Troy University Vice Chancellor William Filmore emphasized the importance of the symposium in bringing cybersecurity expertise to the Wiregrass region.
EVERETT CYBERSECURITY SYMPOSIUM
“It’s an exciting time and an event that we are very pleased to host,” said Filmore. “This symposium is a valuable resource for the Dothan community and beyond, providing opportunities to learn from experts, gain cybersecurity tips, and network with industry professionals.”
The event welcomed attendees from law enforcement agencies, the judicial system, private businesses, and educational institutions, including Troy University students, Wallace Community College students, and local high school students.
“Their gift to Troy University allowed us to host events like this,” said Filmore. “It provides a platform for experts to share real-time knowledge that will help individuals and businesses protect themselves from cyber threats.”
ADDRESSING THE GROWING CYBERSECURITY THREAT
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor spoke about the critical need for cybersecurity awareness and preparedness.
“Cybersecurity affects everything we do every day,” said Taylor. “It’s not just a concern for law enforcement, it’s an issue that impacts businesses, individuals, and entire communities.”
Taylor warned about the financial and operational dangers of cyber attacks.
“If you get hacked and don’t know what to do, it can lead to serious financial losses and downtime,” he said. “We have experts at the Fusion Center who work daily to prevent these threats.”
One of those experts is Rachel Salter, an intelligence analyst who travels across Alabama educating businesses and individuals on cybersecurity best practices. She was on a panel during the symposium alongside Aaron Tripi, Chief Information Officer for ALEA.
THE ROLE OF THE ALABAMA FUSION CENTER
Jay Moseley, Director of the Alabama Fusion Center, described the center’s role as the State’s Intelligence and Threat Assessment Hub.
“There are 80 fusion centers nationwide, and we work closely with federal, state, and local agencies to share intelligence,” Moseley said. “Our primary job is to facilitate the exchange of cyber intelligence, helping law enforcement agencies from the local level like Dothan PD to the federal level.”
In addition to cybersecurity, the Alabama Fusion Center, based at ALEA headquarters in Montgomery, is responsible for issuing missing person alerts, supporting criminal investigations, and sharing intelligence to combat a variety of security threats.
FUTURE GROWTH AND EXPANSION
Troy University hopes to build upon this inaugural event, bringing cybersecurity experts from across the country — and potentially the world — to future symposiums in Dothan.
“We want to make this an annual event that continues to grow. Cyber threats are evolving, and it’s important that our community stays informed and prepared,” said Filmore.
With strong partnerships and a growing interest in cybersecurity, the Congressman Terry and Barbara Everett Cybersecurity Symposium has established itself as a valuable resource for the Wiregrass region, fostering collaboration and education in one of today’s most pressing security fields.
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