Mapandan City, Pangasinan

A recent five-day training program on Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) brought together government agencies and private institutions from across Region 1, equipping participants with essential skills to enhance cybersecurity preparedness. Organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region 1 in collaboration with Sir Tzar Umang from MakerspaceInnovhub OPC an IS Audit & Digital Forensics Experts and Sir Christian Idia from DigiForce (Certified Ethical Hacker & Digital Forensics Experts) the intensive workshop ran from September 9th to September 13th, 2024.

Fostering a Collaborative Cybersecurity Ecosystem

This partnership exemplifies the commitment of these organizations to bolstering cybersecurity capabilities across the region. Representatives from diverse sectors participated, including the Philippine National Police, academic institutions like University of Luzon and Unibersidad de Dagupan, government offices such as the Pangasinan Provincial Government’s MIS Office, Department of Interior and Local Government, and Department of Public Works and Highways, as well as the Utilities Sector from Dagupan Electric Corporation.

Comprehensive VAPT Curriculum

The training program provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of essential cybersecurity concepts:

  • Web Application Vulnerability Assessment: Participants learned to identify vulnerabilities within web applications and understand potential exploitation methods.
  • Device Penetration Testing: Hands-on exercises focused on testing the security of various devices, including Windows PCs, Android phones, and network equipment, utilizing different penetration techniques.
  • Social Engineering: The importance of human factors in cybersecurity was emphasized, with strategies for mitigating social engineering attacks presented to participants.

Practical Application Through a Catch The Flag Competition

The final day culminated in a dynamic Catch The Flag competition. This practical exercise allowed participants to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in a realistic scenario, solidifying their understanding of VAPT principles.

A Foundation for Enhanced Cybersecurity

This collaborative VAPT training program, facilitated by DICT Ilocos Region, Makerspace Innovhub OPC, and DigiForce, serves as a vital step towards strengthening cybersecurity across Region 1. By equipping individuals from diverse sectors with essential knowledge and practical skills, the program lays a strong foundation for enhancing organizational resilience against evolving cyber threats.