Month 3 – Cyber Threats & Security Awareness

 

Month 3 – Cyber Threats & Security Awareness

TopicWhat I Will DiscussToolWhat We Use the Tool ForPracticalTheory AssessmentPractical Assessment
MalwareWhat malware is, types, how it spreads, and its impact.Microsoft DefenderTo detect and remove malware.Run a malware scan on a lab computer.Define malware and list its common types.Perform a malware scan and explain the results.
Computer VirusHow viruses infect systems, signs of infection, prevention.VirusTotalTo check whether a file is flagged as malicious by multiple security vendors.Analyze a sample file using VirusTotal.Explain how viruses spread.Interpret a VirusTotal scan report.
Computer WormHow worms spread automatically over networks and how they differ from viruses.Web BrowserTo research historical cyber incidents.Research the WannaCry worm and summarize its impact.Compare worms and viruses.Present findings on a famous worm outbreak.
Trojan HorseHow Trojans disguise themselves as legitimate software and how to avoid them.Microsoft DefenderTo detect suspicious software.Scan a downloaded sample file in a safe lab.Explain how Trojans deceive users.Identify warning signs of a Trojan infection.
SpywareHow spyware collects information, privacy risks, and prevention.MalwarebytesTo detect and remove spyware.Run a spyware scan on a practice machine.Define spyware and explain its risks.Detect and remove spyware in the lab.
RansomwareHow ransomware encrypts files, common infection methods, prevention, and recovery.Windows BackupTo back up and restore important files.Back up files and practice restoring them.Explain how ransomware works.Restore files from a backup.
PhishingFake emails, SMS messages, fake websites, warning signs, prevention.Web BrowserTo identify phishing attempts.Examine sample emails and identify phishing indicators.Define phishing and list common signs.Correctly identify phishing emails.
Social EngineeringPsychological manipulation, impersonation, urgency, trust exploitation.Web BrowserTo study real-world attack scenarios.Analyze common social engineering examples.Explain different social engineering techniques.Identify the attack method used in sample scenarios.
Password SecurityStrong passwords, password managers, password reuse, best practices.KeePassXCTo securely generate and store passwords.Create strong passwords and save them in a password manager.Explain password best practices.Create a secure password vault.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)Types of MFA, why it is important, how it protects accounts.Google Authenticator or Microsoft AuthenticatorTo provide an extra layer of account security.Enable MFA on a practice account.Explain the benefits of MFA.Successfully configure and test MFA.

End-of-Month Project

Project Title

Cybersecurity Awareness Program

Objectives

  • Create cybersecurity awareness materials covering:

    • Malware

    • Phishing

    • Password Security

    • Multi-Factor Authentication

    • Safe Internet Practices

  • Deliver a short awareness presentation.

Tools

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

  • Microsoft Word

  • Canva (optional)

Real-Life Projects

Project 1

Cybersecurity Awareness Session

  • Prepare and deliver a 10–15 minute cybersecurity awareness session for your family, school, workplace, or community group.

  • Include practical advice on avoiding phishing, creating strong passwords, and enabling MFA.

Project 2

Home Security Check

  • Review your own devices or those of a family member (with permission).

  • Check:

    • Antivirus status

    • Operating system updates

    • Firewall status

    • Password strength

    • MFA on important accounts

  • Produce a checklist and recommend improvements.

End-of-Month Assessment

Theory Assessment (30%)

  • 20 Multiple Choice Questions

  • 10 Short Answer Questions

  • Case study on phishing and malware

  • Scenario-based questions

Practical Assessment (40%)

Students must:

  • Run a malware scan.

  • Analyze a file with VirusTotal.

  • Identify phishing emails.

  • Create strong passwords using KeePassXC.

  • Enable MFA on a practice account.

  • Restore files from a backup.

Project Assessment (20%)

  • Quality of awareness materials

  • Accuracy of security recommendations

  • Presentation skills

  • Documentation

Class Participation (10%)

  • Lab participation

  • Homework

  • Group discussions

  • Practical demonstrations

This month equips students with the skills to recognize common cyber threats, strengthen personal and organizational security, and educate others on safe online practices.

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