IT/CYSE 200T

Cybersecurity, Technology, and Society

Students in IT/CYSE 200T will explore how technology is related to cybersecurity from an interdisciplinary orientation.  Attention is given to the way that technologically-driven cybersecurity issues are connected to cultural, political, legal, ethical, and business domains. The learning outcomes for this course are as follows:

  1. Describe how cyber technology creates opportunities for criminal behavior,
  2. Identify how cultural beliefs interact with technology to impact cybersecurity strategies,
  3. Understand and describe how the components, mechanisms, and functions of cyber systems produce security concerns,
  4. Discuss the impact that cyber technology has on individuals’ experiences with crime and victimization,
  5. Understand and describe ethical dilemmas, both intended and unintended, that cybersecurity efforts, produce for individuals, nations, societies, and the environment,
  6. Describe the costs and benefits of producing secure cyber technologies,
  7. Understand and describe the global nature of cybersecurity and the way that cybersecurity efforts have produced and inhibited global changes,
  8. Describe the role of cybersecurity in defining definitions of appropriate an inappropriate behavior,
  9. Describe how cybersecurity produces ideas of progress and modernism.

Course Material

Students in this course have completed a number of activities including an reflection essay, weekly technology and cybersecurity journal,  and several quizzes and exams. Please include some of these artifacts on this page, particularly the reflection essay, explaining what you did and how these projects helped you engage with the outcomes listed above.

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Workplace Deviance

Cyber technology has created a place for deviance in the workplace mainly because of how it can be used to gain access to sensitive information. At most jobs now everything is stored digitally like employee records customer data and company finances so if someone has access to the system they can misuse that information pretty easily. Unlike older types of workplace deviance this can happen quietly behind a screen so it is harder for managers to notice right away.

Also since a lot of people work remotely or use personal devices it gives more chances for this kind of behavior. Someone could download files share passwords or use company systems for personal reasons without anyone knowing at the time. Things like time theft are also more common where people say they are working but are not really doing much. If someone is unhappy at their job they might even try to mess with systems or leak information.

Another thing is that technology can make people feel more anonymous. When you are not being watched directly it is easier to think you will not get caught so some people take advantage of that. Overall cyber technology makes workplace deviance easier and more serious. That is why companies need better security monitoring and training so people understand the risks and consequences.

In-Class Exercise: Guest Speaker Reflection – CAPT Brett O’Donovan (NNWC/CTF 1010)

During the presentation by CAPT Brett O’Donovan, Commanding Officer of Naval Network Warfare Command (NNWC)/CTF 1010, several key topics stood out regarding modern cybersecurity strategy and future developments. Three major points that resonated with me were Starlink’s role in communications, the implementation of Zero Trust security, and the future direction of Zero Trust frameworks.

1. Starlink and Modern Military Communications

One of the most impactful points discussed was the use of Starlink satellite technology in military operations. Starlink provides resilient, high-speed internet access in areas where traditional infrastructure is unavailable or compromised. This capability is critical in modern warfare and cybersecurity operations because it ensures continuous communication even in contested environments. The ability to maintain connectivity strengthens operational effectiveness and reduces vulnerabilities associated with centralized network systems.

2. Zero Trust Security Model

Another important concept was the Zero Trust security model. CAPT O’Donovan emphasized that organizations can no longer rely on traditional perimeter-based security. Instead, Zero Trust requires continuous verification of users, devices, and systems before granting access. This approach assumes that threats can exist both inside and outside the network. Implementing Zero Trust improves security by limiting unauthorized access and reducing the risk of insider threats and data breaches.

3. The Future of Zero Trust

The future of cybersecurity will increasingly rely on the evolution of Zero Trust principles. CAPT O’Donovan highlighted that as cyber threats become more advanced, organizations must adopt more dynamic and automated security systems. This includes integrating artificial intelligence, real-time monitoring, and adaptive access controls. The continued development of Zero Trust will play a major role in protecting critical infrastructure and national security systems.

Conclusion

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Discussion Topic: Journal write-up From Verbeek’s writing (Mod 6, Reading 4) Designing the Public Sphere: Information Technologies and the Politics of MediationJournal write-up From Verbeek’s writing (Mod 6, Reading 4) Designing the Public Sphere: Information Technologies and the Politics of Mediation

Overall, the presentation provided valuable insight into how modern technologies and strategies are shaping cybersecurity. The use of Starlink, the adoption of Zero Trust, and its future development demonstrate the importance of staying ahead of emerging threats. These concepts are essential for maintaining secure and resilient information systems in both military and civilian environments.

In Designing the Public Sphere, Peter-Paul Verbeek explains that technology is not just a tool it actually shapes how people think and act. As the world becomes more connected and “intelligified” (Verbeek, p. 217), governments alone cannot control everything. Because of this, markets, businesses, groups, and individuals all need to share responsibility.

Markets should not be completely free with no rules. Technology can influence people’s choices, so markets need limits that protect users. For example, there should be rules about how companies collect and use data. Markets should focus not only on making money but also on being fair and safe for society.

Businesses, especially tech companies, have a big responsibility. Verbeek argues that technology affects behavior, so companies must think about ethics when they design products. They should make sure their apps and devices respect privacy and do not harm users. Governments can require companies to check the social impact of their technology before releasing it.

Groups like organizations and communities also play an important role. They can speak up for users, create guidelines, and hold companies accountable. These groups help make sure that technology is used in a way that benefits society.

Individuals also have a role, but it should be realistic. People should learn how technology works and be aware of risks, like sharing too much personal information. However, individuals should not carry all the responsibility because companies have more power and control.

In conclusion, Verbeek shows that regulation should be shared. In a world where technology is everywhere, everyone markets, businesses, groups, and individuals must work together to make sure technology is used in a safe and ethical way.

Reference