In an increasingly digital world, cybersecurity and practicing data care are necessary to protect yourself, your devices, and your online accounts from cyber threats. In this episode, Laura Nelson, President & Chief Executive Officer of the National Cryptologic Foundation (NCF), discusses the importance of introducing cryptology and cyber safety to kids.

In this conversation, Laura discusses the need to treat data as you would your personal health and to think of cyber safety as “data care,” similar to health care. Furthermore, she shares that even if students don’t pursue careers in cyber, all students need to be cyber aware. From the time kids have electronic devices and access to computers, they should begin learning about cyber safety and cryptology, topics that should become fundamental for all students.

NCF is a leading expert in K-12 cyber education, creating resources like the Outsmart Cyberthreats Collection that provides teachers and students with tangible materials about the importance of taking care of data. The goal of this work is to expose students to the concepts of cybersecurity and to build the pipeline of students considering careers in cybersecurity, cryptology, and cyber related fields of study. NCF is investing in several ways to introduce cryptology and cyber safety to young kids, including Cyber Chats, a podcast launching in February.

Recommended Resources from the Interview

National Cryptologic Foundation

NCF’s Outsmart Cyberthreats Collection

NCF’s Cyber Chats

National Cryptologic Museum

Teach Cyber

CyberSeek