Keeper Security announces the launch of “Flex Your Cyber,” a public service initiative supported by industry-leading organizations that empowers K-8 students, parents, teachers and administrators to protect themselves online
CHICAGO, November, 2024 /PRNewswire/: As technology has become an integral part of the learning environment, empowering robust cybersecurity practices in K-8 education is now essential. In response to this urgent need, Keeper Security – with support from the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA), KnowBe4 and Williams Racing Formula 1 team – is thrilled to announce the launch of Flex Your Cyber, an international educational public service initiative providing resources and videos starring F1 driver Alex Albon.
With cybercriminals launching increasingly sophisticated attacks every school day, on average, it has become crucial to teach cybersecurity hygiene earlier than ever. However, recent research from Keeper reveals that only 14% of schools mandate security awareness training, and a mere 21% provide guidance on secure password management. This gap poses significant risks, as widespread issues such as weak passwords and password reuse threaten students’ digital security and safety.
Flex Your Cyber equips students, parents, teachers and administrators with the essential tools and knowledge they need to stay safe online. The initiative provides tailored content for each audience, from engaging videos and interactive games for young learners to practical tips and cybersecurity solutions for parents, educators and administrators.
“Our goal is to empower the entire educational community with the knowledge they need to protect themselves from today’s cyber threats,” said Darren Guccione, CEO and Co-founder of Keeper Security. “Starting this education at a young age will help ensure future generations are protected against the cyber threats plaguing our digital landscape.”
The Flex Your Cyber website is organized into dedicated pages for each target audience, ensuring that everyone in the educational community has access to age-appropriate, actionable information:
- Little Kids (K-3rd Grade): Engaging videos, games, an activity book and infographic designed to introduce young learners to the basics of online safety.
- Big Kids (4th-8th Grade): Interactive games, original videos, cyber challenges and resources that delve deeper into digital security concepts for preteens.
- Parents: Guidance, research and practical tips to help their family navigate the online world safely and practice good cybersecurity habits at home.
- Teachers: Tools, engaging resources and grade-specific lesson plans to integrate cybersecurity education into the classroom.
- Administrators (K-12): Insights, best practices and cybersecurity solutions for developing a secure digital environment within schools.
Keeper is proud to collaborate with Williams Racing driver Alex Albon for the Flex Your Cyber initiative. The Thai and British racing driver pilots the FW46 for Williams Racing, with more than 100 F1 races and multiple podium appearances over the course of his career. Albon brings the initiative to life with two original videos aimed at younger audiences. In the video for “Little Kids,” Albon embarks on a whimsical journey through “The Internet” on a brightly colored bicycle, battling cartoon cyber threats in full F1 racing gear. Meanwhile, the “Big Kids” video immerses viewers in a retro 8-bit racing video game, where Albon dodges cyber dangers like “Privacy Potholes” and navigates the “Malware Mile.”
“With cybercriminals targeting schools with increasing frequency, it’s more important now than ever to arm students, parents and educators alike with the right tools to protect themselves,” said Guccione. “We are proud to partner the National Cybersecurity Alliance, KnowBe4, Williams Racing and Alex Albon to drive awareness and build a culture of cybersecurity from an early age.”
“Equipping children with cybersecurity knowledge from an early age is essential in today’s digital-first world,” said Lisa Plaggemeier, Executive Director of the National Cybersecurity Alliance. “By encouraging safe digital practices and providing families and educators with the necessary resources, we can build a more secure online experience. The Flex Your Cyber initiative meets a critical need by empowering the entire education community—students, parents, teachers and administrators—to understand and combat cyber threats in ways that are both engaging and accessible. Building this foundation now not only helps protect young people today but also prepares them to be responsible digital citizens well into the future.”
“Keeper Security’s Flex Your Cyber initiative is a crucial step in safeguarding children in an increasingly digital world, cultivating a security culture in our future workforce from the ground up,” said Stu Sjouwerman, CEO at KnowBe4. “By equipping students, parents and educators with accessible cybersecurity education and resources, Flex Your Cyber will foster a robust culture of cyber resilience—essential for navigating today’s complex threat landscape. We are proud to support this impactful program, which promises to have a lasting, positive impact on the education community and beyond.”
“Cybersecurity is critical in all walks of life, and particularly in Formula 1, where protecting our data is vital to succeeding on track,” said James Southerland, Head of Partnerships at Williams Racing. “Forming good cybersecurity habits at a young age is becoming as important as learning to cross the road safely or wear a seatbelt and we are delighted to be supporting our partner Keeper Security with this campaign.”
Flex Your Cyber kicked off with an interactive launch event, co-hosted by the initiative’s supporting organizations and held at Busboys and Poets in Arlington, Virginia. The event featured a video premiere and games for students, teachers and administrators. View this album for downloadable photos from the event.
The Flex Your Cyber website is now live and accessible to everyone. All members of the educational community are invited to explore the available resources and join Keeper in its mission to empower the educational community with the essential knowledge and tools to promote safer online behaviors and protect sensitive information. New resources will be added regularly. Learn more and experience the fun at FlexYourCyber.com.
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