SiberX: Gamifying Education to Combat Cyber Threats

In an era where cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent, the need for effective cybersecurity education has never been more pressing. SiberX, a pioneering initiative in Aurora, Ontario, is stepping up to meet this challenge by introducing Canada’s first cybersecurity-themed escape room. This innovative approach aims to "gamify education," making learning about safe practices engaging and interactive for residents, businesses, and government agencies alike.

The Reality of Cyber Threats

Mae Khamissa, co-owner of Omars Shoes on Bayview Avenue, knows all too well the devastating impact of cyberattacks. Just weeks before Christmas in 2022, Khamissa received a chilling email from hackers who claimed to have infiltrated her business’s systems. They demanded a ransom of $30,000 in bitcoin, threatening to shut down her operations if she failed to comply. Fortunately, Khamissa was able to collaborate with a cybersecurity firm to eliminate the threat, but the experience left her shaken.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Khamissa remarked, “We were very fortunate that our personal customer phone numbers were not taken somehow.” Her experience highlighted a critical issue: many businesses lack the resources or knowledge to effectively respond to cyber threats. “We then realized how many businesses are affected and there’s no help for them, other than filing a report,” she noted, emphasizing the need for accessible cybersecurity education.

Enter SiberX: A New Approach to Cybersecurity Education

In response to the growing demand for cybersecurity awareness, SiberX was born. Founded by Mahdi Raza, this initiative is a collaboration between the Town of Aurora and a Markham-based cybersecurity training company. The centerpiece of SiberX is its escape room, designed to provide an immersive learning experience that teaches participants about safe online practices in a fun and engaging way.

Raza explained the concept behind the escape room: “When we bring this gamification side to it, people are able to hands-on interact with the actual environment. That’s what makes it unique.” By transforming a typically dry subject into an interactive experience, SiberX aims to cater to diverse learning styles and foster collaboration among participants.

A Growing Interest in Cybersecurity Training

Since its launch, the SiberX Cybersecurity Escape Room has attracted visitors from various sectors, including unique organizations and government agencies. Raza noted that entities such as the RCMP and CSIS have expressed interest in utilizing the escape room as a training tool. The initiative has already seen a positive response, with expectations of increased attendance as schools plan to incorporate visits into their curricula this fall.

Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas has been vocal about the importance of cybersecurity awareness in the community. He receives over 100 emails daily, with a significant portion containing malware or phishing attempts. “More and more attacks are going to happen, and if we can be better prepared as a community, as a business community, as residents, the better off we’ll all be,” he stated. This sentiment underscores the urgency of equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital landscape safely.

Location and Accessibility

The SiberX Cybersecurity Escape Room is conveniently located at 15157 Yonge St. in downtown Aurora. This central location makes it accessible for both local residents and visitors from surrounding areas. For those interested in learning more about this innovative educational tool, additional information can be found on the SiberX website.

Conclusion

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the need for proactive education and training becomes increasingly critical. SiberX’s unique approach to gamifying cybersecurity education not only makes learning enjoyable but also empowers individuals and organizations to protect themselves against potential attacks. By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, SiberX is paving the way for a safer digital future for the Aurora community and beyond.