Cybersecurity Awareness Month Themes
Welcome to Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2026!
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is back this October, and this year’s theme is all about working together: Secure Together: Protecting the Future of Learning.
At SDSU, cybersecurity is a team effort. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or staff, the choices we make every day help protect our people, our data, and the technology that keeps campus moving.
Throughout October, we’ll be sharing fresh tips, interactive events, engaging webinars, and practical resources to help you spot scams, protect your accounts, stay ahead of emerging threats, and build smarter security habits.
Cyber Resources
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SDSU OCTOBER WEBINAR SERIES

What: Go behind the scenes of a cyberattack with experts from Google. This webinar explores how attackers target organizations, how an attack can unfold from initial access to compromise, and the security strategies defenders can use to detect, respond to, and prevent emerging threats.
When: Friday, October 2 at 12:00 PM

What: Join the National Cybersecurity Alliance for an engaging look inside the mindset of today’s scammers. Learn how criminals target their victims, how to recognize common warning signs, practical ways to protect your personal information, and what steps to take if you or someone you know falls victim to a scam.
When: Monday, October 5 at 1:00 PM

What: A fun and interactive trivia game show, where we will test attendees’ knowledge on all things data privacy. Play along, and learn some new information and tips along the way!
When: Friday, October 9 at 9:00 AM

What: Quantum computing is on the horizon—but what does it mean for cybersecurity today? Join experts from Thales for an introduction to Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), the emerging security standards designed to protect data against future quantum threats. Learn why organizations are preparing now and what the transition to quantum-resistant security could mean for the future.
When: Friday, October 9 at 12:00 PM

What: Eric Escobar, a seasoned penetration tester with Sophos, will discuss how AI is changing the way we work, communicate, and interact online -and how scammers are using those same technologies to become more convincing. Join us for a timely conversation on AI-powered phishing, impersonation, deepfakes, and other emerging scams, along with practical strategies to recognize threats, protect your identity, and stay one step ahead.
When: Tuesday, October 13 at 9:30 AM

What: What does it take to protect innovation on a global scale? Join cybersecurity experts from Qualcomm for a look at the challenges of securing cutting-edge technology, intellectual property, and a global workforce. Explore how organizations stay ahead of evolving threats while continuing to innovate in an increasingly connected world.
When: Friday, October 16 at 12:00 PM

What: What does it mean to be ready for an AI-driven workplace? Dr. Vanessa Bourgeois will explore the skills, mindset, and experiences students will need as AI becomes a bigger part of nearly every profession. The discussion will focus on career readiness, adaptability, responsible AI use, and how students can prepare now for a rapidly changing job market.
When: Tuesday, October 20 at 2:00 PM

What: Today’s cyberattacks increasingly target people and their accounts rather than technology alone. Dr. Steven Andres evaluates how modern identity protections - including stronger authentication, smarter access controls, and improved account security - can help protect the campus community against phishing, credential theft, account takeover, and other evolving threats.
When: Wednesday, October 21 at 2:00 PM

What: Thinking about a career in cybersecurity? Join professionals from Deloitte for a conversation about building a career in cyber, lessons learned along the way, and practical tips for breaking into and growing within the field. Gain real-world insights into career paths, skills, and opportunities in today’s evolving cybersecurity industry.
When: Friday, October 23 at 12:00 PM

What: Known worldwide from Netflix's The Tinder Swindler, Ayleen Charlotte offers a powerful look at the psychology behind scams and social engineering. In this riveting fireside chat, Ayleen and the NCA's Lisa Plaggemier will demonstrate how scammers exploit emotion and cognitive biases to influence your behavior. Attendees will learn practical how-tos for reducing their risk, recognizing manipulation, and helping loved ones who are victims or vulnerable.
When: Tuesday, October 27 at 8:00 AM
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Report an Incident
Please contact the Information Security team immediately if you experience or are aware of any of the following:
