October Observed as Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Riphah International University Organizes Awareness Seminar in Islamabad
*Islamabad, October 29, 2026:* Recognizing October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Faculty of Computing and Cyber Infinity Society at Riphah International University, Gulberg Green Campus, Islamabad, jointly organized a *Cybersecurity Awareness Seminar* on October 28, 2026. The seminar aimed to highlight the growing importance of cybersecurity in everyday life, raise awareness about online financial scams and cyber threats, and promote responsible digital practices among students and the wider community.
The event was organized under the coordination of *Dr. Tahira Nazir and her team* and brought together distinguished professionals and academic representatives to discuss contemporary cybersecurity challenges, practical solutions, emerging technologies, and future career opportunities in the field.
*Mr. Ammar Jafery, former Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and Chairman of PISA*, attended the seminar as the chief guest. In his address, he emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer confined to technical experts or specialized organizations; rather, it has become an essential component of everyday life. Drawing on real-world scenarios, he discussed the various ways individuals can become victims of online fraud, financial scams, and deceptive practices used by cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting people.
Mr. Jafery stressed the importance of vigilance while using digital platforms, safeguarding personal and financial information, and adopting responsible online habits. He highlighted that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility and encouraged every cybersecurity professional and team member to educate people within their communities about safe digital practices. He further proposed that *October 2026 to October 2027 be observed as a full year dedicated to cybersecurity awareness*, emphasizing the need for sustained public engagement and collective efforts to spread cybersecurity awareness across communities and around the globe.
*Mr. Salman Akram, associated with the United Nations Disarmament and International Security Committee (UN DISEC),* also joined the seminar and discussed real-time cybersecurity projects and their practical impact. His contribution highlighted the importance of translating cybersecurity knowledge into meaningful initiatives that address real-world challenges and strengthen digital security.
Speaking on cybersecurity in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), *Syed Hassaan Ali Shah, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Computing, Riphah International University*, highlighted the growing relationship between AI and cybersecurity. He emphasized the importance of reliable datasets, appropriate data preparation, effective model training, and the responsible use of AI in academic and research environments. He also underscored the need to consider ethical principles, data integrity, and security implications when developing and deploying AI-based systems.
*Dr. Jawaid Iqbal, In-charge of Cybersecurity, Faculty of Computing, Riphah International University*, discussed the future prospects and career opportunities available in the cybersecurity domain. He highlighted the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals and emphasized the importance of technical expertise, practical experience, continuous learning, and professional development in preparing students for emerging opportunities in the field.
The seminar provided students with an opportunity to engage with cybersecurity experts, understand the risks associated with online activities, and explore the evolving relationship between cybersecurity and emerging technologies. The discussions reinforced the importance of public awareness, responsible digital citizenship, and collaboration among academic institutions, cybersecurity professionals, and the wider community.
The joint initiative by the *Faculty of Computing and Cyber Infinity Society at Riphah International University* reflects their commitment to promoting cybersecurity awareness, encouraging responsible technology use, and preparing students to address the security challenges of an increasingly interconnected digital world.