Positive Hack Days 2025 will spotlight the expanding role of technology in daily life

The international cybersecurity festival Positive Hack Days (PHDays Fest) opened in Moscow on Thursday, bringing together government officials, tech executives, and cybersecurity professionals for one of Russia's largest events focused on information security.

The three-day forum is being held at the Luzhniki Olympic Complex, with organizers expecting more than 250,000 attendees and guests to participate. Delegations from over 40 countries across Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia are taking part.

Now in its third year as a large-scale public event, PHDays 2025 will focus on the growing role of technology in daily life. The program features more than 500 speakers, including top Russian officials and senior figures from domestic tech and infrastructure firms.

"This year, we've packed our program with exciting stuff for everyone, from budding enthusiasts to seasoned pros," said Victoria Alekseeva, Chief Marketing Officer at Positive Technologies and General Producer of PHDays Fest.

"Attendees will get the inside scoop on the tech that surrounds us and explore exciting cybersecurity career paths," she added.

Technical sessions will cover open-source innovation, blockchain, and the role of artificial intelligence in combating cyber threats. The festival also features a public zone with interactive installations, where visitors can explore smart devices and learn how to use them securely. A closed-door business conference is being held in parallel for industry leaders and government officials.

Among the highlights is Standoff 15, an international cyberbattle where teams from 15 countries - including France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Serbia, Vietnam, Tunisia, Oman, and the UAE - will compete for a five million-ruble (over $63,000) prize. Participants will simulate real-time cyberattacks and defenses across key sectors such as energy, oil and gas, banking, aviation, logistics, and urban infrastructure.

Last year's PHDays Fest drew over 380,000 attendees and viewers worldwide, according to organizers.