Recent trainings held in Ejmiadzin and Hrazdan focused on key issues of personal data protection and cybersecurity, bringing together more than 60 participants from libraries and vocational education institutions across the Armavir and Kotayk regions. The participants included librarians, students and educators.
Delivered by leading experts, the trainings aimed to strengthen participants’ cyber hygiene skills and overall digital literacy. Sessions covered safe online practices such as creating and managing strong passwords, using two-factor authentication and recognizing cybersecurity risks. Participants also explored topics including suspicious websites, social engineering techniques, harmful files and the role and limitations of antivirus software. The importance of regularly updating operating systems and applications was also emphasized.
In addition, the trainings addressed personal data protection, presenting core principles of data processing and key approaches to ensuring data security. Discussions highlighted the growing scale and complexity of data processing driven by technological advancements, with particular attention given to the sensitivity of personal data. Participants learned about data processing rules, including the principles of legality and proportionality, as well as non-technical measures that help mitigate risks, especially in online environments.
The sessions were highly interactive and enriched with practical, real-life examples, enabling participants to apply their knowledge in everyday contexts. Active engagement was encouraged throughout, with participants asking questions and discussing various scenarios.
ISOC NGO representative Vesmira Harutyunyan mentioned that for over 30 years, the Internet Society NGO has consistently prioritized the advancement of digital literacy. She noted that, having played a foundational role in introducing the internet to Armenia, the organization views it as an essential resource for education and national development, underscoring the importance of informed and responsible users.
The courses are organized as part of the “Digital Democracy in Action” project, implemented by the Freedom of Information Center NGO in partnership with the Internet Society NGO. The project is supported by GIZ Armenia as part of the “Digital Democracy for All” initiative.
