Kathy Macdonald

Kathy Macdonald

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Calgary, Alberta

Online Investigator - Canadian Online Safety, Fraud Prevention & Cyber Security Expert

Kathy Macdonald is a retired police officer with the Calgary Police Service, with almost three decades of investigative and crime prevention experience. Kathy Macdonald has extensive experience developing and delivering cyber awareness and crime prevention programs for public and private sector organizations.

KATHY MACDONALD BIOGRAPHY

Kathy Macdonald is a retired police officer turned global cybercrime prevention advocate. Her keynote presentations share firsthand experiences that unveil the complexities of cybercrime, and her passion and expertise in cyber security make her a powerhouse in the field. Kathy enlightens audiences with important information about the risk of social engineering, online fraud, sexual exploitation and coercion, and emerging security threats involving the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Born and raised in Alberta, Kathy is a member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. She has been honoured with the Member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, a national acclaim recognizing her commitment to community service and global advocacy for cyber security. Kathy has also been named a Top 20 Women in Cyber Security by IT World Canada.

As a police officer, online investigator and media spokesperson, Kathy has seen firsthand the devastating and long-term damage cybercrime produces. As a professional speaker, Kathy takes her audience on an impactful journey into the heart of cybercrime reflecting deep industry knowledge and the experience of a seasoned police officer. Her compelling stories offer audiences a glimpse of how cybercrime can affect people personally and professionally. She helps them better understand how to safeguard their personally identifiable information, maintain their privacy, and secure their online activities. Kathy’s customizable presentations energize audiences, of all ages, take actionable steps towards being vigilant guardians of their digital well-being.

Kathy holds a Masters of Security Risk Management with Merit (MSc.), and is a Certified Protection Professional (CPP). Her top selling book titled, Cybercrime: Awareness, Prevention, and Response, is a comprehensive resource talking about how cybercrime affects individuals, businesses, governments, institutions, and organizations.

Videos

Podcasts

Coming Soon!

Kathy Macdonald Topic Presentations

the new age of digital espionage - bulletproofing a defence from cybercriminals

  • Virtual PresentationKeynote PresentationWorkshop SessionHalf Day TrainingFull Day Training
  • As we venture deeper into the digital age, businesses face an escalating threat from cybercriminals, hackers, and malicious actors probing for weaknesses in their networks every day. Kathy Macdonald, a recognized authority on cybersecurity, addresses this urgent issue in her compelling presentation: “Fortifying Defences Against Cybercriminals – The New Age of Digital Espionage.”

    In this high-stakes world of cybercrime, organizations have the most to lose. The rapid evolution of technology has led to a commensurate rise in the opportunities for cyber attacks, necessitating immediate and robust cybersecurity safeguards to protect business operations.

    Kathy focuses on the essential human shield in this battle – the employees. They form the crucial first line of defence against relentless ransomware, spear-phishing, and business email compromise attacks. Kathy highlights the role of human behaviour within corporate culture, scrutinizing the tactics, techniques, and procedures used in social engineering attacks, which account for the majority of data breaches.

    By delving into the pitfalls of bad habits, less secure practices, and risky behavioural patterns, Kathy underscores the need to promote a proactive security mindset among employees. She emphasizes the necessity of prompt and effective recognition and response to cyber threats, offering proven, adaptive, and performance-driven security strategies to arm employees against these relentless attacks.

    One of the key themes of Kathy’s presentation is instilling a culture of security awareness within organizations. She highlights the importance of stringent security measures in reducing privacy vulnerabilities and potential liabilities associated with the use, collection, and disposal of business data and personally identifiable information.

    In this captivating keynote, Kathy offers invaluable insights to prepare organizations for the increasing digital demands and persistent cyber-attacks. She arms audiences with the knowledge and strategies to fortify their defences, enhance their cybersecurity measures, and ensure their business is better equipped to confront the new age of digital espionage.

ai deep fakes & ai fraud prevention: unmasking deception in the cyber world

active human cyber defence - building a culture of security awareness

the bullet doesn't fit the gun - the high toll of cybercrime: deconstructing online threats and fortifying your cyber defence

digital footprint: reputation, trust, and verification in the era of the digital wild west

scams, cons, and social engineering: navigating emotional traps and safeguarding your interactions

navigating the digital horizon: blockchain, smart cities and the evolution of cybersecurity

the high toll of human trafficking: unveiling the dark reality and your role in prevention

cyber hygiene - online health in risky times: safeguarding personal information and mental well-being in the digital age

protecting online behaviour for youth: empowering the digital generation through safe cyber practices

Testimonials

Calgary Academy has had the pleasure of having Kathy present to our students and parents on more than one occasion and her expertise and knowledge in such an important area as cyber security and social media safety is paramount. I would highly recommend Kathy to present to any organization regarding this topic as issues regarding the internet are only becoming more problematic and will continue to be so. We plan to have Kathy back as technology continues to advance and we can take a proactive approach to security rather than a responsive one which is often too late.

