Lessons from the Front Lines: Cyber Warfare Expert Jim Richberg to Share Insights at Forge Institute Cyber Summit
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Lessons from the Front Lines: Cyber Warfare Expert Jim Richberg to Share Insights at Forge Institute Cyber Summit

The 5th Annual Forge Institute Cyber Summit will be held on October 7-8, 2024, at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. This pivotal event will convene top cybersecurity experts and stakeholders to discuss the latest strategies and innovations in cyber defense.

Jim Richberg, Fortinet’s Head of Cyber Policy and Global Field Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), will deliver a keynote address.

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Understanding AI in Social Engineering Attacks
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Understanding AI in Social Engineering Attacks

The Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) is committed to advancing cybersecurity awareness and defenses across Arkansas. Our focus includes analyzing emerging threats, understanding the tactics employed by cybercriminals, and providing guidance to mitigate these threats. This blog is part of a series focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

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Mark Cheng and Dr. Barbara Stevens Join Forge Institute, Supercharging its Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Innovation Leadership
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Mark Cheng and Dr. Barbara Stevens Join Forge Institute, Supercharging its Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Innovation Leadership

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark and Barbara to our Advisory Board. Dr. Stevens’ formidable expertise in cybersecurity and data science will be instrumental as we continue to elevate our national digital defenses. Mr. Cheng has a rich background in strategic analysis and leadership, and is quite skilled at forging partnerships to advance business and national security objectives. We welcome their expertise in supporting our mission of keeping America one step ahead in cyber and data security," stated Lee Watson, Chairman and CEO of the Forge Institute.

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AI and Cybersecurity: Emerging Frontier  (Part 1/3)
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AI and Cybersecurity: Emerging Frontier  (Part 1/3)

The Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) is committed to advancing cybersecurity awareness and defenses across Arkansas. Our focus includes analyzing emerging threats, understanding the tactics employed by cybercriminals, and providing guidance to mitigate these threats. This blog is part of a series focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how AI is reshaping the landscape of cyber threats and the steps we can take to lessen these risks.

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Black Basta Ransomware: An Emerging Threat
News, Blog Amy Burks News, Blog Amy Burks

Black Basta Ransomware: An Emerging Threat

The Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) is committed to enhancing the cybersecurity posture of organizations across the state of Arkansas. Our focus includes analyzing emerging threats, understanding the tactics employed by cybercriminals, and providing guidance to mitigate these threats. In the context of increasing global ransomware incidents, this blog aims to spotlight the Black Basta ransomware variant, explaining its operational tactics and offering prevention strategies.

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Smart Security with your Smart Devices
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Smart Security with your Smart Devices

Smart devices are everywhere! Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as camera doorbells, smart thermostats, and smart speakers have revolutionized the way we manage our offices and homes. These devices provide unparalleled convenience by allowing us to monitor and manage them from any location. These advancements represent a significant evolution in making our daily routines more efficient and our lives easier. However, we must learn to navigate the balance between embracing these conveniences and mitigating the risks that come with them.

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Forge Institute Cyber Summit Returns to Little Rock
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Forge Institute Cyber Summit Returns to Little Rock

The 5th Annual Forge Institute Cyber Summit, a cornerstone event in the cybersecurity calendar, is scheduled for October 7-8 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. This year, Forge Institute is pleased to announce that the Summit will be held in conjunction with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Cybersecurity Summit. This strategic alignment not only underscores the partnership between the Forge Institute and the Attorney General but also enriches the event's programming and extends its impact. By hosting the Summit alongside the Conference, Forge Institute continues to lead the way in cybersecurity innovation and education, while significantly expanding access to crucial cybersecurity knowledge and resources for defending our critical infrastructure.

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Understanding Device Compromise
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Understanding Device Compromise

The Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) is dedicated to bolstering cybersecurity across the state, and offers crucial support and resources to organizations seeking to enhance their digital defenses. Understanding how to protect against device compromise is more important than ever. In this blog you can learn some of the methods threat actors use to compromise your organization’s devices and some proactive strategies to help protect your organization from these breaches.

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Deputy Director, DoD Program
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Deputy Director, DoD Program

We are seeking an experienced talent development professional who wants to help shape the workforce of our partnering organizations. Both private and public sector companies are counting on us to train new and incumbent employees to help protect their critical infrastructure against the most advanced attackers in the world. Our training and professional development team needs your experience to help trainees step up their game. You’ll work with some of the best cyber operators and other seasoned professors who are skilled at carrying the lessons of the occupation to a classroom environment. If your skill set includes a variety of expertise in talent development and a background in IT and cybersecurity, then this position is for you! 

