Media Advisory: Teens to battle virtual computer attack at UB cyber summer camp

BUFFALO, N.Y. – The University at Buffalo has partnered with the National Security Agency, the National Science Foundation and others this week to host a cybersecurity workshop for teenagers.

Below are the details.

What: University at Buffalo GenCyber Camp 2015, a weeklong cybersecurity summer workshop for children 13-17. Each day, students will participate in hands-on activities to learn about a wide range of computer security topics. These activities prepare students for the final day of camp, when they will defend the UB GenCyber network from a simulated cyberattack. Students who complete the camp will receive a certificate of achievement.

Who: The event is presented by the UB School of Management, the UB School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the UB Center of Excellence in Information Systems Assurance Research and Education (CEISARE), with sponsorship from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Security Agency (NSA) and Time Warner Cable.

Why: Businesses continue to struggle with how to handle information security threats. From big national corporations like Target and Home Depot, to local businesses like Holiday Valley Resort, cyberthieves rip through all the barriers the information security industry puts up.

With these cyberthreats on the rise, there is an urgent need for professionals with the technical and managerial skills to protect national and business interests. The goal of UB GenCyber Camp is to help meet this escalating demand by introducing bright young students to the subject of cybersecurity and encouraging them to pursue career opportunities in the burgeoning field.

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 6-10 (detailed schedule below)

Where: UB North Campus

Details and Photo Opportunities:

July 8

9-11:15 a.m.

• Students build computer networks using credit-card sized Raspberry Pi computers. (214 Jacobs Management Center)

11:30-12:30 p.m.

• Mimes perform to teach students computer security concepts. (101 Davis Hall)

July 10

11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

• Students work on computers to battle simulated cyberattack. (201 Capen Hall)

2:30-3 p.m.

• Student awards presentation. (102 Alfiero Center)

David Murray, associate professor of management science and systems in the UB School of Management, will be available for interview at the camp.

GenCyber is funded by the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation.