On December 9, 2024, National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF), with the support from MADRE, organized a Digital Security Training Program aimed at protecting Indigenous Women’s rights in the digital space. This program was a vital response to the growing need for digital literacy and security among Indigenous Communities, especially as they face increased risks in an interconnected digital world. The training was specifically tailored to empower NIWF’s Board Members, General Members, and Staff, equipping them with the necessary tools to safeguard their digital presence and ensure the security of sensitive information related to their advocacy work.

The training was expertly facilitated by Dr. Rajiv Subba, cybersecurity expert who brought his wealth of knowledge and experience to the session. The program covered a wide array of critical topics, all of which were designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of digital threats and effective strategies to mitigate them. Participants learned about cybercrime, gaining insights into its various forms and the specific ways it affects marginalized communities, including Indigenous Women. Dr. Subba also introduced participants to phishing attempts and demonstrated how to recognize and avoid these deceptive tactics, which are often used by cybercriminals to extract sensitive personal or organizational information. In addition to phishing, the training focused on identifying spam emails—a prevalent form of digital threat that can compromise the security of devices and personal data. Participants were guided through practical examples to help them differentiate between legitimate and malicious communications. Another key component of the training was the secure use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Dr. Subba explained how VPNs can be effectively used to ensure safe internet access. Beyond theoretical knowledge, the program incorporated hands-on activities and interactive sessions, allowing participants to put their new skills into practice. These exercises provided an opportunity to apply the lessons learned to real-world scenarios, ensuring that participants left the session equipped with actionable strategies to tackle digital threats effectively.

This initiative reflects NIWF’s commitment to strengthening Indigenous Women’s resilience in the face of evolving challenges while fostering a safe and inclusive digital environment for their advocacy and empowerment.