A brief dive into general cyber security awareness:

What kind of hackers exist, what do they do and what is so interesting about your company as a target? In today's digital age, universities face significant cybersecurity challenges. Why? Because they're rich in sensitive information— student records, cutting-edge research, and valuable intellectual property. This makes them prime targets for cybercriminals looking to make a profit, hacktivists pushing political agendas, or even state-sponsored entities
seeking strategic advantages.

So, how do education and research organsiations stay ahead? Christo will talk about the value of threat modelling. It's a strategic approach to identify and tackle cybersecurity risks specific to each institution.

First up, identify what matters most—student data, research projects, administrative systems. Then, think about what could go wrong—phishing attacks, malware infections, insider threats. Assess where the weak spots are—network vulnerabilities, outdated software, maybe even gaps in security policies.

The key is prioritising. Not all risks are equal. Focus on the ones most likely to happen and with the biggest impact. By doing this, organisations can beef up their defenses, allocate resources smartly, and create a safer digital environment for everyone involved.

In essence, cybersecurity isn't just about IT - it's,about protecting the core of what makes educational institutes tick: their knowledge, their research, and their reputation. By understanding the motivations of hackers and using proactive measures like threat modeling, organisations can not only safeguard their intellectual assets but also uphold their commitment to academic excellence and student welfare in today's digital landscape.