Chris Kubecka

Chris Kubecka is a globally recognized expert in cybersecurity, cyberwarfare, and Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT). She was the world’s first known cyberwarfare correspondent, reporting directly from Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion. Chris’s groundbreaking OSINT work has been instrumental in evacuating thousands from Ukraine and uncovering digital war crimes, including the first documented violation of the Geneva Convention in cyberspace—a wiper virus attack targeting Ukraine's border control systems.

A seasoned investigator, author, and international speaker, Chris has advised governments, multinational organizations, and defense agencies on emerging cyber threats and digital resilience. Her work has been featured in the Washington Post, VentureBeat, and other major media outlets. She brings a unique perspective, combining technical expertise with humanitarian efforts in the world's most challenging environments.

With a career spanning more than 20 years, Chris has held pivotal roles, including implementing the first IT security unit for Aramco Overseas after the devastating 2012 cyberattacks on Saudi Aramco. She has also led 24/7 global Security Operations Centers (SOCs) in the energy and petrochemical sectors, protecting critical systems against advanced threats.

Chris is a prolific author and educator, known for her practical and engaging resources such as "GPEN Exam Prep Cookbook", "Secrets from the Future: Hacking in a Post-Quantum Cryptography World", and "Down the Rabbit Hole: An OSINT Journey". These works have equipped countless professionals with hands-on tools and techniques for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and proactive defense.

A regular keynote speaker at major events like Black Hat, Chaos Computer Club Congress, and SANS summits, Chris delivers thought-provoking presentations that blend technical expertise with actionable insights. Her sessions have covered a wide range of topics, from quantum computing risks to the economic drivers of cybercrime, earning her accolades as one of the most engaging voices in cybersecurity.

Beyond her speaking engagements, Chris is an advocate for collaboration in the cybersecurity community. She emphasizes the importance of bridging ethical hackers, governments, and private sectors to address evolving threats. Her initiatives, such as the OSINT Forum, unite professionals worldwide to innovate and build resilient security systems.

Chris’s innovative approaches, including the development of the KQC Attack Framework for post-quantum threat mitigation, demonstrate her commitment to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity advancements. Whether advising governments, guiding organizations through crises, or mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, Chris continues to shape the future of the industry.

Publications

• "Secrets from the Future: Hacking in a Post-Quantum Cryptography World"
• "Down the Rabbit Hole: An OSINT Journey"
• "GPEN Exam Prep Cookbook"
• "Open Source Intelligence Gathering and Vulnerability Assessment with Open Source Tools"
• "Confessions of an IT/OT Hacker"

Volunteering

• Active contributor to events like Security BSides Las Vegas and Last Hope Number Nine 2600, supporting science and technology communities.
• Participated in Colorado Helps Oklahoma, ensuring family members' access to the Oklahoma City bombing trial.