Meta-awareness in the age of AI: Cognitive security and digital mindfulness for cyber defence

Описание: As AI-driven social engineering tactics become more persuasive, scalable, and difficult to detect, the human mind remains one of the most exploited vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity landscape. Traditional awareness campaigns – while important – often fail to equip individuals with the cognitive tools needed to respond effectively under pressure.

To kick off Cybersecurity Month 2025, GÉANT was proud to host a timely and thought-provoking webinar with Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy & Evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa, and a leading voice in behavioural science and cybersecurity training.

In this session, Anna introduced the concept of digital mindfulness as a tool to enhance human resilience against manipulation. Drawing on her extensive research and real-world experience, she explored how attention training, cognitive flexibility, and emotional regulation can dramatically improve how people respond to cyber threats – especially in moments of stress or uncertainty.

Rather than simply warning users about phishing or unsafe behaviours, digital mindfulness aims to build meta-awareness: the capacity to notice and regulate one’s own thoughts and reactions in real time. This approach not only improves attentional control and reduces impulsivity, but also reinforces overall cyber hygiene in daily digital life.

Through practical examples and case studies – including those tailored to education and research environments – Anna shared insights into how behavioural science can breathe new life into cybersecurity awareness strategies.

Watch the webinar to gain a deeper understanding of how to:
Recognise the psychological levers exploited in AI-enhanced phishing and social engineering
Design awareness programmes that promote real cognitive change
Introduce resilience-building practices that stick

Whether you’re responsible for awareness campaigns within an NREN, support staff across a university, or are simply interested in the intersection of human behaviour and digital safety, this session offers valuable strategies you can apply immediately.

Be mindful. Stay safe.
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00:00 Introduction
03:16 Beyond Fear - Rethinking cybersecurity awareness to empower, not intimidate
42:51 Q&A

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