**CISA Snubs RSA Conference Amid Rumors of Post-Easterly Boycott**

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has announced that it will not be attending the annual RSA Conference in March, sparking rumors of a potential boycott by Trump-era cybersecurity officials.

A CISA spokesperson confirmed the decision to The Register, citing a review of stakeholder engagements to ensure "maximum impact and good stewardship of taxpayer dollars." However, some speculate that the move may be linked to the recent appointment of Jen Easterly as the new CEO of RSAC (formerly RSA Conference), following her tenure as CISA's director under the Biden administration.

Easterly, who graduated from West Point in 1990, was previously targeted by far-right conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer and had her offer to return to the academy rescinded by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. The controversy surrounding her appointment has led some to speculate that Trump-era officials may be boycotting the conference as a form of protest.

NextGov reported that officials in the White House Office of the National Cyber Director, National Security Council, and CISA discussed canceling their appearances at the annual conference in San Francisco. The Register also reached out to the Office of the National Cyber Director and the National Security Council but received no response.

Federal cyber officials have historically been active participants at RSAC, with both Easterly and her predecessor Chris Krebs previously delivering keynotes, speaking on panels, and engaging with the press. In 2024, Easterly and co-organized a Secure by Design pledge that saw nearly 70 tech providers sign on.

However, last year's RSA Conference saw CISA decline press interviews and roundtable discussions, while the National Security Agency (NSA) abruptly canceled its popular State of the Hack panel. The agency's current mission is focused on President Trump's policies for "maximum security for all Americans," according to a spokesperson.

The decision not to attend RSA Conference may signal a shift in CISA's priorities and relationships with industry stakeholders. As Easterly takes the helm at RSAC, questions arise about the impact of her appointment on the agency's participation in major industry events.