. 31000, and growing. Monica Talks Cyber (her podcast show) has now already been downloaded more than 10000 times only after 2 seasons. She is also the founder of the newsletter The 10x Circle and launching her masterclass on effective security leadership.

SPEAKERS

The MITA-NCC is delighted to announce the launch of the CYBER AWARDS , an initiative dedicated to recognizing and celebrating exceptional contributions to cybersecurity in Malta and within the National Cybersecurity Community.

These prestigious awards aim to honour individuals and organizations that have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and leadership in advancing cybersecurity practices. By acknowledging these achievements, we hope to inspire higher standards, promote continuous improvement, and foster a culture of collaboration within the cybersecurity community.

For the inaugural edition of the National Cybersecurity Awards there will be six distinct categories:

The CYBER LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD is an initiative that honours senior cybersecurity professionals who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing cybersecurity excellence in Malta.

The CYBER RISING STAR AWARD is an initiative that honours early-career cybersecurity professionals who entered the field within the past two years. This includes recent graduates with up to two years of experience, career shifters transitioning from a different professional role into a cybersecurity-specific role, and alternative pathway professionals who have gained entry through industry-recognised certifications, specialised courses or structured training programmes instead of a traditional degree.

The CYBERSECURITY CSR AWARD is an initiative that honours an organisation in Malta that has shown outstanding dedication to raising cybersecurity awareness through meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

CYBER AWARDS 2025 CYBER AWARDS

The TOP PERFORMER IN CYBER SKILLING PROGRAMME AWARD is an initiative that honours the top performer of the Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst

training under the MITA-NCC’s Cybersecurity Skilling Programme. This individual must have demonstrated exceptional dedication to learning, excellence in both practical and theoretical sessions and significant progress and proficiency in cybersecurity.

The OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE CYBER PROJECT AWARD recognises a cyber project implemented by a Public Service Entity in Malta, which went beyond the Public Service Entity’s regular day-to-day responsibilities by contributing to the improvement of Malta’s overall cybersecurity posture and national cybersecurity landscape.

The LEADING PUBLIC SECTOR CYBER PROJECT AWARD recognises a cyber project implemented by a Public Sector Entity in Malta, which went beyond the Public Sector Entity’s regular day-to-day responsibilities by contributing to the improvement of Malta’s overall cybersecurity posture and national cybersecurity landscape.

The nominees for each category are: