Recorded May 1, 2018 at the 2nd Annual Security, Safety & Counter Terrorism Forum, Sydney. Facilitated by the Clariden Group. As Media Partners we took the opportunity to speak with Professor Clive Williams, Skeeve Stevens and Nick Kaldas. Together, these interviews highlight the depth of discussion the event involved.
Episode 67 – Tech & Terrorists, Drones & Devices – Insights from Australia’s leading terrorism researcher – Professor Clive Williams, ANU
Professor Clive Williams presenting to the Forum
Professor Clive Williams, Centre for Security and Military Law at the Australian National University has been a staple of research into national security and counter terrorism for many years. Professor Williams provides current insight into terrorism activity in the Asia Pacific, including the Marawi seige in 2017 where 1,000 insurgents were killed, and provides a chilling warning which rang true about Islamic State fighters returning and posing a threat. Bombings in Surabaya, Indonesia two weeks (13 May) after this warning proved him correct. We also discuss the use of technology by terrorists, such as drones and Australia’s readiness for terror attacks, with legislation, data sharing and the lack of political will all being major factors of consideration.
This is an in-depth and broad interview with one of the country’s leading thought leaders. It was a privilege. Enjoy!
Episode 66 – Tech Crime & the Future Now – Skeeve Stevens, Chief Futurist with Future Sumo
Futurist Skeeve Stevens provides his technical insights into what he describes as the future of now – or your future. With a technical mindset Skeeve considers not only what criminals or terrorists may plot with enabling technology but also lone wolves, the disgruntled or disenfranchised or the student and child. With reference to home-made laser weapons, synthetic drugs and hackable building management systems, Skeeve uses his insights and experience, including as a former hacker, to raise awareness of not just the vulnerabilities of the future but the vulnerabilities of today.
We missed the first of his roadshow tour dates in Australia – starting 15 May in Canberra but checkout the Australian Computer Society website for upcoming appearances. Once you meet or see Skeeve present, you won’t be quick to forget the experience.
For ACS Roadshow details visit https://www.acs.org.au/cpd-education/edxn/are-you-cyber-ready.html
Chris Cubbage & Nick Kaldas
Whilst in Sydney presenting to the 2nd Annual Security, Safety & Counter Terrorism Forum, former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas gave insight into his current role as Director of Internal Oversight at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), covering Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Gaza and the West Bank. Nick is responsible for audits and investigations on behalf of the agency, as well as ethics, compliance and evaluation programs, all while operating within war and conflict zones.
Nick provides specialised insight into the motivations and methodologies of lone wolves, the link to the use of technology and his observations about the application of technology, such as facial recognition, across the world and Middle East region.
