Cybersecurity Speakers

A cybersecurity speaker is a professional who educates, informs, and engages audiences on topics related to digital security. They might come from a variety of backgrounds-ethical hacking, corporate IT, government intelligence, or academic research-but they all share one thing: the ability to make cybersecurity accessible and actionable.

Unlike a traditional IT consultant or engineer, a cybersecurity speaker focuses on communication. Their job is to translate complex technical concepts into language that resonates with non-experts. Whether they're speaking at a global tech summit or a local business expo, their role is to raise awareness and drive behavior change.

Cybersecurity speakers often tailor their content to specific audiences. For example, a talk for healthcare professionals might focus on HIPAA compliance and ransomware in hospitals, while a session for startups could dive into secure app development and cloud vulnerabilities. Some speakers specialize in niche topics like social engineering, AI in cybersecurity, or cyber law.

They may also serve as thought leaders, helping organizations and individuals understand the evolving threat landscape. Through keynotes, panels, webinars, and workshops, they provide insights that go beyond the headlines-offering real-world context, practical strategies, and sometimes even live demos of hacking techniques (ethically, of course).

In short, a cybersecurity speaker is a bridge between the technical world of digital defense and the everyday decisions that keep people and businesses safe online.

When your audience hears 'cybersecurity', do their eyes glaze over-or do they lean in, curious and alert? That shift in engagement is exactly why a cybersecurity speaker matters.

Cyber threats aren't just an IT department issue anymore. From remote workers in rural Canada to CEOs in Tokyo, everyone is a potential target. But awareness alone isn't enough. People need to understand the risks in a way that feels personal, urgent, and solvable. That's where a cybersecurity speaker comes in.

These speakers don't just inform-they empower. They break down the latest threats, like deepfake scams or zero-day exploits, and explain what they mean for your business, your data, and your daily life. And they do it in a way that sticks. A well-delivered talk can change how someone handles their passwords, updates their software, or responds to a suspicious email.

In corporate settings, cybersecurity speakers can influence company culture. A keynote at an annual retreat might spark a new security policy. A workshop for HR could prevent a phishing breach. And in schools or public forums, these speakers help build digital literacy from the ground up.

So why are they important? Because they turn abstract risks into real-world actions. They make cybersecurity human-and that's what drives change.

Cybersecurity speakers wear many roles, but at their core, they educate and influence through public speaking. Their work spans industries, formats, and audiences, but here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Talks. Whether it's at DEF CON, Web Summit, or a local chamber of commerce, cybersecurity speakers present on topics like data privacy, threat intelligence, or secure coding practices.

- Host or Join Panels. They often participate in discussions with other experts, offering insights on emerging trends like quantum encryption or AI-driven attacks.

- Lead Workshops and Trainings. Some speakers go beyond the stage to run hands-on sessions. These might include phishing simulations, password hygiene training, or incident response drills.

- Consult on Content. Many speakers help event organizers shape agendas or advise on cybersecurity themes. They might even co-create resources or toolkits for attendees.

- Engage with Media and Communities. From podcasts to LinkedIn Lives, cybersecurity speakers often extend their reach through interviews, blog posts, and social media. This helps keep the conversation going long after the event ends.

- Customize for Diverse Audiences. A talk for fintech startups in Berlin will differ from a session for educators in Nairobi. Great speakers adapt their content to suit the cultural, technical, and business context of their audience.

In essence, cybersecurity speakers are communicators, educators, and advocates. They don't just talk about threats-they help people understand them, prepare for them, and respond with confidence.

Ready to step on stage and share your cybersecurity insights? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a cybersecurity speaker that gets noticed and booked.

1. Define Your Niche
- Cybersecurity is broad. Are you an expert in ethical hacking, data privacy, compliance, or threat intelligence?
- Choose a niche that aligns with your experience and passion. For example, if you've worked in healthcare IT, focus on cybersecurity in medical systems.

2. Build Your Authority
- Start by writing articles, publishing LinkedIn posts, or contributing to cybersecurity blogs.
- Get featured on podcasts or panels. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with hosts looking for cybersecurity experts.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Your speaker page is your digital business card. Include a bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a short video of you speaking.
- Talks.co lets you create a speaker profile that event organizers can browse and book directly.

