IUS Cybersecurity Awareness Event with a Twist: Response to Recent Cyberattack Included
The third edition of the IUS Cybersecurity Awareness event, held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, took on greater significance than originally planned. In response to the recent cyberattack on IUS systems and networks, the event was quickly adapted to serve as a platform for educating and empowering participants about the critical importance of cybersecurity, under the hashtag #NextGenSec.
As a higher education institution aware of the growing threat of cyberattacks, IUS is committed to excellence in all aspects of its operations, including the security of its systems and networks. In the wake of the recent breach, the university implemented extensive technological measures to secure its systems and protect its community. The swift response not only prevented more severe damage but also highlighted the fact that cyber threats are closer than many realize. This served as a reminder that, while no system is completely immune to cybercrime, being well-prepared and vigilant can help mitigate the long-term negative impact. In a constantly evolving landscape of cyber threats, it is essential to develop strong security practices to safeguard personal data and ensure secure online interactions.
The event featured a range of distinguished national and international cybersecurity experts, including Mrs. Fernala Sejmen-Banjac, Executive Director of DISTI and President of Women4Cyber for Bosnia and Herzegovina; Mr. Haris Brkanić, Head of Technical Department at MIBO Komunikacije; Ms. Lejla Trokić, Cybersecurity Advisor at Women4Cyber for Bosnia and Herzegovina; Mr. Mirza Muharemspahić, Fortinet Regional Account Manager for Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania; Ms. Ena Vuk, IT System Manager and Information Security Specialist at BH Telecom; Mr. Mirza Bijedić, System Engineer at MIBO Komunikacije; Mr. Giacomo Longo, PhD student at the University of Genoa; and Mr. Hamza Sušić, IUS Master's student and Software Engineer at HTEC
The event included the Cybersecurity for Everyone workshop, along with expert-led panels, which equipped students and staff with essential cybersecurity skills and provided valuable insights into Bosnia and Herzegovina’s cybersecurity landscape. It also marked the announcement of the Fortinet Network Security Academy, the first of its kind in Bosnia and Herzegovina, hosted at IUS. This new initiative aims to bridge academic knowledge with practical, industry-aligned experience.
Special thanks to MIBO Komunikacije, Fortinet, University of Genoa, Women4Cyber Bosnia and Herzegovina, and BH Telecom for their support in making this event a success.
