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Secure HR: Essential Cyber and Data Protection Practices for Today's Workplace
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 Beginning at 4:15 PM
Session Duration
1.0

Session Description
As cyber threats continue to evolve—ranging from phishing and ransomware to the emerging use of deepfakes to impersonate leaders and manipulate employees—the role of HR in protecting organizational assets and employee information has never been more critical. HR professionals are uniquely positioned to serve as both guardians of sensitive data and leaders in fostering a security-conscious culture across the workforce.

This session will explore practical strategies for HR professionals to take an active role in cybersecurity by collaborating closely with IT, leadership, and other stakeholders. Participants will learn how to integrate security awareness into every stage of the employee lifecycle, from recruiting and onboarding to training, performance management, and offboarding. Emphasis will be placed on developing ongoing education programs that increase employee vigilance, recognize social engineering tactics, and ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.

Through case studies, interactive discussions, and actionable guidance, participants will discover how HR can build a culture of shared responsibility for information security. By leading initiatives in communication, training, and policy enforcement, HR professionals can help safeguard sensitive employee data, protect organizational credibility, and reduce risk exposure.

Attendees will leave this session with concrete tools and strategies to: promote a security-first mindset, enhance compliance, empower employees to identify and respond to digital threats, and partner effectively with IT and leadership teams to strengthen overall organizational resilience. In an era of increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, HR’s proactive involvement is essential to protecting both people and the organization itself.

Session Speaker

Matthew Ritzman

Honigman LLP

More About Matthew Ritzman

 

Matthew Ritzman, Ph.D., J.D. is a professor and seasoned labor and employment attorney with deep expertise in workplace law and organizational compliance. A trusted advisor to HR professionals, he helps organizations navigate complex employment and labor issues, including adherence to federal, state, and local regulations, managing administrative investigations, employment litigation, and developing proactive workplace strategies.

Before joining Honigman, Dr. Ritzman served as an Attorney with the National Labor Relations Board, where he led hundreds of unfair labor practice investigations and successfully represented the agency before administrative law judges and the Board.

Matthew earned both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in Educational Technology while working for the U.S. Department of Justice. In addition to his legal practice, he serves as an adjunct professor teaching business law and technology courses. He is a frequent author and speaker on labor and employment topics and is known for making complex legal and technology issues practical and accessible for business leaders and HR professionals.