SRU helping protect people from online threats at Cybersecurity Fair, Oct. 28

Slippery Rock University is hosting its annual Cybersecurity Fair, 12:30-1:45 p.m., Oct. 28, in the Smith Student Center Ballroom.

Oct. 20, 2021

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — In recognition of October being National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Slippery Rock University is hosting its annual Cybersecurity Fair, 12:30-1:45 p.m., Oct. 28, in the Smith Student Center Ballroom.

SRU students and local vendors will present cybersecurity topics at various booths. Topics will include mobile device security, malware, home and public Wi-Fi security, passwords, phishing, social media security, wiping storage disc and encryption. The event is free and open to the public.

   JALLOW

"The goal of the fair is to help attendees understand the potential impact a cyberattack can have on individuals and businesses and the steps required to reduce risk and prevent cybercrime from infiltrating their online spaces," said Abdou Jallow, associate professor of health care administration and information systems. "Attendees will learn how to identify, detect, prevent, respond and recover from cyberthreats."

According to Jallow, this year's event is particularly timely because the COVID-19 pandemic increased people's reliance on e-commerce, e-health and other digital services.

"Several topics are of great concern during the pandemic including wireless attacks of remote workers, ransomware and the hacking of video conferences," Jallow said. "It's never been more important to protect one's information and defending against cyberattacks."

In addition to helping attendees recognize the importance of protecting themselves against cyberattacks, the Cybersecurity Fair also helps SRU students put into practice material they learned in their classes related to cybersecurity.

Attendees at the Oct. 28 Cybersecurity Fair will receive a card when they enter that can be validated at each booth they visit. Completed cards can be entered for a chance to win prizes that include various electronics.

For more information about the fair, contact Jallow at abdou.jallow@sru.edu or 724.738.2317.

MEDIA CONTACT: Justin Zackal | 724.738.4854 |  justin.zackal@sru.edu