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Project Manager / Administrative & Compliance Coordinator
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Project Manager / Administrative & Compliance Coordinator

We are seeking an experienced talent development professional who wants to help shape the workforce of our partnering organizations. Both private and public sector companies are counting on us to train new and incumbent employees to help protect their critical infrastructure against the most advanced attackers in the world. Our training and professional development team needs your experience to help trainees step up their game. You’ll work with some of the best cyber operators and other seasoned professors who are skilled at carrying the lessons of the occupation to a classroom environment. If your skill set includes a variety of expertise in talent development and a background in IT and cybersecurity, then this position is for you! 

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Managing Director Cyber Programs
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Managing Director Cyber Programs

We are seeking an experienced talent development professional who wants to help shape the workforce of our partnering organizations. Both private and public sector companies are counting on us to train new and incumbent employees to help protect their critical infrastructure against the most advanced attackers in the world. Our training and professional development team needs your experience to help trainees step up their game. You’ll work with some of the best cyber operators and other seasoned professors who are skilled at carrying the lessons of the occupation to a classroom environment. If your skill set includes a variety of expertise in talent development and a background in IT and cybersecurity, then this position is for you! 

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Forge Institute’s Commitment to Military Veterans Earns National Recognition from the U.S Department of Labor
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Forge Institute’s Commitment to Military Veterans Earns National Recognition from the U.S Department of Labor

Forge Institute, a leading national provider of cybersecurity training and workforce development solutions, has been recognized with the prestigious 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Award Platinum Level from the U.S. Department of Labor. This distinguished honor acknowledges Forge Institute's exceptional commitment to recruiting, upskilling, and employing veterans.

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Forge Institute Strengthens Cybersecurity Resilience, Bridging the Talent Gap
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Forge Institute Strengthens Cybersecurity Resilience, Bridging the Talent Gap

"Employers like us are thrilled to have people who've been through great training and are prepared to hit the ground running because there is a shortage of cyber talent,” emphasized a cybersecurity professional. "It’s hard to put a price tag on what it means for our company when we can take current team members and add to their infosec and technical skills. It also helps employees progress their long-term career as an information security expert."

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Entrepreneur-in-Residence
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Entrepreneur-in-Residence

We are seeking an experienced talent development professional who wants to help shape the workforce of our partnering organizations. Both private and public sector companies are counting on us to train new and incumbent employees to help protect their critical infrastructure against the most advanced attackers in the world. Our training and professional development team needs your experience to help trainees step up their game. You’ll work with some of the best cyber operators and other seasoned professors who are skilled at carrying the lessons of the occupation to a classroom environment. If your skill set includes a variety of expertise in talent development and a background in IT and cybersecurity, then this position is for you! 

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Events & Marketing Coordinator
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Events & Marketing Coordinator

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Events & Marketing Coordinator to join our team. As the Events & Marketing Coordinator at Forge Institute, you will be the driving force behind our signature events, amplifying our presence through strategic marketing campaigns and cultivating robust partnerships. Your attention to detail, excellent content, strategic partners, and commitment will fortify our mission, ensuring Forge remains a beacon of excellence. This is a pivotal role within our organization, requiring meticulous attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and a strong work ethic.

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Grants Manager
Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson Careers, Open Positions Lee Watson

Grants Manager

We are actively seeking a Grants Manager who comes with a rich backdrop in the meticulous management of federal, state & foundation grants. Your role will be pivotal in tracing the trajectory of Forge Institute’s goals through adept grant management, from writing and submitting proposals to managing budgets and ensuring compliance and reporting. A detail-oriented approach coupled with exceptional project management skills will be your compass in steering us to fruitful endeavors.

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Michael Orlando Appointed to Forge Institute's Esteemed Advisory Board
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Michael Orlando Appointed to Forge Institute's Esteemed Advisory Board

Forge Institute is thrilled to announce the newest member of its Advisory Board, Michael Orlando, a seasoned leader with deep expertise in counterintelligence and national security. In his role on the board, Mr. Orlando will leverage his extensive background to further Forge’s goal of developing a fortified regional defense innovation ecosystem.

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