In today’s connected world, data has become one of our most valuable assets. Every click, share and download shapes our digital footprint and with that comes the responsibility to protect it. As cyber threats become increasingly organised and sophisticated, individuals must remain vigilant in managing their personal information online.
To support this effort, the Limpopo ICT Forum, Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) are jointly host a three-day Cybersecurity Awareness Webinar Series under the theme “Your Data, Your Power: Hlayiseka!” The phrase Hlayiseka!, meaning “Be Safe”, is a call to action for all citizens to take ownership of their digital safety. The theme serves as a reminder that personal data is power and protecting it is not only a technical responsibility but also a personal and social one, the CSIR said.
This initiative forms part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month (October), which is celebrated globally to promote safer online practices and to build a culture of digital responsibility. The webinars bring together cybersecurity experts, educators, parents and members of the public to learn and engage on practical ways to stay safe online and safeguard their digital identities.
The Cybersecurity Awareness Webinar Series aims to:
Promote awareness of personal data protection and responsible digital behaviour;
Educate citizens on how to identify and respond to common online threats;
Strengthen child online protection and digital rights awareness; and
Foster collaboration between government, industry, academia and communities to enhance national cyber resilience.
Day three (30 October 2025 from 18:00 – 19:00) will focus on romance scams and online relationship fraud (phishing and catfishing). It will be hosted by Siphokazi Novukuza, Director, Cybersecurity Operations, DCDT. Presenters will include Thuli Mkhwanazi: Senior Cybersecurity Researcher, CSIR; Danielle Badenhorst: Cybersecurity Specialist, CSIR; and Matsebe Phasha, Committee Member, Secretary, Limpopo ICT Forum.
To join, participants can click on this Teams link.
