Brenno de Winter

Brenno de Winter

Cybersecurity expert, educator, and author

Brenno de Winter is a renowned cybersecurity expert, educator, and author with over 30 years of experience at the intersection of technology, human behavior, and security. As the creator of the Miauw methodology, he emphasizes validation and auditability in information security research. Brenno inspires policymakers, managers, and technical experts with his sharp analyses and accessible approach, helping organizations build resilience in an increasingly complex digital world. A highly sought-after speaker and mentor, he excels at making complex topics understandable through practical, real-world examples.

The Validation Crisis Unraveled: From Assumptions to Reality

In this inspiring talk, Brenno de Winter takes you into the world of the validation crisis, where unchecked assumptions and blind trust in systems lead to major misunderstandings—and sometimes even catastrophic consequences. Through compelling stories—including a confusing hotel experience in Singapore, the dangers of digital spoofing, mistrained AI models, and pitfalls in organizational decision-making—he reveals how our daily actions are shaped by a lack of critical validation steps. Discover how asking the right questions, challenging assumptions, and fostering a culture of transparent and evidence-based decision-making can be the key to building a more resilient and reality-driven society.