FLO Vadodara, under the leadership of Chairperson Ms. Shivani P. Patel, organized a Cyber Security Awareness Session for students and staff of Dr. Thakorbhai Patel Girl’s Commerce College, Vadodara. The session was conducted by Mr. Mayur Bhusavalkar, cyber & forensic expert, certified fact checker, and threat analyst. He guided the students on essential aspects of cybersecurity, digital hygiene, and safe online practices.
Key Highlights of the Session:
- Introduction to Cybersecurity: A brief history since the 1930s and its growing relevance in today’s digital era.
- Safe Browsing & IP Protection: Risks of clicking unknown links and how compromised IP addresses can be misused.
- Leaked Data Awareness: Demonstration of haveibeenpwned.com to check compromised accounts.
- Safe Browsing Practices: Use of Mobile Kavach 2 app, and opening suspicious links only in Chrome’s Incognito Mode.
- Password Safety:
- Creation of strong passwords (10–15 characters with symbols, numbers, and capitals).
- Avoiding personal details like names or birthdays.
- Importance of password managers and generators.
- WhatsApp & Profile Security: Updates to prevent misuse, avoiding long-term display pictures, and refraining from sharing personal information in bios.
- Social Media Caution: Risks of misleading content and how international checks, such as U.S. visa applications, may include Instagram profiles.
- OSINT Awareness: Introduction to tools like Khoj that track personal details.
- Hidden Threats: Identifying hidden cameras and risks of financial fraud through phone misuse.
- Video Call Safety: Advising students not to reveal their faces first during video calls.
The session was highly interactive, with 778 students actively engaging in discussions and demonstrations. It successfully empowered young minds with practical knowledge to stay safe in the digital world.