Cyberattacks are currently the fastest-growing form of crime worldwide. The staggering statistics have underscored the urgent need for cybersecurity training, and CYBERCOR has positioned itself as the national leader in this field. Officially recognized through a Government Decision on professional development in cybersecurity, CYBERCOR, under UTM’s leadership, is tasked with ensuring national cybersecurity. This includes implementing training programs, conducting cybersecurity exercises, advancing research and innovation in the field, establishing best practices, and forming partnerships with industry leaders.
In support of the European Cybersecurity Month 2024 initiative, CYBERCOR has continued its training efforts for public sector employees, just weeks after its official launch. On October 8, Dinu Țurcanu, UTM’s Vice-Rector for Digitalization and Strategic Coordinator of the National Institute for Cybersecurity Innovation, led a session for 24 public officials. The training focused on addressing cybersecurity challenges and emphasized the critical role of implementing security measures in their professional responsibilities.
Investigative officers from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) of the Republic of Moldova were introduced to the risks posed by the online environment. The training also covered essential requirements for minimizing security incidents and protecting institutional data.
The first part of the training focused on the latest trends in online security, the necessity for creating an effective cybersecurity management system, and defining security policies tailored to institutional needs. As a trainer, Dinu Țurcanu used real-world examples to illustrate the consequences of user ignorance, negligence, or operational errors in the online environment. He consistently stressed the importance of good cyber hygiene practices, from following basic rules for safe email use and secure internet browsing to avoid identity theft, to ensuring proper installation of security software, using licensed systems, and securing mobile devices like tablets and phones to safeguard data and protect the organization from potential threats.
The second part of the training was tailored for investigative officers, focusing on the use of certain tools and software in their professional duties. During this session, Mr. Țurcanu acknowledged the professional contribution of Police Colonel Moisei Vitalie, whose involvement helped facilitate the participation of MAI officers in the Cybercor training program.
The Vice-Rector also extended his appreciation to the development partners, including the Moldova Development Foundation—responsible for implementing the Google grant for Cybercor—and the Future Technologies Project, for their crucial support in organizing this significant and impactful event.
This training is part of a series of sessions planned for 2024 in collaboration with Cybercor, aimed at providing expertise to public and private institutions. The goal is to transfer knowledge that these entities can then implement and use to adopt best practices and solutions in cybersecurity.
It’s important to note that European Cybersecurity Month (ECSM) is an initiative led by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), featuring a variety of events throughout October. In support of this initiative, UTM and CYBERCOR will be hosting several activities to strengthen cybersecurity, including:
– Cybersecurity training sessions for public sector employees, as well as faculty, students, master’s students, and PhD candidates.
– Thematic seminars aimed at raising awareness of cyber threats and incidents.
– Social media campaigns promoting minimum security requirements under the hashtag #ThinkB4UClick.