Autoriteti Kombëtar për Sigurinë Kibernetike https://aksk.gov.al/en/home-2/ Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:02:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://aksk.gov.al/wp-content/themes/aksk-modern/assets/images/favicon-aksk.png Autoriteti Kombëtar për Sigurinë Kibernetike https://aksk.gov.al/en/home-2/ 32 32 AKSK Opens Applications for the Regional Cybersecurity Marathon for Girls and Women 2026 https://aksk.gov.al/en/aksk-opens-applications-for-the-regional-cybersecurity-marathon-for-girls-and-women-2026/ Fri, 02 Oct 2026 12:02:56 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32469 Ready to strengthen your cybersecurity skills, take on practical challenges, and connect with ambitious young women from across the Western Balkans?

The National Cyber Security Authority of Albania (AKSK) invites girls and women from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia to apply for the Western Balkans Cybersecurity Marathon for Girls & Women 2026.

Throughout the Marathon, participants will take part in interactive training sessions, hands-on labs, and practical cybersecurity challenges delivered through a dedicated online platform. The programme is designed to help participants build practical experience, develop their technical skills, and connect with a regional community of young women interested in pursuing and advancing careers in cybersecurity.

Participants who achieve the highest results throughout the Marathon will be awarded prizes.

The Marathon is open to girls and women aged 16–26, including students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals in cybersecurity, information technology, computer science, computer engineering, telecommunications, and related fields.

Application deadline: 12 October 2026.
Apply here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/6GALVrfZiR?origin=lprLink

]]> ECSC Team Albania Holds Preparatory Bootcamp in Valbona https://aksk.gov.al/en/ecsc-team-albania-holds-preparatory-bootcamp-in-valbona/ Wed, 30 Sep 2026 14:29:12 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32440
Ahead of the European Cyber Security Challenge 2026, the team representing Albania took part in a four-day bootcamp in Valbona, organised by the National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK).
During the bootcamp, ECSC Team Albania participated in competitions, practical exercises and challenges designed to test their technical skills, teamwork and ability to respond under competitive conditions. One of the highlights was their participation in FAUST CTF – Attack Defence, which brought together 502 teams from around the world, with the Albanian team finishing in sixth place.
The bootcamp also featured Albania’s first Cyber Escape Room, designed by experts from the National Cyber Security Authority. This format presented team members with a series of interconnected challenges, combining cybersecurity knowledge with logic, analysis, coordination and teamwork.
At the end of the programme, participants received certificates recognising their membership in ECSC Team Albania, confirming the composition of the team that will represent Albania at the European Cyber Security Challenge 2026. ECSC is a European competition for national teams of young cybersecurity talents, supported by ENISA and European institutions, aimed at developing and promoting emerging talent in this field.
For AKSK, participation in ECSC forms part of its ongoing efforts to identify and develop young talent, build competitive experience and strengthen Albania’s representation in cybersecurity.
AKSK expresses its gratitude to the GIZ Partnership for Strengthening Cybersecurity Project, the United Nations Development Programme in Albania, Valbona Resort & SPA, UPay Albania and Unionnet – Western Union for supporting ECSC Team Albania and contributing to the development of young people in this field.
]]> Technical Analysis of the HEAVYGRAM Malware: A Campaign Linked to MOIS https://aksk.gov.al/en/technical-analysis-of-the-heavygram-malware-a-campaign-linked-to-mois-en/ Tue, 29 Sep 2026 13:29:03 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32417 AKSK has published a technical analysis of HEAVYGRAM, also known as CHOSEN BRICK, which has been used in cyber-espionage campaigns targeting activists and journalists in various countries. According to the analysis, these activities are linked to cyber threat actors operating on behalf of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS).

The document examines the malicious file, its execution and persistence mechanisms, its communication with command-and-control (C2) infrastructure, its malicious functionality, and the associated indicators of compromise. The analysis also provides specific recommendations for identifying, monitoring, and responding to potential compromises.

Read the full analysis: https://aksk.gov.al/en/technical-analysis-of-the-malicious-file-nanocore/

]]> WhatsApp Accounts Targeted: AKSK Urges Citizens to Exercise Increased Caution https://aksk.gov.al/en/whatsapp-accounts-targeted-aksk-urges-citizens-to-exercise-increased-caution/ Tue, 29 Sep 2026 12:50:43 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32412 The National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK) urges citizens to exercise increased caution following recent reports from the region of compromised WhatsApp accounts.

