ROME (ITALPRESS) – The 5th edition of the Innovation Cybersecurity Summit concluded with positive results, establishing itself as a key event in Italy focused on cybersecurity and innovation. This event is promoted by the ANGI – National Association of Young Innovators, in collaboration with Alè Comunicazione, ASSOCISO – National Association of Chief Information Security Officers, the University of Rome “Guglielmo Marconi,” and the European Parliament Offices in Italy.
The event, held on April 9th and 10th at the Aula Magna of the University of Rome “Guglielmo Marconi” located in Palazzo Simonetti Odescalchi, “recorded an extraordinary turnout and an exceptionally high level of content, further establishing itself as a platform for dialogue among institutions, businesses, and the academic world on strategic issues vital for the digital future of the country and Europe,” states a press release.
The two-day conference featured participation from some of the most authoritative institutional figures in Italy and Europe, “confirming the significance of this initiative within the digital security landscape,” the statement continues. Notable attendees included Prefect Vittorio Rizzi, Director General of the DIS – Department of Information for Security, Minister of Justice Giovanni Nordio, State Undersecretaries Emanuele Prisco (Ministry of the Interior) and Wanda Ferro (Ministry of the Interior), senior representatives from the Defense General Staff and Armed Forces, along with prominent European delegates such as Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament. Their presence enriched the discussions, providing high-level perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity.
In his message, Minister of Justice Carlo Nordio stated: “Artificial intelligence represents a revolution that must be governed with security at its core. Not only must we consider the systems processing concepts, but also the potential for manipulation of reality, which can be distorted under the guise of plausibility. Security is strategic; it means immunity from external interference in data communication. It also means being aware that data can be manipulated, that reality can be reshaped, and that images—or even peoples’ lives—can be misleadingly represented in ways that are not merely virtual but realistic, raising a series of ethical, political, economic, and financial issues that were unthinkable until recently. The dual nature of AI, with its negatives and undeniable virtues, presents complex challenges. However, turning dangers into opportunities in terms of security will make artificial intelligence,” concludes the Minister, “the catalyst for a new era of prosperity and, hopefully, democracy.”
“The Ministry of the Interior has allocated a significant portion of PNRR funds towards enhancing our capacity for monitoring, prevention, and response to cyber attacks, aimed at establishing security protocols in this strategic asset for the country. We will continue investing in this area, which demands a continual modification of approach, representing a fundamental and strategic challenge for both Italy and Europe,” remarked Undersecretary Emanuele Prisco in his opening speech on April 9th.
“Artificial Intelligence today presents itself as the great revolution of this century, an extraordinary tool but simultaneously a potential risk factor if not managed in an ethical, responsible, and human-centric manner. Law enforcement already employs it, but we must also acknowledge its shadowy aspects. It is essential to not only strengthen technological tools but also train those who will use them. Technology is effective only when its operators are well-prepared, updated, and possess critical thinking skills,” noted Undersecretary Wanda Ferro in her opening message on April 10th.
Antonella Sberna, Vice President of the European Parliament, delivered a significant message during her video address: “Digital technologies are evolving at a dizzying pace, and along with technological opportunities, the risks are also increasing. The widespread use of algorithms, automation, and interconnected systems necessitates a comprehensive planning approach to cybersecurity. For this reason, the European Parliament has an internal working group addressing these matters of which I am a vice president, and I can attest to how the topic of cybersecurity is truly an integral part of every debate we have internally. Strengthening the digital resilience of Europe means protecting internal stability, preserving crisis response capabilities, and asserting the strategic autonomy of the Union in an increasingly competitive global landscape.”
The Summit focused on crucial themes for the present and future of digital security: European Cyber Defense, emphasizing Europe’s role in developing a shared strategy against cyber threats in synergy with NATO; protecting critical infrastructure and the Zero Trust approach for proactive security; the ReArm Europe project and the enhancement of European defense; cybersecurity as a pillar of digital sovereignty; and digital transformation, particularly regarding the development of artificial intelligence (AI) as a lever for innovation and competitiveness. These topics were explored through debates, roundtables, and technical sessions involving sector experts, institutional representatives, and business leaders, providing a comprehensive overview of the strategic priorities for the country and continent.
One of the most significant moments during the event was the presentation of a special mention to the State Police, represented by Dr. Ivano Gabrielli, Director of the Postal and Cybersecurity Police Service. This acknowledgment, issued by ANGI in honor of the 173rd anniversary of the foundation of the State Police, aimed to celebrate the exceptional work of law enforcement in combating cybercrime and protecting citizens’ digital safety. “This award is a tribute to the daily commitment of the State Police, an Italian excellence that stands as a bulwark against cyber threats,” said Gabriele Ferrieri, President of ANGI.
Gabriele Ferrieri expressed great satisfaction for the success of this edition: “The 5th edition of the Innovation Cybersecurity Summit exceeded all expectations, reaffirming ANGI’s role as a reference point for innovation and cybersecurity. The extraordinary public participation and the quality of institutional interventions highlight the urgency of a structured dialogue on these matters. We are proud to have provided a laboratory of ideas and solutions for a secure digital future, strengthening the synergy between public and private sectors.”
“Alè Comunicazione, which has been active for 15 years with a dedicated focus on clients operating in cybersecurity, has once again demonstrated its ability to bring together key players in the cyber sector, from intelligence and defense to public sector entities and large Italian and multinational enterprises. This year, particularly with ASSOCISO, a community of over 150 representatives in cybersecurity from public administrations and private companies has been established in Italy to create a virtuous ecosystem to protect the country,” stated Robert Hassan, CEO of Alè Comunicazione and President of the CyberArea Consortium.
“AssoCISO wishes to emphasize that collaboration is an indispensable pillar for the effectiveness of the strategic measures our nation is adopting to strengthen digital security. This is a priority today in a context where technological challenges are amplified and accelerated by the international geopolitical situation. A clear and shared definition of the necessary competencies—both within institutions and in the business world—is essential to ensure their efficacy. It is on this front that AssoCISO plays an active role, promoting continuous and constructive dialogue with all involved institutions, many of which demonstrated their strong commitment to a safer, more resilient, and coordinated cyber ecosystem through their participation in the recently concluded event,” said the organization.
The event also featured numerous partners such as TrendMicro, Tinexta Cyber, HWG Sababa, Lutech, Accenture, CrowdStrike, Olidata, Netskope, TeamSystem, SentinelOne, Fata Informatica, Netalia, and Mama Industry, “who contributed to the discussion with innovative solutions and best practices,” states the press release. The presence of representatives from the National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN), the Defense General Staff, and European organizations like the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC) further enriched the program, outlining a shared vision for strengthening cyber defense at both national and continental levels.”
“Digital security today represents one of the primary global challenges, and addressing it requires a combined effort from various actors in the national system. The University of Rome Guglielmo Marconi is proud to have contributed to the success of this Summit, which offered concrete insights and strategic perspectives. We believe that knowledge must serve responsible innovation; therefore, we will continue to cultivate advanced skills capable of substantively supporting the digital transition,” explained Alessio Acomanni, President of Unimarconi.
“With this edition, the Innovation Cybersecurity Summit solidifies its position as an essential event for professionals, businesses, and institutions, providing concrete contributions to defining strategies for facing present challenges and building a safer, more resilient digital future.”
– Photo courtesy of ANGI press office –
(ITALPRESS).