Sarah Hoag

Director of Stakeholder Engagement
Calgary Academy

Kathy Macdonald brings a level of expertise and a sense of reality in her presentation. She delivers pertinent cybersecurity information that is focused on what’s important to her audience. She delivers with a passion for helping others identify and protect themselves against cyber threats, both at work and at home. Her insight into what’s happening in the digital world is very beneficial to employees and leaders.

Richard C. Smith

Chief Information Officer
Canadian Blood Services

Kathy MacDonalds presentation “Bullet Proofing a Defense From Cyber Criminals the New Espionage” at our annual Risk Management Symposium. Kathy’s presentation was extraordinary! Cyber Risk is a highly technical and ever-evolving subject that is a big concern for our members, as municipalities are always targets for hackers. Kathy is so knowledgeable on the subject she was able to deliver very detailed data in an understandable and engaging way to our audience of insurance and risk managers. From the back of the room, I watched as the audience wrote pages of notes and took pictures of the slides with their phones and tablets. I received so many positive comments from our audience...

Mark Sosnowski

CIP Risk Advisor
Rural Municipalities of Alberta

Kathy Macdonald recently presented to our entire school in 2 sessions, with 850 students from grades 9-12. We engaged her to present due to a series of negative peer relationships on social media. Her presentation was salient, contemporary and a true eye-opener for many students. I feel that this will make a difference in improving the lives of many students and help them make good choices. The internet boom and social media are uncharted waters and Kathy has helped be a beacon to sanity in a convoluted and potentially dangerous online landscape. We will have her present again in the future. All the best.

Mike Reece

Counsellor
George McDougall High School

Kathy is clearly the known expert on the subject matter. Her uncompromised knowledge coupled with current research findings give her a remarkable command in communicating the perils of cyberbullying, but even better, the advantages of safe browsing. Kathy has relentlessly pursued this message of cyber-safety over the years and we are very fortunate to have her support CEPF in conveying this message about online and digital safety.

Din Ladak

President & CEO
Calgary Educational Partnerships Foundation

Kathy was a very knowledgeable and engaging speaker. Her topic was well received at our seniors’ conference and she kept the audience’s full attention throughout her entire presentation. She was able to explain her topic in-depth and in a way that made it easy for anyone to comprehend. Her presentation was very eye-opening and applicable to all age groups. I would definitely get Kathy to present again.

Grace Bratland

Administrative Assistant
Flagstaff County

Articles & Media

Coming Soon!

Books

Coming Soon!

Related Speakers

Rick Denley

Rick Denley

Personal & Business Growth through courageous leadership & Change | Peak Performing Leaders | Author

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Business & Corporate
  • Business Growth
  • Business Leadership
  • Business Management
  • Change Management
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Excellence & Success
Rick Denley, a Leadership visionary, change catalyst, and growth expert. With over three decades of experience leading Fortune 500 companies like...
Mark Breslin

Mark Breslin

Canadian Comedy Icon - Unleashing Laughter and Wisdom, Renowned Public Speaker, Entrepreneur, Author

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Business Leadership
  • Communications
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Humour At Workplace
  • Influence & Negotiation
  • Leadership
  • Mindset & Goal Accomplishment
  • Peak Performance
Mark Breslin is a true visionary in the Canadian comedy scene and has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born and raised in...
Keren Taylor-Hughes

Keren Taylor-Hughes

Former CEO - Agile Change Advisor & Transformation Expert

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Adaptability & Agility
  • Alliances & Partnerships
  • Business & Corporate
  • Business Growth
  • Business Leadership
  • Business Management
  • Business Technology
  • Business Transitions
Keren Taylor-Hughes is an agile change advisor & business leadership strategist with a passion for implementing sustainable organizational change....
Gail Taylor

Gail Taylor

Expert in Levelling-Up - Unlocking Human Potential for Optimal Performance and Well-being

