There have been calls for a more comprehensive and strictly defined code of conduct for BSides Las Vegas, and other events across the country.  While we appreciate the sentiment behind such requests, we believe strict definitions of acceptable behavior only allow instigators and abusers to operate within the letter of the law while still causing a disruption to our participants and event.

We have ZERO TOLERANCE for harassment of any kind, be it physical, verbal, or sexual.

 

We strive to create an environment that encourages the free and open sharing of ideas. We’ve created a home at BSides Las Vegas and have invited you all inside to be inspired and educated. It is impossible to keep the free and open sharing of ideas without risking someone getting their feelings hurt. We don’t expect adult and professional behavior at all times; a little mischief can be fun. We do however, expect you to be respectful of our space and our other invited guests.

 

In the end it is up to us, the organizers of BSides Las Vegas, to define bad behavior. If you are engaging in bad behavior (e.g. heckling or haranguing speakers, or violating the photo policy), you will be given a warning that your behavior is not acceptable. If you continue, you will be asked to leave.

 

Unless, of course, your bad behavior is so egregious that it warrants immediate ejection from the conference. (e.g. initiating a physical altercation or attempting to defraud the conference or the venue.)

 

If someone is engaging with you in a way that makes you afraid or uncomfortable, please inform a member of our Safety Operations team (in the blue BSides Las Vegas shirts) or a staff member (in the purple BSides Las Vegas shirts).

 

We have a special group in Safety Operations who are trained to handle such situations. They have an escalation path and will help you determine the next steps for you to feel safe and ensure your concerns are promptly addressed. This could include any or all of the following: contacting hotel security, local law enforcement, or other emergency services as needed.

TL;DR Do not be an ass or we will kick your ass out, and we’re the final arbitrators of what being an ass means.

Bsides Las Vegas is an open space, where everyone participating should feel free to share their ideas, stories, and any other passion they pursue. With that said, privacy is a big concern in the hacker community, as well as with the public at large, and we need to establish a clear set of boundaries when it comes to balancing privacy and capturing moments.

 

Using your best effort and judgement, please try to ensure you have permission from anyone you photograph or record. This includes, but is not limited to, anyone in the background of your shot. For the record, “crowd shots” from the front (facing the crowd) are strongly discouraged.

 

IN THE UNDERGROUND TRACK, THERE IS TO BE NO PHOTOGRAPHY OR VIDEO RECORDINGS UNLESS PERMISSION IS OBTAINED FROM THE SPEAKER THEMSELVES. THIS EXEMPTION EXCLUDES PHOTOGRAPHY OR VIDEO OF PARTICIPANTS IN THE UNDERGROUND TRACK.

 

If you’ve taken a picture without permission, delete it. If you’re asked by a participant to delete or blur a picture they did not give you permission to take, and you are on BSides Las Vegas property, do so immediately.

 

We require press photographers to adhere to this policy as well. A press badge is not a pass to break these rules and guidelines.

 

Upon a first infraction, you will receive one warning from BSides Las Vegas staff. Upon a second infraction you will be asked to give up your device to BSides Las Vegas Safety Operations for secure storage for the duration of your stay at the event; or you’ll be asked to leave the event with your device – your choice. You may return to the event once you have deposited your device somewhere else.

 

There are official BSides Las Vegas Photographers. They will have professional cameras and staff badges. They are aware of this policy and are not exempt, except in cases where they have been requested to document activities, official parties, or presentations for BSides Las Vegas purposes.

 

If you believe that anyone is breaking these rules please bring it to the attention of BSides Las Vegas Safety Operations or any BSides Las Vegas staff member.

 

AS A REMINDER TO THE MEDIA: THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO PRESS ALLOWED IN THE UNDERGROUND TRACK.

 

Thank you for your cooperation!