Writing the Script

Doug Jacobson’s leadership in cyber security research and education began before high-speed internet, smartphones and Google. It even predates the term “cyber security” itself. Jacobson, Stanley Chair in Interdisciplinary Engineering, University Professor of electrical and computer engineering, and director of the Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach, was one of the few who saw “information assurance” threats looming in the early 1990s.

“When I would give talks early on, I spent most of the time explaining why anyone would even launch an attack, because at that time hackers weren’t in it to make money – and without that motivation, not many people believed cyber security would amount to much of a problem,” said Jacobson.

Estimates of global losses from cyber crimes now reach into the trillions of dollars per year. For more than 30 years, Iowa State has been a national leader in cyber security research, education and outreach – and Cyclone Engineers now have their eye on future challenges in securing every aspect of modern life.

Cyber Defense for Everyone

Iowa State has created a cyber security literacy education for all users of technology, including the Iowa Cyber Hub that centralizes cyber security resources for Iowans- and youth and public outreach materials used nationally.

“Technology can’t win the cyber security battle alone. Users must also play an active role in their own protection, so while it’s critical we develop new approaches and educate new cyber security professionals – we also will continue to offer cyber security education to everybody,” said Jacobson.