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Part 2: Experts Share The Importance Of Teaching Young People Cybersecurity And AI

The World Economic Forum has identified that 95% of data breaches in 2024 were attributed to human error. This highlights the need for comprehensive education in online safety, as software and systems alone are insufficient for ensuring digital security.…

JBy John MasonOct 22, 20254 min read

The World Economic Forum has identified that 95% of data breaches in 2024 were attributed to human error. This highlights the need for comprehensive education in online safety, as software and systems alone are insufficient for ensuring digital security. Educating individuals on safe data handling practices can prevent costly errors.

Experts advocate for early cybersecurity and technology education, suggesting that children should be trained to regard online environments with the same caution as physical spaces. The UK's National Cyber Security Centre's CyberFirst initiative exemplifies this approach by teaching students from age 11 how to safeguard their online activities and understand data collection processes.

Addressing cybercrime is essential due to its impact on young individuals. A study by McAfee indicated that 48% of UK children have experienced online harassment, with significant exposure to scams and fake content. Digital safety education provides tools to protect against these threats before they escalate.

The demand for cybersecurity professionals is projected to increase by 33% from 2023 to 2033. However, there is a significant gap between the availability of qualified professionals and the needs of the industry. The global shortage of skilled cybersecurity personnel is rising faster than the supply, affecting both governmental and business sectors. Enhancing cybersecurity education in schools could help fill future positions and reinforce online defenses globally.

Building cybersecurity awareness across all professions is vital, as safe digital practices are required in every industry. Early education fosters a workforce that integrates cybersecurity into everyday responsibilities.

Pair tools with talks: Combine parental controls with open discussions about harmful content and online threats. Teach “trust but verify”: Encourage children to check sources and seek help when in doubt. Discuss oversharing risks: Advise against sharing personal information and emphasize strong password practices and two-factor authentication. Establish a family tech contract: Set clear boundaries on screen time and online behavior, revisiting as children grow. Secure devices: Keep devices updated with the latest security settings and AI-powered scam protection.

Expert Insights on Cybersecurity and AI Education

Barbara Donatien, Manager of Attest Services, BARR Advisory

Barbara Donatien emphasizes the importance of teaching young people about cybersecurity and AI. She notes that the sophistication of threats like phishing and identity theft necessitates awareness to protect personal information and navigate the internet safely. AI literacy is crucial as it impacts various aspects of daily life, and understanding it is no longer reserved for specialists.

Karen Aronian, EdD, Education Design & Parenting Expert, Aronian Education Design LLC

Karen Aronian stresses the prioritization of cybersecurity and AI education, asserting that the current generation must be prepared to navigate a technology-driven world. She advocates for equipping young individuals with essential cyber skills to manage the challenges posed by AI advancements.

The World Economic Forum has identified that 95% of data breaches in 2024 were attributed to human error.
John Mason · Thehackingpost

Marcus Pierre, Executive Director, Digital Defenders Inc.

Marcus Pierre highlights the need for technology education to include cybersecurity and AI literacy. He argues that bridging the gap between use and understanding empowers individuals to innovate responsibly in a digital world.

Megan Kearns, Programme Director, picoCTF, Carnegie Mellon University

Megan Kearns explains that teaching cybersecurity fosters critical thinking rather than creating hackers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding system vulnerabilities and instilling digital citizenship in future generations.

Hanan Hibshi, Lead Research Investigator, picoCTF

Hanan Hibshi advocates for early education on cybersecurity and AI. She notes the significance of teaching younger generations to assess technology reliability and apply human judgment, ensuring responsible use of powerful tools.

Anne Cutler, Cybersecurity Expert, Keeper Security

Anne Cutler underscores the importance of cybersecurity education for digital natives. She emphasizes the need to equip young people with knowledge and confidence to navigate technology safely.

Sam Whitaker, VP of Social Impact and Strategic Initiatives, StudyFetch

Sam Whitaker highlights the urgency of teaching cybersecurity and AI fundamentals. He warns of the real dangers young people face without these skills and calls for comprehensive educational solutions.

Ash Allen, PhD Researcher, University of Hertfordshire

Ash Allen emphasizes the necessity of teaching cybersecurity and AI skills to young people, given their extensive online presence. He advocates for fostering skepticism towards online content to navigate digital environments safely.

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Zahra Timsah, Co-Founder and CEO, i-GENTIC AI

Zahra Timsah stresses the importance of understanding technological boundaries and governance principles. She argues that early education in cybersecurity and AI promotes public trust and sustainable innovation.

Dmitry Khritankov, Product Director, ChatOn

Dmitry Khritankov highlights the rapid adoption of AI among youth and the associated risks. He advocates for teaching cybersecurity and AI literacy to foster critical thinking and online safety.

Gleb Tkatchouk, Product Director, ARTA by AIBY

Gleb Tkatchouk emphasizes the need for responsible AI education, highlighting the importance of evaluating trustworthy tools and ensuring digital responsibility.

Ashish H Thakkar, Founder, Jimmy Thakkar

Ashish H Thakkar warns of the rising cybercrime associated with AI advancements and stresses the importance of cybersecurity education to safeguard digital domains.

Thomas Berndorfer, CEO, Connecting Software and Cybersecurity Ambassador, SME Connect

Thomas Berndorfer highlights the role of cybersecurity skills in employment, noting that AI literacy is essential for leveraging technological innovations and identifying misinformation.

Trevor Horwitz, CISO and Founder, TrustNet

Trevor Horwitz emphasizes the critical nature of cybersecurity and AI education, advocating for equipping young people with the tools to make smart, ethical choices in a digital world.

Based on reporting by techround.co.uk.

AI transparency. This article was produced with the assistance of artificial intelligence and published under human editorial oversight. AI systems can make mistakes. Read how we use AI (EU AI Act, Art. 50).
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