In modern conditions of war, digital security is becoming an integral part of the daily life of residents of frontline cities and communities. Using smartphones, instant messengers, and social networks can pose real risks to individuals and the community as a whole. Kherson is particularly vulnerable due to its proximity to the front line and the ongoing activities of enemy special services. Fraudsters exploit war-related topics, and in conditions of martial law, understanding the basics of digital security is already a way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
That is why the Union Foundation held a training on the basics of digital security for active citizens in Kherson.
Residents of frontline cities, particularly Kherson, are in a zone of heightened attention from the enemy. Open digital data - geolocation, photos, posts, participation in chats - can be used for: collecting intelligence, adjusting attacks, exerting pressure, blackmailing, or persecuting active citizens. A separate threat arises from attempts to hack accounts, phishing messages, and fake appeals on behalf of volunteers, journalists, or government representatives.
The participants of the training mastered critically essential skills for protecting their data in the online space. Together with Yurii Antoshchuk, a trainer and consultant on digital security and the implementation of ICT in the activities of public organizations and local communities, head of the Union Foundation, the participants conducted:
- an account security audit;
- analyzed typical schemes of Internet fraudsters;
- checked for compromised data and facts of privacy leaks
- talked about methods of storing important information and the impact of AI on the development of phishing.
This knowledge not only helps individuals but also enhances the community's information resilience, reducing the risk of panic, disinformation, and internal conflicts.
This training was made possible thanks to the support of the European Endowment for Democracy (EED). Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of EED. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in this publication lies entirely with the author(s).
