New to SMCA: Cybersecurity

We are excited to announce the launch of our brand-new Cybersecurity class! This class aims to
empower our students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the digital world securely.
The curriculum is packed with hands-on experiences, and discussions ranging from Stuxnet to Botnets.

Topics We’ve Covered So Far:
Stuxnet
A sophisticated computer worm that targeted supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems
and was responsible for damaging Iran’s nuclear program. Students will learn about its architecture and impact on
cybersecurity policies globally.

Vulnerabilities
Understand how weaknesses in systems can be exploited. Students will learn how to identify, fix, and
protect against vulnerabilities in software and hardware systems.

Worms and Malware
From email worms to ransomware, students will delve into the world of malicious software to
understand how they work, spread, and can be mitigated.

Cross-Site Scripting
An in-depth look into one of the most common web application vulnerabilities. Students will be taught
how to identify and prevent cross-site scripting attacks.

Compromised Computers
Students are learning what happens when a computer gets compromised, and how compromised
computers can become part of a larger network known as a botnet.

Botnets
These networks of compromised computers can carry out tasks ranging from stealing data to launching
attacks on websites. Students are learning how botnets are created and controlled.

Why Cybersecurity?
Salary and Job Satisfaction

The cybersecurity field offers promising career paths, with professionals earning an average annual
salary of $110,350 as of 2023 with a senior rate scaling $250,000 or more. Job satisfaction rates are high,
given the constantly evolving challenges and importance of the role in safeguarding digital assets.

Upcoming Events
 Cybersecurity Awareness Seminar: October 2023
 Parents’ Briefing on Cybersecurity: October 2023
 Ethical Hacking Workshop: November 2023

We can’t wait to hear your feedback on this amazing journey. We believe that cybersecurity is not just a
subject, but a critical life skill in our increasingly digital world.

For more information or to enroll in an after school bootcamp (students or parents), please contact the
SMCA administration office.

Thank you for being a part of this exciting new chapter at SMCA!

-Dr. Griffith

For any inquiries, please email: drjimmygriffith@smcaemail.com