Cybersecurity Fundamentals & Awareness

Objectives:

• Provide foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts.
• Foster awareness of common threats and best practices.
• Prepare beginners for further specialized training.

Curriculum:

• Basic Security Principles
• Common Cyber Threats (Phishing, Malware)
• Password & Authentication Security
• Data Privacy Fundamentals
• Safe Internet/Email Practices
• Security Policies & Social Engineering
• Security Incident Basics
• Importance of End-User Vigilance

12-Week Cybersecurity Fundamentals & Awareness Curriculum

Week 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity Principles

Begin with an overview of cybersecurity, emphasizing its importance in protecting assets, information, and reputation. Cover core principles like

confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA triad), along with the basic concepts of risk management and defense-in-depth strategies.

Week 2: Understanding Common Cyber Threats

Introduce prevalent threats such as phishing, malware, ransomware, and denial-of-service attacks. Use real-world examples to illustrate how these threats operate, their impact, and how attackers exploit vulnerabilities.

Week 3: Password & Authentication Security

Teach best practices for creating strong, unique passwords, and emphasize multi-factor authentication (MFA). Conduct password strength

testing exercises to demonstrate vulnerabilities of weak passwords and importance of password hygiene.

Week 4: Data Privacy Fundamentals

Explain data privacy concepts, including the importance of protecting personal and sensitive data, privacy laws (like GDPR), and organizational

policies for data handling. Highlight the significance of data classification and encryption basics.

Week 5: Safe Internet & Email Practices

Cover safe browsing habits, recognizing malicious websites, and avoiding unsafe downloads. Demonstrate how to identify suspicious emails,

including signs of phishing, and practice safe email handling.

Week 6: Security Policies & Social Engineering Awareness Review organizational security policies, emphasizing adherence and reporting procedures. Discuss social engineering tactics like pretexting, baiting, and tailgating, and conduct simulated social engineering exercises to reinforce vigilance.

Week 7: Basics of Security Incidents & Reporting

Introduce fundamental incident response concepts, including identifying, escalating, and reporting security incidents. Emphasize the importance of prompt reporting and maintaining security logs.

Week 8: Recognizing & Preventing Phishing Attacks

Focus on identifying phishing attempts, with exercises recognizing fake emails and websites. Conduct phishing email recognition exercises and

discuss procedures for reporting suspected phishing.

Week 9: Mobile & Remote Security Best Practices

Address securing mobile devices, the risks of public Wi-Fi, and safe remote work practices. Demonstrate VPN usage, device encryption, and secure configuration tips.

Week 10: End-User Vigilance & Ongoing Awareness

Highlight the role each user plays in organizational security. Develop personal security habits, such as regular updates, awareness of social engineering tactics, and safeguarding credentials.

Week 11: Interactive Awareness Campaigns & Simulations

Use quizzes, games, and simulated attack scenarios to reinforce learning. Conduct role-playing exercises and awareness campaigns to embed

cybersecurity best practices in daily routines.

Week 12: Final Assessment & Awareness Certification

Conclude with assessments to evaluate understanding, including quizzes and scenario-based questions. Provide certificates or recognition for completing the program, encouraging ongoing vigilance.

Labs/Tools/Simulations:

• Phishing email recognition exercises
• Password strength testing
• Security awareness quizzes
• Simulated social engineering attacks
• Best practice demonstrations

Internships & Projects:

• Awareness campaign planning
• Simulated phishing campaigns
• User training sessions

Certifications:

• Security+ (for beginners)
• Security Awareness Certification

Job Readiness Program:

• Soft skills workshops
• Communication & reporting skills
• Interview prep for entry-level roles