In some reported cases, users have lost access to their accounts. The relevant authorities are investigating how the accounts were compromised.

To protect your account:

  • Enable two-step verification under Settings → Account.
  • Never share verification codes, passwords, or account details with anyone.
  • Check “Linked Devices” regularly and immediately disconnect any device you do not recognize.
  • Do not click suspicious links sent by SMS, WhatsApp, or email, especially those asking you to verify your account.
  • If you receive a code or a notification about WhatsApp being registered on another device without requesting it, do not share the code or approve the request.
  • Secure the email address linked to your account with a unique password and multi-factor authentication.

If you lose access to your account, use only WhatsApp’s official recovery procedures and channels.

A verification code is personal. Even if a request appears to come from someone you know, verify it before taking action.

]]> AKSK Signs Agreement with Three Vocational Schools to Develop the Next Generation of Cybersecurity Professionals https://aksk.gov.al/en/aksk-signs-agreement-with-three-vocational-schools-to-develop-the-next-generation-of-cybersecurity-professionals/ Tue, 29 Sep 2026 12:46:36 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32407
Preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals requires sustained cooperation with vocational schools and educational institutions. For AKSK, this cooperation is part of its commitment to developing skills in the field, encouraging young people’s interest, and aligning their education with the need to protect digital systems and services.
In this context, during Future2Tech 2026, the National Cyber Security Authority signed a cooperation agreement with “Herman Gmeiner” Vocational Secondary School, the “Harry T. Fultz” Institute, and “Gjergj Canco” Technical Secondary School of Electrical Engineering. This initiative brings vocational education closer to AKSK’s expertise and introduces cybersecurity as a field in which young people can develop their skills and build their careers.
Following the signing, students from the three schools took part in a cyber hygiene training session focused on everyday practices for using technology safely. Learning these practices provides an essential foundation for young people preparing for professions in which protecting devices, data, and systems is part of their work.

]]> Parenting in the Digital Age: Educating and Protecting Children at the Heart of AKSK’s Training https://aksk.gov.al/en/parenting-in-the-digital-age-educating-and-protecting-children-at-the-heart-of-aksks-training/ Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:05:06 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32356 The National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK), in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, organised the training session “Parenting in the Digital Age: What Lies Behind Your Child’s Screen?”, with more than 1,000 parents participating in person and online. The training aimed to help parents better understand online risks and support their children in using technology safely.

AKSK Director General Bledar Kazia emphasised that protecting children online begins with a relationship of trust between parents and children. Parental supervision should be accompanied by guidance, so that children feel comfortable sharing their concerns. He also highlighted the importance of introducing digital safety education early, including cybersecurity in the curricula for grades one, six and ten in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, and continuing training for parents, teachers and children.

Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu stated that technology should help children learn, create and communicate while safeguarding their safety and well-being. She stressed the shared responsibility to prepare children for the future and equip parents with the knowledge and tools they need to protect them.

Minister of Education Mirela Kumbaro emphasised the partnership between schools and families and the active involvement of parents in their children’s education. She also spoke about the after-school programme and the “Parent’s Toolkit” initiative.

Representatives of the State Police and the State Agency for the Rights and Protection of Children also attended the event. During the training, parents received practical guidance on recognising online risks, responding to inappropriate content and contacts, and talking with their children about concerns they encounter online.

]]> AKSK at Future2Tech 2026: Technology and Innovation Must Advance Alongside Cybersecurity https://aksk.gov.al/en/aksk-at-future2tech-2026-technology-and-innovation-must-advance-alongside-cybersecurity/ Thu, 24 Sep 2026 17:15:41 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32333 The National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK) is a Platinum Partner of Future2Tech this year. The event brings together technology, innovation, business, institutions and young people to discuss the developments shaping the digital future.

The fair opened today at the Palace of Congresses, bringing together representatives of public institutions, the private sector and the technology community, as well as entrepreneurs, professionals and students. Over two days, the programme features discussions, presentations and activities focused on innovation and technological transformation.

