Introduction to Cybersecurity

 

Introduction to Cybersecurity Webinar

On October 11, 2025, I attended an online webinar titled “Introduction to Cybersecurity”, conducted via Zoom from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The session was hosted by Rufino John Aguilar, who focused on raising awareness about cybersecurity and how individuals can protect themselves from common online threats. The webinar covered several key topics, including identifying system vulnerabilities, understanding ransomware, and developing a strong security mindset. One of the most engaging parts of the session was the live demonstration of phishing attacks, which showed how hackers exploit simple mistakes like clicking the wrong link or trusting fake login pages. It was an eye-opening experience that revealed how easily one’s data can be compromised through small lapses in judgment.



Key Learnings

This webinar deepened my understanding that cybersecurity is not only about technology it’s also about human behavior. The speaker emphasized that humans are often the weakest link in any security system, as hackers tend to manipulate people rather than directly attack software. This perspective helped me see how awareness and discipline play crucial roles in protecting information.

The discussion on ransomware, referred to as “the digital hostage crisis,” stood out the most. I learned how ransomware encrypts files until a ransom is paid and how such attacks often succeed due to outdated software, missing backups, or careless actions. The statement that “backups are your ultimate undo button” really stuck with me it reminded me of the importance of keeping data safely backed up and avoiding unknown storage devices. The phishing demonstration also left a strong impression. Watching how a fake Facebook login page could steal credentials made me realize the importance of checking URLs and website security indicators before entering any information online.


Practical Takeaways

After this webinar, I became more conscious of how I interact with the digital world. I now make it a habit to verify the authenticity of websites, avoid downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources, and back up my important files regularly. I also learned to identify signs of social engineering and phishing, such as urgent requests or unusual links that try to provoke quick reactions. These practices are not only essential for my future career in IT but also for my everyday online activities. The session reminded me that cybersecurity starts with awareness
and that simple precautions can make a significant difference in preventing potential threats.


Positive Feedback

The Introduction to Cybersecurity webinar was well-organized and engaging from start to finish. The speaker explained technical topics in a way that was easy to follow, even for beginners. The real-life examples and live demonstrations made the content more relatable and memorable. The pacing of the session was balanced, and the presentation visuals were clear, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Suggestions for Improvement

The webinar was excellent overall, but it could be made even more interactive by including short quizzes or scenario-based activities to test participants’ understanding. Extending the time for an open Q&A session would also allow attendees to raise personal or specific cybersecurity concerns. Despite that, the session successfully provided valuable insights that can be applied in both academic and personal contexts, reinforcing the importance of being responsible and alert in today’s digital environment.

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