Palo Alto Networks CEO Apologizes for Sexist Stunt

Palo Alto Networks recently faced significant backlash after it used women with lampshades as "props" at an event in Las Vegas.

The incident has sparked discussions about gender representation and professionalism in the tech industry. This incident led to widespread outrage on social media, with critics drawing comparisons to the outdated practice of using "booth babes" to attract attention at tech events.

The portrayal was seen as objectifying and inappropriate, prompting outrage on social media and within the industry. In response to the criticism, the company's Indian-origin CEO, Nikesh Arora, issued an apology, acknowledging the mistake and expressing regret for the offense caused.

Sean Juroviesky, a Security Architect and Public Speaker, captured and shared a photo of the display, voicing his strong disapproval on LinkedIn. He criticized Palo Alto Networks, questioning, "What the hell Palo Alto Networks, is it 1960? What is this sexist b-----? In case it's not clear those are real human beings, not wax figures."

Olivia Rose, founder and Chief Information Security Officer of RoseCISO Group, also condemned the display, expressing her disappointment on LinkedIn. She criticized both Palo Alto Networks and CyberRisk Collaborative, questioning the message they were sending by using women as props.

Rose wrote, "Shame. Shame. Shame on you, both Palo Alto Networks and CyberRisk Collaborative. So we women are nothing more than props to you? We are only at BlackHat to be lampshade holders?? Are those intended to represent bright ideas inside our heads or just light bulbs? Shame on you. Just shame. Do better. It’s really not that hard."

The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many calling for more responsible and respectful representation of women in the tech industry.