Thompson Rivers University is thrilled to announce our annual Privacy and Security Conference 2025.

An opportunity to learn, engage and discuss with your peers. Mark your calendars and check back here often for details including registration, sponsorship information, and request for presentation proposals.

Conference theme

This year's theme explores the broad topic of the dark web. This scope includes (but is not limited to):

1. Introduction to the Dark Web
• Overview and History: Evolution of the dark web, its origins, and key milestones.
• Difference Between Deep Web and Dark Web: Clarifying misconceptions and providing a clear distinction.
• The Rise of the Adversary: a biography of some of the world’s most infamous hacker groups.

2. Technical Aspects
• Accessing the Dark Web: How users access the dark web (e.g., Tor, I2P).
• Dark Web Infrastructure: Understanding the technology and protocols that power the dark web.
• Anonymity and Encryption: Techniques used for maintaining anonymity and the role of encryption.

3. Legal and Ethical Considerations
• Legislation and Regulation: Current laws and regulations governing the dark web.
• Ethical Implications: Discussing the moral aspects of dark web activities.

4. Cybercrime and Law Enforcement
• Types of Cybercrime: Overview of common illicit activities (e.g., drug trafficking, human trafficking, weapons trade).
• Case Studies: Notable law enforcement operations and takedowns.
• Challenges in Policing the Dark Web: Difficulties faced by law enforcement in tracking and apprehending criminals.

5. Data Security and Privacy
• Personal Information Protection: How personal data is traded and exploited on the dark web.
• Corporate Data Breaches: Impact of dark web activities on businesses and strategies to mitigate risks.
• Identity Theft: Prevention and response strategies.

6. Economic Aspects
• Dark Web Marketplaces: Structure and functioning of black markets.
• Cryptocurrencies: Role of cryptocurrencies in facilitating transactions on the dark web.

7. Cybersecurity Measures
• Threat Intelligence: Gathering and analyzing information about threats from the dark web.
• Mitigation Strategies: Best practices for protecting organizations from dark web threats.
• Incident Response: Effective response to breaches and threats originating from the dark web.

8. Future Trends
• Evolving Threat Landscape: Emerging trends and future projections for dark web activities.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations that could impact the dark web (e.g., quantum computing, AI).

9. Workshops and Hands-on Sessions
• Dark Web Navigation: Safe and legal ways to explore the dark web for research purposes.
• Cyber Forensics: Techniques for investigating dark web activities.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluating and mitigating dark web-related risks for organizations.

10. Panel Discussions and Expert Talks
• Industry Experts: Inviting cybersecurity professionals, law enforcement, legal experts, and ethical hackers.
• Open Forums: Facilitating discussions and Q&A sessions to engage with the audience.

11. Real-World Implications
• Impact on Society: Examining the broader societal implications of dark web activities.
• Public Awareness: Strategies to educate the public about dark web dangers and safety measures.

We welcome presentations from all categories that feature the legal, moral or technical aspects within this scope.

Conference Site:

https://www.tru.ca/privacy-security-conference