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Adaptability & Agility
  • Addictions & Substance Abuse
  • Change Management
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Excellence & Success
  • Happiness & Positivity
  • Health & Human Performance
  • HR & Corporate Culture
Gail Taylor is a multifaceted individual whose life journey is a testament to the extraordinary power of reinvention and embracing new passions at...
Paul Karvanis

Paul Karvanis

Happiness and Performance Coach – Happiness, Impact and Performance, Worklife Balance, Leadership

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Burnout Prevention
  • Health & Wellness
  • Leadership
  • Peak Performance
  • Personal Growth
  • Work Life Balance
Paul Karvanis is a highly successful former lawyer turned Certified Professional Coactive Coach. Through his venture, Leader Rising, he offers...
Dr. James Makokis

Dr. James Makokis

Two Spirit Doctor - LGBTQ2S+, Indigenous, Diversity & Inclusion Expert

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Mental Health
  • Health & Wellness
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Resilience & Adversity
  • LGBTQ2S+
  • Indigenous
  • Personal Growth
  • Leadership
  • Work Life Balance
Dr. James A. Makokis is a Nehiyô (Plains Cree) Family Physician from the Saddle Lake Cree Nation in northeastern Alberta and the recent winner of...
Anthony Johnson

Anthony Johnson

LGBTQ2S+, Two-Spirit and Diversity Expert

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Accessibility
  • Addictions & Substance Abuse
  • Bullying At Work
  • Communications
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Employee Engagement
Anthony Johnson is a Two-Spirit Keynote Speaker, LGBTQ2S+ Advocate & ED&I Expert. Through his powerful story to bring awareness for LGBTQ &...
Amazing Two Spirit Couple

Amazing Two Spirit Couple

Indigenous & LGBTQ2S Experts | Amazing Two Spirit Couple | Winners of the Amazing Race Canada

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Accessibility
  • Addictions & Substance Abuse
  • Alliances & Partnerships
  • Bullying At Work
  • Business Leadership
  • Business Management
  • Change Management
  • Collaboration
Indigenous & LGBTQ2s+ advocates, The Amazing Two Spirit Couple, "Team Ahkameyimok" and winners of the Amazing Race Canada Season 7. Together, they...
Janice Makokis

Janice Makokis

Indigenous Rights Advocate | Legal Scholar | Consultant

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Cultural Diversity
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Gender Equality
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Indigenous
  • Leadership
  • Leadership & Change
  • Mindset & Attitude
Janice Makokis is an Indigenous Legal Rights Scholar, Advocate and Consultant. Janice Makokis currently holds a joint position between the Yellowhead...
Hon. Marion Buller

Hon. Marion Buller

First Nation and Indigenous Rights advocate, civil, criminal and human rights lawyer & retired judge

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Cultural Diversity
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Excellence & Success
  • Gender Equality
  • HR & Corporate Culture
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Indigenous
  • Leadership
The Honourable Marion Buller, C.M., is a keynote speaker and human rights advocate who was the initial First Nations woman appointed as a judge in...
Laval St. Germain

Laval St. Germain

Mountain Climber, Airline Captain & Extreme Global Adventurer

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Adaptability & Agility
  • Burnout Prevention
  • Business & Corporate
  • Business Leadership
  • Business Management
  • Change Management
  • Collaboration
  • Disruption Management
Laval St. Germain is an expert at turning dreams into goals into reality. As an airline captain turned mountaineer and adventurer, Laval is the only...
Dr. Lynn Gehl

Dr. Lynn Gehl

THE TREATY / LAND CLAIMS PROCESS AND INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE HOLDER

Featured

Speaker Topics

  • Cultural Diversity
  • Disability
  • Diversity & Inclusion
  • Gender Equality
  • Genrational Differences
  • HR & Corporate Culture
  • Indigenous
  • Leadership
Dr. Lynn Gehl, Algonquin Anishinaabe-Ikwe, is an Indigenist Cultural Critic, Artist, Author, and Advocate. She is well known across Canada as a...

How to book Kathy Macdonald for an event?

Kathy Macdonald keynote speaker is an expert presenter and has a wide range of experience speaking to a wide variety of audiences and organizations. Kathy Macdonald delivers keynotes, workshops & training sessions. They may also host or emcee events. Hire Kathy Macdonald from Calgary, Alberta for your event to inspire the audience to take action and make change in their work and their lives. Your workplace will benefit from our keynote speaker and their keynote talks and speeches will shift the mindsets or behaviours for the audience members in Canada. 

Interested in booking Kathy Macdonald for an event?

