The rise in hacking activities around the globe has become a concern. In 2025, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center recorded over a million cybercrime complaints, marking a new high in the US. Hackers have become increasingly innovative, particularly with the use of AI.

In a recent episode of Tech Camp, co-hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber explore how cybersecurity is evolving rapidly. This has initiated an arms race between cyber attackers and defenders. They introduce listeners to experts working tirelessly to safeguard our data and educators dedicated to preparing future cybersecurity professionals.

To enhance cybersecurity education, several organizations and resources are making significant contributions:

• CybHER – Focuses on increasing the involvement of girls and women in cybersecurity through various outreach, educational initiatives, and camps.
• Dakota State University Cyber Camps – Offers various cybersecurity camps designed to address current digital challenges.
• CYBER.ORG – Provides a K-12 cyber education program across all 50 states, helping to build the cyber workforce pipeline for the future.
• Cyber Safe Families – Aims to equip families and educators with the skills to ensure digital safety and confidence.
• The Range – An immersive environment simulating cyber attacks, enabling students to gain real-world cybersecurity experience.

For more tech news, listeners are invited to send questions to [email protected]. NPR+ offers access to over 25 podcasts, providing bonus episodes, early releases, and more. Visit plus.npr.org for details. The Short Wave podcast is accessible on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

This episode’s production was managed by Hannah Chinn, with editing by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones conducted fact-checking, and audio engineering was handled by Robert Rodriguez. Special thanks to Jenna McLaughlin for contributions to this episode.