4. Practice Your Talks
- Start small: local meetups, webinars, or internal company events.
- Record yourself, get feedback, and refine your delivery. Tools like Zoom or OBS are great for reviewing your performance.

5. Network with Event Hosts
- Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and Talks.co to connect with event organizers.
- Offer value first: suggest a relevant topic or offer to speak on a trending issue like ransomware or AI in cybersecurity.

6. Get Listed on Speaker Platforms
- Besides Talks.co, consider SpeakerHub, Women Who Code (if applicable), and industry-specific directories.
- Keep your profile updated with new talks and testimonials.

7. Pitch Strategically
- Tailor your pitch to each event. Highlight how your talk solves a problem for their audience.
- Include a catchy title, 2-3 bullet takeaways, and a short video clip.

Becoming a cybersecurity speaker isn't about being the loudest voice. It's about being the most relevant and reliable voice in the room. Start small, stay consistent, and let your expertise do the talking.

Becoming a cybersecurity speaker isn't just about knowing your stuff. It's about packaging that knowledge in a way that resonates with audiences, from tech-savvy engineers to non-technical executives. Here's what you really need:

1. Deep Subject Matter Expertise
You can't fake cybersecurity knowledge. Whether you're a penetration tester, a CISO, or a compliance consultant, your insights need to be grounded in real-world experience. Audiences can tell when you're speaking from theory versus practice.

2. Communication Skills
Being a great speaker means translating complex topics into digestible, engaging content. Can you explain zero-day vulnerabilities to a room of HR professionals? Can you make phishing prevention sound exciting? That's the skill that separates good from great.

3. A Clear Personal Brand
Your brand is your promise. Are you the go-to voice on cybersecurity for small businesses? The expert on AI and threat detection? Define your brand and reflect it in your speaker page, social media, and talks. Tools like Talks.co make it easy to build a speaker profile that showcases your niche.

4. A Speaker Page or Portfolio
You need a place where event organizers can learn about you, see your past talks, and book you. A Talks.co speaker page is a great start. Include your bio, headshot, talk titles, testimonials, and a short video clip.

5. A Network of Hosts and Events
Speaking opportunities often come through relationships. Connect with podcast hosts, event organizers, and fellow speakers. Talks.co helps by connecting speakers and hosts directly, saving time and effort.

In short, to be a cybersecurity speaker, you need more than knowledge. You need clarity, communication, and connection. Build those, and you'll be on stages in no time.

Yes, cybersecurity speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors like experience, audience size, and event type. Let's break it down.
Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Corporate Conferences: These often pay well, especially if you're addressing executives or providing training. Think $2,000 to $10,000 per talk.
- Industry Events: Events like RSA Conference or Black Hat may not pay keynote speakers directly but offer massive exposure.
- Podcasts and Webinars: Typically unpaid, but great for building your brand and funneling leads to paid gigs.
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: A first-time speaker might speak for free to build credibility, while a seasoned pro like Bruce Schneier commands top dollar.
- Topic Relevance: Hot topics like AI in cybersecurity or ransomware trends can fetch higher fees.
- Audience Type: Speaking to a room of CISOs at a Fortune 500 summit pays more than a local tech meetup.
Pros and Cons of Paid Speaking

Pros	Cons
Income stream	Competitive field
Brand authority	Travel/time commitment
Networking	Not all events pay

While not every cybersecurity speaker gets paid for every gig, many use a mix of paid and unpaid opportunities to grow their influence and income. As mentioned in 'How do cybersecurity speakers make money', speaking is often just one part of a larger revenue strategy.

Cybersecurity speakers have multiple income streams, and speaking fees are just the tip of the iceberg. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Paid Speaking Engagements
- Keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel moderation at industry conferences.
- Corporate training sessions or internal security awareness talks.
- Rates vary widely, from $500 for small events to $20,000+ for top-tier keynotes.

2. Consulting and Advisory Work
- Speaking gigs often lead to consulting opportunities. After a talk, companies may hire you to audit their systems or train their teams.
- Some speakers sit on advisory boards or offer fractional CISO services.

3. Online Courses and Workshops
- Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or even private webinars can generate recurring revenue.
- A speaker might turn their talk into a 6-week bootcamp on secure coding or incident response.

4. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book on cybersecurity can boost credibility and generate royalties.
- Whitepapers, eBooks, and paid newsletters are also viable income streams.

