A seminar titled “Zero to Secure: Your First 60 Minutes in Cybersecurity” was organized by the SENSE Society of the Department of Software Engineering, Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI).
It was arranged in collaboration with Empowerment Through Learning (ETL) and aimed to equip students with fundamental knowledge and practical insights into the field of cybersecurity.
The session was specially designed for the Batch Fall 2023 students enrolled in the Information Security course to enhance their understanding beyond classroom learning. The successful organization of the event was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Dr. Salma Imtiaz, Head of Department, and Dr. Ummara Zahid, Lecturer, Department of Software Engineering, whose continued support and guidance contributed greatly to the event’s success.
Mr. Zafar Iqbal, Chief Technology Officer and Director at Symtera Technologies Pvt. Ltd., graced the occasion as the guest speaker. A seasoned expert in digital protection and information security, Mr. Iqbal shared his valuable professional experience and guided students on how to take their first crucial steps in the world of cybersecurity.
During his talk, he provided an overview of major cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and preventive strategies, while also emphasizing the importance of awareness against social engineering, phishing attacks, and weak password practices. The session included demonstrations on practical security measures, tips on maintaining cyber hygiene, and safe internet usage. Mr. Iqbal also discussed emerging career opportunities in the cybersecurity sector, encouraging students to pursue the field professionally.
Students actively participated throughout the session and expressed keen interest in learning more about digital safety and protection. The seminar not only provided them with a foundational understanding of cybersecurity but also highlighted the significance of responsible and secure online behavior.