In the digital age, personal data can easily drift into open spaces where it could fall into the hands of criminals. This was the central theme of a cybersecurity lecture led by Stanislav Kuznetsov, the Deputy Chairman of the Board at Sberbank, delivered at Voronezh State University. The talk emphasized that strong risk management and robust cyber security practices are essential for anyone using the internet, especially in a landscape where data theft and online fraud remain persistent threats.
The event reached beyond the university grounds, connecting participants from across the region through video links. Attendees joined from Lipetsk, Kursk, Belgorod, Oryol, and Tambov, with the total reach exceeding 3,500 participants. The broad interest in practical cyber literacy showed that a wide network of learners and professionals is eager to reduce online risks.
Kuznetsov shared a striking statistic: ninety percent of people have encountered scams over the phone at least once. The clear takeaway was that a solid grasp of cyberspace and the techniques used by modern criminals equips individuals to navigate the online world more safely and to shield personal information from theft and misuse.
During the talk he described an in-house experiment conducted by the bank. On the eve of the event, 180 Voronezh State University students received phishing messages offering a promo code for a free lunch at a fast food outlet. The results were revealing. About three quarters passed verification processes, roughly one in six visited a site controlled by an attacker, and eight percent took a potentially dangerous action. Kuznetsov pointed out that these outcomes illustrate a real need to advance cyber literacy and protective measures for the population, with a special focus on youth.
The takeaway extended beyond those lab results. It signaled ongoing efforts to strengthen cyber readiness and resilience. The speaker stressed that cyber threats continue to evolve, and proactive education must evolve with them to reduce risks in everyday online activity. The emphasis was not only on recognizing phishing attempts but on fostering a broad culture of online vigilance and responsible digital conduct.
Voronezh State University highlighted the strategic value of partnerships with industry leaders. The university leadership noted that Sberbank has been a long-term collaborator, contributing to the creation of an artificial intelligence laboratory on campus. This collaboration stands as a cornerstone for advancing research and practical learning in financial technology and cybersecurity. The rector emphasized the importance of continuing joint projects that promote financial literacy and secure digital practices, underscoring the responsibility and pride of maintaining a strong alliance with a major financial institution.
From the bank’s perspective, the focus on cyber security and financial literacy remains a priority. A senior executive noted that open dialogue and knowledge exchange are essential for connecting with students, identifying their interests, and nurturing the talents of the next generation. The aim is to empower young people to understand the digital landscape, recognize risks, and develop skills that support safe, informed participation in online life.
This collaborative effort reflects a broader trend of integrating cybersecurity education into higher education and community outreach. By combining academic study with real-world banking experience, the partnership seeks to raise awareness, improve protective behaviors, and equip young people with practical tools for responsible digital citizenship. The message is clear: staying informed is the first line of defense against cyber threats, and continuous learning is the best safeguard against becoming a victim of online crime. The event demonstrated that institutions and industry leaders can work together to create a more cyber literate society that values privacy, security, and informed use of technology for daily life, study, and work as noted by many participants and speakers who attended.