5. Affiliate and Sponsorship Deals
- Some speakers partner with cybersecurity vendors to promote tools or services.
- Sponsored talks or webinars can bring in additional revenue, especially if you have a niche audience.

6. Talks.co and Other Platforms
- On Talks.co, speakers can connect with hosts, and get booked directly.
- This cuts out the middleman and makes it easier to monetize your time and expertise.

In short, cybersecurity speakers don't just make money from the mic. They build ecosystems around their knowledge, turning every talk into a business opportunity.

Cybersecurity speakers can earn anywhere from zero to six figures per year, depending on their strategy, experience, and visibility. Let's look at the numbers.
Average Speaking Fees

Experience Level	Fee per Talk
Beginner	$0 - $500
Mid-Level	$1,000 - $5,000
Expert	$5,000 - $15,000
Celebrity/Top Tier	$20,000+

Annual Income Potential
- Part-Time Speakers: Those who speak occasionally at meetups or webinars might earn $5,000 to $20,000 annually.
- Professional Speakers: With 2-3 paid gigs per month, earnings can hit $100,000+.
- Multi-Channel Earners: Add in consulting, courses, and books, and some cybersecurity speakers make $250,000 or more per year.
Variables That Affect Income
- Location: Speakers in the U.S., U.K., and Australia tend to command higher fees.
- Industry: Speaking at financial or healthcare events often pays more due to regulatory complexity.
- Format: In-person keynotes usually pay more than virtual panels.
Real-World Examples
- Troy Hunt, creator of Have I Been Pwned, reportedly earns from speaking, courses, and consulting.
- Eva Galperin of EFF speaks globally and supplements income with advocacy and policy work.
As covered in 'How do cybersecurity speakers make money', speaking is often one part of a larger income puzzle. The most successful speakers diversify their revenue streams and build long-term relationships with event organizers.

Hiring a cybersecurity speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the event, speaker profile, and topic. Here's a breakdown to help you budget:
Typical Fee Ranges

Speaker Type	Cost per Engagement
Local Expert	$500 - $1,500
Mid-Level Professional	$2,000 - $7,500
Industry Leader	$8,000 - $15,000
Celebrity/Author	$20,000+

Factors That Influence Cost
- Event Type: Corporate keynotes cost more than community meetups.
- Topic Complexity: Talks on advanced threat modeling or nation-state attacks may command higher fees.
- Travel Requirements: In-person events may include travel, lodging, and per diem.
- Customization: Tailored workshops or internal training sessions often cost more than off-the-shelf talks.
Virtual vs. In-Person
- Virtual speaking fees are generally 30-50% lower than in-person.
- However, some high-profile speakers maintain full rates due to demand.
Booking Platforms
- Platforms like Talks.co help event organizers find and book speakers within budget.
- You can filter by topic, fee range, and availability, making it easier to plan.
Whether you're organizing a cybersecurity summit or a startup webinar, understanding the cost structure helps you get the right speaker without overpaying. And as mentioned in 'Do cybersecurity speakers get paid', not all events offer compensation, especially for first-time or local speakers.

Here's a list of some of the most influential cybersecurity speakers of all time. These individuals have shaped the industry, raised public awareness, and delivered talks that stick.

- Bruce Schneier: Often called the 'security guru', Schneier has authored over a dozen books and speaks globally on cryptography, privacy, and policy.

- Mikko Hyppönen: Chief Research Officer at WithSecure, Mikko is known for his TED Talks and decades of malware research. His storytelling makes complex threats accessible.

- Kevin Mitnick: Once the world's most wanted hacker, Mitnick turned his life around and became a bestselling author and speaker. His talks blend real-world exploits with practical advice.

- Eva Galperin: Director of Cybersecurity at EFF, Eva is a fierce advocate for digital rights and has spoken at DEF CON, HOPE, and global policy forums.

- Katie Moussouris: A pioneer of bug bounty programs, Katie has spoken at Black Hat, RSA, and UN panels. Her work bridges the gap between hackers and corporations.

- Dan Kaminsky: Known for discovering a critical DNS flaw in 2008, Kaminsky was a beloved speaker until his passing in 2021. His talks were both brilliant and human.

- Chris Hadnagy: Founder of Social-Engineer.org, Chris specializes in human hacking and social engineering. His talks are popular at both corporate and hacker conferences.

