Michael Calce

At just 15 years old, Michael Calce, better known by his hacker alias "Mafiaboy," captured the world's attention in February 2000 when he orchestrated one of the most sophisticated cyberattacks in history. His attacks crippled major websites, including Yahoo!, eBay, CNN, and Amazon, sending shockwaves through the internet and marking the dawn of a new era in cybersecurity. The gravity of his actions was so significant that it prompted then-President Bill Clinton to convene the first-ever cybersecurity summit. Calce's hack remains one of the most high-profile and impactful incidents in the history of the internet.

Years after his arrest, Calce sought redemption by shifting his focus toward education and advocacy in the cybersecurity space. In his book "Mafiaboy: How I Cracked the Internet and Why It's Still Broken," he reflects on his hacking days and highlights the vulnerabilities that still exist in today’s online world. The book not only earned him critical acclaim but also secured the prestigious Arthur Ellis Award. Through this platform, Calce has used his past to guide others on the threats that continue to evolve in the digital age.

Building on his experiences, Calce founded his own cybersecurity firm, advising some of the world's largest companies. He has worked with numerous Fortune 50 corporations and collaborated with global leaders to strengthen their cyber defenses. Calce also served as the chairman of HP's Security Advisory Board for over five years, and his collaboration with HP led to the production of a short documentary, which was awarded the Golden Lion at the Cannes Film Festival—a testament to the impact of his ongoing work in the field.

In addition to his consulting efforts, Calce has become a sought-after keynote speaker, leveraging his unique story and expertise to deliver over 200 keynote addresses around the world. His talks are known for being both gripping and informative, as he combines his deep technical knowledge with personal anecdotes to engage and educate audiences on the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.