BSides Toronto 2025

Chris McDonald

Chris is a Principal Systems Engineer at Veeam, where he helps organizations strengthen their data resilience and cyber resiliency strategies. With deep expertise in data protection, cloud technologies, and modern IT infrastructure, Chris has guided both commercial and enterprise customers—including senior leadership and C-level executives—through building strategies that safeguard critical data against evolving cyber threats.

Chris brings both technical authority and practical experience to his sessions. His presentations balance thought leadership with actionable insights, empowering audiences to adopt effective data protection strategies that not only meet today’s business needs but also prepare for tomorrow’s challenges.

Driven by a passion for education and enabling organizations to stay one step ahead of cyber criminals, Chris is a trusted voice on topics ranging from backup and recovery to cyber resiliency best practices.


Session

10-05
12:15
25min
Backups, Beaches, and Bad Decisions: Cyber Resiliency Lessons from a Disastrous Family Vacation
Chris McDonald

What do lost luggage, outdated maps, and the "I'M NOT TIRED" nap refusal have to do with cyber resiliency? Everything!

In this session, we’ll explore the most common — and costly — data protection worst practices through the lens of a family vacation gone horribly wrong. Attendees will leave equipped with clear, strategies to avoid their own data disaster stories.

ENG 103