- Troy Hunt: Creator of Have I Been Pwned, Troy is a regular speaker at Microsoft events and developer conferences worldwide.

- Runa Sandvik: Former Director of Information Security at The New York Times, Runa speaks on journalism, privacy, and protecting vulnerable populations.

These speakers didn't just inform... they inspired. Their legacy continues to influence how we think about cybersecurity today.

Looking for top cybersecurity speakers making waves right now? Here are some of the best in the world today, from different regions and specialties:

- Keren Elazari (Israel): A TED speaker and security analyst, Keren brings a global perspective on hackers as the internet's immune system. She's known for her energetic delivery and deep insights.

- Brian Krebs (USA): While not a traditional stage speaker, Krebs is a go-to keynote for investigative cybersecurity journalism. His talks are data-rich and eye-opening.

- Magda Chelly (Singapore): A leader in cyber risk and diversity, Magda speaks across Asia and Europe on governance, cloud security, and women in tech.

- Jaya Baloo (Netherlands): CISO at Avast, Jaya is a frequent speaker at European conferences. Her talks on quantum security and privacy are both technical and accessible.

- Raj Samani (UK): Chief Scientist at Rapid7, Raj blends humor and hard data in his talks. He's a regular at Infosec Europe and RSA.

- Allison Miller (USA): CISO at Reddit, Allison speaks on behavioral analytics and fraud prevention. She's known for bridging security and user experience.

- Harshit Agrawal (India): A rising voice in cybersecurity education and policy, Harshit speaks at APAC events and focuses on digital literacy and secure development.

- Chloé Messdaghi (USA): Advocate for ethical hacking and inclusion, Chloé speaks at DEF CON, RSA, and global diversity panels.

- Mohamad Amin Hasbini (UAE): A senior researcher at Kaspersky, Amin speaks across the Middle East and Africa on cybercrime trends and threat intelligence.

These speakers are shaping the future of cybersecurity across continents. Whether you're organizing a global summit or a regional event, these names bring credibility, clarity, and cutting-edge knowledge.

Let's get into some of the biggest misconceptions people have about cybersecurity speakers. These myths can hold back both aspiring speakers and the organizations that need them.

1. Myth: Cybersecurity speakers must be ex-hackers or coders.
This one's everywhere. People assume that to speak on cybersecurity, you need to have a background in ethical hacking or years of coding experience. Not true. While technical knowledge helps, many successful cybersecurity speakers come from policy, legal, or business backgrounds. Take Theresa Payton, former White House CIO. She's not a hacker, but her insights into cybercrime and risk management are sought after globally.

2. Myth: They only speak at tech conferences.
Cybersecurity isn't just a tech issue anymore. It's a business, legal, and even geopolitical concern. That's why cybersecurity speakers are now featured at finance summits, healthcare expos, and even HR leadership events. For example, Mikko Hypponen has spoken at TED, SXSW, and the World Economic Forum. These aren't niche tech gatherings-they're mainstream platforms.

3. Myth: They just talk about threats and fear.
Sure, cybersecurity involves risks, but the best speakers don't just scare people. They educate, empower, and offer practical strategies. They talk about resilience, digital hygiene, and building a proactive culture. Katie Moussouris, for instance, focuses on vulnerability disclosure and collaboration between hackers and corporations-not just doom and gloom.

4. Myth: You need to be famous to get booked.
Visibility helps, but many cybersecurity speakers build their reputation through consistent content, niche expertise, and networking. You don't need a million followers. You need a clear message, a strong point of view, and the right audience. Platforms like Talks.co help match emerging voices with podcast hosts and event organizers.

5. Myth: It's all about the U.S. market.
Cybersecurity is global. Speakers from Nigeria, India, Estonia, and Brazil are gaining traction because they bring regional insights and unique challenges to the table. The cyber issues in Nairobi's fintech scene aren't the same as those in Berlin's manufacturing sector. That diversity is what makes the field so dynamic.

When you look at the journeys of successful cybersecurity speakers, one thing becomes clear: there's no single path to the stage. Each story is shaped by a mix of expertise, timing, and a clear message.

Consider Bruce Schneier. He started as a cryptographer, writing books like 'Applied Cryptography' that became industry staples. But what made him a standout speaker wasn't just his technical depth. It was his ability to explain complex concepts in plain language. His talks at RSA and TEDx blend storytelling with insight, making him a favorite among both techies and policymakers.

