The short version: Be kind, be respectful, and look out for each other. Harassment of any kind is not tolerated. If something feels off, tell an organizer and we will handle it.
Why we have one
Simply Cyber Con exists to help people grow in their cybersecurity careers. That only works if everyone, from first-time attendees to industry veterans, feels safe enough to show up, ask questions, and be themselves. This code comes straight from the values the Simply Cyber community is built on:
Who and where it applies
This code applies to everyone: attendees, speakers, sponsors and exhibitors, volunteers, organizers, and hotel or venue guests taking part in the event. It covers:
- All conference spaces at the venue, including talks, workshops, the CTF, and the hallway track
- Official social events, including the welcome reception, open mic night, and meals
- Unofficial gatherings connected to the con, like the happy hour
- Online spaces: the Simply Cyber Con Discord, livestream chat, and social media interactions about the event
What we expect
- Treat people with respect and kindness, including people you disagree with.
- Welcome newcomers. Everyone here was new once.
- Share knowledge generously and give credit where it's due.
- Respect people's boundaries. If someone says no or walks away, that's the answer.
- Ask before taking photos or video of someone up close, and honor anyone who asks not to be photographed.
- Look out for each other. If you see something that isn't right, check on the person or tell an organizer.
- Follow the venue's rules and any instructions from event staff.
What isn't allowed
Harassment and exclusionary behavior are not tolerated, in person or online. That includes, but isn't limited to:
- Offensive or demeaning comments related to gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, physical appearance, body size, experience level, or career stage
- Sexual language or imagery in talks, slides, booths, swag, or online spaces
- Unwelcome physical contact or sexual attention
- Intimidation, threats, stalking, or following someone
- Photographing or recording someone who has asked you not to
- Sustained disruption of talks or events
- Sharing someone's personal information without their permission (doxxing)
- Encouraging or supporting any of the behavior above
Hacking and hacker culture
We love hacking. Keep it where it belongs.
- Only attack systems you have explicit permission to test, like the con CTF.
- Do not attack, scan, or interfere with the venue network, the Wi-Fi, other attendees' devices, or the livestream.
- Do not access anyone's accounts, devices, or data without their permission, even as a joke.
Speakers, sponsors, and volunteers
Speakers, sponsors, and volunteers are held to this code too, and set the tone for everyone else.
- Speakers: talks, slides, and demos should be appropriate for a professional, mixed audience. No sexualized imagery or content that targets any group. Sensitive topics are fine when handled respectfully; give the audience a heads-up at the start.
- Sponsors and exhibitors: booth staff, materials, and activities must follow this code. No sexualized attire, costumes, or marketing. Collect contact details only from people who choose to share them.
- Volunteers and organizers: you represent the con. If you see a problem, step in or get help.
How to report a problem
If you experience or witness something that breaks this code, or you just feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please tell us. You won't be in trouble for reporting in good faith, and you don't need to be sure it "counts."
- In person: find any organizer or volunteer. Ask for Gerald if you prefer to speak with the lead organizer directly.
- Email: conduct@simplycybercon.org (before, during, or after the event)
- Discord: send a direct message to any moderator.
- Emergencies: if anyone is in immediate danger, call 911 first, then tell an organizer.
It helps to include what happened, when and where, and who was involved, but share only what you're comfortable sharing. We'll keep reports as confidential as we can and only involve the people needed to act on them. We won't identify the person who reported without their permission.
Organizers can help you contact venue security or local law enforcement, walk you to a safe place, or otherwise help you feel safe for the rest of the event.
What happens next
Organizers will listen, take the report seriously, and decide on a response based on what happened. Depending on the situation, that can include:
- A conversation and a warning
- Asking someone to leave a talk, event, or online space
- Removing a talk, booth, or sponsor from the event
- Removal from the conference without a refund
- A ban from future Simply Cyber Con events and community spaces
- Involving venue security or law enforcement
Anyone asked to stop a behavior is expected to stop immediately. Organizers may take action beyond what's listed here to keep people safe.
Retaliation
Retaliating against anyone who reports a concern or helps with an investigation is a violation of this code and will be treated seriously.
Questions
Questions about this code, or ideas to make it better? Email conduct@simplycybercon.org. We'd rather hear from you than guess.