Are you looking to hire Kathy Macdonald for your event? Kathy Macdonald Calgary, Alberta is a dynamic and engaging speaker that offers audiences researched content paired with expertise and a dynamic speaking ability. Kathy Macdonald is also a Canadian corporate consultant and coach and facilitates workshops and training sessions for a corporate audience. Kathy Macdonald is an expert keynote presenter and speaks on wide variety of topics. Hiring a great speaker for your event is important and working with a thought leader like Kathy Macdonald from Speakers Canada's roster will engage audiences into the content of the presentation to bring awareness and a fresh perspective for their approach to their work and their lives. Book Kathy Macdonald to educate, motivate and activate the audience through an interactive and entertaining presentation at corporate meetings and gatherings.

Known as a popular key note speaker in Canada, Kathy Macdonald creates life changing experiences for the participants with practical insights and strategic advice they can implement right after the session. Working with a one our leading expert speaker like Kathy Macdonald from Calgary, Alberta offers organizations a fresh perspective to assist the people of the organization. No matter if it is a government, association, or business crowd, Kathy Macdonald is a perfect speaker for your event. Through unique practical insights for trending topics and years experience speaking to different organizations, Kathy Macdonald focuses on changing individuals to make better decisions at work and their lives. No matter if you are holding an in person or virtual event, having an influential speaker such as Kathy Macdonald will engage, motivate, and activate the audience to make a change in their lives and inspire action for results to meet organizational goals. Your workforce will benefit from Kathy Macdonald's presentations and speeches, with measurable results set to shift the people of the organization and core direction of the company. Book Kathy Macdonald speaker for your annual general meeting, conference, summit, or convention in Canada.

How much does it cost to hire Kathy Macdonald for a keynote presentation or virtual event?

Kathy Macdonald is an expert professional key note speaker with a lot of experience speaking and delivering engaging talks to organizations and audiences in Canada. Each of Speaker Bureau Canada's talent have different ways to assess their fees, and Kathy Macdonald speaker fee ranges depending on the size of the audience, event format (in person or virtual), event location, and if the organization booking them is a non profit, association, government department/government agency or business/corporation. The speakers we work with are flexible with their fees, and it is important for us to learn more about your event before we approach them, as it is our role to work for you, and to help you find a speaker within budget. 

Please contact Speakers Bureau of Canada and provide us with your event details so that we can contact Kathy Macdonald to check availability or confirm the pricing and associated costs to hire a great speaker like Kathy Macdonald for your event. As Kathy Macdonald's agent and as a Canadian top speaker bureau and talent agency for speakers, we are able to propose each event opportunity from each host organization's behalf to try to help you get in touch with Kathy Macdonald and confirm them for your in person or online meeting/event. We can also provide and advise on the booking process and potentially negotiate their fee. Speakers Canada is a client focused speaker agency, and we work for you in finding good speakers for your team meetings and booking processes.

Kathy Macdonald Disclaimer

Speakers Bureau Canada assists companies and event planning teams seeking to hire talent like Kathy Macdonald for speaking engagements, virtual meetings, conference appearances, training sessions and workshops facilitations. Our Canadian speakers bureau does not claim to exclusively represent Kathy Macdonald, however they are represented by Speakers Canada, and we work with them closely for their Canadian speaking opportunities and bookings. As Canada's top speaker bureau, we represent Canadian motivational keynote speakers and professional guest speakers that will be available on your upcoming events date and location that are withing the budget. Our talented bureau speaker booking agency can help find business speakers or celebrity speakers that aligns with each organization, audience, event theme and the topic themes you hope for the speaker to address in their presentation. 

When SBC receives a request to book Kathy Macdonald we provide you with their speaker fees, travel costs and check their schedules. We work closely with the host organization's event planning team and the speaker to handle the logistics and to relay or negotiate associated costs. Our talented team members then will work with our talent directly or their agent/manager/assistant to confirm the Canadian speaker fee and travel expenses, so that event planning teams can receive an official quote for the speaker appearing at the event. Speaker fees and travel costs vary per speaker and our role is to contact Kathy Macdonald about your event, after we have connected with the event organizers to learn all the event details and/or conference program. Each booking request is unique since session durations and audience sizes can vary which may affect the speaker's fees. If you are looking to hire Kathy Macdonald, we recommend filling out the booking request form so a booking agent from Speakers Bureau Canada can get in touch with our talent to help you coordinate with your team to engage the speaker for a successful event.