On October 28, 2025, 36 participants representing state, County, and local agencies attended the Demystifying Cyber Attacks course, hosted by the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) at the BCIU Main Office. Designed for non-technical professionals, the eight-hour training provided a dynamic, hands-on introduction to how cyberattacks occur and how they can be prevented.
Through a combination of live demonstrations, prerecorded simulations, and interactive discussions, participants explored common cyberattack methods and learned how to identify, mitigate, and disrupt threats at various points along the cyber “kill chain.” The course, offered through a cooperative training program between the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS/FEMA), was provided at no direct cost to public-sector participants.
“Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue—it’s an organizational responsibility,” said Scott Major, BCIU Chief Information Officer. “This course helps public leaders understand real-world threats and enables them to make informed decisions that strengthen the security posture of their agencies and communities.”