Protect Your Digital World: Free Security Workshop for WV Media and At-Risk Practitioners

By: Aiden Satterfield, a cybersecurity student at Walsh University

There is a free, hands-on digital security workshop designed for local and regional news organizations, independent journalists, and other at-risk practitioners that the WVU College of Creative Arts and Media is hosting.. The event will take place as part of the First Amendment and Free Expression programming series, emphasizing the importance of digital safety and security in today’s online landscape. This is an excellent opportunity for small businesses in our state to get access to proper cybersecurity training. As stated in my article about the cybersecurity struggles for rural West Virginia businesses, owners must take the proper precautions for their company’s data. 

The 3-hour workshop will focus on equipping attendees with the skills needed to navigate digital security threats, offering practical training for those working in media, communications, education, the arts, and civil society organizations. Whether you’re an independent journalist, educator, or activist, you’ll gain insights into securing your devices, data, and identity across digital platforms. Participants will also conduct personal or organizational threat assessments and learn new tools for mitigating risks.

Attendees will address security settings across multiple devices and media types, honing the skills needed to improve online safety. The training will help organizations and individuals prepare for, respond to, and recover from threats.

Key topics include: Digital resilience, Threat assessments, and Securing communications and sensitive work environments

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 16
• Time: 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Room 421, Media Innovation Center, 4th Floor Evansdale Crossing, WVU, Morgantown
• Cost: Free ( Working Dinner provided)
• Pre-registration required: Space is limited.

There are even three expert trainers in the field of digital security and free expression.

Harlo Holmes, a media scholar and software programmer with the Freedom of the Press Foundation, specializes in helping journalists secure their communications. She has contributed to the open-source Guardian Project and various media metadata verification initiatives, including ProofMode and eyeWitness to Atrocities.

JeJe Mohamed, a Digital Safety Consultant for PEN America, brings over a decade of experience in journalism and human rights. She provides training on trauma-informed digital safety and physical security for journalists and activists. Her work, which spans both Egypt and the United States, focuses on defending against online harassment and abuse.

Viktorya Vilk, Director of Digital Safety and Free Expression at PEN America, leads the organization’s Online Abuse Defense Program. She provides self-defense training and advocates for stronger protections for writers and journalists. Her expertise has been featured in major publications and conferences, including PBS Newshour, The New York Times, and Harvard Business Review.

In an era where online threats are becoming more sophisticated, this workshop provides critical knowledge to anyone looking to protect themselves and their work. Whether you’re a small business owner, a journalist, or an activist, attending this event could make all the difference in securing your digital presence. It’s an opportunity to learn from top experts and walk away with practical solutions to boost your online safety.

Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.

Aiden Satterfield is a cybersecurity graduate and athlete from Walsh University, and a native West Virginian.
For more information or to engage with BBG Tech contact: info@blackbygod.org. Let’s continue to inspire, inform, and foster an environment where diversity and innovation thrive in the tech industry.