Anti-Hacking, Cyber Scam Training Planned In Old Bethpage

OLD BETHPAGE, NY — A free training is planned in Old Bethpage to teach residents how to avoid becoming victims of hackers and tech scams. The event is planned at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at the Old Bethpage Village Restoration.

Laura Curran, the Nassau County executive, recently announced the first round of so-called "Tech Smart" seminars as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month.Tech scammers have evolved, becoming savvier and more successful, she said. In response, Curran is sending information technology experts across the county to offer free trainings on how to combat cyber threats.

"No matter your age or tech ability, when you log onto the internet, you may be putting your identity, finances, and reputation at risk," she said in a news release. "These seminars are designed to inform you of hackers' schemes, and to show how you can protect yourself — helping you be tech smart to stay tech safe."

One in three Americans are affected by hacking attacks every year. Nassau County police said there have been nearly 100 cyber crimes in 2019, about half of which were classified as grand larceny.

The training is designed for all ages and focuses solely on cyber threats and scams, such as phishing, identity theft, viruses, ransomware, malware and social engineering. Participants will learn how to protect themselves using the same methods employed by the county IT workers.

Upcoming seminars:

• Glen Cove Library, October 24 at 10am
• North Bellmore Library, October 30 at 6pm
• Manhasset Library, November 4 at 2 pm
• Old Bethpage Village Restoration, November 6 at 6pm
• Nickerson Beach (admin building), November 7 at 10 am
• Port Washington Library, November 12 at 10am
• Farmingdale Public Library, November 19 at 10am
• Rockville Centre Library, December 3 at 6pm
• Freeport Memorial Library, December 5 at 7pm