Togo Press Officials Trained on Cybercrime Threats

A seminar on digital threats and cybercrime was held in Lomé, Togo, on November 6, for press officials and staff of the High Authority for the Regulation of Written, Audiovisual, and Online Communication (HARC). The event, organized by HARC, focused on "Cybercrime and Gender: Women Facing New Forms of Digital Threats." The goal was to educate participants on best practices to protect themselves against digital threats.

The seminar was led by Dr. Nagbandjoa Dounwourgue, head of communication and public relations at the National Cybersecurity Agency (ANCy), and Fabiola Koudam, project analyst. They defined cybercrime as offenses committed through cyberspace using unconventional means. The speakers discussed various digital threats, including system threats like hacking, personal threats such as harassment and blackmail, and cyberviolence against women.

Despite the opportunities offered by digital technology for women, it also presents numerous risks, including cyber threats, security breaches, and privacy violations. Dr. Dounwourgue and Koudam highlighted various forms of threats, such as phishing, fake links, and mobile money fraud. They provided tools to recognize these threats and advised on how to protect against them, including being vigilant, regularly updating digital devices, using strong passwords, and protecting personal data.

The speakers also recommended that institutions and newsrooms separate accounts, establish emergency protocols, support victims, and regularly sensitize staff. They emphasized not responding to or giving in to threats. Aminata Adrou, representative of the HARC president, noted that with the expansion of social networks, cybercrime has become a mass phenomenon, primarily targeting women.

Adrou stressed that HARC aimed to deepen participants' knowledge of cybercrime and equip them with necessary tools to face threats. She emphasized that cybersecurity is a matter of individual awareness and collective responsibility. The seminar aimed to raise awareness and provide press officials with the knowledge to protect themselves and their institutions from digital threats.

The training session provided participants with practical advice on how to mitigate cyber threats. They learned about the importance of digital security and the role they can play in preventing cybercrime. By acquiring this knowledge, press officials can better protect themselves and their institutions from the risks associated with digital technology.

The event demonstrated HARC's commitment to addressing the growing issue of cybercrime in Togo. By organizing such seminars, HARC aims to promote a safer digital environment for press officials and the general public. The training session was a step towards empowering press officials to effectively deal with cyber threats and promote a culture of digital security.

Key points

• Togo press officials receive training on cybercrime threats and digital security best practices.