Adamson University students are now better prepared to navigate the online world securely, thanks to a recent initiative by PLDT and Smart Communications. The companies recently held a cybersecurity seminar for the students, focusing on the importance of being “CyberSmart” in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Personal data is the new oil,” stressed Elijah Mendoza, Digital Communications Senior Manager at PLDT and Smart. “We must avoid oversharing our personal information because this might be used to take over our accounts or steal our identity. And hackers have been using AI to dupe their victims into giving up their personal data.”
The seminar highlighted the importance of data hygiene and how to avoid social engineering tactics, where attackers manipulate victims into revealing confidential information. Mendoza specifically warned about phishing scams, where criminals use AI to craft emails or text messages that mimic legitimate entities. These messages often contain links that lead to fake websites designed to steal login credentials or other sensitive data.
Mendoza also discussed AI-powered tools that can help students identify AI-generated content, including tools that can detect scam messages. Students also learned the importance of responsible use of AI-powered applications.
PLDT and Smart actively work to protect their customers by blocking access to malicious websites and blacklisting URLs linked to phishing scams, spam emails, and other illegal activities. Customers are encouraged to report suspicious text messages at https://smart.com.ph/huliscam.
