London, UK – September 18, 2024 – The ILRGuild Annual Conference 2024, hosted by Google, concluded with resounding success, as over 200 attendees gathered at the OXO Tower Wharf in London from September 15-17 to address the pressing issues of IT security within the literary community. Themed around IT Security, the conference centered on protecting the digital welfare of writers, with a particular focus on the vulnerabilities of indie authors in today’s online publishing world.
The event, which attracted a diverse audience of authors, literary agents, and digital security experts, delivered invaluable insights through a series of panels and workshops aimed at tackling growing concerns over cyber threats targeting authors. Google, as the event’s host, underscored its commitment to supporting the literary world by providing tools and resources to enhance online security for writers.
A Focus on Indie Authors’ Vulnerabilities
Throughout the conference, discussions highlighted the increased risks faced by independent (indie) authors, who often lack the institutional backing and security measures afforded to traditionally published writers. From protecting intellectual property to avoiding online scams, the event offered practical solutions designed to safeguard indie writers from cyber threats.
One session titled “Digital Shield: Protecting Intellectual Property in a Cyber Age” led by Google’s cybersecurity team, demonstrated the latest technologies authors can use to secure their manuscripts and personal data. Another, “Safe Publishing Deals: Spotting Red Flags”, equipped writers with tools to recognize and avoid predatory publishing schemes in the digital space.
Practical Solutions and Key Takeaways
Workshops led by cybersecurity professionals focused on practical tools writers could implement immediately. Attendees received hands-on guidance on setting up secure storage for manuscripts, using encryption to protect communications with editors, and identifying phishing scams targeted at authors. An especially impactful session explored the role of legal support in defending intellectual property rights, with lawyers advising on the best practices for protecting literary works in an increasingly digital world.
ILRGuild’s whistleblower and reporting platform, the ILRGuild Report, was heavily promoted during the event as a tool to help writers report fraudulent activities or scam publishing deals. Participants were encouraged to leverage this platform to support themselves and fellow writers, contributing to a safer and more secure literary ecosystem.
A Strong Partnership with Google
The involvement of Google as the host of this year’s event was particularly significant, showcasing the tech giant’s commitment to protecting writers’ digital assets. As part of its support, Google introduced its suite of security products and services available to authors, including Google Workspace’s enhanced encryption features and Google Cloud’s secure storage solutions.
Building a Safer Literary Future
The ILRGuild Annual Conference 2024 successfully brought together the literary community to address the critical issue of IT security, and with Google’s sponsorship, provided indie authors with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect themselves in the digital world. By the event’s close, attendees left with actionable insights, forming new connections and partnerships that will support their writing careers while ensuring a safer online environment for all.
As the literary world continues to move online, safeguarding the welfare of writers, particularly indie authors, remains a top priority for ILRGuild. The annual conference serves as a testament to this commitment, ensuring that writers are empowered, educated, and protected against cyber threats.