WB3C Launches a 1-Year Specialist Training in Digital Forensics  

The Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), in cooperation with the University of Technology of Troyes (UTT), is launching a one-year specialist training program for law enforcement professionals seeking to specialize in cybercrime investigations and digital forensics. Based on the existing N’Tech Investigator Training curriculum used by the French Gendarmerie, this unique programme equips participants with the advanced skills needed to tackle cyber-enabled crimes and digital threats.

Faced with rapidly evolving cyber threats, law enforcement must continually enhance their scientific, technological, legal and language expertise to effectively investigate crimes such as child exploitation, payment fraud and network intrusions. Therefore, this programme is a strategic investment in cyber capacity building, strengthening the ability of law enforcement in the Western Balkans to investigate and prosecute cybercrime cases effectively. Digital forensics is an increasingly in-demand field, as law enforcement agencies and the judiciary rely on skilled professionals to identify, analyze and preserve digital evidence in cybercrime cases.

Key Learning Areas:

• Legal frameworks and cybercrime investigations
• Digital forensic analysis and evidence preservation
• OSINT and CyberPatrol techniques
• Programming, networks and data analytics
• Cybercrime psychology and investigative methodologies
• Information security and electronic signals

The course will bring together 15 police force officers from across the region who will engage in 1400 hours of intensive training, combining theory and hands-on exercises in cybercrime investigations, digital forensics and advanced investigative techniques led by experts and instructors from UTT and WB3C. Participants will take the final exam and receive a recognized qualification at the end of the course.

Training of trainers for senior officials in WB6 Public administrations

Cyber Hygiene for Civil Servants programme is an initiative delivered jointly by WB3C and Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA). This training programme is designed to empower senior-level public officials with the knowledge and skills required to educate their peers about cyber hygiene within their respective public administrations and by cascading knowledge, to enhance the overall cyber resilience of the region.

Course Overview:

The training spans three days and is structured to blend theoretical knowledge with practical exercises:

Day 1: Educational Skills Modules

Focus on outcome-based education, teaching preparation and teaching methods and techniques. This foundational day equips participants with the educational principles necessary to effectively transfer knowledge.

Day 2: Cyber Hygiene for Users

Dives into the objectives and stakes of information security, covering basics of ISO/IEC standards and cybersecurity threat awareness. Participants will explore security policy frameworks and the architecture of information security systems.

Day 3: Practical Application

Participants engage in practical exercises that reinforce their learning and develop hands-on skills in incident management procedures and actions to be taken in response to cyber incidents. This session simulates real-world scenarios to enhance problem-solving skills.

Educational Highlights

Participants will gain insights into educational principles, communication techniques and teaching methodologies.

The programme covers crucial topics in cyber hygiene such as security policies, threat awareness, preventive measures, and incident management procedures. Engaging practical exercises simulate real-world scenarios to enhance participants’ problem-solving skills and application of knowledge in real-life settings.

Training for women in cyber for governance, business and academia

The "Women4Cyber Joint Action Program," hosted by the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Centre (WB3C), is tailored for women from various sectors - government, private, and academia across the Western Balkans. This programme is designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity from political, economic, societal, and technical perspectives. It aims to empower women by highlighting the benefits of diversity in cybersecurity and exploring the essential skills needed in the field.

The course sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics:

•  Cyber Challenges: Understanding the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity issues.
• Benefits of Diversity in Cybersecurity: Discussing how diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving and innovation.
• Cyber Skills Needed: Identifying key competencies and knowledge areas crucial for career advancement in cybersecurity.
• Rethinking Recruiting: Strategies to attract more women into cybersecurity roles.
• Sharing of Best Practices: Learning from successful policies and practices across the region.
• Benefits of the Women4Cyber Platform and Tools for Cooperation: Utilizing platforms for collaboration and support among cybersecurity professionals.
• Preparing Future Talents in Cyber: Developing educational pathways that encourage young women to enter the field.
• Empowering Women in Cyber Tech: Fostering leadership and technical skills among participants.
• Breaking Barriers and Leading Change: Inspiring women to become leaders and change-makers in cybersecurity.

This comprehensive approach not only prepares participants to tackle current and emerging cyber threats but also promotes a more inclusive and dynamic cybersecurity workforce.