News

Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of staying safe online and protecting our personal data, contributing to a more secure digital environment. Since 2004, this global initiative has educated individuals and organizations on ethical digital practices and the protection of their online assets. This year, academic networks across the Americas are joining forces to provide training on relevant cybersecurity topics from the beginning of October through the end of the year.

Although celebrated in October, for RedCLARA and its partners, cybersecurity doesn’t end with the month. Data protection is an ongoing commitment. That’s why this year, CANARIE, the Canadian academic network; Internet2, its North American counterpart; LAC4, the regional cybersecurity hub; and RedCLARA are going further by hosting the webinar series CyberBridges: Connecting the Americas for a Safer Research Future from October to December. The series highlights cybersecurity across America and provides participants with fresh perspectives on this crucial area in Latin America.

The webinars will take place on October 7 with RedCLARA, October 21 with LAC4, November 4 with Internet2, and will close on December 2 with CANARIE. All sessions will begin at 1:00 PM EST and will offer simultaneous translation in Spanish, English, French, and Portuguese to facilitate international participation.

Cybersecurity is not just about technology—it’s about collaboration, trust, and innovation. Each webinar will address key advances, challenges, and opportunities for research and education communities in the region.

Participation is free. Interested individuals must complete the registration form as it becomes available. To join the first session on October 7: Register here.

According to the 2024 Oh Behave! report by the National Cybersecurity Alliance, 84% of people consider online security a priority, but only 38% use unique passwords for all their accounts. About one-third started using a password manager after receiving cybersecurity training, 79% are aware of multi-factor authentication, and 69% feel confident in identifying phishing attempts.

These figures show that while digital security awareness continues to grow, there are still opportunities to improve online habits. Initiatives like the CyberBridges webinar series help strengthen good practices, share knowledge, and build a safer digital environment—not just during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, but throughout the entire year.