October is here, and with it comes National Cybersecurity Awareness Month! This year’s theme, “Mind Games & Machines,” focuses on defending against social engineering and navigating AI safety in our digital world.

Don’t Miss These Key Events

• Security Booth on Ring Road (Oct 8, 12-2pm)
  Spin the wheel, play our “phishing” game, grab some candy, and learn about cybersecurity—all in one fun stop!
• Q-Day: The Quantum Storm (Oct 14, 2pm)
  Join ISC2’s John Young as he explores the looming threat of quantum computers breaking current encryption. Registration required.
• Data Disposal Day (Oct 22, 8am-12pm, Lot 12A)
  Securely shred your sensitive documents and electronic data.
• Humans, Hackers & Hallucinations: AI, Social Engineering, and the future of Cybersecurity (Oct 28, 1pm)
  1Password’s Dave Lewis reveals how AI is changing the cybersecurity game—from deepfake scams to AI-powered defenses.
• “Authentic or Artificial?” Demo (Oct 30, 2pm)
  Our champion Cyber@UCI team (fresh off their national victory!) breaks down AI deepfakes and how to spot them.

Fun Extras All Month Long

• Java Chip Securi-ccino: Special cybersecurity-themed drink at all campus Starbucks
• Security Quiz Raffle: Complete our quiz for a chance to win one of three $25 Amazon gift cards

Stay Cyber Smart

Remember the basics:

• Verify email sources before clicking or sharing info
• Question urgent requests—they’re often social engineering tactics
• Think twice before entering sensitive data into AI chatbots
• Double-check suspicious photos and videos for AI manipulation

Ready to level up your cybersecurity knowledge? Visit our events, grab that special Starbucks drink, and join us in making October the most secure month yet!

Questions? Contact security@uci.edu