As AI-driven social engineering tactics grow more sophisticated, the human mind remains a primary attack surface. Traditional security awareness approaches are not sufficient, what’s needed is more cognitive flexibility and meta-awareness: the ability to recognise and regulate one's own cognitive and emotional states in real time.
In this session, Anna introduces the concept of digital mindfulness to enhance human resilience against manipulation. Drawing on her research and real-world examples, she explores how digital mindfulness techniques can improve attentional control, reduce impulsivity, and strengthen overall cyber hygiene.
Topics include:
Participants will gain actionable insights into integrating cognitive training into cybersecurity awareness strategies.
Anna Collard is the SVP of Content Strategy & Evangelist for KnowBe4 Africa where she drives security awareness across the African continent. Collard founded Popcorn Training, which was acquired by KnowBe4 in 2018. Anna holds a Master of Science in Cyber Psychology (University of Applied Sciences Vienna) and is a PhD Candidate at Nelson Mandela University. Anna is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council Cybersecurity and a founding board member of the MiDO Cyber Academy, aimed at underserved youth in South Africa.
Anna featured in the Top 20 Global Cybersecurity Women of 2024, won the Global Cybersecurity Women of the Year Award 2023 in the People’s Choice Category and won the top Female Tech Entrepreneur 2025 by Wired4Women and ITWeb in South Africa. Anna holds various cybersecurity certifications such as CISSP, CISA, ISO27k implementer and lead auditor and is a frequent speaker.