Then there's Keren Elazari, an Israeli analyst and researcher. Her TED talk, 'Hackers: the Internet's immune system,' went viral because it flipped the narrative. Instead of painting hackers as villains, she showed how they can help strengthen systems. That fresh perspective opened doors to conferences outside the traditional cybersecurity bubble, including leadership forums and innovation summits.

A different route was taken by Kelvin Coleman, Executive Director of the National Cyber Security Alliance. His background in public policy helped him bridge the gap between government and private sector audiences. He's spoken at events ranging from small business meetups to international policy panels, always tailoring his message to the crowd.

And let's not forget Harshini Mukundan, a microbiologist who speaks about biosecurity and cyber-physical threats. Her talks blend science, cybersecurity, and public health-a combo that's especially relevant in a post-pandemic world. She's proof that cybersecurity speaking isn't just for IT professionals-it's for anyone who understands how digital risks intersect with their field.

These stories show that success as a cybersecurity speaker isn't about fitting a mold. It's about finding your angle, owning your voice, and connecting with the right audiences.

Cybersecurity speakers are stepping into a new era. As digital threats evolve, so do the expectations for those who speak about them. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Cross-industry relevance. Cybersecurity is no longer siloed in IT departments. Speakers who can connect cyber risks to healthcare, education, agriculture, or even climate tech will be in high demand. For example, expect more talks at events like CES or the World Health Assembly, not just DEF CON.

- AI and quantum computing. These aren't buzzwords anymore. Speakers who can demystify how AI is used in both attacks and defense-or explain the implications of quantum encryption-will stand out. The audience isn't just tech-savvy insiders. It's CEOs, investors, and policy makers who need clear, actionable insights.

- Interactive formats. The days of static keynotes are fading. Virtual summits, live demos, and audience-led Q&As are becoming the norm. Speakers who can adapt to hybrid formats and engage audiences across screens will have an edge.

- Regional voices rising. We're seeing more cybersecurity speakers emerge from Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. These voices bring new perspectives on mobile-first security, digital identity, and local threat landscapes. Organizers are actively seeking this diversity.

- Cybersecurity as a human issue. Mental health, misinformation, and digital ethics are now part of the cybersecurity conversation. Speakers who can weave in social impact, behavioral science, or digital rights will resonate with broader audiences.

In short, the future belongs to cybersecurity speakers who are agile, interdisciplinary, and globally aware. It's not just about knowing the threats... it's about knowing how to talk about them in ways that move people to act.

Getting started as a cybersecurity speaker? You don't need to go it alone. Here's a curated list of tools and platforms to help you build your presence, craft your message, and land speaking gigs:

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest-matching platform is a goldmine for emerging speakers. Create a profile, highlight your cybersecurity niche, and get matched with podcast hosts looking for experts. Great for building credibility and refining your message.

2. SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can list your speaker profile, browse events, and connect with organizers. It's especially useful for those outside the U.S. looking to break into international markets.

3. Cybersecurity Canon. Not a tool, but a curated list of must-read books in cybersecurity. Use it to deepen your expertise and reference key ideas in your talks. Speakers who cite relevant literature tend to stand out.

4. Toastmasters International. If you're new to public speaking or want to polish your delivery, Toastmasters offers local and virtual clubs where you can practice in a supportive environment. It's not cybersecurity-specific, but it's a powerful way to build stage confidence.

5. BrightTALK. A platform for hosting and attending webinars in tech and cybersecurity. You can apply to speak or co-host sessions, which helps you reach a professional audience and build your portfolio.

6. Slidebean. Need help designing a killer deck? Slidebean uses AI to help you create professional presentations quickly. Clean visuals make a big difference when explaining complex cybersecurity topics.

7. Cybersecurity Conferences. This site lists upcoming cybersecurity events worldwide. Filter by region or topic and pitch yourself as a speaker. Even smaller regional events can be great stepping stones.

8. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your expertise, publish thought leadership posts, and attract event organizers. Use hashtags like #cybersecurityspeaker or #infosec to boost visibility.

Each of these tools serves a different part of the journey-from skill-building to visibility to booking gigs. Use them strategically, and you'll be on your way to becoming a trusted voice in cybersecurity.