Research and educational institutions continue to face an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape, with threat actors adopting more advanced techniques powered by artificial intelligence, social engineering and sophisticated malware campaigns. In response to these evolving risks, Asiera is strengthening its Cybersecurity posture through an expanded cybersecurity awareness training programme conducted for all staff in May.
This is also designed to help our organisations build resilience, improve cyber hygiene and meet emerging compliance obligations. The live training programme, delivered either online or in person, is also available to all eligible clients in the same interactive format presented internally at Asiera. The initiative reflects the growing recognition across the cybersecurity sector that awareness and education remain critical components of organisational defence strategies.
International cybersecurity frameworks continue to emphasise the importance of staff education and awareness. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 and ISO/IEC 27002:2022 identify information security awareness, education and training as essential organisational controls. Similarly, NIST SP 800-53 recommends mandatory literacy and awareness training for system users, managers, contractors and executives. Recent guidance from ISACA also highlights the importance of strengthening the “human firewall” through phishing simulations, password security and ongoing awareness programmes.
Training Designed Around Emerging Cyber Threats
Asiera’s 2026 security awareness agenda has been developed to reflect the latest cyberattack trends affecting organisations across Ireland and Europe. The programme combines technical education with practical demonstrations, scenario-based exercises and interactive activities to improve engagement and knowledge retention.
The training includes dedicated modules covering:
- Cyber Trends in Ireland
- Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM) attacks
- Fake CAPTCHA and ClickFix malware campaigns
- Microsoft Teams-based attacks
- Social engineering and phishing
- Ransomware and malware threats
- Business Email Compromise (BEC)
- Artificial Intelligence dangers and risks
- Deepfakes and AI manipulation
- EU cybersecurity and AI legislation
- Best cybersecurity practices and authentication mechanisms
According to Asiera, the objective is to ensure employees are equipped not only to recognise modern cyber threats, but also to respond appropriately when suspicious activity occurs.
Focus on Sophisticated AI-Enhanced Attacks
A key focus of the 2026 programme is the growing role of artificial intelligence in cybercrime. Deepfake technologies, AI-generated phishing content and automated impersonation techniques are increasingly being used to deceive users and bypass traditional security controls.
Participants are introduced to real-world examples demonstrating how attackers exploit AI-driven social engineering techniques. The training also explores the implications of European regulatory developments, including the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act 2024 and GDPR obligations relating to data protection and responsible AI usage.
One of the most technically advanced threats examined during the sessions is the Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM) attack. This attack allows threat actors to intercept communications between users and legitimate services, enabling the theft of login credentials and, in some cases, bypassing multi-factor authentication protections.
Participants are shown how these attacks are performed in practice and are provided with guidance on identifying suspicious websites, validating HTTPS certificates and recognising phishing indicators.
Addressing Malware and Collaboration Platform Abuse
The programme also examines the rise of Fake CAPTCHA and ClickFix malware campaigns, which trick users into unknowingly executing malicious code or installing remote access tools. These attacks frequently target employees through fake websites and manipulated browser prompts.
Another growing concern is the abuse of collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams. Asiera’s training explores how attackers may combine voice phishing, malicious messaging, legitimate remote-access features and deepfake impersonation to gain trust and compromise users.
Business Email Compromise campaigns also remain a significant risk, particularly for finance and HR departments. These attacks typically combine technical exploitation with highly convincing social engineering tactics to facilitate fraud, credential theft or unauthorised financial transfers.
Interactive Learning and Real-Time Engagement
Asiera’s training sessions are delivered using a highly interactive approach designed to improve participation and long-term retention. Sessions incorporate:
- Live polls and quizzes through Microsoft Teams
- Word cloud activities
- Scenario-based simulations
- Phishing identification exercises
- Video demonstrations of vishing attacks
- Real-time audience feedback
Employees are also encouraged to evaluate each training session through feedback surveys, enabling continuous improvement of the programme.
Supporting Modern Authentication and Security Practices
Asiera highlighted that the organisation continues to support modern authentication technologies, including passwordless authentication and passkeys. Employees receive practical guidance on enabling and securely using these authentication methods in line with internal cybersecurity policies and industry best practices.
The organisation stated that proactive cybersecurity education remains one of the most effective defences against evolving threats.
“As cyber threats continue to evolve alongside technological advancements, organisations must ensure their people remain informed vigilant and prepared. By fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and delivering professionally led training, organisations can significantly strengthen their resilience against modern cyber risks.”
Viorica Chetrari, Asiera, ICT Training Specialist.
The expanded awareness initiative reflects the increasing importance of human-centred cybersecurity strategies across the education and research sectors, where operational continuity, data protection and institutional reputation remain critical priorities.
Asiera clients can enquire on Cybersecurity training with our teamSecurity Consultancy Services Training, at ictsstraining@asiera.ie.