Embracing Dystopia: Building Secure Web Applications in the Age of Fast Development - Jessie Auguste
Channel: BSides Cape Town
Date: 15/12/2023

A journey to explore the dystopian possibilities of neglecting web application security and discover how we can collectively build a brighter, more secure future. Together, we can turn the tide against the cyber threats that loom on the horizon.

Imagine a dystopian future where the digital realm is riddled with malicious actors, data breaches are an everyday occurrence, and personal information is constantly under siege.

We have teams of engineers delivering software used by millions, and are struggling to keep up with security best practices.
Building secure web applications is not an option—it's a necessity.

This talk takes a look back into the dystopian reality of secure web development to examine where we can ensure secure software development is better embedded into our culture of building great software.

How do we enable software teams to make the right decisions and prioritise in a way that keeps up with the developing threat landscape?

How do we encourage early career software developers and non-technical individuals to actively engage in building secure web applications?

Together, we will explore the grim consequences of neglecting cybersecurity and offer practical insights on how to navigate this challenging landscape.

Key takeaways:
- a look back at threat landscape changes in 2023
- exploration of cybersecurity challenges within web development
- Insights into the crucial role of early career software developers in ensuring web application security.
- Strategies for non-technical individuals to engage with and support secure web application development.
- Practical tools and practices for building secure web applications.
- Ideas to foster a culture of security within their organisations.
- The motivation to actively contribute to a safer digital future.

Filmed at BSides Cape Town 2023
AV Sponsored by BITM Cyber Security