In an effort to combat the rising frequency of cyberattacks, Google.org has partnered with the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki to launch a new cybersecurity seminar program.
The initiative addresses the alarming statistic that a major cyberattack occurs every 39 seconds, impacting sectors like cloud storage, online marketplaces, and smart home devices.
Professor Andreas Simeonidis from Aristotle University shared data highlighting the global economic impact of cybercrime, which costs an estimated $8.15 trillion and could exceed $13 trillion by 2028. With funding of $1 million from Google.org, the seminar will equip students from Thessaloniki's universities with essential cybersecurity skills.
The comprehensive program targets five critical areas, such as cloud computing vulnerabilities and threats posed by the growing Internet of Things (IoT). Courses will cover the basics of data privacy and AI's dual role in enhancing and undermining cybersecurity.
The seminar series, set to begin on December 6, aims to fill a 350,000-position cybersecurity gap in Europe, including 20,000 in Greece by 2026. It offers students free training and the prospect of paid internships, focusing on practical solutions to real-world issues.
Aristotle University's involvement reflects its commitment to advanced technology education, bolstered by Google's trust and collaborative support from the international academic community. The program is expected to have a significant impact, fostering a new generation of cybersecurity experts ready to defend against cyber threats.