In his opening remarks, AKSK Director General Bledar Kazia emphasised that the pace of technological development in Albania must be matched by stronger cybersecurity, technological capabilities and human resources. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among institutions, businesses and young professionals in building a safer and more resilient digital ecosystem.

This message continued in the panel “Innovation for a Safer, Sustainable and Resilient Future”, where Mr Kazia discussed the security and resilience of digital infrastructure and their direct connection to service continuity, the economy and trust in digital transformation.

Visit us at the Palace of Congresses to learn more about our work and initiatives, and follow us for updates on the activities taking place over these two days.

]]> AKSK Shares Albania’s Cybersecurity Experience with GIZ Representatives https://aksk.gov.al/en/aksk-shares-albanias-cybersecurity-experience-with-giz-representatives/ Wed, 16 Sep 2026 13:14:53 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32245 The National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK) hosted a study visit for GIZ representatives from Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Uzbekistan, Tunisia, and Germany, as part of the Digitalisation Working Group of the SENECA SEDE network. The visit provided an opportunity to share Albania’s experience in the field of cybersecurity and discuss key developments, challenges, and needs for cooperation.

The Director General of AKSK welcomed the participants and expressed his appreciation to GIZ representatives for their continued partnership and support in strengthening capacities and cooperation in the field of cybersecurity. During the meeting, AKSK experts shared the Authority’s experience and key developments within Albania’s national cybersecurity ecosystem. Discussions also focused on cooperation practices among Western Balkan countries, regional challenges, and opportunities for the exchange of expertise, knowledge, and experience.

The use of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, related risks, and regulatory approaches were also addressed, facilitating a direct exchange of experiences between AKSK experts and the participants on issues that are increasingly shaping the cybersecurity landscape.

]]> NCSA | For the First Time, Cybersecurity Becomes Part of the School Curriculum https://aksk.gov.al/en/ncsa-for-the-first-time-cybersecurity-becomes-part-of-the-school-curriculum/ Wed, 16 Sep 2026 06:58:40 +0000 https://aksk.gov.al/?p=32223 With the start of the new 2026–2027 school year, cybersecurity will be incorporated for the first time into the curricula of pre-university education for students in Grades I, VI and X. Three approved national curriculum modules have been developed by the National Cyber Security Authority (AKSK), in cooperation with the Agency for Quality Assurance of Pre-University Education and the Ministry of Education.

AKSK has contributed its professional expertise to the development of these modules, with the aim of ensuring that online safety education does not remain limited to awareness campaigns or individual activities, but becomes a sustainable part of the education system.

Why is online safety education needed?

Children are among the most active users of technology and the internet. Alongside opportunities to learn, communicate and develop new skills, they may also face cyberbullying, online scams, dangerous contacts, inappropriate content, data theft and identity misuse.

For this reason, protecting children online should begin before a problem occurs. Students need practical knowledge and skills that help them use technology in a safe, responsible and informed manner.

A programme tailored to students’ age

The content has been designed as a progressive learning journey. In Grade I, students are introduced to digital devices and learn to distinguish between safe and unsafe situations, protect their personal information, and seek help from a trusted adult when something concerns them. Through role-playing, simulated situations, drawings and activities focused on screen time, they develop their first rules for safe and ethical online behaviour.

In Grade VI, the topics are more directly related to the ways children of this age use social media, communication applications and online games. Students explore identity and digital footprints, cyberbullying, privacy and online scams. They analyse examples of phishing through emails, SMS messages, phone calls and fake websites, practise verifying sources before clicking, and learn about using strong passwords, blocking, preserving evidence and reporting.

In Grade X, cybersecurity is addressed more broadly through the concept of digital citizenship. In addition to protecting accounts, devices and data, students explore online reputation, cyber threats, ethics and rights in the digital environment. They develop skills to verify sources, identify disinformation and manipulated content, understand the impact of algorithms, and respond appropriately to cyber incidents.

Official Curricula

An approach that will gradually expand

The implementation in Grades I, VI and X represents the first phase of a broader process. In the coming years, the aim is to gradually extend the modules to other grades, establishing continuity in cybersecurity education across different stages of schooling.

The Role of Parents and Teachers

Children’s online safety is a shared responsibility. Schools, families and institutions should encourage open communication so that children feel safe speaking up when they encounter a concerning situation online. The goal is not to keep children away from technology, but to ensure that they use it safely.

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