Page 54 - Cyber Defense eMagazine for September 2020

cyberlitarecy in post-digital time is so significant and must become a part of the culture of modern
civilization.

Our efforts should be aimed at developing knowledge in the field of cybersecurity, knowledge of its basic
rules, and following them every day at the level of habits that become a condition for successful
counteraction to cybercriminals. But it is impossible to instill lasting knowledge and form rules that a
person will follow in their daily life if they do not understand why they need this knowledge and if society
does not share their value and following them is atypical for the environment in which they live. Therefore,
it is important not only to raise awareness, but also to create a culture of cyber literacy.

Conclusion

Virtual world can significantly influence current issues in the physical world and, as a result, the term of
national security is under attack. Initially, digital technologies provided its owners with a competitive
advantage, but today such technologies are available to everyone and become a part of person's identity.
Hostile actors are able to use this digital identity to develop a deep understanding of their target audience
and influence it. An established trend in using mobile apps and easy access to it, expanding role of expert
institutions and big amount of information has enhanced opportunity to affect people's mind. However,
we can diminish the negative effects by teaching people how to behave and "live" in cyberspace. We
cannot regulate cyber domain, but we can instill persistent knowledge and form rules that people will
follow in their daily life and will be much better prepared to propaganda, information flow, and cyber-
attacks.

About the Author

Aliaksei Hapeyeu is a Global Shaper, Young European Ambassador, and
the master’s degree student from Shandong University, China. Certified
International Cyber conflicts specialist by The State University of New
York. Author of the article “Why we need Smart Power in Cyberspace”.
Aliaksei can be reached online at [email protected] and at his
university website https://en.sdu.edu.cn

Cyber Defense eMagazine – September 2020 Edition 54
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