The Event Planner’s Emergency Kit: Must-Have Cybersecurity Tools

In every event I plan, I always have an emergency kit on hand — needle and thread, breath mints, safety pins, over-the-counter medicine — you name it, I’ve got it.

It’s the little things that matter, and my clients know they can trust me because I’m always prepared for any scenario that might come up.

That same mindset applies when we’re talking about cybersecurity.

Just like an unexpected wardrobe malfunction or a guest who suddenly feels sick, cybersecurity threats can pop up when you least expect them — whether during an in-person or virtual event.

Why wouldn’t I be just as prepared for digital risks?

In today’s world, protecting your event from cyber threats is just as important as having a backup plan for every on-site emergency.

Below are the essential tools I’ve integrated into my cybersecurity emergency kit to ensure my events — and yours — stay secure.

Disclaimer:
I do not have any stake or partnership with the companies, software, or platforms mentioned below. These are simply tools and resources I have personally used and found effective in my event planning experience.

1. Data Encryption Tools

Protecting your attendees’ personal information is non-negotiable.

Data encryption tools ensure that sensitive information like attendee details, payment info, and contracts are unreadable to unauthorized users.

Recommended Data Encryption Tools:

These tools offer top-level encryption to keep your data secure from prying eyes.

2. Secure Payment Systems

Your payment system is a prime target for hackers, so you need to ensure it’s secure from end to end.

Recommended Secure Payment Platforms:

These options offer robust security features, including encryption, fraud detection, and PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliance.

3. Cybersecurity-Focused Event Platforms

Many event platforms today offer robust security features that go beyond just organizing schedules and ticketing.

Recommended Cybersecurity-Focused Event Platforms Platforms:

These platforms provide encryption, secure login protocols, and customizable permissions, helping you protect your attendee data at every step.

4. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

If you’re hosting virtual events or accessing event data on the go, a VPN is crucial.

VPNs encrypt your internet connection, keeping you and your attendees safe from data breaches when using public Wi-Fi or accessing sensitive information remotely.

Recommended Virtual Private Networks Tools:

5. Risk Management Software

Risk management is essential for cybersecurity.

These tools allow you to conduct risk assessments, track vulnerabilities, and ensure your event complies with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.

Recommended Risk Management Software Platforms:

They help you anticipate and address potential threats before they become real problems.

6. Incident Response Tools

Even with the best security measures in place, incidents can happen.

Incident response tools help detect, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats in real time.

Recommended Incident Response Tools:

They allow you to quickly neutralize attacks and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

Be Over-Prepared, Not Under Attack

Cybersecurity may seem like a complex beast, but with the right tools in your event planning arsenal, you can stay one step ahead of potential threats.

Just as you prepare for every on-site emergency, having a cybersecurity plan in place is essential to: