Resources

The Cyber Center promotes a culture of digital safety and responsible online behavior. Explore these trusted resources to stay protected:

• CISA Shields Up – National alerts and security-readiness guidance
• StaySafeOnline.org – Practical tips from the National Cybersecurity Alliance
• FTC Cyber Safety – Consumer guidance on privacy and scams

Top 5 everyday cyber tips

1. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts
2. Use strong, unique passwords with a password manager
3. Be cautious of phishing emails and suspicious links
4. Keep all software and devices updated
5. Regularly back up important data securely

Student engagement

The Decrypted Cybersecurity Club is Wake Tech's student-led organization for anyone interested in cybersecurity, ethical hacking, digital forensics and information technology. The club provides opportunities to learn new skills, collaborate with peers and network with professionals in the field. Decrypted includes two active subgroups:

• Competition Team – Students participate in real-world cybersecurity competitions, including the annual Mission: Decrypted Capture the Flag event hosted at Wake Tech, the SkillsUSA North Carolina competition each April in Greensboro and other collegiate cyber challenges.
• WiCyS (Women in Cybersecurity) Wake Tech Chapter – Promotes mentorship, inclusion and professional growth for women and allies in cybersecurity.

To stay up to date on meetings, competitions and events, join the Decrypted Microsoft Teams channel by going to "Join or Create a Team," clicking "Join Team" and entering code 5mz43ac.

Cybersecurity competitions

Competitions are an essential part of the learning experience at Wake Tech, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings and collaborate with peers from across the state and nation. Through the Wake Tech Cyber Center, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of cybersecurity and IT competitions that strengthen both technical and teamwork skills.

Each year, students compete in the Mission: Decrypted Capture the Flag (CTF) event sponsored by Hack The Box, as well as the SkillsUSA North Carolina competitions. Wake Tech teams also take part in national events such as the National Cyber League (NCL), where students test their ethical hacking, networking and forensics skills in a safe and competitive environment.

Students looking to sharpen their abilities year-round can practice using Hack The Box and TryHackMe challenges or engage in national learning initiatives such as Cyber FastTrack and the NICE Challenge Project. These experiences not only enhance technical expertise but also help students build the professional confidence and readiness expected in today's cybersecurity workforce.

Students are encouraged to join the Decrypted Teams channel to stay informed about competition dates, registration details and travel opportunities.

Other cyber competition resources include:

• National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition
• Pwn2Own
• Chromium Security
• U.S. Cyber Challenge
• DEFCON Contests
• Panoply
• SANS NetWars
• CyberPatriot

General cybersecurity resources

• Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity news
• National CyberWatch Center
• Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures
• NIST National Vulnerability Database
• Computer Security Incident Response Team
• SANS CIS Critical Security Controls
• Website and Social Media Safety
• Information Systems Security Association - Raleigh Chapter
• LinkedIn job postings