Murray State University’s Cybersecurity Program and School of Engineering will hold a free event called CyberShield Community Outreach on April 16 at the Curris Center Theater. The event, scheduled from 9 to 11:30 a.m., aims to help senior citizens and other community members understand online risks and learn ways to protect themselves from scams, identity theft, and digital fraud.
The program includes a keynote speech by Ed “Doc” Holliday, DMD, author of Crypto Conned: A $200,000 Valentine’s Day Nightmare. Holliday will discuss his experience as a victim of a cryptocurrency scam and share advice on safeguarding financial and personal information.
Attendees will also receive information about how common scams operate and how to spot warning signs. Faculty members and cybersecurity students from Murray State will be present to answer questions and offer guidance on safe internet practices.
Dr. Faris Sahawneh, faculty member in the Cybersecurity and Network Management program at Murray State University, said: “Americans reported losing more than about $12.5 billion to fraud and scams in 2024, according to data from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). That’s a 25% increase from the previous year, showing how quickly scams are growing. Cybercrime increasingly targets everyday people, especially older adults who may not have grown up with digital technology. Our goal is to equip community members with simple knowledge and practical habits that can prevent financial loss and identity theft.”
The event starts with coffee and donuts at 9 a.m., followed by welcome remarks, the keynote address, and a question-and-answer session. It is open to the public at no cost.
Reservations can be made by calling 270-809-3392 or emailing membry10@murraystate.edu.
CyberShield Community Outreach is part of Murray State’s efforts to promote community engagement and digital safety education in western Kentucky.
For further details about the event, contact Dr. Faris Sahawneh at fsahawneh@murraystate.edu or call 270-809-3903.
