Optiv Introduces Free Cybersecurity Training Program for Communities
LEAWOOD, Kan. — Oct. 21, 2026 — Optiv, the world’s largest pure-play cybersecurity company, has announced the launch of CyberBOT, a free, hands-on cybersecurity learning program. This initiative is designed to assist classrooms, nonprofit organizations, and communities in developing practical skills for recognizing and defending against common cyber threats.
Amber Peacher, senior corporate social responsibility manager at Optiv, stated, “Schools, nonprofits and local organizations play a vital role in strengthening the communities they serve, but cybercriminals don’t discriminate based on an organization’s mission or the people it serves. At the same time, many of these organizations lack the resources to dedicate to cybersecurity.” She emphasized that CyberBOT aims to bridge this gap by providing educators and community leaders with a free, easy-to-use resource to foster safer digital habits.
Developed by Optiv’s cyber education team, the CyberBOT program includes five interactive sessions that address common cyber threats and best practices for protection:
- Cyber Threat Actors: Identify cyber threat actors, their motivations, tactics, and real-world attack scenarios.
- Email Security: Recognize phishing attempts, suspicious messages, and email threats.
- Password Security: Build stronger passwords and protect accounts from unauthorized access.
- Social Media Security: Manage online privacy and reduce exposure to social media threats.
- Mobile Security: Protect mobile devices, applications, and personal information from threats.
Each session combines hands-on activities with classroom exercises to make cybersecurity concepts engaging and memorable. Activities include short stories, posters, group analysis, games, and role-playing, allowing participants to apply what they learn in realistic scenarios.
CyberBOT also provides educators and facilitators with a comprehensive Educator Guide, which includes workshop themes, activity instructions, timing guidance, and printable templates. Educators can use a downloadable certificate template to recognize students for completing each session and demonstrating a commitment to cybersecurity awareness and responsible technology use.
Mary Esselman, CEO of Operation Breakthrough, expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “We have been eagerly awaiting this cyber awareness training from Optiv. The more our students know, the safer they will be as they engage online. These skills are critical, and they’re offered in a format that really captures kids’ attention.”
CyberBOT is part of Optiv Chips In, the company’s community impact initiative dedicated to empowering the next generation of cyber leaders. Through this program, Optiv aims to make cybersecurity education more accessible while introducing young people to foundational skills for future careers in cybersecurity.
For the latest news and updates from Optiv, visit their newsroom.
Source: Dark Reading