In response to the escalating digital threats facing independent media in Nigeria, Resilience Technologies facilitated a two-day intensive virtual workshop on Digital Security, hosted by the Nigeria Media Innovation Program (NAMIP) on May 14-15, 2025. Over 60 participants from 22 media organisations joined the sessions, designed to fortify digital security practices across Nigeria’s vibrant media landscape.
Workshop Overview
The first day of the workshop laid the groundwork for building digital resilience within media environments. We guided participants through an in-depth exploration of the digital threat landscape—identifying who targets media organisations, understanding their motives, and assessing risk exposures unique to Nigerian newsrooms. Attendees learned about common cyberattack methods, including DDoS attacks, phishing, surveillance, and internet shutdowns, and gained hands-on experience using tools like the Open Observatory of Network Interference (OONI) to monitor disruptions.
We also introduced essential communication and data protection tools such as Mailvelope for encrypted emails, alongside best practices for device and account security—emphasising two-factor authentication (2FA), robust password management, mobile device safeguards, and physical security protocols. Participants engaged in practical exercises, including setting up app-based 2FA and developing tailored threat response plans.
Day two focused on advancing technical skills and strategies for proactive defence and threat response. We showcased the Zeroth Cloud platform, our AI powered solution enhancing device and infrastructure protection, malware defence, and forensic threat analysis. Through real-world phishing case studies targeting journalists, participants honed their detection skills and reviewed procedures for managing compromised accounts and safeguarding websites from malware and vulnerabilities. The workshop concluded with sessions on developing long-term security policies, conducting comprehensive audits, and creating contingency plans. Each newsroom left equipped with customised information and security strategies tailored to their operational needs.
Building a Proactive Security Culture
Our collaborative approach not only enhanced participants’ technical capabilities but also fostered a proactive culture of cybersecurity within Nigeria’s media organisations. At Resilience Technologies, we recognise that digital security is foundational to protecting independent journalism, ensuring that media professionals can safely pursue their vital work without fear of compromise.
Key Digital Security Insights
- Phishing Threats: We emphasised the critical threat posed by phishing, including sophisticated forms like spear phishing, whaling, and clone phishing. We trained participants to systematically verify suspicious communications through sender address checks, avoiding shortened URLs, and validating messages via trusted alternative channels.
- Device and Account Security: Strong password hygiene, multi-factor authentication (MFA) using authenticator apps or hardware security keys, and routine session management were highlighted as essential defence layers. We provided guidelines for containment steps following breaches, such as password rotation, session termination, log auditing, and incident documentation.
- Securing Communication and Data: We promoted the consistent use of end-to-end encrypted tools like Signal and ProtonMail, alongside encryption of data at rest using tools such as BitLocker, FileVault, and VeraCrypt. We encouraged adherence to the 3-2-1 backup rule with encrypted external drives to safeguard critical data.
- Digital Compartmentalisation: Separating personal and professional digital identities through distinct devices, accounts, and browsers was emphasised to reduce exposure. We also advised routinely stripping metadata from files prior to sharing to protect sensitive information.
- Organisational Security: Finally, we stressed that security must be embedded organisationally, through clear policies on asset management, threat modeling, access control, security audits, and contingency planning, to sustain resilience in the face of evolving threats.
Our Commitment
At Resilience Technologies, we are dedicated to empowering media professionals with the tools, knowledge, and frameworks necessary to defend against digital threats. In today’s rapidly changing digital landscape, the security of independent journalism is more critical than ever. We stand committed to supporting Nigerian newsrooms as they build safer, stronger, and more resilient digital operations.