Francisca Afua Opoku-Boateng, PhD, (she/her) is a Senior Cyber Consultant at Ernst & Young, specializing in cyber-threat management and operational technology. She holds a PhD in Cyber Defense. Prior to joining EY, she served as an Assistant Professor of Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Principles. Opoku-Boateng’s extensive research portfolio encompasses areas such as dark web and open-source intelligence (OSINT) investigations, cyber awareness, black girls in STEM, and cyber-threat intelligence. Dr. Opoku-Boateng actively contributes to underrepresented communities, including mentorship, ambassadorship, and participation as a speaker and presenter at numerous events. She also serves as a committee and board member, showcasing her dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity.
Opoku-Boateng will combine her passion for OSINT with her expertise in cyber forensics investigation to examine the intersection between these domains, particularly in relation to privacy considerations. Opoku-Boateng’s research aims to provide valuable insights into the ethical utilization of OSINT in investigations, addressing its impact on individuals’ rights to privacy and contributing to the education of investigators in this rapidly evolving field.