Istanbul Gelisim University Pioneered Cybersecurity Awareness as Part of TUBITAK Science Talks

As part of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TUBITAK) Science Talks program, the event titled "Ways to Stay Safe in the Digital World," organized in collaboration by Istanbul Gelisim University's Cybersecurity Application and Research Center (IGU SGUAM) and Bilim Zeytinburnu, was held on February 14, 2026, at the Zeytinburnu Culture and Arts Center to a large audience. As part of the program, Istanbul Gelisim University Department of Cybersecurity Chair Assoc. Prof. Serkan Gönen came together with participants and delivered a comprehensive presentation.

Current and Practical Knowledge Against Digital Threats

The event addressed in detail the growing cyber threats accompanying the integration of digital technologies into everyday life, as well as the individual and institutional measures that can be taken against them. Participants were provided with up-to-date, practical information on topics including methods for creating strong passwords, two-factor authentication systems, awareness against social engineering attacks, personal data security, and safe internet use.
The presentation also covered, through real-world case examples, the risks that may be encountered in social media use, how to detect phishing attacks, methods for protecting against malware, and key strategies for ensuring digital identity security. Assessments regarding the impact of artificial intelligence and next-generation technologies on cybersecurity, as well as risks that may emerge in the future, were also shared with participants throughout the event.

Strong Interest in Cybersecurity Among Young People

Held in an interactive talk format, the event gave participants the opportunity to direct their questions to IGU Department of Cybersecurity Chair Assoc. Prof. Serkan Gönen. Participants from a wide range of age groups, particularly young people and students, gained valuable insights into the risks they may encounter in the digital world and the precautions they can take against them.
Assoc. Prof. Serkan Gönen emphasized that raising cybersecurity awareness in society is of great importance, and stated that this collaboration under the TUBITAK Science Talks program makes a valuable contribution to bringing scientific knowledge to the public.
The event concluded successfully to enthusiastic participation and positive feedback from attendees, once again powerfully affirming Istanbul Gelisim University's mission of sharing its academic expertise in cybersecurity with the wider community.