UAlbany Partners with LogicalNet to Host Cybersecurity Webinar Series

Students review code on a row of computers inside a dark lit room at ETEC.
Students review computer code from the Cyber Range lab at ETEC. (Photo by Brian Busher)

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 4, 2026) — The University at Albany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity is partnering with LogicalNet, a leading cybersecurity firm based in the Capital Region, to launch a series of educational webinars and videos designed to provide business owners and government leaders with the knowledge they need to better protect their organizations.

The webinar series will cover a range of timely topics, including how to guard against common scams and hacking attempts, secure smart devices such as Wi-Fi cameras and office equipment, and understand how cyber insurance can provide protection if something goes wrong.

Since 2023, CEHC has offered a standalone undergraduate program in cybersecurity. The program was revamped last year to reflect the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, including the rise of AI-powered threats. At the graduate level, CEHC offers a master’s program in cybersecurity and risk with concentrations in risk management and compliance, and privacy of health information.

“At UAlbany’s College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity, we are committed to connecting our cutting-edge cybersecurity research and education with real-world application,” said Ariel Pinto, professor and chair of UAlbany’s Department of Cybersecurity. “This new webinar series will equip area businesses and government leaders with practical and actionable knowledge that will strengthen the security of their organizations, along with the broader community.”

“Cybersecurity is a leadership and risk management imperative, not just a technology concern. Through our partnership with UAlbany, we aim to equip business and government leaders with the insight needed to make informed, strategic cybersecurity decisions. The Cyber Smart Webinar Series is designed to turn awareness into action and strengthen regional cyber resilience so organizations can operate securely and confidently,” said Tush Nikollaj, president and CEO of LogicalNet.

The first webinar in the series, titled “Cybersecurity Strategy for Entrepreneurs,” is scheduled for March 27. Presented by Pinto, it will provide business owners with practical guidance to protect themselves from hacks and scams. Attendees will learn how to make smarter cybersecurity decisions, turn cybersecurity investments into measurable business value, and strike the right balance between strong security and day-to-day operational efficiency.

The next installment, “IoT Vulnerabilities: With Mass Digitization, Even Your Fridge Can Get Hacked,” on April 30, will be presented by Benjamin Yankson, associate professor in UAlbany’s Cybersecurity Department. This session will offer practical, easy-to-understand guidance on recognizing and managing cybersecurity risks posed by Internet of Things (IoT) devices. IoT devices include everyday objects, like thermostats, watches, cameras, or appliances, that connect to the internet.

Unal Tatar, associate professor in UAlbany’s Cybersecurity Department, will present the third webinar, “From Risk to Resilience: What Cybersecurity Leaders Should Know About Cyber Insurance,” on May 22. This session will explore the intersection of cybersecurity operations and cyber insurance, explaining how policies have evolved, how they are shaped by emerging threat trends, and how organizations can leverage insurance as part of a broader risk management strategy.

The fourth webinar, “Cybersecurity Strategy for Established Business Owners,” will be presented by LogicalNet’s Chief Information Officer, Mike O’Mara, on June 26. Designed for owners of established businesses, this session will provide strategic guidance on strengthening and modernizing cybersecurity practices while maximizing existing resources to improve overall security posture.

Registration for the webinars can be found on LogicalNet’s website.