1000 school pupils to attend Cyber Security Christmas Lectures

A thousand pupils from Glasgow schools will be warned how careless social media posts could damage their future job prospects, at a lecture hosted by digital experts.

Teenagers from across the city will attend the 2017 Cyber Security Christmas Lectures at Glasgow Caledonian University on 15 December.

The fun and interactive sessions are designed to inspire young people to consider a career in cybersecurity and have the backing of Police Scotland, Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland, SQA, Young Scot, Scottish Enterprise, and Education Scotland.

Featuring six 20 minute presentations, the lecture covers topics such as digital forensics, ethical hacking, and data security, and feature prizes and merchandise.

Gary Ennis, managing director of digital consultancy NSDesign, will be delivering a presentation entitled Anti-Social Media, focussing on the pitfalls of using platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

He said: “Social media is the playground of cyber criminals, and if you aren't aware of the risks and dangers associated with it the results can be devastating. 

“One wrong click is all it takes for your reputation, your employability, and your life to be in digital ruins. The lecture will be fast and furious and will showcase the impact of failing to think before you post.”

The annual Christmas lectures are held across Scotland and the GCU date is part of a tour, which also includes Stornoway, Inverness, Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh.

Jackie Riley, Assistant Head of the Networking and Security suite of degrees at GCU, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Glasgow event.

"It is a fun-filled two hours with messages embedded regarding future careers in security and we are looking forward to welcoming the participants to GCU.”

Dr Martin Beaton, Cyber Security Cluster Co-ordinator for Scotland, added: "The cyber security sector is suffering from a chronic shortage of skilled professionals, which is where our lectures come in. They are fun, engaging and genuinely intend to inspire young people to consider a career in the cybersecurity industry."

This year’s sponsors include SICSA, ID Cybersolutions, Clydesdale Bank, Fanduel, The FDM Group, and Tunnocks.