PLDT and its wireless unit, Smart, signed up Computer Studies and Engineering (CSE) students from Jose Rizal University (JRU) to become cybersecurity champions. As students embrace the digital lifestyle, they are also exposed to different online threats, creating the need to make them cybersmart.
“#CyberSmart is one of PLDT and Smart’s key efforts to raise awareness on cybersecurity. The program empowers individuals and communities to protect themselves from cyber threats by staying informed, being vigilant, and adopting safe online practices,” said Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Group Head of Stakeholder Management at PLDT and Smart.
Through the #CyberSmart program, Rizalians learned how to safely navigate the digital space, secure their personal information, protect their privacy and identify phishing strategies.
“PLDT and Smart advocate the use of technology to empower and create opportunities for collaboration with communities that we serve towards a sustainable future. Having a safe digital space helps the youth maximize their potential,” said Jojit Uy, Center Head and AVP of Customer Development Strategies and Support at Smart.
Elijah Mendoza, Senior Manager of Digital Communications at PLDT and Smart, underscored the need to protect one’s personal information. With data becoming the new oil, cyber criminals are employing creative tactics to lure victims into sharing personal information. Mendoza offered tips on identifying social engineering tactics.
Carl Balagot shared how PLDT and Smart’s Cyber Security Operations Group handle multiple cyber-attacks against the telco group’s digital infrastructure. He also said that a culture of cybersecurity empowers all members of an organization to flag cyber threats and allows the company to address these risks immediately before they disrupt operations.
Rouselle Ann C. De Leon, Education and Training Executive on Privacy Education and Assessments, together with Dinjo Constantino, Learning and Communications Executive, both from PLDT Data Privacy Office warned Rizalians against sharing too much information publicly.
“At JRU, our goal is to provide our students with the information and abilities they need to prosper in the rapidly changing digital environment. We aim not only to explore the vast career opportunities in cybersecurity but also to delve into the ethical considerations that accompany this rapidly advancing field,” said Engr. Liza Reyes, Dean of JRU’s College of Computer Studies and Engineering.
The efforts of PLDT and Smart to share CyberSmart tips are rooted in their customer-centric culture where they aim to elevate the quality of customer experience by protecting them from threats and cyber-attacks. Aside from promoting the CyberSmart culture, PLDT and Smart also relentlessly keep customers secure from cyber-attacks by preventing attempts to open malicious domains, and blacklisting malicious URLs and links tied to phishing, spams, hoaxes and other illegal activities.
