EPOKA UNIVERSITY, in collaboration with the Albanian Association of Banks (AAB), organized an open lecture titled “Think Before You Follow Wise Money Tomorrow”, focusing on the growing risks of online fraud and the importance of cybersecurity in financial transactions.

The event featured Fatjon Muça, Head of the Information Security Department and a member of AAB’s Cyber Security Committee, who highlighted the increasing threats of online fraud and shared essential strategies to protect personal savings from cyberattacks.

Joining the discussion, Lorenc Tabaku, Head of the IT Department at Fibank Albania and a member of AAB’s IT Committee, elaborated on security challenges in the banking sector and introduced the concept of Defense in Depth—a multi-layered cybersecurity strategy. Mr. Tabaku also provided insights into Albania’s cybersecurity landscape, emphasizing the critical role of cyber defense mechanisms in safeguarding individuals and financial institutions.

Beyond personal security, the lecture aimed to raise awareness about the broader societal risks of cyberattacks. Attendees were encouraged to share their newly acquired knowledge with their families, particularly older generations, who are more vulnerable to online fraud.

To provide a comprehensive understanding of today’s cybersecurity landscape, the speakers offered a historical overview of cyber threats, illustrating how hacking techniques have evolved. Alarming statistics revealed that Albania experiences a cyberattack every 22 seconds, underscoring the urgent need for stronger digital security measures.

The speakers also explained key differences between Wi-Fi networks provided by banks and those available in shopping malls, noting that banks are accountable for data breaches, whereas public networks pose a higher security risk. Various types of cyberattacks—including phishing, social engineering, zero-day exploits, viruses, and malware—were demonstrated, helping students recognize real-life hacking tactics. Examples included fraudulent emails and SMS scams impersonating Albanian Post, tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information.

Practical solutions for safeguarding personal data were discussed, along with an analysis of the ongoing “cyberattack war”—examining the economic and geopolitical stakes involved. Finally, the session concluded with insights into cybersecurity career opportunities, highlighting the high demand and competitive salaries in this rapidly growing field. Students were encouraged to pursue further education in cybersecurity, as the global economy increasingly depends on digital security expertise.

This engaging lecture sparked active discussions among students, who posed insightful questions about cyber threats, fraud prevention, and digital banking security. The session proved invaluable, equipping attendees with essential knowledge to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.